Still taking a break but I want to share what I have researched....

[JimfromOhio]

I did some research so I will post and take a break. :wave:

Moderates are in short, hold their conservative positions on most issues but have an underlying worldview of what is neo-orthodox and liberalism. Typically, neo-orthodoxy often focus on orthodox view of Christianity while at the same time retains liberal view of the Bible as subject to error (human reasoning). As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. "Moderate Christian" basically means those who are moderate, relaxed, and open in how they deal with the world, but who take Christianity seriously. Moderate’s character basically means a person whose primary form of witness is by their life, but they do not hide the fact that they are Christians and that they show their spiritual light through deeds first and then words.

I dislike the part about “view of the Bible as subject to error”. However, I like everything else (so far). You could say I could be labeled as “Moderate Conservative” which means I believe the Bible is not corrupted while man is corrupted of interpreting and reasoning. I do like the fact that moderate Christians often behave better and have better credibility. I also learned that Moderate Christians do NOT jump into conclusions during controversies.

I am undecided what to do so taking a break will do good. I doubt I will leave foru.ms.

[DailyBlessings]

Go ahead and take a nice long break- I've done so in the past and felt much better upon returning. And then we can chat about the historical-critical hermeneutics. :)

[rahma]

I hope you don't mind a non christian popping in, but I just wanted to say that I find your definition of who is a moderate to be quite insightful. I hope you don't mind if I steal it for use in discussions I'm involved in over what "moderate" islam is. It's amazing how much the terms moderate, conservative, liberal, progressive, fundamentalist are thrown around in discussions re: religion without having a good idea what it all means.


Best of luck with your forum ya'll http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v211/rahma/Smilies/hello_wave.gif

[Michie]

I did some research so I will post and take a break. :wave:

Moderates are in short, hold their conservative positions on most issues but have an underlying worldview of what is neo-orthodox and liberalism. Typically, neo-orthodoxy often focus on orthodox view of Christianity while at the same time retains liberal view of the Bible as subject to error (human reasoning). As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. "Moderate Christian" basically means those who are moderate, relaxed, and open in how they deal with the world, but who take Christianity seriously. Moderate’s character basically means a person whose primary form of witness is by their life, but they do not hide the fact that they are Christians and that they show their spiritual light through deeds first and then words.

I dislike the part about “view of the Bible as subject to error”. However, I like everything else (so far). You could say I could be labeled as “Moderate Conservative” which means I believe the Bible is not corrupted while man is corrupted of interpreting and reasoning. I do like the fact that moderate Christians often behave better and have better credibility. I also learned that Moderate Christians do NOT jump into conclusions during controversies.

I am undecided what to do so taking a break will do good. I doubt I will leave foru.ms.

I think thats pretty much it for me. With a few tweaks here & there. :)

[~*Lady Trekki*~]

I did some research so I will post and take a break. :wave:

Moderates are in short, hold their conservative positions on most issues but have an underlying worldview of what is neo-orthodox and liberalism. Typically, neo-orthodoxy often focus on orthodox view of Christianity while at the same time retains liberal view of the Bible as subject to error (human reasoning). As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. "Moderate Christian" basically means those who are moderate, relaxed, and open in how they deal with the world, but who take Christianity seriously. Moderate’s character basically means a person whose primary form of witness is by their life, but they do not hide the fact that they are Christians and that they show their spiritual light through deeds first and then words.

I dislike the part about “view of the Bible as subject to error”. However, I like everything else (so far). You could say I could be labeled as “Moderate Conservative” which means I believe the Bible is not corrupted while man is corrupted of interpreting and reasoning. I do like the fact that moderate Christians often behave better and have better credibility. I also learned that Moderate Christians do NOT jump into conclusions during controversies.

I am undecided what to do so taking a break will do good. I doubt I will leave foru.ms.
Interesting....:)

[Izdaari]

Moderates are in short, hold their conservative positions on most issues but have an underlying worldview of what is neo-orthodox and liberalism. Typically, neo-orthodoxy often focus on orthodox view of Christianity while at the same time retains liberal view of the Bible as subject to error (human reasoning). As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. "Moderate Christian" basically means those who are moderate, relaxed, and open in how they deal with the world, but who take Christianity seriously. Moderate’s character basically means a person whose primary form of witness is by their life, but they do not hide the fact that they are Christians and that they show their spiritual light through deeds first and then words.

