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Noah Feldman: A majority of Americans have no idea what Mormons believe
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What is truth??? | 7:16 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
I have read the word �truth� thrown
around here in a broad context of terms. Boys and girls if you think you are
validating anything by using �truth�
you are far from the �truth.� Truth is
confirmed through empirical evidence; and guess what the LDS Church nor any
other have that. What the LDS church does have is the indoctrination process to
empower people they have �truth.�
While I do not think the LDS church is a cult, this approach to truth creates
cultish behaviors and this why the LDS religion is seen as a cult throughout
much of society.
BYU-I Student | 7:32 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
I am sad that the writer of this article did not do their homework for this
article. Things were not correct and fasle statements. Then again this is from
New York, not the Deseret News.
I am also saddened by the people of America that are throwing harsh comments at us, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I know what I believe and I testified of it for 2 years. The presidential election shouldn't be based on religion, but apparently for Mitt Romney, is seems to be. I just wish that we as a people can respect eachothers religion. I am sure that God doesn't like us bashing eachother.
Anyways, if you have an question to what the LDS church believes, call the missionaries, they are world wide and can answer any question!
I am also saddened by the people of America that are throwing harsh comments at us, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I know what I believe and I testified of it for 2 years. The presidential election shouldn't be based on religion, but apparently for Mitt Romney, is seems to be. I just wish that we as a people can respect eachothers religion. I am sure that God doesn't like us bashing eachother.
Anyways, if you have an question to what the LDS church believes, call the missionaries, they are world wide and can answer any question!
Comments continue below
Nathan | 7:39 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Thank you Kevin. Anyone who says that the LDS faith has changed from our
central tenets hasn't read our central tenets or our history. I'm a
part-time student of history (full-time engineer) and I have read the histories
written by LDS members in the 1830's to the present - not one doctrine
introduced by Joseph has been repudiated as "false" by any leader of
our church. Things have come and gone - plural marriage was discontinued,
blacks were allowed to have the priesthood - but only by the word of the
prophet. The prophet doesn't listen to popular sentiment. There are no
opinion polls. If we were trying to be popular don't you think we'd
have women in the priesthood by now?!?! Read the original writings and
you'll find that we believe God the Father is a man like us, that he died
and was resurrected and we are his literal spirit children. Jesus Christ is the
eldest of these children. That's what Joseph Smith taught, and that's
what we still teach. "As man is, God once was. As God is, man may
become"
LDS | 7:50 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Nathan, when president Hickley was interviewed on the Larry King show he some
what distanted the church from your quote. He said it was just a notion from
president Snow. Also, polygamy is still a part of Mormon faith and doctrine as
stated in D&C and practiced in the temple.
Anonymous | 7:51 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Comments that have been posed on asking my neighbors or engaging missionaries
are somewhat intriguing.
Am I to ask my biased neighbor who has alienated my family (because I am a non-member) for a view into Mormonism or talk to a self-conscience NINETEEN year old missionary about how to proceed with my life? Very interesting but I guess I�ll pass. No wonder the rate of converts is dropping at unprecedented levels.
Am I to ask my biased neighbor who has alienated my family (because I am a non-member) for a view into Mormonism or talk to a self-conscience NINETEEN year old missionary about how to proceed with my life? Very interesting but I guess I�ll pass. No wonder the rate of converts is dropping at unprecedented levels.
Nathan | 8:03 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
If we've distanced ourself from it, why does page 40 of this years official
manual for church contain the following:
�God Himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens! That is the great secret. If the veil were rent today, and the great God who holds this world
in its orbit, and who upholds all worlds and all things by His power, was to make Himself visible,�I say, if you were to see Him today, you would see Him like a man in form�like yourselves in all the person, image, and very form as a man; for Adam
was created in the very fashion, image and likeness of God, and received instruction from, and walked, talked and conversed with Him, as one man talks and communes with another. . . ." Joseph Smith
�God Himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens! That is the great secret. If the veil were rent today, and the great God who holds this world
in its orbit, and who upholds all worlds and all things by His power, was to make Himself visible,�I say, if you were to see Him today, you would see Him like a man in form�like yourselves in all the person, image, and very form as a man; for Adam
was created in the very fashion, image and likeness of God, and received instruction from, and walked, talked and conversed with Him, as one man talks and communes with another. . . ." Joseph Smith
Nathan again | 8:07 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
If we've distanced ourself from it, why does the official study manual (pg.
