What do I owe you as posters on an Apostolic internet forum?!
Should I be in any way concerned about the feelings of faceless people I may never meet?!
Should I be allowed to post any and everything I choose because I think I can?!
IS this just a game where we feel free to come and post without a worry as to the repercussions?!
If my posting is continually misunderstood, who is responsible for the misunderstanding?!
If my posting continually upsets the masses, who is responsible for the upset?!
Just what DO I owe you?!
Everyone must answer this for themselves, but I will tell you what
I owe you...
I owe you words seasoned with grace, whether I agree with you or not. The Apostle wrote,
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith (Gal. 6:10). That 'do good' means to speak good as well as do good...in other words, my actions should be a reflection of my speech.
I owe you respect. Propriety and common sense should teach me to approach any topic with respect for the reader and respect for myself. My first thought should not be the expression of my opinion as much as the expression of the holiness within me AND you. I don't care if you don't belong to my clubhouse or wear my uniform...I owe you respect.
I owe you the love of Christ, even if your actions are not likable. Surely in this life not everyone will like everything
I do or say, but prayerfully all who are called by the Name of the Lord will love me with the love of Christ.
I owe you honesty in posting and conversation. If I cannot tell you the truth...if everything is undergirded by an untruth or coverup, where is my holiness displayed?! My uncut hair means nothing in the light of speaking truth and living honorably!! Truth demands that I not pretend I am something my life cannot back up.
I owe you, Apostolic Friend...I intend to pay what I owe by the help of the Almighty!!