GIANTS in the Land….
 

GIANTS in the Land….

I was reading from Numbers 13-14 this morning, and, as I read, I thought about AFF. Moses sent 12 men into the land of Canaan to survey the land…to observe its people and to note their defenses. The spies found the land to be just as God had described, “a land of milk and honey”. A fertile ground, a land of promise. A land of potential. They even brought back evidence of the abundance the land offered.

Ten of those men, however, observed something else. They observed GIANTS in the land. Men of great stature. A strong, people, well fortified cities. They saw obstacles. Impossibilities. They saw themselves as mere grasshoppers before the inhabitants of this great land. They were Amalekites to the south, the mountains were full of Hitties, Jebusites, and Amorites. The western and eastern boundaries were in habited by the Canaanites. So much division. So little harmony. Taking this land would be difficult… no…it would be impossible.

Two of those men, however, knew this land had already been given- there was no need to “take” what God had already given them. All they had to do was to get the children of Israel to muster up the nerve… and faith.. .to stand up to the GIANTS in the land and receive the land God had already given them.

I’ve been a part of AFF since its inception. I was part… a very small part, yes… but a part, of its predecessors. Over these few years, I have come to think of AFF posters as part of my spiritual family. They are more than just feelingless blips on a computer screen. They are, real people- people with views I respect (yet may not necessarily agree with), people with opinions (that count as much as mine do) and, mostly, people with feelings. I know. Its been my honor to meet some of these folks. People like Renda and ForeverBlessed. Bro. And Sis Raven. HeavenlyOne and Grace Amazing (or is it AmazinGrace?) I’ve known PastorRick and Angelface since… well, lets just say I’ve known them for longer than I care to admit. I’ve met Sherri and Pastor Eddie (or should I say Bro. And Sis Cupples). I’ve heard Pastor Eddie preach and, for a lib, he’s a pretty good Apostolic Preacher. I met Teresa and Joe, and still have the flashing key chain given to me by HeavenlOnes daughter, Bekah. I’ve talked to a few AFFs on the phone. Sis Falla, Bro. Scott, Renda and Teresa . I have gifts from MichealPhelps and Dizzyde. Some of us sojourners met in Jackson and were warmly welcomed by the Pastoral staff and members of the Truth and Love Church. The meeting wasn’t a raging success, but it was a first step in surveying this AFF Land for the possibility of other and more successful meetings later on.

These folks are my friends. My family. My so-journers in this land of milk and honey we call the Apostolic Friends Forum. And there are many others beside who I haven’t met that I call my friends and my brothers and sisters in the Lord.

But… there are GIANTS in the land. GIANTS who seem to think THEIR views are somehow of greater significance than those of the mere “grasshoppers” that seek to visit here. Their walled, fortified, and strong opinions somehow outranks those of us who seek only to dwell in this land in peace and harmony. I sometimes wonder what motivates these GIANTS to post things that have absolutely no apparent redeeming qualities whatsoever- mindless gossip that is none of their business or anyones elses. Why do they make an argument out of…EVERYTHING? Why is it “The Latest BOMBSHELL” is of greater significance in these GIANT minds than, say a praise report, a prayer request or someone who just needs someone to give them an encouraging word?

I’ve noticed the absence of some of my fellow sojourners lately: PressingOn…. MichaelPhelps, Apprended and many others. Could it be that, like the children of Israel, they have concluded the fight is no longer worth it and have consigned themselves to live just outside the land of AFF as lurkers? Could it be they have seen the land of AFF to be a land of GIANTS rather than what it is suppose to be? A place where Apostolics, (as defined as people who have an Apostolic heritage). The GIANTS defend their walls of doctrine at any and ALL cost. At ALL costs. If feelings are hurt, if their words sting…it doesn’t matter. If a reputation is tarnished, if a brother is driven away, what harm was done? It was done in the name of “I’m right, you’re wrong” and that makes it okay.

A minority stood up that day so long ago and said, “This is OUR land!’. They saw no need to go in and “take” what God already “gave” them. This was THEIR land and by the help and grace of the same God that delivered them from Egypt, they were determined to have Gods’ Promise!

GIANTS… remember… AFF is our land. The rules say so. This forum land is big enough to sustain you as well. You have the same right to be here as I do- but not at the expense of your fellow poster. His views may differ from yours, you may disagree with his opinions…. that is your privilege. But bear in mind, other views, other opinions, other PEOPLE have value as well. Shouting down those with whom you differ doesn’t make you a GIANT… it only makes you loud. And not appreciated.

