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Jennings defends Mormon faith via N.Y. newspaper
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DryForkCreek | 10:00 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Carrie's articles are always well written and informative. Thank you
Carrie.
We don't have to be an EXPERT in religion, fatherhood, teenagers, working in telecommunications, having babies, stargazing, or any other lifestyle to have an honest opinion. We have our faith, our personal level of understanding, our feelings and our future desires. If we find out later that we were far off what was expected of us in this life, I personally am glad that I have my "feelings", my spiritual outlook and lifestyle. I would wish the same for the negative people comments that are written here in this article. I wish you ALL, joy, peace within yourselves, and contentment in your own beliefs. Please let me also have mine with your approval.
Can't we let be, be??
We don't have to be an EXPERT in religion, fatherhood, teenagers, working in telecommunications, having babies, stargazing, or any other lifestyle to have an honest opinion. We have our faith, our personal level of understanding, our feelings and our future desires. If we find out later that we were far off what was expected of us in this life, I personally am glad that I have my "feelings", my spiritual outlook and lifestyle. I would wish the same for the negative people comments that are written here in this article. I wish you ALL, joy, peace within yourselves, and contentment in your own beliefs. Please let me also have mine with your approval.
Can't we let be, be??
Outside of Utah | 10:03 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
It is clear so many of you are writing while angry because I cannot even figure
out what many of you are trying to say. Why does everyone keep bringing up
polygamy? It is history. Since we were not there to live through it and
understand the circumstances, we should not judge the actions of those who are
now gone. I respect all those who live what they believe.
Comments continue below
Utah Mormon | 10:32 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I thought Mr. Jennings' article was pretty good... right up to the end,
that is, when he said he was counting the days until Romney gets out of the
race... then his article turned GREAT!!
Seriously, am I the only Utah Mormon who thinks that, if we had to have a Mormon president, we could do so much better than Mitt? I am alarmed by his willingness to change his public stance on core issues... not that changing one's mind isn't allowed, but it is suspicious when it aligns so fortuitously with the political climate in which he is operating. Mitt strikes me as a consummate politician... in all the wrong ways.
I agree with what other posters have said: If Romney wins the Republican nomination, then it is virtually guaranteed that the Democrats will take the white house in 2008. So wait... yeah, everyone vote for Mitt in the primaries!
Seriously, am I the only Utah Mormon who thinks that, if we had to have a Mormon president, we could do so much better than Mitt? I am alarmed by his willingness to change his public stance on core issues... not that changing one's mind isn't allowed, but it is suspicious when it aligns so fortuitously with the political climate in which he is operating. Mitt strikes me as a consummate politician... in all the wrong ways.
I agree with what other posters have said: If Romney wins the Republican nomination, then it is virtually guaranteed that the Democrats will take the white house in 2008. So wait... yeah, everyone vote for Mitt in the primaries!
Alexa's mom | 10:53 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Mr. Bass... I can appreciate your conviction in your beliefs and are so willing
to express them. I would like to express mine regarding your statement of
knowing the hearts of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. I believe that to be the
most dangerous judgment that one can make of any human being. No one knows the
heart of any man except our Heavenly Father... which I am grateful for... I
would rather be judged by Him, than someone who read about me after I was
deceased and claims to have all-knowing knowledge of me. Mr. Bass, I am not
making this a suggestion to you, but rather an expression of my own
gratefulness.
kp | 11:04 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Ken is just small fish. When the Osmond's speak then the world will listen.
Confused! | 11:09 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I'm not LDS and am not sure why people seem to have a hair up their (you
know what) about Romney and his philosophy. I thought this was a country of
freedom of religion. Some claim to be from a "party of tolerance" or
"religious thinkers". The bigotry is alive a kicking. I still
don't see the problem. I'm not voting for Romney (go Rudy) but I say
BACK OFF and let the man alone (especially the holier than thou religious
fanatics).
Thank You | 11:34 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Thank You, Ken Jennings.
Reality of Polygamy | 11:53 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I have struggled with the doctrine and practice of polygamy as it relates to my
own personal testimony. But one thing that I most certainly have a testimony of
is that (except for perhaps a few isolated cases) it could not have been an
overly enjoyable experience for ANYONE involved. I am currently in the midst of
a separation soon to be divorce with my wife and the thought of the marital
dynamics/challenges/difficulties only multiplied through polygamy leaves me weak
at the knees. If Joseph Smith and the bretheren did not truly weep upon hearing
the revelation - they most certainly wept later!!