I dislike the part about “view of the Bible as subject to error”. However, I like everything else (so far). You could say I could be labeled as “Moderate Conservative” which means I believe the Bible is not corrupted while man is corrupted of interpreting and reasoning. I do like the fact that moderate Christians often behave better and have better credibility. I also learned that Moderate Christians do NOT jump into conclusions during controversies.
Well... I don't know if that's the definition of moderate, but whatever it is, it seems to describe me well enough.

Thank you, Jim! :amen:

[Joykins]

A very good definition! And one that describes me fairly well.

Thanks, Jim! I 'm glad to see you sticking around. You are just as addicted as the rest of us it seems ;)

[RadicallyTransformedMom]

describes me well//i am in the right place

[Rochir]

I hope you don't mind a non christian popping in, but I just wanted to say that I find your definition of who is a moderate to be quite insightful. I hope you don't mind if I steal it for use in discussions I'm involved in over what "moderate" islam is. It's amazing how much the terms moderate, conservative, liberal, progressive, fundamentalist are thrown around in discussions re: religion without having a good idea what it all means.


Best of luck with your forum ya'll http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v211/rahma/Smilies/hello_wave.gif

RAHMA!!!!!! Good to see you again!:hug:

[Rhamiel]

Originally Posted by rahma http://www3.foru.ms/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://foru.ms/showthread.php?p=40244924#post40244924)
I hope you don't mind a non christian popping in, but I just wanted to say that I find your definition of who is a moderate to be quite insightful. I hope you don't mind if I steal it for use in discussions I'm involved in over what "moderate" islam is. It's amazing how much the terms moderate, conservative, liberal, progressive, fundamentalist are thrown around in discussions re: religion without having a good idea what it all means.


Best of luck with your forum ya'll http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v211/rahma/Smilies/hello_wave.gif

Assalamu 'Alaikum, it is a rather good definition, do you think it also aplies to Islam as well?

[rahma]

*waves to Rochir* http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v211/rahma/Smilies/icon_veiledsmile1.gif


wa alaikum assalam Rhamiel,

I'd hesitate to describe myself as moderate, although this definition does fit my beliefs/world outlook. There is too much baggage associated with the term - primarily from non muslims demanding to know if we are "moderate," ie if we agree with them. Look at the news, and see who is labeled a moderate. It's usually muslims who are friendly to america's foreign policy. It's more of a socio-political label than a theological one. Or, when it's used theology wise, it's used to describe those who do not practice Islam, or who are lax about certain things that are seen as very "strict," such as no alcohol, praying 5 times a day, having premarital relations, etc.

However, if we did use moderate in a theological sense, I could definately see this definition fitting in with the "traditionalist/neo traditionalist" movement that I ascribe to.

One of the great scholars, Imam abu Hanfia said, "My opinion (on this jurisprudence issue) is right. However, I do not exclude the possibility that I may be wrong. My opponent's opinion is wrong. However, I do not ignore the possibility that he may be right."

If I had to label myself (and I do play with labels for fun and to mess with people's heads :ebil: ), I'd call myself a neo traditionalist of the shafi'i shadhili ashari variety and always a FUNdamentalist :P Weee, labels are fun.


Now, I really don't want to derail this thread. I hope the MC members don't mind a like minded muslim hanging around. I promise I won't preach :angel:

[Rhamiel]

used to describe those who do not practice Islam, or who are lax about certain things that are seen as very "strict," such as no alcohol, praying 5 times a day, having premarital relations, etc.

I agree most of the time when you hear the term "moderate muslim" it means nominal muslim at best, I spent three months in Morocco and it was a wonderful opertunity to learn more about the arab culture and the faith of Islam,
this goes to show that the word moderate means differant things when applied to differant groups

[Joykins]

:wave: always good to see you, rahma!

[MrJim]

I did some research so I will post and take a break. :wave:

Moderates are in short, hold their conservative positions on most issues but have an underlying worldview of what is neo-orthodox and liberalism. Typically, neo-orthodoxy often focus on orthodox view of Christianity while at the same time retains liberal view of the Bible as subject to error (human reasoning). As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. "Moderate Christian" basically means those who are moderate, relaxed, and open in how they deal with the world, but who take Christianity seriously. Moderate’s character basically means a person whose primary form of witness is by their life, but they do not hide the fact that they are Christians and that they show their spiritual light through deeds first and then words.

I dislike the part about “view of the Bible as subject to error”. However, I like everything else (so far). You could say I could be labeled as “Moderate Conservative” which means I believe the Bible is not corrupted while man is corrupted of interpreting and reasoning. I do like the fact that moderate Christians often behave better and have better credibility. I also learned that Moderate Christians do NOT jump into conclusions during controversies.

I am undecided what to do so taking a break will do good. I doubt I will leave foru.ms.

