The California Collection/TheCaliforniaCollection.cdr/his131/biblebbs.lzh/BIBLEBBS.TXT

Text File | 1991-06-30 | 9KB | 182 lines

LIS:Are you called to run a Christian Bulletin Board?  by Tony Capoccia

   I have received many requests for information regarding the
establishment of a Christian Bulletin Board. Many individuals want to
minister to those in their communities via the computer. I decided to
write a file that would give some "thoughts to consider" before trying
to establish your own Bible BBS:

   1. Are You Called by God to Be a Public Teacher of the Scriptures?

   This has to be the first question. To decide that one "wants" to
have their own BBS without direct "leading" from the Lord is wrong.
Remember the words of Scripture, "Not many of you should presume to be
teachers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more
strictly." (James 3:1). It is God who decides who will "teach" the
truths of Scripture in a public manner. All Christians are qualified to
share the Word with both unbelievers and believers. But not all
Christians are permitted to stand in a Church or other public place and
proclaim the truths of the Gospel.

   The Apostle Paul reminds us that not everyone is called to teach,
"It was He (God) who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets,
some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers. . ."
(Ephesians 4:11). Note the word "some." Paul did not say that God gave
"all" to be teachers, but instead "some" to be teachers. This position
of teaching referred to is one that is "official" in nature. In other
words, witnessing to an unsaved neighbor is teaching in a sense, but it
is on a small scale and the area of influence is limited. Even if we
say something in error, its impact is limited. But to teach from an
official position is very powerful and influential and requires a
special calling and equipping from God. The words spoken from a pulpit,
be it wooden or electronic, seem to have authority which carry an
official "ring" that affects lives.

   Consider the false teachers who are not "called" by God to teach and
note their influence; for example, take the Mormans, the Jehovah
Witnesses, and the Roman Catholics: they have false gospels and yet
because of their official position of teaching have had great influence
on society. God says that those who teach will be, ". . .judged more
strictly." (James 3:1). Those teaching from official positions can
expect a more severe judgment by God for what they say. If we make an
error in a "one-on-one" witnessing situation, God will be more
understanding; however, when we teach in an official capacity we can
expect God to discipline us for errors preached that are a result of
each teacher either not "doing his homework" or "not being called to
teach."

   2. What is Your Inner Motivation for Wanting a Christian BBS?

   Examine yourself before you embark on committing yourself to this
type of ministry. Why do you want to start a Christian BBS? Is it
because you like computers and want to have "something" to do for
Christ that involves your computer? Or do you want the status and other
rewards that comes with the position of being an official teacher? Do
you secretly wish to have a following of people who look to you for all
the answers? Remember the role of a teacher is much more than having
honor and a following, it is one of responsibility. A teacher must have
a more perfect understanding of doctrines and ethics to teach according
to God's standards, otherwise he has the possibility of inflicting
great damage in the hearts of men. Each one of us needs to be very
careful and prayerful in approaching such a task. There can only be one
true motivation for establishing a Christian BBS, and that is, that the
Lord has called and gifted you to do it. It is an endeavor that must be
preceded by prayer and study of the Word. If you have examined yourself
and your motives are pure then, ask yourself, are you truly equipped to
teach others? Have you had any formal training in the interpretation of
the Scriptures? Do you understand enough of the Hebrew and Greek
languages to be able to study the "inner depths" of the selected
verses? Can you teach the truth?

   3. Qualifications to Teach as a Spiritual Leader of God's People.

   As a Sysop on a Christian BBS, you are responsible for the teaching
of God's people. Most who call and "download" files or dialog will be
Christians. You will become their teacher on many Christian matters.
This position parallels that of an elder or overseer in a church, who
has the responsibility for the spiritual direction of the flock.
Therefore, if you feel that God has called you to start a Christian
BBS, then prayerfully consider these spiritual qualifications of those
who are charged with the leadership of God's people. If you fail in any
area, then you should reconsider any plans for a Christian BBS.

   (Note: Each of the following requirements are to be viewed from
one's present life situation. One could have violated any or all of
these qualifications at a previous time in one's life, but has since
repented and proved oneself by consistently walking in obedience to
these qualifications.) (1 Tim 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9). One must be. . .

   A. Above Reproach.

   That is blameless, with conduct of such a nature that no cause is
given to anyone by which his reputation may be injured. He is to be
known for his consistent, mature Christian lifestyle which gives no
occasion for public reproach to himself or to God.

   B. Husband Of One Wife.

   "A One Woman Man, " totally devoted to his wife, not flirtatious,
not accusable regarding any relationships with other women. He may also
be single, divorced, remarried, or widowed, as long as his heart's
longings are for no more than one woman.

   C. Temperate.

   His judgment never leans to the extreme. He is balanced and
circumspect in judgment.

   D. Self-Controlled and Not Quick-Tempered.

   The quality of mind which is in control of one's impulses and
emotions being serious, earnest, and sound. Not long-faced, he
relegates fun to its proper place.

   E. Respectable and Disciplined.

   A well-ordered mind and life, without continual confusion of
unaccomplished plans and disorganized activity.

   F. Hospitable.

   Loving strangers. Love expressed by welcoming and caring for
visiting Believers and Unbelievers.

   G. Able to Teach.

   Apt at teaching, able to impart knowledge and wisdom to others,
especially sound doctrinal knowledge. Handling accurately the Word of
God. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been
taught.

   H. Not Given to Much Wine.

   Literally, one who is not a slave to drink.

   I. Not Violent or Overbearing, but Gentle.

   Not prone to strike back with a blow (or harsh remark) when offended
or annoyed; rather, he is considerate of the feelings of others,
refusing to insist on one's own rights.

   J. Not Quarrelsome.

   Not a fighter, he does not go around with a chip on his shoulder.

   K. Not a Lover of Money.

   Money does not dictate his decisions, his attention is not fixed on
monetary reward. He does not pursue dishonest gain, being always above
reproach in his finances.

   L. Exhibiting Control Over His Family.

   He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey
him with proper respect. His family must recognize his headship. He
must rule in a dignified manner. His children must believe (consistent
with their maturity) and not be open to the charge of being wild and
disobedient.

   M. Not Be a Recent Convert.

   He must not have had too rapid a promotion to leadership, which
could lead to excessive pride. (It is desired for him to have been a
professing Christian for at least five years).

   N. Have a Good Reputation.

   A bad reputation in the community is to bring reproach on himself,
on the church, and on Jesus Christ. He must love what is good.

   O. Upright and Holy.

   He must seek to imitate Christ, and to be able to say with Paul,
"Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ."

   Those of you who meet the spiritual qualifications for leadership,
whose motives are right, and who are truly equipped to be responsible
teachers of the Word of God are welcome to have any information I might
have concerning my own BBS setup. May the Lord bless the efforts of all
who are called by Him for this service.

   Tony Capoccia Bible Bulletin Board