

                         CHRISTIAN BULLETIN BOARDS


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
Box 115
Galveston, IN 46932
Modem (317) 452-1535
October 11, 1986