Suggestion: Watchtower magazine?

Actually, the title is more meant to catch attention than a real suggestion but it conveys a point. I am wondering if Logos Bible Software is a Christian company or is it a religious publication company in a broader sense, distributing religious materials in the broader "Christendom" catch-all sense? I am not trying to open up a debate, I am just asking a question of clarification.

The question stems from seeing the ever greater diversification of resources which are being offered. It is not just that different viewpoints are represented (e.g., Arminian vs Calvinist). Catholic, Orthodox, Seven Day Adventists. Hence the embedded question in my title: is it fair game to expect at some point a JW or Mormon quarter as well? Does Logos Bible Software has or care to have a Statement of Faith or does it not perceive itself as a ministry?

I believe the question is valid for customers who like me do not feel like we are only buying products but also supporting a business provided that it is beneficial to the Kingdom of God. I know that the readership of these forums is already diversified enough that I will possibly get strong reactions, but I do not consider that producing and distributing materials to feed and propagate "faiths" that have departed from the Way is what I want to do nor should any disciple of Jesus (as defined in the NT) want to. The Bible does say that anyone who welcomes those who propagate teachings that have departed participate in an evil deed (rather than make a beautiful contribution to respectful and enriching dialogue as many advocate) (2 John 10-11). I am a customer who does not want to help finance the production of false teaching materials.

So, I am asking if Logos could clarify its policy and approach here please.

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Milford Charles Murray

Peace to you, Francis! *smile* .... AND! ... Always Joy in the Lord!

Here is Logos Mission Statement from their website: Also:

Also, Francis, I personally appreciate that every printed Bible Study Magazine has a Mission Statement that "spells out"!!! The Apostles' Creed!

That pleases me "no end," eh???

About

Company Overview
Our Mission

Our Mission

Our goal is to be the worldwide leader in electronic tools and resources for multilingual Bible study.

Our mission is to serve the church.

We believe that Bible study should be at the heart of the Christian life. It's our privilege to equip pastors, students, missionaries, teachers, and the church at large with tools that make Bible study easier and more accessible. It's our responsibility to ensure that the investment in technology we can afford to make, because we serve the western church, pays dividends for the whole world.

Our hope is that as you learn more about Logos Bible Software you'll see it not only as the best Bible study tool anywhere, but also as a way to make Bible study resources more accessible to the church in developing countries.

First-Class Service

All of us here at Logos want to provide you with first-class products and service. If we fail to exceed your expectations, please contact me so we can make it right.

Bob Pritchett President/CEO

tom

Actually, the title is more meant to catch attention than a real suggestion but it conveys a point. I am wondering if Logos Bible Software is a Christian company or is it a religious publication company in a broader sense, distributing religious materials in the broader "Christendom" catch-all sense? I am not trying to open up a debate, I am just asking a question of clarification.

The question stems from seeing the ever greater diversification of resources which are being offered. It is not just that different viewpoints are represented (e.g., Arminian vs Calvinist). Catholic, Orthodox, Seven Day Adventists. Hence the embedded question in my title: is it fair game to expect at some point a JW or Mormon quarter as well? Does Logos Bible Software has or care to have a Statement of Faith or does it not perceive itself as a ministry?

I believe the question is valid for customers who like me do not feel like we are only buying products but also supporting a business provided that it is beneficial to the Kingdom of God. I know that the readership of these forums is already diversified enough that I will possibly get strong reactions, but I do not consider that producing and distributing materials to feed and propagate "faiths" that have departed from the Way is what I want to do nor should any disciple of Jesus (as defined in the NT) want to. The Bible does say that anyone who welcomes those who propagate teachings that have departed participate in an evil deed (rather than make a beautiful contribution to respectful and enriching dialogue as many advocate) (2 John 10-11). I am a customer who does not want to help finance the production of false teaching materials.

So, I am asking if Logos could clarify its policy and approach here please.

Hi Francis,

I think Logos has already answered your question on their website: http://www.logos.com/about/publishing-philosophy

Matthew C Jones

I am wondering if Logos Bible Software is a Christian company

Logos is a company run by Christians. Seeing as a company has no soul to redeem it's hard for me to imagine a "Christian" company. We do know Logos is a for-profit company, not a 501-3c tax exempt organization.

I am not trying to open up a debate, I am just asking a question of clarification.