Kim | 11:55 a.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Great job Brother Jennings. The truth will not ne denied. You are truly an LDS
warrior and will be rewarded for righteousness.
Survivorman | 12:18 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Maybe we should get the Utah native whom won one-million dollars on Survivor to
add his two cents on this topic. I think that would just about put us over the
top.
Ore LDS | 12:32 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
When will it be time to pull the moderate from both parties and form a third
more powerful party to lead this country? This would allow the extremists to
fight themselves as the country moves forward.
Is there a candidate that can bring people together? I only see one or two and Mitt is one and my jury is still out on the other.
Religous bigotry is alive and well due to the freedoms this country provides. The only thing these people will need to succeed is for good people to do nothing. To this point I do not agree with Mr Jennings, otherwise I am pleased he stood up for those of us LDS followers.
The only way others can take away ones right to blieve as you want is from inaction when needed. You may not agree with what I believe, but you cannot and will not take away my right to believe it, just as I will not seek to take away your right to believe what you want. I will adamently defend my right to practice my religous freedoms just as I wouold hope you would.
Is there a candidate that can bring people together? I only see one or two and Mitt is one and my jury is still out on the other.
Religous bigotry is alive and well due to the freedoms this country provides. The only thing these people will need to succeed is for good people to do nothing. To this point I do not agree with Mr Jennings, otherwise I am pleased he stood up for those of us LDS followers.
The only way others can take away ones right to blieve as you want is from inaction when needed. You may not agree with what I believe, but you cannot and will not take away my right to believe it, just as I will not seek to take away your right to believe what you want. I will adamently defend my right to practice my religous freedoms just as I wouold hope you would.
Evangelist Jesus | 12:36 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
The Evangelist definition of Christian is someone that has different beliefs
than they do. They pretty much hate every religion that is not theirs. I have a
collection of anti-pamphlets and they include Catholic, Jewish, Mormon faiths.
They claim the main reason they disagree with the LDS faith is because we worship a different Jesus. Their "Jesus" is the Nicene Creed version, One God three different manifestations.
My question to the evangelicals: If Christ and Heavenly Father are the same person, why would Christ on the cross say, "My God, My God, why has thou forsaken me?" Why would he ask himself why he has forsaken himself. Doesn't make sense does it. I am not saying this to destroy your faith, just to let you know that we do have a valid point in our belief. Joseph said he saw God the Father and Jesus Christ. You can believe or disbelieve it does not matter to me, but you cannot argue matters of faith. The Spirit is the giver of truth. James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not.
They claim the main reason they disagree with the LDS faith is because we worship a different Jesus. Their "Jesus" is the Nicene Creed version, One God three different manifestations.
My question to the evangelicals: If Christ and Heavenly Father are the same person, why would Christ on the cross say, "My God, My God, why has thou forsaken me?" Why would he ask himself why he has forsaken himself. Doesn't make sense does it. I am not saying this to destroy your faith, just to let you know that we do have a valid point in our belief. Joseph said he saw God the Father and Jesus Christ. You can believe or disbelieve it does not matter to me, but you cannot argue matters of faith. The Spirit is the giver of truth. James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not.
To Karl | 12:59 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Have you ever read the Proclamation to the Family? It clearly states that
marriage is between a man and a woman and that it is sacred. Not all of us
republicans hate gays and don't want them to have rights. However, we do
understand the sanctity of the institution of marriage and we will fight to keep
that sancitity intact. It's not about rights, it's about keeping
marriage sacred.
Jesus | 1:33 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Please love each other.
Thank you,
Jesus
Thank you,
Jesus
Ernest T. Bass | 3:16 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
To all who responded: I haven't said anything that isn't true. Once
again, look at the circumstances to the marriages. Look at the ages of some
wives and who some other wives were already married to.
To Park City. You are truly decieved. It's not the Libs taking jabs at the religion, its the far-right. A year ago, Bill O'Reilly called Latter Day Saints members of a cult. The far-right is providing the sharpest critics.
