Yes, a person can appear to be intelligent until they open their mouths or start writing. Some people just want to read and perhaps don't consider themselves to be knowledgeable enough to add a comment. Some think they know more than they do. :laugh: Some, like myself, have a little knowledge but not enough to get into a serious debate--especially with those who think they know it all and are never wrong.
I'm mostly a lurker - I just like to read all the different discussions!
Plus I'm not anywhere near as knowledgable as most people on this board - still learning!
Some of us aren't that smart and we post a lot!!
Educated beyond our intelligence fo' shur
(When you see big numbers by my name, remember I've been here since day one and bedridden for two years so posting was a way of life!! People graciously put up with me.)
Personally Im looking for the post that help me answer questions or those debates that make me get into my bible and study. If they don't do that then I typically don't post.
I do a lot of lurking here from time to time.
While I have posted in the past there is a good reason why I don't do a lot of it anymore.
The majority stems from not wanting to create more animosity on the board than what is already here.
I am CONSTANTLY amazed at how some people can call themselves Christians and then belittle and be, in general, patooties to everyone that has a differing opinion than they do.
Regardless if you're Arminian in doctrine or Reformed, as I am, the vitriol that get's spewed from even those whose claim to share a similar doctrine of mine makes me want to weep.
That said, I do find many encouraging, and challenging things here that enhance my walk with my Savior.
For that, I am very thankful.
I hope during this season of new resolutions and soul searching surrounding the New Year that we would all take a step back and look in the mirror and see if we are truly portraying the Christ that we call Lord through our lives and actions.
We can control only ourselves and how we post.
Simply refuse to take the bait when somebody wants to cross the boundaries of civil discussion.
There's an old baseball expression.
When a player reacted to taunting from the opposing team, he was said to have "rabbit ears."
The taunting was designed to distract the player.
if you get a rise or reaction out of him, you've got the advantage, because he's no longer concentrating on the game.
All of us get upset when somebody misrepresents our view, or mis-states what we posted.
There's a calm way to correct things.
And best of all, you can ignore him.
There can't be any garbage-swapping if you won't swap.
Very good analogy and very true words.
A calm and respectful correction goes a long way in building relationships and helping others truly see the point you're trying to make.
I know personally, that even if the other person is right, if their attitude isn't right I'm gonna pretty much skim or completely skip over what they've said.