[*-)] I hope Milford's answer clarified it enough.

mike

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506411#Comment_506411

sooo... logos could sell satanic bible might as well..

heck its for research purposes right..

Matthew C Jones

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506412#Comment_506412

sooo... logos could sell satanic bible might as well..

heck its for research purposes right.

They could but I'm betting they won't. [6] Just like Vyrso could sell the Twilight series but won't.

George Somsel

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506414#Comment_506414

sooo... logos could sell satanic bible might as well..

heck its for research purposes right.

They could but I'm betting they won't. Just like Vyrso could sell the Twilight series but won't.

We need instructions for a Black Sabbath. [6]

tom

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506442#Comment_506442

We need instructions for a Black Sabbath.

They are on tour right now, and they are playing near where I live in a couple of weeks. If you have any questions for them, I can go and ask [:P]

tom

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506412#Comment_506412

sooo... logos could sell satanic bible might as well..

I would purchse it for research purposes.

Francis

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506465#Comment_506465

Reminds me of a pastor who did entertain the thought of watching pornography "for research purposes".

However, this is a digression. The RC and 7th Day Adventist stuff that is here is not just for research purposes but to supply resources to these groups.

Matthew C Jones

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506476#Comment_506476

The RC and 7th Day Adventist stuff that is here is not just for research purposes but to supply resources to these groups.

And so is the Calvinist & Arminian. (and the Baptist, Pentecostal, Lutheran, Methodist,,,,) What is your point? They don't seem to object to your flavour being published.

Edit: We may even have some atheists, agnostics and pagans interested in Perseus & Noet![:|]

Lynden O. Williams

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506476#Comment_506476

However, this is a digression. The RC and 7th Day Adventist stuff that is here is not just for research purposes but to supply resources to these groups.

Yes, and we've only just begun. Would love to have the material of Jehovah Witnesses in Logos. [:)] I want it alllllllll. (singing off key) I'm a big boy, I can choose for myself.

Logos is like a grocery store, buy what you like, take the best and leave the rest. [:P]

Lynden O. Williams

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506488#Comment_506488

By the way, this collection is languishing in community pricing. http://www.logos.com/product/16021/mormon-studies-collection

tom

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506493#Comment_506493

By the way, this collection is languishing in community pricing. http://www.logos.com/product/16021/mormon-studies-collection

[Y]

Daniel Yoder

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506493#Comment_506493

By the way, this collection is languishing in community pricing. http://www.logos.com/product/16021/mormon-studies-collection

This collection would be great to have, but it is completely stuck. [:(]

Francis

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506488#Comment_506488

What is your point? They don't seem to object to your flavour being published.

My point is that JWs for instance are not just "another flavour". A company that published for JWs (as opposed to information about JWs) participates in their development. So, Lynden, I do own resources on witnessing to JWs and Mormons but I'd have difficulties with seeing Mormon devotionals being offered for devotional use.

I buy books from Amazon and they publish a lot of stuff that I find objectionable. I don't think that I support any of these when I buy from Amazon. However, Amazon is clearly a secular business. However, I would have difficulties finding the objectionable material sold in a Christian bookstore. Why? It's a business also, but it's supposed to be Christian (meaning: in the manner in which it operates and what it promotes).

The question I was asking at the beginning may thus be reformulated as "is Logos Bible Software" becoming more of a "Logos Religious Software"? As a customer I want to know whether I interact with it as a secular business or a Christian business with the corresponding expectations.

mike

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506414#Comment_506414

sooo... logos could sell satanic bible might as well..

heck its for research purposes right.

They could but I'm betting they won't. Just like Vyrso could sell the Twilight series but won't.

watch logos starting more different types of categories .. just watch ..

Matthew C Jones

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506522#Comment_506522

watch logos starting more different types of categories .. just watch ..

I hope so. I can't wait to buy some of it.

The Sacred Books of the East (50 vols.)

Lynden O. Williams

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506529#Comment_506529

I hope so. I can't wait to buy some of it.

The Sacred Books of the East (50 vols.)

[Y]

See Bob Pritchett (Ceo of the company) on the way Logos operates. http://community.logos.com/forums/p/35460/266899.aspx

Rosie Perera

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506532#Comment_506532

See Bob Pritchett (Ceo of the company) on the way Logos operates. http://community.logos.com/forums/p/35460/266899.aspx

Here is the direct link to Bob's post: http://community.logos.com/forums/p/35460/267023.aspx#267023

(Lynden, you can get the direct link to a post further down from the top of a page on a thread by clicking the dog-eared page icon next to the poster's name.)