To Park City. You are truly decieved. It's not the Libs taking jabs at the religion, its the far-right. A year ago, Bill O'Reilly called Latter Day Saints members of a cult. The far-right is providing the sharpest critics.
Bravo | 3:26 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Great job Ken. Thank you for your insightful and intellectual words.
The teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints offers critical doctrines that are essential (not helpful, essential) to salvation. Those that have not inquired or researched these precious truths are at risk of damnation. Follow that simple whisper that tells you that there just might be something important to learn. Look for the young men and women dressed nicely in name tags and they will teach you eternal truths. Or, give your Mormon neighbor a chance to share their feelings and beliefs the best way they can.
Anyone that truly sees accurately practicing Mormons recognizes that Mormons genuinely follow Christ, believe in salvation through Christ's atonement and believe in the importance and sanctity of family. We cannot be saved in ignorance. We cannot be saved without Christ.
True lasting happiness comes from understanding and practicing these truths. I testify to these things in the name of Jesus Christ. God bless everyone and Merry Christmas.
The teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints offers critical doctrines that are essential (not helpful, essential) to salvation. Those that have not inquired or researched these precious truths are at risk of damnation. Follow that simple whisper that tells you that there just might be something important to learn. Look for the young men and women dressed nicely in name tags and they will teach you eternal truths. Or, give your Mormon neighbor a chance to share their feelings and beliefs the best way they can.
Anyone that truly sees accurately practicing Mormons recognizes that Mormons genuinely follow Christ, believe in salvation through Christ's atonement and believe in the importance and sanctity of family. We cannot be saved in ignorance. We cannot be saved without Christ.
True lasting happiness comes from understanding and practicing these truths. I testify to these things in the name of Jesus Christ. God bless everyone and Merry Christmas.
Utah is FULL of Mormon Democrats | 3:28 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
...they just call themselves Republicans. But look at the most recent vote
against school vouchers. A truly "conservative" principle is that of
smaller government and local control. The majority of liberals and democrats are
opposed to school vouchers.
Utahans are among the highest taxed in the country, and yet we essentially voted for another tax increase in the coming years. There will be no other way to deal with the impending growth in the number of school children who will swell, to the point of bursting, the already overcrowded school system with more pupils.
I'm amazed the Utah Democrat leaders have failed to point out the traditionally liberal positions that many Utah Mormons embrace time and again.
While I believe the Democratic Party and LDS beliefs are similar in some of the overall objectives of what they aim to achieve, the main difference: one is socialism, run by the state, and the other is charity, done by the individual. Much like school vouchers, since when does the government know what's best for me and my family and how we should spend our money?
Utahans are among the highest taxed in the country, and yet we essentially voted for another tax increase in the coming years. There will be no other way to deal with the impending growth in the number of school children who will swell, to the point of bursting, the already overcrowded school system with more pupils.
I'm amazed the Utah Democrat leaders have failed to point out the traditionally liberal positions that many Utah Mormons embrace time and again.
While I believe the Democratic Party and LDS beliefs are similar in some of the overall objectives of what they aim to achieve, the main difference: one is socialism, run by the state, and the other is charity, done by the individual. Much like school vouchers, since when does the government know what's best for me and my family and how we should spend our money?
Ore LDS | 4:50 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
A big reason why LDS people will NOT be democrats is the support of gay rights,
abortion, and social progams.
Although I believe all people are equal, I do not support the attacks on family by granting benefits to gay couples that should not exist.
I cannot believe anyone that understands the devine nature of children as is in LDS doctrine saying abortion is good and needed in this nation. I respect that people have a choice, at least for now, but I will NEVER agree that their choice is correct.
I should be in control of how the money is spent for the welfare of my family. I want less Federal Gov telling me what is important for my money to fund. Letting the Federal Gov have more of my money to spend on their PET projects (DUMBO's last spending bill) is detrimental to my family. Unfortunately PETS exist on both sides, but at least the Republicans want smaller Fed Gov.
Here in Ore the lottery was passed as a way to fund education. There are often budget short falls in education because lottery $$s are spent on nearly everything BUT education. The answer for DUMBO ORE, more taxes.
Although I believe all people are equal, I do not support the attacks on family by granting benefits to gay couples that should not exist.
