Furthermore, self-examination should take place before entering a debate as to the motive for participation. Am I participating in a debate because I desire truth or because I want to bring down the opposition?
Xzins, It is my opinion that there is such a lack of forgiveness that a bitter root has grown up in these "Calminian Wars" between some of the participants. I'm not sure that debate can take place without the festering of old wounds that never heal.
It is disturbing because it destroys our witness. One of the goals of debate, where there is an audience, is to present to the hearers, in this case lurkers, a clear biblical position for our faith. It is a way of evangelizing. What message are we sending?
Suzy, it is so good to read what you have written.
Let us pray that such wisdom as you have written would affect all of us.
In terms of "resolution," it might be in order to acknowledge that many of our debates have reached the point where we could just agree that we can go no further at this time.