I agree and concur with the moderate conservative~nice work, get back soon:thumbsup:

[Criada]

I did some research so I will post and take a break. :wave:

Moderates are in short, hold their conservative positions on most issues but have an underlying worldview of what is neo-orthodox and liberalism. Typically, neo-orthodoxy often focus on orthodox view of Christianity while at the same time retains liberal view of the Bible as subject to error (human reasoning). As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. "Moderate Christian" basically means those who are moderate, relaxed, and open in how they deal with the world, but who take Christianity seriously. Moderate’s character basically means a person whose primary form of witness is by their life, but they do not hide the fact that they are Christians and that they show their spiritual light through deeds first and then words.

I dislike the part about “view of the Bible as subject to error”. However, I like everything else (so far). You could say I could be labeled as “Moderate Conservative” which means I believe the Bible is not corrupted while man is corrupted of interpreting and reasoning. I do like the fact that moderate Christians often behave better and have better credibility. I also learned that Moderate Christians do NOT jump into conclusions during controversies.

I am undecided what to do so taking a break will do good. I doubt I will leave foru.ms.
Agree with this - tho I don't believe the Bible is subject to error, I am pretty sure my interpretation of it is...

Have a good break, Jim - we'll miss you! :hug:

[GreenMunchkin]

I did some research so I will post and take a break. :wave:

Moderates are in short, hold their conservative positions on most issues but have an underlying worldview of what is neo-orthodox and liberalism. Typically, neo-orthodoxy often focus on orthodox view of Christianity while at the same time retains liberal view of the Bible as subject to error (human reasoning). As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane. "Moderate Christian" basically means those who are moderate, relaxed, and open in how they deal with the world, but who take Christianity seriously. Moderate’s character basically means a person whose primary form of witness is by their life, but they do not hide the fact that they are Christians and that they show their spiritual light through deeds first and then words.

I dislike the part about “view of the Bible as subject to error”. However, I like everything else (so far). You could say I could be labeled as “Moderate Conservative” which means I believe the Bible is not corrupted while man is corrupted of interpreting and reasoning. I do like the fact that moderate Christians often behave better and have better credibility. I also learned that Moderate Christians do NOT jump into conclusions during controversies.

I am undecided what to do so taking a break will do good. I doubt I will leave foru.ms.Interesting... so it's conservative theology and relaxed approach? That fits pretty much perfectly :scratch:

Thanks, Jim :hug: Are you sure you want to take some time away? Would miss you.

[JimfromOhio]

After thinking, I have come to conclusion that being a moderate reminds me that I have no control of what is going on in this world. To me, spiritually stable is to be in an environment of peace or an environment of love in the fellowship. Because, discord, disunity, and chaos will always produce great insecurity that leads people to feel destabilize in their lives. There are some who seem to look on the gloomy side and never able to do respond in faith to life's problems, instead, they grumble about the trials that they forget God's powerful grace. We live in a fallen world and this is what is to be expected. In my faith, I will rest in the confident faith that my God is sovereign over all fallen world to effect His own eternal purposes. That's the solution to the problem, that perspective, an adequate knowledge of God is essential in the matter of spiritual stability. Christianity will always be running against the prevailing society of individualistic views. I have no problem working persistently and faithfully for a more peaceful community. But I am not going to allow anyone to compromise my faith and I will respectfully disagree with them.

I feel that this place (Moderate Christians) might be a place for me. I still can be a conservative while at the same time be a moderate in this world. I have recently signed up to become a member. :wave:

[~*Lady Trekki*~]

After thinking, I have come to conclusion that being a moderate reminds me that I have no control of what is going on in this world. To me, spiritually stable is to be in an environment of peace or an environment of love in the fellowship. Because, discord, disunity, and chaos will always produce great insecurity that leads people to feel destabilize in their lives. There are some who seem to look on the gloomy side and never able to do respond in faith to life's problems, instead, they grumble about the trials that they forget God's powerful grace. We live in a fallen world and this is what is to be expected. In my faith, I will rest in the confident faith that my God is sovereign over all fallen world to effect His own eternal purposes. That's the solution to the problem, that perspective, an adequate knowledge of God is essential in the matter of spiritual stability. Christianity will always be running against the prevailing society of individualistic views. I have no problem working persistently and faithfully for a more peaceful community. But I am not going to allow anyone to compromise my faith and I will respectfully disagree with them.

I feel that this place (Moderate Christians) might be a place for me. I still can be a conservative while at the same time be a moderate in this world. I have recently signed up to become a member. :wave:
Thank you Jim! :hug: You expressed my heart so well with this post. :thumbsup:

[~free~]

Jim, I agree with absolutely all you've said...only you've said it much better than I could!