40) state:
�God Himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens! That is the great secret. If the veil were rent today, and the great God who holds this world in its orbit, and who upholds all worlds and all things by His power, was to make Himself visible,�I say, if you were to see Him today, you would see Him like a man in form�like yourselves in all the person, image, and very form as a man; for Adam was created in the very fashion, image and likeness of God, and received instruction from, and walked, talked and conversed with Him, as one man talks and communes with another. . . ."
�God Himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens! That is the great secret. If the veil were rent today, and the great God who holds this world in its orbit, and who upholds all worlds and all things by His power, was to make Himself visible,�I say, if you were to see Him today, you would see Him like a man in form�like yourselves in all the person, image, and very form as a man; for Adam was created in the very fashion, image and likeness of God, and received instruction from, and walked, talked and conversed with Him, as one man talks and communes with another. . . ."
Sorry | 8:12 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
I didn't mean that to post twice. My computer did funny things...
Regarding polygamy still being practiced, you need context. When a spouse DIES then you can remarry. By that token, every culture on earth allows polygamy. Yes, we say you can be sealed to more than one wife - but only if your first dies and you marry another after that. I'd rather keep my one and only and avoid the requirement of her dying to get another one.
Yes, polygamy is part of our religion - almost like it's part of most all others.
Regarding polygamy still being practiced, you need context. When a spouse DIES then you can remarry. By that token, every culture on earth allows polygamy. Yes, we say you can be sealed to more than one wife - but only if your first dies and you marry another after that. I'd rather keep my one and only and avoid the requirement of her dying to get another one.
Yes, polygamy is part of our religion - almost like it's part of most all others.
James Warren | 8:20 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Well Nathan what have we distanced ourselved from.... Let's see the Book of
Abraham and what was all the hubub around purchasing the Salamander Papers. This
is not a swipe but would like to get feedback on the premise we have not
distanced ourselves from odd scripture.
Thanks
Thanks
? I'm confused | 8:31 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Since when have we distanced ourselves from the Book of Abraham? I have
attended a class on it at the local Institute of Religion in the past. It is
taught every 4th year, like someone else posted. It's also very short, so
it's not a big section. It's also like the Book of Revelation or
Isaiah - huge amounts symbolism. So, naturally, teachers shy away from it since
it's harder to teach - like Isaiah.
As for the Salamander letter, the church may have bought them, but the prophet doesn't concern himself with every single thing the historical department does. If they want to buy something they don't ask. If the prophet wants to find out about it he doesn't always go straight to God and ask - he uses the people God has sent. He asks historians. They say buy it, he says go ahead. A human mistake. Obviously the church isn't going to put it on their website - "Some historians bought fake letters! Let's tell everyone!" They acknowledged their mistake and moved on. You can't combine Abraham and the Salamander letters. Different issues.
As for the Salamander letter, the church may have bought them, but the prophet doesn't concern himself with every single thing the historical department does. If they want to buy something they don't ask. If the prophet wants to find out about it he doesn't always go straight to God and ask - he uses the people God has sent. He asks historians. They say buy it, he says go ahead. A human mistake. Obviously the church isn't going to put it on their website - "Some historians bought fake letters! Let's tell everyone!" They acknowledged their mistake and moved on. You can't combine Abraham and the Salamander letters. Different issues.
Persecution | 8:37 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
aren't the mormons suppose to endure it in the future and if so maybe the
church better ready them for the onslaugth as the media is flexing it's
muscle by distorting even some of the basic pricipals...but stuff like the
salmander papers who duped everyone from the top on down should call the
media's attention.
James Warren | 8:44 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Don't you think Abraham ever wrote anything when we have books by all the
other prophets??