This land is large enough for all of us. Just because the Jebusites live in the mountains, and the Canaanites live by the sea, doesn’t mean we can’t all meet in the middle for some good old fashioned fellowship and friendly discussion. This doesn’t mean we will all join hands to sing “Kum -by-Yah” either (never liked the song). But we can offer our brother an olive branch once in a while. We can offer our sister a kind word. We can spread a little RESPECT on this bread of fellowship, and pour a little encouragement into our cups on an occasional basis. We can be CHRISTIAN sojourners who believe… really believe…and even practice…that loving one another is the greatest of all commandments.

So…GIANTS. Break down your walls of defense, and come on out and fellowship us grasshoppers. We’re not here to take your city or attack your views. We’re here to share the blessings of the Lord with you. We’re here to build you up, to strengthen and encourage you. We only ask you do the same for us.

So now, since I’ve written what surely will be yet another little noticed post, the decision is ours to make. Will we press on to take AFF land back as a place where we can come together for faith, fellowship and fun? Or will the minority be stoned and ridiculed for trying to accomplish the impossible.? I don’t know. But, I’ll leave you with the words of the son of Nun… If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey.

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Take heart, OA. The GIANTS are now nine games behind in their division. :D

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Wow - you have spoken my thoughts as of late!

Just not as pleasant as it use to be around here. Too many giants stomping around!

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

All ya gotta do is get some stones and a sling, and take us out. Er, I mean take them out. :lol

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Thanks for the update, Bro. But... I already know who wins. I looked at the back of the Book!

How you been doin? Haven't stuck around enough to talk talk to you lately. Huh, let me ask you a question. If an Ex-Pentecostal converts a Pentecostal to Ex-Pentecostalism, does that mean they have unconverted a soul that is now un-born again?

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

"Patience young grasshopper ..."

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

You ain't no GIANT, Bro. Ya just got a GIANT head (avatar)!

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

A semi-serious answer to your at-least-half-TIC (I'm guessing) question: No. Being born again and being Pentecostal are completely different things (which, of course, some Pentecostals will disagree with). Lots of ex-pentes are Christians. At least they say they are, and that's good enough for me. :)

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

:heeheehee

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

You have a time machine? Did you get a sports stats book from, say, 2015? Man, you could make a fortune with that thing!

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Yes, all spoken completely TIC to my big-headed friend Timmy. Now, since MY posts are much more important (well, at least longer) than Timmy's I give you....

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Ta-Dahhhhh!:thumbsup

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

I would think the GIANTS change power seasonally. Like Repubs and Dems, just changes out. Some voices louder at different times. I've been a long-time lurker. How does one "shout" on AFF? Many of people are hear asking questions and participating in "iron sharpening" which often presumes the form of a debate.

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

I understand that everybody here will not agree with me on everything,and yet if I am right on a issue,and the other fellow is wrong, I do not have the right to be hateful or unkind,my bible says blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.

If what I believe makes me act hateful and mean-spirited then what does that say about my views and my walk with God ?

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Wise words. Some of us have more of a challenge with that than others. It's that wired personality that lets passion override good sense :)

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

LOL! You always write well thought out things and it's refreshing for someone to post that they have been thinking of us all! I know we all think about each other, but we don't always post our thoughts. So, thank you for that. :friend

I am of the opinion that debate is a good thing if we follow respectful and obligatory rules of conduct.

You have put out a thread that begs "pointed" response! I don't think I want to go there, OneAccord. It is what it is - play or not to play - that is the question! LOL!

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

I'm having some real probelms in my life at the present,it is a real awkward time in my life,I feel overwhelmed by some situations,this might sound dumb but I come here for the social aspect of AFF,I proably spend more time here than I should.

Anyways I don't come to prove a point or to get a rise out of people or to club somebody over the head,coming here kinda helps me forget about somethings,I enjoy conversing with people whom I consider to be my friends.

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Thank you, to my esteemed sister from the little state of Texas, (for which I and the Lord forgive you). I didn't mean to consign you to the Land of the missing....I just haven't seen you on here much lately. Come to think of it, maybe I haven't seen you becuz I haven't been here too much!

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Might be time for some house cleaning.

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Scott per your post above I have noticed a change in your postings alittle but what ever issues you have I hope you get through them...

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LOL! We are in the worst drought, here in Texas, in 50 years!!!! :tissue

I haven't been around much because I am trying to curb my Internet time. I really like that!

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Thankyou OneAccord. :thumbsup

That was a refreshing prespective. Have you been LURKING in my brain? LOL


:kittyhug

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

No, its just that great minds think alike.

