Re: [sword-devel] Accusations...

[Mike & Amy Swanson]

This really upsets me. Can't the Online Bible people just be grateful that the Word of God is getting out without stooping to a "hall of shame?" I believe the shame rests on them in acting they way they are, trying to discredit your work and ministry. If they are so worried about you "stealing" their work, I believe they have a heart issue that they need to clear up with God. If Jesus were walking the earth I don't think He would care about a copyright and He certainly would not want His children bickering over who had the rights to His words. I believe He would just say, "Go Ye," not "Go Ye but get My Father's permission before you leave and if you can't get it, oh well, just forget the whole thing." I personally don't think that the Words of God should be copyrighted anyway, not at all. There are other ways for people to make money, and I guess that's at the root of the whole "hall of shame" thing. It infringes on their money-making ability, at least that's how I see it. I think the KJV has the right idea. After all, "Freely you have received, freely give." You cannot steal what is given for free. I think your work is awesome and I personally am grateful for the tremendous amount of effort you put into this ministry (yes ministry!) so that everyone can have free access to the Bible, in whatever translation is needed, whatever platform they are on, with study helps, easy to read and without having to be connected to the internet (or pay for a CD first) every time they want to read it. I know that the laborer is worthy of his hire, but I don't believe that God ever intended for us to fight over His Word, especially when it comes to money. I say if people can get the Word of God for free, and they should, then Praise God. More people are getting close to God. More people are getting saved. And if someone really wants to get technical, I believe GOD is the original copyright owner, after all they are HIS words! I wonder - OLB says they are registered with the Library of Congress... what did God have to say? Did they ask Him as well? Did He just give one group permission to re-distribute His Words? I don't think so. It's not just them, I realize lots of people and Bible societies /publishers, etc., are worried about that precious copyright... but when that happens, people lose their focus. It's not about who has the copyright... it's about doing God's will. We are all working to build GOD's kingdom, not man's! Isn't the primary purpose to get souls saved?! And how will they know unless we preach? Or in this case, distribute His word? Sorry if I got long winded on this and I hope I didn't step on any toes. This is my opinion. I usually keep quiet and don't have a lot to offer in this list, but I really wanted to encourage you. What you are doing is a fantastic thing, and I have a hard time believing you would have "stolen" (even though I don't think anyone can really steal God's Words!) from them anyway. Don't let their "hall of shame" discourage you and keep up the awesome work you are doing SWORD team! God Bless and you have my support.