Col J.P. O'Connor | 8:44 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
I have chose to live around Mormons most of my life and find them to be a highly
moral people with high standards and values. I find it interesting to see all
the negative comments form non Mormons who supposedly know everything about the
LDS faith. When they say Mormons do not know their own beliefs - they are
really off-track.
I have found that they know their religion moreso than any other.
Here's the proof to all the naysayers - who are so informed: Would you go to a bicycle shop to find out about the quality of a Lexus automobile? Those who feel they are informed are generally uniformed. They do not go to the source and attempt to understand what Mormons believe. They become experts in a field they know nothing about.
I have found that they know their religion moreso than any other.
Here's the proof to all the naysayers - who are so informed: Would you go to a bicycle shop to find out about the quality of a Lexus automobile? Those who feel they are informed are generally uniformed. They do not go to the source and attempt to understand what Mormons believe. They become experts in a field they know nothing about.
Steve | 8:47 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Mormons believe their religion is the only true church upon the face of the
earth. Don't other churches believe that too? If not, why not? If your
religion or church can't provide the vehicle for eternal salvation, then
what good is it? Mormons know they have the truth, mainly because they have the
authority granted by Jesus Christ Himself. Salvation can come in and only
through Jesus Christ. His church provides the necessary principles and
ordinances for salvation. His gospel even provides for and covers those who
have lived on this earth and never have learned about Him. Yes, they too will
gain salvation! You won't find a more accepting and loving message than
what the Mormon missionaries will convey. Give it a try...if anything
you'll be smarter about what Mormons really believe.
Truthmonger | 8:48 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
TO James Warren: Don't you think Abraham was capable or did writing
anything when all the other prophets have written books??
And Abraham being a Prophet in the bible it would be odd if he didn't write anything.
And Abraham being a Prophet in the bible it would be odd if he didn't write anything.
Just a Suggestion | 8:51 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
The frustrations that the outside world experiences with Mormonism is largely
due to that faith's constant re-writing of its own history to make it
appear infallible. Most faiths state that they have made mistakes in the past
and get over it, while Mormons can never say they have been wrong.
Take your lumps, and it will go a long way in improving understanding with the outside world.
Take your lumps, and it will go a long way in improving understanding with the outside world.
Just Me | 8:59 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
People find what they want to find. If you look for things you like and agree
with in other religions, you'll find them. If you look for things you
think are ridiculous, you'll find them.
If I want to know about the Democratic party, I'll ask a current Democrat. Asking others is asking for bias against Democrats.
Maybe it's just me, but I think this makes sense.
If I want to know about the Democratic party, I'll ask a current Democrat. Asking others is asking for bias against Democrats.
Maybe it's just me, but I think this makes sense.
Truth eternally consistant | 9:06 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Response to "What is truth??? Have empiricist comfirmed through empirical
evidence that there is no God who loves and watches over his children? If so
please give us references. Please, give us an example of "Truth"
verified through emperical research which will endure endlessly without
modification. References please! Through faith, I can testify that God is the
same yesterday, today and forever.
Nathan | 9:13 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
"The frustrations that the outside world experiences with Mormonism is
largely due to that faith's constant re-writing of its own history to make
it appear infallible." Ummm... Didn't I just say that we're
human and make mistakes?
Or do you want the leadership to apologize? They do when they are wrong. The Bible teaches that when you offend publicly, apologize publicly. Privately, apologize privately. The leaders of our church do plenty of private apologizing. What they say publicly is so important that they go through round after round of correlation to make sure they don't need to apologize publicly. What does the church need to apologize for that it didn't at the time it happened? And where does our religion teach our leaders are infallible? Peter, the great apostle of Christ in the first century made mistakes. He denied Christ a couple of times. He repented and gave his time, energy and his life for Christ. We won't apologize for our beliefs. We have faith in the words the prophets say when they stand before us as prophets. That's why it's a religion.