I am without a doubt with conservative veiws but try to give grace to those who don't have the same veiws.

[JimfromOhio]

Thank you Jim! :hug: You expressed my heart so well with this post. :thumbsup:

You are welcome and thank you for your comment. :wave:

[JimfromOhio]

Jim, I agree with absolutely all you've said...only you've said it much better than I could!

I am without a doubt with conservative veiws but try to give grace to those who don't have the same veiws.

Thank you. :wave:

I will still fellowship and debate with my Christian brethren even though I may not agree with their beliefs. Grace is about loving other people that we have the freedom to do so but at the same time, respect how they practice their beliefs. I just let God handle their beliefs that I disagree with.

[Athene]

After thinking, I have come to conclusion that being a moderate reminds me that I have no control of what is going on in this world. To me, spiritually stable is to be in an environment of peace or an environment of love in the fellowship. Because, discord, disunity, and chaos will always produce great insecurity that leads people to feel destabilize in their lives. There are some who seem to look on the gloomy side and never able to do respond in faith to life's problems, instead, they grumble about the trials that they forget God's powerful grace. We live in a fallen world and this is what is to be expected. In my faith, I will rest in the confident faith that my God is sovereign over all fallen world to effect His own eternal purposes. That's the solution to the problem, that perspective, an adequate knowledge of God is essential in the matter of spiritual stability. Christianity will always be running against the prevailing society of individualistic views. I have no problem working persistently and faithfully for a more peaceful community. But I am not going to allow anyone to compromise my faith and I will respectfully disagree with them.

I feel that this place (Moderate Christians) might be a place for me. I still can be a conservative while at the same time be a moderate in this world. I have recently signed up to become a member. :wave:

Amen Jim. I look forward to many respectful disagreements with you, and I hope that we'll also find much to agree on too. ;) :) God bless you brother, thank you for bringing your gift of wisdom and clarity to us.

[Izdaari]

*waves to Rochir* http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v211/rahma/Smilies/icon_veiledsmile1.gif


wa alaikum assalam Rhamiel,

I'd hesitate to describe myself as moderate, although this definition does fit my beliefs/world outlook. There is too much baggage associated with the term - primarily from non muslims demanding to know if we are "moderate," ie if we agree with them. Look at the news, and see who is labeled a moderate. It's usually muslims who are friendly to america's foreign policy. It's more of a socio-political label than a theological one. Or, when it's used theology wise, it's used to describe those who do not practice Islam, or who are lax about certain things that are seen as very "strict," such as no alcohol, praying 5 times a day, having premarital relations, etc.

However, if we did use moderate in a theological sense, I could definately see this definition fitting in with the "traditionalist/neo traditionalist" movement that I ascribe to.

One of the great scholars, Imam abu Hanfia said, "My opinion (on this jurisprudence issue) is right. However, I do not exclude the possibility that I may be wrong. My opponent's opinion is wrong. However, I do not ignore the possibility that he may be right."

If I had to label myself (and I do play with labels for fun and to mess with people's heads :ebil: ), I'd call myself a neo traditionalist of the shafi'i shadhili ashari variety and always a FUNdamentalist :P Weee, labels are fun.


Now, I really don't want to derail this thread. I hope the MC members don't mind a like minded muslim hanging around. I promise I won't preach :angel:
I can't speak for anyone else, but if that post is at all typical of you, I'm going to love having you around. That was delightful! :clap:

:hug:

[Albion]

The main reservation I have to the idea that a Moderate is really a Conservative with good manners and a calm disposition is that there is nothing in Conservatism that requires anyone to be ill tempered and/or prickly...and most of them are neither.

Maybe what this forum is, then, is a forum for people who don't care too much for labels.

"As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane."

That's a Christian who behaves with moderation, that's all. Not a "Moderate Christian."

[Izdaari]

The main reservation I have to the idea that a Moderate is really a Conservative with good manners and a calm disposition is that there is nothing in Conservatism that requires anyone to be ill tempered and/or prickly...and most of them are neither.

Maybe what this forum is, then, is a forum for people who don't care too much for labels.

"As a moderate Christian, a person desires to be well-balanced, calm, careful, steady, and sane."

That's a Christian who behaves with moderation, that's all. Not a "Moderate Christian."
That works for me! :amen:

We'll decide on a better name soon. Of course God's love for us is not moderate, and our love for Him shouldn't be either! But what we should be is loving to each other, and not contentious or argumentative. I think we're off to a good start on that here. :thumbsup: