Permanent Broad-brushing Disclaimer

Though we have tried to repeatedly express on this blog that we do not in ANY way seek to project the idea that all Independent Fundamental Baptist are the same and that many do NOT share some of the characteristics that we at times discuss, I’d like to piggy-back on Trevor’s last post and put up a permanent disclaimer that we can reference in the future when someone feels we are broad-brushing the entire movement. It is clear that the “movement” is in no way shape or form a homogenous entity. There are many different segments or camps within it, and there are even some who really are Independent and not really a part of any sub-group within the “movement.” Anyone would be foolish to seek to impugn this entire “group” as if they could truly all be bunched together. We want to clarify that we do NOT EVER wish to project unto all of these dear people whatever topic we may be dealing with.

For example, on the subject of the King James Bible, within this group you will have a WIDE variety of positions ranging from the far right (Ruckman/Riplinger type ideas) to a semi-middle of the road position (David Cloud/Crown College, etc..) to a very open position (BJ crowd, etc.)

Obviously when dealing with the King James issue on this blog we realize that there would be many IFB’s who would in fact agree with us or at least not be very far from us. I could give example after example, whether it be standards, preferences, even doctrinal positions such as Calvinism, etc.

Another observation would be that even though some IFB’s would strongly disagree with some of our positions they would do so in a gentle and kind spirit characterized by a Spirit-filled and loving response. These are WONDERFUL people! God bless them! If you are one of these IFB’s, man, I don’t care if you disagree with me on almost everything, I’m proud to call you my brother or sister in Christ and I have NO problem with you. At the end of the day, I am NOT under the illusion that I am right in all areas. If you are characterized by a loving and gentle spirit you ARE lifting up Christ, regardless of where you stand on eschatology or music preferences! I am FOR YOU! Please, never feel attacked by this blog!!!

The purpose of this blog is NOT to attack anyone, but to lift up Christ! We DO wish to encourage and bless those who may be under some of the oppressive and legalistic segments of the “ugly right” within the movement. We have traveled a difficult yet exciting journey as God has done some amazing things in our lives, yet we remember the many times we felt all alone as we wondered where we even fit as we saw certain “beliefs” fade away in the light of scripture. It was the encouragement of some amazing people that God brought into our lives that blessed us on many occasions. All we seek to do here is chronicle our journeys and lay out random thoughts of what God is doing in us. We would love to see this blog and forum grow into a place for people to connect with others and be greatly encouraged as we hunger after God together. Sadly, some WILL feel the wrath of dogmatic and angry people as they make this journey. We wish to encourage them with the knowledge that we have survived that and they can as well. We don’t serve man, we serve God!

I have wonderful friends who I treasure greatly who are firmly IFB and who disagree with me in many areas. My brother-in-law is strong KJV, the whole package. I appreciate his kind and gentle spirit. I have no beef with him and am grateful for his love for the Lord and his humble and meek spirit. I am SO grateful that I can love and appreciate these fine men and that they can return the friendship. For complete clarity, we are NOT anti-IFB. We are anti arrogant and un-accountable pastors, leaders and tyrants, we are against ugly dogmaticism in non-essentials, we are against any Christian being stripped of his/her ability to study the word and obey the Holy Spirit. We are COMPLETELY against blind allegiance and loyalty to men and movements! We wish to exalt Christ with all we are!

Tony