Or do you want the leadership to apologize? They do when they are wrong. The Bible teaches that when you offend publicly, apologize publicly. Privately, apologize privately. The leaders of our church do plenty of private apologizing. What they say publicly is so important that they go through round after round of correlation to make sure they don't need to apologize publicly. What does the church need to apologize for that it didn't at the time it happened? And where does our religion teach our leaders are infallible? Peter, the great apostle of Christ in the first century made mistakes. He denied Christ a couple of times. He repented and gave his time, energy and his life for Christ. We won't apologize for our beliefs. We have faith in the words the prophets say when they stand before us as prophets. That's why it's a religion.
I like all the Non-Mormons | 9:15 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
that I know and work with. I do not live in Utah. We like other, respect each
other, and never go after each other's religion. We have formed a bond of
friendship and trust. I think my non-Mormon friends are great people; I respect
them as christians, and they have a mutual feeling toward me, and my LDS
religion at least that's what they communicate to me. My experience with
non-members has been nothing but good. So I am not really sure where all of the
hate is coming from. Maybe its just my attitude that no one person is better
than another.
Ya, Right ? | 9:16 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Just one more article to feed the Bible-Bashing, Bigoted Baptists and psuedo-
Christians. They have no concept of gospel doctrine.
Serena Gaulke | 9:22 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
It bugs me that journalists try to "appear" like they are are
informing the public, when in reality they are trying to slant information to
their own view. This is heavily the case in this article. He points out and
dwells on any dirt he can get his hand on, instead of informing them about
Mormons'actual beliefs. Mormons don't practice polygamy and when they
did it was for a short time. Get off it!
BYU Fan in Mesa | 9:24 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
All members:
We need to share this gospel with those Americans (our neighbors) so that they will know the truth and what beliefs we have. If they come to know the truth they will surely receive confirmation through the spirit. Once this occurs they will join the church which will be a great blessing in their lives.
All nonmembers:
Please know that we will not push our religion against anyone. We know the truth that our church has and want those of other religions to receive more light and truth so that they will recieve more happiness in their lives. You can visit lds.org or mormon.org to find out more regarding the truthfulness of the church, the Book of Mormon (another testament of Jesus Christ), and that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God in this last dispensation.
We need to share this gospel with those Americans (our neighbors) so that they will know the truth and what beliefs we have. If they come to know the truth they will surely receive confirmation through the spirit. Once this occurs they will join the church which will be a great blessing in their lives.
All nonmembers:
Please know that we will not push our religion against anyone. We know the truth that our church has and want those of other religions to receive more light and truth so that they will recieve more happiness in their lives. You can visit lds.org or mormon.org to find out more regarding the truthfulness of the church, the Book of Mormon (another testament of Jesus Christ), and that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God in this last dispensation.
laughing | 9:29 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
why do so many people care about what mormons believe or not? people you have
wasted to much time!
Anonymous | 9:36 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Mormon's share almost all the SECULAR conservative commitments of Christian
evangelicals, but very little of the sectarian (i.e. religious) conservative
commitments.
Problem with Mormons is that they really believe that can have their cake and eat it too, which just isn't going to happen.
Time was when the Mormon church prided itself on being a "peculiar and delightsome people' before the Lord. Since G.B.Hinkley took the reins of the church there has been a decided move to be like all the other Christian community... least wise in appearance and declaration that is.
My, how times have changed, and the problem with Mormonism is its propensity to change its doctrine and stand with what ever serves the expediency of the times.
The principle of, "The same yesterday, today and forever," has on many core principles ceased to exist in Mormonism... all in favor of being popular with society.
Time was Mormons prided themselves on being different and apart from the world... but that was a long time ago... and they wonder why they're not a trusted lot, these Mormons and their politicians seeking the presidency of the United States.
Look at the flip-flop nature Mormonism has become for the answers.
Problem with Mormons is that they really believe that can have their cake and eat it too, which just isn't going to happen.
Time was when the Mormon church prided itself on being a "peculiar and delightsome people' before the Lord. Since G.B.Hinkley took the reins of the church there has been a decided move to be like all the other Christian community... least wise in appearance and declaration that is.
