I did decide to post it. Please keep in mind that this was a paper about digital communication and online profiles (specifically when people choose not to reveal their true self) and why people might use them. I attend a Christian University and much of discussion revolves around a Christian Worldview.
"An online discussion board,
www.apostolicfriendsforum.com is an online forum where people choose user names and as long as they are respectful, almost any topic is acceptable. What makes this site unique is that most of the members are either former or current members of a religious denomination (UPCI). Many of the threads directly relate to the UPCI, its preachers, its bylaws, etc. because this organization leans to the legalistic side, many of the “lurkers” are looking to leave the organization or are members who watching for people who are looking to leave. This forum allows people, under an assumed name, to ask questions that they would never be able to ask their pastors or fellow church members without fear of condemnation. Thankfully, in this instance, there are “gatekeepers” (administrators) who maintain a form of decorum and demand truth in what people say. When someone comes on looking to start a fight or promote gossip, they are quickly warned and then locked out.
Isaiah 1:18a says, “Come now, let us reason together,’ says the LORD” (NIV). These people are looking to think through many major issues in their life and with their relationship with God, it is a healthy way to reason for people who otherwise would not be able to seek this information."
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