Lynden O. Williams

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506535#Comment_506535

Thanks Rosie. Did not know that.

Matthew C Jones

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506520#Comment_506520

The question I was asking at the beginning may thus be reformulated as "is Logos Bible Software" becoming more of a "Logos Religious Software"?

I am sure you know a lot of people study the Bible (some Christians, some not.) Logos is meeting the needs of it's customer base. Logos is a Bible software company. The other products are tangential to Bible related vocations. Thankfully, Logos does not discriminate on who they will sell to.

As a customer I want to know whether I interact with it as a secular business or a Christian business with the corresponding expectations.

To avoid disappointment just pretend they are a secular company. That way you will be pleasantly surprised with their Christ-like character in business dealings. I only start to worry when somebody baptises their company to increase business. That little fishy emblem is a red flag..

Francis

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506538#Comment_506538

I am learning all over again to trust my gut feeling: when your spider sense tells you that you are probably wasting your time, you are.

As usual, most of the responders hide behind referrals to this or that instead of discussing the facts. It reminds me of this church that kept referring to their denomination statement of faith as a defense when being asked about their ACTUAL practices. Fine politicians indeed.

I have mentioned a Scriptural passage for consideration, and -- again as is sadly standard these days even in "Christian" circles -- no one seems to think that it warrants any attention or that its bearing on the question at hand is worth discussing.

Lynden O. Williams

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506566#Comment_506566

I have mentioned a Scriptural passage for consideration, and -- again as is sadly standard these days even in "Christian" circles -- no one seems to think that it warrants any attention or that its bearing on the question at hand is worth discussing.

Francis, depending on your library, look at the different interpretations on the passage.

Lets ignore what we do not like and take what we do.

MJ. Smith

Actually, the title is more meant to catch attention than a real suggestion but it conveys a point.

I'm not Logos, have no inside information, etc. etc. for a nice long disclaimer. But to me, there is one obvious answer: Logos is a BIBLE software company not a theological studies company. If it relates to Bible Study, it should be fair game.

George Somsel

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506566#Comment_506566

I have mentioned a Scriptural passage for consideration, and -- again as is sadly standard these days even in "Christian" circles -- no one seems to think that it warrants any attention or that its bearing on the question at hand is worth discussing.

Apparently I missed it. What passage might that be?

MJ. Smith

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506520#Comment_506520

My point is that JWs for instance are not just "another flavour"

I'd have difficulties with seeing Mormon devotionals being offered for devotional use.

How many thousands on the forums do you think have similar inclinations that would exclude your view? If you were under my spiritual guidance, I would direct you to readings on hubris and humility. God is perfectly capable of overseeing the situation. That is, of course, a reflection of my theological position - but is it any more an insult than your comments on referring to creedal statements or defining JWs as outside the "Bible study" fold?

I have mentioned a Scriptural passage for consideration, and -- again as is sadly standard these days even in "Christian" circles -- no one seems to think that it warrants any attention or that its bearing on the question at hand is worth discussing.

Perhaps that is because many try, not always successfully, to follow the Logos forum guidelines.

George Somsel

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506577#Comment_506577

How many thousands on the forums do you think have similar inclinations that would exclude your view? If you were under my spiritual guidance, I would direct you to readings on hubris and humility. God is perfectly capable of overseeing the situation.

Watch it, MJ. We'll make a Calvinist of you yet. [:D]

MJ. Smith

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506574#Comment_506574

What passage might that be?

2 John 10-11

George Somsel

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506579#Comment_506579

What passage might that be?

2 John 10-11

Buying a book is a bit different from making him your BFF.

Matthew C Jones

(2 John 10-11). I am a customer who does not want to help finance the production of false teaching materials.

So don't buy any of those materials. When you go out to eat do you ask the waitress if she is a Mormon before you allow her to serve you? Or do you ask the waitress to evacuate all JWs from the restauraunt?

I am asking if Logos could clarify its policy and approach here please.

If you don't want everyone to quote Bob Pritchett & the Logos mission statement you should have directed your inquiry directly to Bob@Logos.com rather than posting in a user forum where just a bunch of us users muse.

Francis

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506577#Comment_506577

If you were under MY spiritual guidance, I would direct you to readings on hubris and humility.