My, how times have changed, and the problem with Mormonism is its propensity to change its doctrine and stand with what ever serves the expediency of the times.
The principle of, "The same yesterday, today and forever," has on many core principles ceased to exist in Mormonism... all in favor of being popular with society.
Time was Mormons prided themselves on being different and apart from the world... but that was a long time ago... and they wonder why they're not a trusted lot, these Mormons and their politicians seeking the presidency of the United States.
Look at the flip-flop nature Mormonism has become for the answers.
Bill | 9:36 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
As the author of this article is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations,
perhaps he should tell people how come his CFR wants a socialist America and
wants the destruction of the Constitution of the US. Perhaps he should tell
people that his organization wants the US to be like the Soviet Union, Russia,
where freedom does NOT exist and where religion is treated like a cancer unless
it is to worship the leaders of the Soviet Union i.e, Russia. The author is not
telling the Whole truth only a filtered truth. He should read 'None Dare
Call in Conspiracy' and 'Hope of the Wicked' both by John
Stormer. Perhaps he should visit SLC, UT and find out just what members of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints really believe and KNOW not just
what he thinks they believe and WHY. Then he would learn the real truth. What
the author wrote was half truth as usual.
re: Jay | 9:44 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Got news for you Jay, we are not going to shrink back. We proudly proclaim that
we have the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ, and we welcome everybody to
investigate it. What you need to do is get the facts from the "horses
mouth" rather than a bunch of heresy. Would you go to Ford to investigate
GM vehicles, or would you go to GM? This article gets a lot of its facts from
heresy as there are tons of inaccuracies. Let's make something very clear.
We believe in God the Father, and in his son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy
Ghost. Where we very from many in the Christian world, is that we believe them
to be three actual and distinct beings, but one in purpose. From the viewpoint
of many Evangelicals, that makes us "not Christian" because they
believe them to be all the same person. I find this insulting because I have a
very deep love for my Saviour, and to quote Glenn Beck commenting on the same
critique, "you're denying the influence the Saviour has on our
lives"! By their "fruits you will know them". Christ spent his
time preaching his Gospel, not attacking others!
Fair Article | 10:00 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
For not being a member of the LDS church, I thought the article was fair in its
presentation. Sure, he missed the target on a few doctrinal issues, but was
overall balanced. It's been said, that there's no such thing as bad
publicity.
I wanted to make two points. One, in the author's final paragraph. He suggested that some in the church wanted to minimize some of the teachings of Joseph Smith. People like that are usually considered apostate. The church rises or falls upon the teachings of the prophet Joseph Smith. Also, the author invisioned Mormon's becoming like other Protestant churches . If Mormon's wanted to be like Protestants, they'd become Protestants. There is a reason people are attracted to the LDS faith, and its because of the uniqueness of it's doctrines.
I wanted to make two points. One, in the author's final paragraph. He suggested that some in the church wanted to minimize some of the teachings of Joseph Smith. People like that are usually considered apostate. The church rises or falls upon the teachings of the prophet Joseph Smith. Also, the author invisioned Mormon's becoming like other Protestant churches . If Mormon's wanted to be like Protestants, they'd become Protestants. There is a reason people are attracted to the LDS faith, and its because of the uniqueness of it's doctrines.
To: laughing | 10:04 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
To :laughing | 9:29 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
�why do so many people care about what mormons believe or not? people you have wasted to much time! �
My friend it is because we are trying to save you. There is truth out there and obviously the mormons don�t have it.
�why do so many people care about what mormons believe or not? people you have wasted to much time! �
My friend it is because we are trying to save you. There is truth out there and obviously the mormons don�t have it.
CougarKeith | 10:05 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
It bothers me when a journalist doesn't tell the "WHOLE" Truth
about a religion. Then he tells other partial truths. The article started out
great, then it turned to accusations and speculation rather than Facts and
Truth. I am saddened by the article as a whole. We as members of the church need
to KNOW THE TRUTH and NOT BE AFFRAID TO SHARE IT WITH THOSE AROUND US!