Or


Even a blind hog finds an acorn every now and then. I just found one!

Or

Even a stopped clock is right 2 times a day!

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

In any given group there will always be some really strong personalities. Ever go to a function (church or otherwise) where someone doesn't show up and the room just seems so much fresher as a result? And not referring to BO, although that TOO sometimes occurs.

Quite often there are people with whom, if we compared a check-list of beliefs, I would probably agree with 8-10 out of 10 points, yet I find myself thinking "common man, enough is enough" or "you don't need to be so 'gleeful' about this" when I read what they wrote.

(I am sure that I have even posted things in the past, where if I forgot I was the one to post it would be thinking "what a bozo!" upon reading it.)

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

My question would be - When do we violate scripture in some of these discussions as per I Peter 4:15 "But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters (overseeing other's affairs, meddler)

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Interesting question but to me the answer is easy.

If it is debate, then it is all good.

If it is discussing/debating an incident which is public knowledge on account of it being in the news (public newspaper or church press) then it is also fair game to talk about.

However, when someone comes on saying that THEY have personal knowledge -and then proceed to tell us how they have PROOF but then continually refuse to provide it, then I have a real problem with that.

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

:choir :choir
Kumbaya my Lord, kumbaya

:hug4 Everyone hug your AFF neighbor and sing along! :friend

:choir :choir
Kumbaya my Lord, kumbaya

:)

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Kumbaya my Lord, kumbaya

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

I think it also extends further into anti-organizational bashing of any stripe. That goes beyond sound debate, scriptural exegesis, etc. JMO....

I'll have to think about that, although, I'm sure public knowledge appears to be acceptable - I just wonder why we would feel comfortable doing that on an open board. That still has the feel of "a busybody in other men's matters".

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Someone's postin', Lord, Kumbaya...

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But, where do you draw the line?

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

That might be a good place to start. I didn't learn anything in-depth concerning the scriptures on that one. I did learn a "catty" word picture though.

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

But, that's because it bothers you personally.

What about someone that likes Obama. They support him and are proud that he's their president. There have been many catty things said about him over and over.

That's what I mean.

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Good point as it comes down to every man's own words OR it's permissible unless we can be sued for it.

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The problem is that one persons "organizational bashing" is another persons "disagreeing with the organization". But I have to say that in some instances I see a valid point made about an org and watch as the mob takes over. There is nothing "happy" about a preacher falling but I DO believe it is fair game to discuss.... What bothers me is the apparent joy people get in it. Something that happens all too often here. But circling the wagons and trying to hide such incidents is just as bad in my humble opinion -something that occurs continually on OTHER boards and in backroom meetings.

"The Honest Truth IN Love" should be the motto.

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

I agree with you, Randy - The spirit in which it's being discussed. Your Motto would be a good one. Although, I don't see it followed very often.

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I'm wading in deep, OA!!! :toofunny

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

I agree Randy - - good post!

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Come on in, sista. The waters fine!

I've said it before and I'll say it again. One of the things I apprecaite about this forum is its diversity. I'm glad we don't have to sign an affirmation statement at the door, agreeing to be somebody's "yes man". This would be one boring and deserted place if we werea group of mindless robots, agreeing with everything someone tells us to agree with. I can hold my on veiws here. I can state my own opinions here. And so can everyone else. Including those who I refer to GIANTS- those who think they have the right to post their veiws because THEY ARE RIGHT. And other posts are ignored and ridiculed because, according to the GIANTS, those posters are just plain wrong, dumb or as lost as two.... well, you get my drift.

I disagree with some here. Probably many. But that doen't make them lost as... you know. And that doesn't make me more any more Apostolic than the next guy. In short, I don't think Christianity should be checked at the door when I enter a Christian forum. I'm not here to watch a boxing match. I'm here to see brotherlings and sisterlings have fellowship, share God's Word, and be a blessing to one another. Usually I ignore the Bombshells, the bashings, the debates and the fussing. Thats easy to do, as long as there is a balance. It just seems here lately, the balance is leaning toward infighting, biting and devouring. Like my good friend Renda said, its just not any fun around here anymore.

The Bble speaks to us about holy conversations. About speaking the truth in love. Words seasoned with grace. Edifying. Building up. Kindness. Longsuffering. I know. That stuff sounds so... so... so Christian.

Well, enough said. Here. I'll stand still. Now, go ahead and throw....

Re: GIANTS in the Land….
 

Roll Tide! Hi OA. Hope you had a nice birthday! Good post, by the way.