[:P]

Don't worry however. I've been there too. Still am.

Francis

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506581#Comment_506581

Buying a book is a bit different from making him your BFF.

What would be a contemporary application of what 2 John 10-11 and would you be kind enough to provide specific examples?

I read in several replies self-defense. What I am interested in is an engagement about how a passage like 2 Jn 10-11 (we might include v. 9 for good measure) relates to the question I first asked. It was not asked -- may I remind others -- as a general theological debate but as a question I have as a customer about the direction in which Logos Bible Software is going...

George Somsel

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506596#Comment_506596

Buying a book is a bit different from making him your BFF.

What would be a contemporary application of what 2 John 10-11 and would you be kind enough to provide specific examples?

I read in several replies self-defense. What I am interested in is an engagement about how a passage like 2 Jn 10-11 (we might include v. 9 for good measure) relates to the question I first asked. It was not asked -- may I remind others -- as a general theological debate but as a question I have as a customer about the direction in which Logos Bible Software is going...

Part of your problem is that you seem to think that your relationship to God depends upon your holding absolutely correct doctrinal positions. I would say that it rather depends upon your trusting in the revelation of God in Jesus Christ whereby he has revealed his goodwill toward man. True, the JWs are not Trinitarian, but I'm not totally sure that such disqualifies them from being Christians at all. They also have some other rather irregular views. If our relationship to God depends upon our holding correct views then we are actually Gnostics since they held that it was knowledge that determined their salvation.

What would I say would be a modern application of that passage? You mean you don't know what a BFF is? Even though I'm almost 39, I know what it means. Don't go camping, hunting, fishing, bowling with them. Don't have them over to your house regularly for meals. I always caution young people about not going to bars to meet the other sex since they probably don't have the same interests. I don't say, however, that the only place to meet someone is at church (though that is a good place).

David Ames

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506492#Comment_506492

However, this is a digression. The RC and 7th Day Adventist stuff that is here is not just for research purposes but to supply resources to these groups.

Yes, and we've only just begun. Would love to have the material of Jehovah Witnesses in Logos. I want it alllllllll. (singing off key) I'm a big boy, I can choose for myself.

Looked for but did not find another comment that there were resources on witnessing to "groups" - those books are second hand - Have found over and over again that those that tell me what X is like just don't know what X is like. I don't want it second hand - I want it from the original

Also the witnessing resource may tell me where X is now but the original will not only tell me where X is but how X got there.

Francis

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506608#Comment_506608

your problem is that you seem to think that your relationship to God depends upon your holding absolutely correct doctrinal positions

One of the areas in which Logos Bible Software has really added a lot of titles is hermeneutics. It's useful first of all with regard to reading and understanding the Bible but can serve with other kinds of texts as well. Of course, when a certain relativism is adopted then hermeneutics are relative as well.

Remember, we're all relatives

thru Noah I think, relatively speaking of course.

MJ. Smith

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506618#Comment_506618

thru Noah I think, relatively speaking of course.

[:D]

when a certain relativism is adopted then hermeneutics are relative as well.

And uncertain relativism?[;)]

I just couldn't resist as the use of "relative" seems to be relative ... not in this particular case, but I've seen some severe abuse of the term.[:S]

Is Mebin

https://community.logos.com/discussion/comment/506639#Comment_506639

This is not a reply to anyone specifically, just my personal opinion. I do not oppose Logos adding all sorts of materials...classics, other faiths, differing opinions within Christendom...I would never buy the JW or LDS material, only because its not my area of interest...thank God there are those who would need such material for research...I have more of an interest in knowing what Muslims think, but for me, the primary use of Logos will be it's bible study functionality. Let's not forget that you don't have to buy books that don't interest you or indeed offend you; there are packages specific to different strands of Christendom now; and you can always hide books that unwittingly have entered your system.

Logos should always remain a Christian product, but I don't mind what they add to their offerings...even satanic material...if someone wants to research it, go for it, but there is so much already on my system, it wont ever be a problem to me.

That reminds me, I have a copy of the Hermetica on my shelf...have never got to it, but thought I might one day...lol...maybe the diverse offerings within Logos have saved me...lol!

Truly, I'm thankful for Logos every day...and so much of what they offer will never interest me, but wow, so much does!!! Most of the classics don't interest me, but I like being able to do wider research on certain Greek words, that without Logos, would certainly never be possible for me. But they are not Christian texts...sorry...lol!