I cannot believe anyone that understands the devine nature of children as is in LDS doctrine saying abortion is good and needed in this nation. I respect that people have a choice, at least for now, but I will NEVER agree that their choice is correct.
I should be in control of how the money is spent for the welfare of my family. I want less Federal Gov telling me what is important for my money to fund. Letting the Federal Gov have more of my money to spend on their PET projects (DUMBO's last spending bill) is detrimental to my family. Unfortunately PETS exist on both sides, but at least the Republicans want smaller Fed Gov.
Here in Ore the lottery was passed as a way to fund education. There are often budget short falls in education because lottery $$s are spent on nearly everything BUT education. The answer for DUMBO ORE, more taxes.
JCB | 6:06 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
The words "LAST DISPENSATION" and 'RESTORATION OF ALL
THINGS" are the answers to most of the theological questions that trouble
both LDS and NON- LDS.
Kerry | 6:10 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Wow all this brotherly love spouting from the faithful and the
'non-faithful'! Thank you all for reminding me why I am now an
apostate.
Anonymous | 6:24 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Great interview Mr. Jennings. We have much work to do but involvement from
celebrity mormons like Ken will pay it's dividends.
The church is true and I have a tesimony to that. If I am mistaken may God have UCLA defeat BYU in vegas.
The church is true and I have a tesimony to that. If I am mistaken may God have UCLA defeat BYU in vegas.
Roger | 7:31 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I praise my Brother and Sisters who have responded efficiently and positively to
the multitude of negative comments. Now can the nay sayers please stop! We have
the restoration of the gospel and you can either search out and accept the truth
now or regret your closed mindedness later.
WestBerkeleyFlats | 7:48 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
It's such a shame that Jennings's statement with regard to the reasons
for the priesthood ban and polygamy are historically inaccurate. Unless, of
course, Jennings is arguing that the Books of Abraham and Moses and the First
Presidency statements of 1949 and 1969 are "folk doctrine." Moreover,
his explanation of the rationales for polygamy contradict those in D&C 132.
Liz | 8:22 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Well done Ken Jennings. This is first of many dialogues to assist in the spread
the Restored Church in these bleak days of choas.
Jerod | 9:18 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I like most of the comments. Brother Jennings should be praised for standing up.
Why does our newspaper allow the contents to be posted that are opposed to the
Church's view. Some of the comments are disturbing and I do not think
worthy of publication. This is our paper, can't we do something this. It is
time to stand up folks.
Only LDS | 9:39 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I agree with Jerod. Why do we let comments that are disparaging. After all the
church does own this newspaper and should control hateful content. I personally
do not want to hear the opinions of riff-raff.
Well, it is a newspaper.... | 9:51 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
And a public place! Many things people use are owned by organizations that are
not religious in nature. It is uncomfortable to think that a person can't
even read a newspaper that is objective. I think it's great that the
Deseret News will publish all kinds of opinions.
WestPac | 10:03 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I am tired of people saying that it is unfair for people to hold Mitt Romneys
religious views against him. When was life fair? I appreciate the honesty that
those who come out against Romney. In doing so they allow the world to see that
they are biased in the same way that those who hate people for the color of
their skin or sexual orientation. When you know who they truly are you know that
despite the smile they don't have the best interest of others in mind. As
unpleasant as it may be for some, LDS people need to look at themselves and
realize that they aren't mainstream America. It is what makes them
different that make them a unique and important part of the american fabric.
WestBerkeleyFlats | 10:12 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I think that a better question is why this newspaper, unlike many others,
screens comments at all, rather than just deleting those that are flagged as
abusive.
To weak LDS | 10:17 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Don't fear that negative or agressive remarks are made and published. I am
LDS and invite the views and feelings of others. It is alright that they differ
from my views and feelings. Frankly, they have the right.
I truly believe that the hard-hearted and contentious will be the ones remarking with that spirit. More importantly, I believe that good hearted non-LDS people will see the anger and hatred in their remarks.
Good for you DN for representing both sides...that is what good journalism does.
What troubles me is my fellow saints that are weak in doctrine and faith who do much more damage to the image of the Church than these hateful or misled attackers.
I truly pray that good non-LDS people will understand the seperation of perfect doctrine found in the gospel and imperfect people found in the Church. Truly for every poor example of our faith there are plenty of positive examples.