Sam | 10:06 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Personally I am enjoying all of the bashing against my LDS religion. I believe
it was Jesus himself that said about 2000 years ago.....
"Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."
Every negative comment against mormonism just strengthens my faith and makes me feel bad for those making the comments. Someday they'll learn!!!
"Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."
Every negative comment against mormonism just strengthens my faith and makes me feel bad for those making the comments. Someday they'll learn!!!
elizabeth | 10:18 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
If you really want to know about our Mormon faith, all you have to do is contact
anyone in the Mormon Church in the area in which you live and two missionaries
(we currently have over 53,000 missionaries who serve without pay in the U.S.
and many foreign countries all over the world) will be glad to explain our
teachings. They either have worked and paid their own way or their parents
and/or their fellow church members help. Also, read "A Marvelous Work and a
Wonder. If you do this you will be correctly informed of our beliefs. Many years
ago Missionaries knocked on my door. Immediately felt that I knew them and had
waited many years for them to come. I love my church.
To Sam | 10:21 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
It is all about victimization??? If we keep on this path you'll all be
Catholics soon. Leadership is about inspiring and leading not about
victimization. Unless change this course soon we will be in grave circumstances.
Just my opinion..
Just my opinion | 10:26 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
If I wanted to know about religion and it's relevants to reliogion I would
certaintly not ask a 19 year boy how to pattern my future or salvatation. Many
of these boys could not get a job at McDonalds much less spread religion.
John | 10:35 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
I've spoken to Morman elders and asked them point blank if a Christian, ie
Baptist, outside the Morman faith, non-tither to the Morman Church, will go to
heaven, and the answer was, "NO."
Likewise, I, as a Baptist, would tell you that because Mormans have a Works + Faith= Salvation, in lieu of Faith in Christ=Salvation (Works as a result of Faith, not for salvation). That I do not believe that they are saved either. If we can't share Heaven, it's hard to share the political platform. It's a rift that's hard to get over.
Likewise, I, as a Baptist, would tell you that because Mormans have a Works + Faith= Salvation, in lieu of Faith in Christ=Salvation (Works as a result of Faith, not for salvation). That I do not believe that they are saved either. If we can't share Heaven, it's hard to share the political platform. It's a rift that's hard to get over.
Star | 10:36 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
To nonmembers,
please don't judge our L D S church by break offs and members who go over the edge with doctrine. Some of them are just mixed up people and have been mislead. Go by what is taught TODAY within the Mormon church. Change is always on the rise, and that is good.
please don't judge our L D S church by break offs and members who go over the edge with doctrine. Some of them are just mixed up people and have been mislead. Go by what is taught TODAY within the Mormon church. Change is always on the rise, and that is good.
Re: Star | 10:46 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
We should be judged on our works and our doctrine. It is true and will stand the
test of the objections of the Gentiles. We do not meed to back from this and no
we cannot chamge from God's word. Star you are misled if you think change
is on the horizon.
uruguay | 10:50 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Pienso en lo ridiculo que es el articulo, realmente la persona que lo escribio
NO tiene conocimiento pleno de lo que realmente cren los mormones; yo le
aconsejaria que antes de escribir algo que no sabe que investigue a profundidad
y la unica forma es escuchando las charlas de los misioneros, creo que un
politico mormon para los estados EE/UU seria lo unico que salvaria a los estados
Unidos de guerras sin sentido, se buscaria mayor paz mundial.
Pero creo que saben tan poco como la gente de otros paises entre ellos Urugay de la Iglesia y por eso les temen tanto.
Pero creo que saben tan poco como la gente de otros paises entre ellos Urugay de la Iglesia y por eso les temen tanto.
To Don and John | 10:54 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
First of all I agree with John in the perception of lds doctrine as arrogant to
protestants in general. I personally believe that I as an LDS follower of
Christ, am not better than anyone. I sin and falter quite often and I need
repentance and forgiveness that comes through Christ the Lord. But the gospel
of Jesus Christ is a better way and something to strive for. It brings
happiness to me and my family. The gospel is a voice of gladness and brightens
my day as I hope your beliefs do.
