One netfriend wrote:

This is just a suggestion. Why don't we all start over forget the past and treat each other with respect and be civil even if we have different opinions. We are all equals here and should in my opinion start showing how Christians should act toward each other.

Another responded: Won't happen. Pipe dream. And we are not all "equals here". Some are Christians. Some claim to be Christians.

A third response:

And some aren't and don't claim it :)

And mine:

And some claim to be Christians but ignore God's Word in Scripture which commands us to

'Live in harmony with one another... So far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good' (Romans 12: 14-21)

which is all Matt's asking us to do

or

'Make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence'

(Amazing that: we are to treat people who challenge our faith/hope with the same attitude we have for God - reverence!)

All that's clear enough isn't it? These commands address our calling to relate to *outsiders* (those we claim are not "in the faith") - it's 'all men/women', 'those who challenge us...'

--

Shalom! Rowland Croucher