I challenge any non-LDS who are curious or maybe recognize that hateful things spoken don't seem to stack up to obtain the Church published Ensign magazine. Prophets and Apostles of Christ teach us how to live and behave. It is modern revelation from God.
I truly believe that the hard-hearted and contentious will be the ones remarking with that spirit. More importantly, I believe that good hearted non-LDS people will see the anger and hatred in their remarks.
Good for you DN for representing both sides...that is what good journalism does.
What troubles me is my fellow saints that are weak in doctrine and faith who do much more damage to the image of the Church than these hateful or misled attackers.
I truly pray that good non-LDS people will understand the seperation of perfect doctrine found in the gospel and imperfect people found in the Church. Truly for every poor example of our faith there are plenty of positive examples.
I challenge any non-LDS who are curious or maybe recognize that hateful things spoken don't seem to stack up to obtain the Church published Ensign magazine. Prophets and Apostles of Christ teach us how to live and behave. It is modern revelation from God.
History found | 10:20 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Read Richard Van Wagners book about the history of mormon polygamy. He got his
sources from BYU's rare book collection. The truth will set you free.
Courage | 10:23 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Have courage to find out what you believe. God won't punish you for
seeking the truth. Look deep. Decide for yourself
Isn't It Wonderful | 10:23 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Elder Ballard has given the calling and Brother Jennings provided his testimony
to the public. Others will follow suite and bring converts in ten-fold. Temple
Builders gather because we are going to be a busy lot in the future.
WestBerkeleyFlats | 10:36 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
To To Weak LDS:
But why should non-LDS read the "Ensign" when Brother Jennings has dismissed statements made in that publication by prophets, seers and revelators as "folk doctrine"?
But why should non-LDS read the "Ensign" when Brother Jennings has dismissed statements made in that publication by prophets, seers and revelators as "folk doctrine"?
TO WestBerkeleyFlats | 10:45 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
The Ensign is beautiful faith promoting magazine. Before you comment on it
please have a peak. I can get you a prescription if needed.
WestBerkeleyFlats | 10:53 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I would love to have a "prescription" to the Ensign. And I've
read its inspiring messages. Why just the other day I was perusing an issue
from the 1970s whose entire contents were devoted to a discussion of how the
indigenous peoples of the Americas and the Pacific Islands were descendants of
Lehi through primarily Laman and Lemuel. It was very inspiring, much more so
than those scientific publications, what with their mention of DNA and empirical
evidence and so on.
A precription indeed??? | 10:58 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
A �prescription� for the Ensign? I
think you meant subscription. Nice Freudian slip as prescription seems to fit
the bill as it keeps the stables in tact and the flock in the fold.
TO: "Get the facts straight" | 11:04 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I am SBC from earlier at 3:30 AM.
This is in response to the comments from "Get the facts straight" placed this morning at 7:26 AM.
"...and when some ex-followers exposed them..."
Jospeh Smith was illegally jailed dozens of times with trumpted up charges. This means someone was lying to put him in jail. Many ex-followers then, and now, were very bitter about things for different reasons. Would you put it past these folks to trump up some kind of lie to get back at Joseph and the church? From my earlier entry at 3:30 AM I roughly restate the following: My question to "Get the facts straight" is this: "WERE YOU PERSONALLY PRESENT TO WITNESS THESE CLAIMS?" I am confident that you were not. There are just as many documented statements that contradict what YOU CHOOSE TO BELIEVE. And, as I also stated earlier. I choose to believe Mr. Jennings version, not because I was there or read it from any official Church manual. I know Jospeh was a prophet because the Holy Spirit spoke to my soul letting me know he was. Please, can you honestly ask for yourself? That is all we ask.
This is in response to the comments from "Get the facts straight" placed this morning at 7:26 AM.
"...and when some ex-followers exposed them..."
Jospeh Smith was illegally jailed dozens of times with trumpted up charges. This means someone was lying to put him in jail. Many ex-followers then, and now, were very bitter about things for different reasons. Would you put it past these folks to trump up some kind of lie to get back at Joseph and the church? From my earlier entry at 3:30 AM I roughly restate the following: My question to "Get the facts straight" is this: "WERE YOU PERSONALLY PRESENT TO WITNESS THESE CLAIMS?" I am confident that you were not. There are just as many documented statements that contradict what YOU CHOOSE TO BELIEVE. And, as I also stated earlier. I choose to believe Mr. Jennings version, not because I was there or read it from any official Church manual. I know Jospeh was a prophet because the Holy Spirit spoke to my soul letting me know he was. Please, can you honestly ask for yourself? That is all we ask.