On Don's five points:
1) I believe in a loving Heavenly Father who wants to share all he has with us as his children.
2) agree
3) Yes, Jesus is and always has been a god, and has been called many different names, ie the old testament Jehovah.
4)Yes, Jesus freely gave and descended to earth to save man. He also freely gave his life, as no one could take it, then took it up again in the resurrection. I believe that Jesus was sent to do the Father's will and to help us, his fellow men. The Holy Ghost is sent to testify of Christ.
On Don's five points:
1) I believe in a loving Heavenly Father who wants to share all he has with us as his children.
2) agree
3) Yes, Jesus is and always has been a god, and has been called many different names, ie the old testament Jehovah.
4)Yes, Jesus freely gave and descended to earth to save man. He also freely gave his life, as no one could take it, then took it up again in the resurrection. I believe that Jesus was sent to do the Father's will and to help us, his fellow men. The Holy Ghost is sent to testify of Christ.
Shelama | 11:00 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Mormon Christianity is the product of a bona fide religious genius nearly equal
to Paul of Tarsus, and it will endure, just like non-Mormon Christianity, as
long as it can adapt to a messiah who never comes back; whose second coming is
always deferred.
Whatever the uniquely Mormon beliefs and doctrines, they are certainly no more or less ridiculous or sublime than the "empty tomb", virginal birth/conception, Jesus raising the dead or walking on water, or the belief that the Roman execution of Jesus of Nazareth was really an expiatory salvific atoning sin sacrifice required by Yahweh.
What is truly amazing, and a measure of the genius of Joseph Smith, is power and seductiveness of his creation. And the profound depth of loyalty and belief of the observant Mormon, and its positive effect on their lives, families and communities.
Although the Mormons very successfully adopted and adapted the Christ Myth, they did not create it. How the Jewish life and Roman death of Jesus led to the creation of that Christ Myth is a story more extraordinary than the invention of Mormonism. However unwitting and unlikely, or unbelievable the story he created, the genius of Joseph Smith is stunning.
Whatever the uniquely Mormon beliefs and doctrines, they are certainly no more or less ridiculous or sublime than the "empty tomb", virginal birth/conception, Jesus raising the dead or walking on water, or the belief that the Roman execution of Jesus of Nazareth was really an expiatory salvific atoning sin sacrifice required by Yahweh.
What is truly amazing, and a measure of the genius of Joseph Smith, is power and seductiveness of his creation. And the profound depth of loyalty and belief of the observant Mormon, and its positive effect on their lives, families and communities.
Although the Mormons very successfully adopted and adapted the Christ Myth, they did not create it. How the Jewish life and Roman death of Jesus led to the creation of that Christ Myth is a story more extraordinary than the invention of Mormonism. However unwitting and unlikely, or unbelievable the story he created, the genius of Joseph Smith is stunning.
responsibility is ours | 11:06 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Some people will continue to criticize "Mormons" for one reason or
another, however I think the best way to show them different is by following the
counsel Jesus gave of doing good to all people. I think we (Mormons) need to
rise above ourselves and improve our lives by being a good example, and
following Christ's teachings. Those of us who are LDS (Mormons) need to be
better neighbors and preach our faith through our example. We don't need
to argue with others to prove them wrong, or prove our point, but find common
beliefs and build friendships. As a convert to the LDS Faith, I have made
friends from different religions, often times they have pointed out why my
religion is this or that. I just invite to be the best Catholic, Baptist,
Protestant etc. their faith has ever had and God will bless them for it. Jesus
didn't came to tear people down and if we claim to be Christians, we need
to follow His example. Let's not be Chistians in word but in deeds.
Theo | 11:10 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Art�..Many Protestant Churches and Protestants do not
reject adulterers and drug users because they believe Christ would not reject
them! It�s as simple as that. In fact many have a policy
of (instead) embracing those people and their sinful imperfect selves as being
most Christ-like. What is your problem with that?
Reading through this has been astounding! I have lived amongst Northern Catholics for 20 years, then Southern Evangelicals for 30 years. And I thought the Evangelicals could be offensive. Some of you LDS are outright obnoxious. I think you have them Evangi's beat despite the lack of foul language!