To SBC | 11:13 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
Chill out, so much anger in your post.. This is excatly the type responce the
anti's are trying to get. Chill dude. It is about the LDS and not
yourselve, you make it worse.
Glad you asked West BF | 11:14 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I find it refreshing that within the Ensign the words of Prophets, Apostles,
Seventies and many other Saints are at my disposal. I learn more about how to
conduct my own life, how to include Christ in my life, how to raise my family,
how to treat my fellow man, etc.
For example, I just grabbed the closest Ensign I could find and opened to an article by the presiding Bishop of the Church; David H. Burton. His article "Quiet Stirrings of the Heart" teaches me that "developing faith requires a lifetime of vigilance". He shares experiences that he has had in life to help him develop faith.
"But I have found that most often faith comes through the quiet sitrrings of the heart as the Spirit speaks to our spirit."
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened" (Luke 11:9-10).
You find fault in a few areas like the DNA issue. I am curious how you dismiss doctrines such as baptism for the dead or priesthood authority?
For example, I just grabbed the closest Ensign I could find and opened to an article by the presiding Bishop of the Church; David H. Burton. His article "Quiet Stirrings of the Heart" teaches me that "developing faith requires a lifetime of vigilance". He shares experiences that he has had in life to help him develop faith.
"But I have found that most often faith comes through the quiet sitrrings of the heart as the Spirit speaks to our spirit."
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened" (Luke 11:9-10).
You find fault in a few areas like the DNA issue. I am curious how you dismiss doctrines such as baptism for the dead or priesthood authority?
Lilly from SC | 11:20 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I just read the original article in the New York Daily; great work Brother
Jennings. You are an inspiration to us all. Myself and many will follow your
lead. We are a great people and this calling will help inform the misfortunate.
Apocalypse Now | 11:35 p.m. Dec. 22, 2007
I love the smell of arrogance at
midnight��..
Saratoga Couger | 12:21 a.m. Dec. 23, 2007
A lot of complaining posts here. I think people are nervous The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-Day Saints has a greater influence on world life and culture
than they may realize. We are the fastest growing church in the world and our
twelve-billion members will only multiply in these latter days. We have great
works ahead and I think the world is scared by our influence.
Back in the day | 4:09 a.m. Dec. 23, 2007
I find it interesting how many people can read "authors" or quote
"evidence" with respect to what Joseph Smith did or didn't do, or
why he did or didn't do it.
One of the difficulties with "historical" documents is "old" doesn't necessarily mean "accurate." An "old" lie is still a lie, an "old" misunderstanding is still a misunderstanding. Judging something out of context often leads to a wrong judgment.
What can't be disputed is this: People who were Joseph Smith's contemporaries, who handled the gold plates he translated the Book of Mormon from, one group shown by Joseph, another shown by an angel, never recounted their witness. Not after they were persecuted, driven from their homes, in some cases lost fortunes, in other cases left the LDS Church, in still other cases were excommunicated. Those are credible witnesses.
One of the difficulties with "historical" documents is "old" doesn't necessarily mean "accurate." An "old" lie is still a lie, an "old" misunderstanding is still a misunderstanding. Judging something out of context often leads to a wrong judgment.
What can't be disputed is this: People who were Joseph Smith's contemporaries, who handled the gold plates he translated the Book of Mormon from, one group shown by Joseph, another shown by an angel, never recounted their witness. Not after they were persecuted, driven from their homes, in some cases lost fortunes, in other cases left the LDS Church, in still other cases were excommunicated. Those are credible witnesses.
Back in the Day | 4:11 a.m. Dec. 23, 2007
The great majority of the 12,000 inhabitants of Nauvoo who knew Smith and Young
personally followed Young across the wilderness, not in pursuit of fortune, but
as an act of faith -- not just faith in Smith's teachings, but as an act of
faith in Smith and Young as men. Every story, every example of the foibles and
failures of those men only makes the fact that so many capable, hardworking
people followed them at such personal hardship and peril so impressive. (The
establishment of Salt Lake City in the desert is certainly evidence of the
quality of those followers.)
Back in the Day | 4:13 a.m. Dec. 23, 2007
My great grandmother was a polygamist wife � recruited by
her aunt to be the second wife her husband had been commanded to take. When the
manifesto repealing polygamy was issued, great grandmother, pregnant, asked to
be divorced from her husband, and eventually married another man. My
grandfather was raised in the home of a stepfather, with half- brothers and
sisters � and went on a mission for the LDS church and was
faithful to that church for the remainder of his life � as
was his mother. He was close to both his natural and step fathers throughout
his life.
The fact my great grandmother and her son, my grandfather -- who experienced polygamy first hand, and were not really in favor of it � remained faithful to their belief in the LDS Church to the end, serves as a very persuasive witness to me that the practice of polygamy was entered into as a religious belief, not as the prurient practice that those of prurient minds interpret it to be.
The fact my great grandmother and her son, my grandfather -- who experienced polygamy first hand, and were not really in favor of it � remained faithful to their belief in the LDS Church to the end, serves as a very persuasive witness to me that the practice of polygamy was entered into as a religious belief, not as the prurient practice that those of prurient minds interpret it to be.
THe last sentence | 4:34 a.m. Dec. 23, 2007
What?
"The piece makes Jennings one of the � if not the � first high-profile Latter-day Saint who is not identified as a church leader to defend the faith in a widely read public forum."
Clearly the writer has an agenda here, left open to the imagination of the readers, but what is the intended point, and who are the intended targets she is attempting to minimalize?
It is interesting as usual to see (bereft of verified facts) anti-Mormons come out of the woodwork once again.
"The piece makes Jennings one of the � if not the � first high-profile Latter-day Saint who is not identified as a church leader to defend the faith in a widely read public forum."
Clearly the writer has an agenda here, left open to the imagination of the readers, but what is the intended point, and who are the intended targets she is attempting to minimalize?
It is interesting as usual to see (bereft of verified facts) anti-Mormons come out of the woodwork once again.
Adult | 8:00 a.m. Dec. 23, 2007
Let's have adult discussions about religion. It's obvious that the
LDS Church WAS a racist organization for years. Why get upset and accuse those
who mention this as haters? It appears that some LDS Church members get
nervous when someone mentions a bit of unpleasant truths about Mormon history.
Instead of engaging in discussion about unpleasant historical realities, they
accuse others of being full of hatred. Some are full of hatred, but
other's are not.
I happen to believe Joseph Smith was a fraud. I don't hate others for believing he was a prophet of God, but let's have adult discussion about religion that involves total honesty.
I've heard some Mormons say, "Hate the sin, love the sinner." I think a similar thing can be said about belief: hate the belief, love the believer.
I happen to believe Joseph Smith was a fraud. I don't hate others for believing he was a prophet of God, but let's have adult discussion about religion that involves total honesty.
I've heard some Mormons say, "Hate the sin, love the sinner." I think a similar thing can be said about belief: hate the belief, love the believer.
The Final Word | 8:04 a.m. Dec. 23, 2007
For all you self righteous naysayers: If you believe that God would condem the
early LDS leaders for practicing polygamy, then you might as well throw out your
belief of the Old Testament, as it is full of prophets who practiced polygamy.
And if you are audacious enough to believe that God can't make His will
known to modern men as well as in ancient times, then you might as well throw
out the whole Bible, because that Book is full of revelations! Who are you to
tell God what He can or cannot do, and more importantly when? I suppose if you
had been an Israelite back in Egypt, you would have told Moses he was nuts, and
you would have waved goodbye as they left you behind(assuming you had the sense
to paint the on your door?) Of course, if you don't believe the Old
Testament is of God, then you have no moral leg to stand on, and it doesn't
really matter anyway does it? If so, then I guess anything goes... Oh, and by
the way, if God has the power to create man, He can change their DNA around any
way He wants to...Really!
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Ken Jennings
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Frankly, JS would have probably been Libertarian, well uh other than the theocracy issue. What was the name of his party for the Presidential campaign of 1844? Maybe Utah needs to revive it.