(Thank you for that at least.) Some of you are truly a very poor billboard for your LDS faith and culture.
Reading through this has been astounding! I have lived amongst Northern Catholics for 20 years, then Southern Evangelicals for 30 years. And I thought the Evangelicals could be offensive. Some of you LDS are outright obnoxious. I think you have them Evangi's beat despite the lack of foul language!
(Thank you for that at least.) Some of you are truly a very poor billboard for your LDS faith and culture.
Dan Knudsen | 11:33 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
�Just my opinion�--your observation is
interesting; how about defining
�Many..� as in how many, of the more
than one million that have served missions, are/were so incompetent that they
couldn�t �get a job working at
McDonald�s�? Mitt Romney was one of
those 19 year-old kids and he never got a job working for
McDonald�s either. It�s quite
interesting that no other church trusts the vast majority of their missionary
work to these unlearned and inexperienced boys, who know next to nothing. How do
they get such results? The astounding thing is that these kids get ANY results
at all. Has anyone ever wondered how that�s possible? I
did my service at that age, 45 years ago, and the church
didn�t fall apart despite my ignorance. And, these
gullible Christians still keep falling for this stuff! Or, did they discover
that their churches didn�t believe the way they did and
that�s why they became Mormons? It�s
amazing that �most Mormons don�t know
what they believe� but I know what I believe better than
anyone else does. Most Mormons alive today voluntarily left Orthodox
Christianity. Did they know what they believed before?
Lori | 11:33 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
One poster said that since the time of Gordon B. Hinckley, we have moved away from being peculiar people.
In fact, President Hinckley said,
"Unless the world alters the course of its present trends (and that is not likely); and if, on the other hand, we continue to follow the teachings of the prophets, we shall increasingly become a peculiar and distinctive people of whom the world will take note."
He then went on to discuss the differences we have with the world in regards to the family, sex, alcohol and drug use, the Sabbath and so on. We stand true to those principles, regardless of what is currently acceptable to others. We will not change who we are simply because a member of our ranks ran for president.
Lori | 11:45 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
Reality...
You posted that the reason our warm feelings are don't count is because others also have good feelings about pets, family, wine, etc.
There is a HUGE difference between the feelings you get for those things and the feelings of the still, small voice. It is as much or greater than the difference between the joy a formerly childless couple feels at the birth of a long awaited baby after years of fertility treatment and the happiness of a picnic or birthday party. Both are good feelings, but they are simply enormously different.
I know how I've felt when I have not followed the teachings of Jesus Christ. I also know the peace and joy I've felt when I work towards following Him, through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. For me, I've simply seen the difference in my life when I am truly trying to be a disciple of Christ and when I'm not. It is not a matter of fitting in with my family or any other such nonsence. It is a serious change of heart and action. Becoming converted (and yes, I was born into the church) changed me forever.
You posted that the reason our warm feelings are don't count is because others also have good feelings about pets, family, wine, etc.
There is a HUGE difference between the feelings you get for those things and the feelings of the still, small voice. It is as much or greater than the difference between the joy a formerly childless couple feels at the birth of a long awaited baby after years of fertility treatment and the happiness of a picnic or birthday party. Both are good feelings, but they are simply enormously different.
I know how I've felt when I have not followed the teachings of Jesus Christ. I also know the peace and joy I've felt when I work towards following Him, through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. For me, I've simply seen the difference in my life when I am truly trying to be a disciple of Christ and when I'm not. It is not a matter of fitting in with my family or any other such nonsence. It is a serious change of heart and action. Becoming converted (and yes, I was born into the church) changed me forever.
Anonymous | 11:57 p.m. Jan. 6, 2008
New to Utah and scared to read the many comments in these opinion posts, You
guys are wacked. I heard many thing about the mormons before coming out here but
this newspaper is out there. I hope there are normal people in Salt Lake and I
can finish school here but if there is all this mormon stuff up in year this
might be my only semester.
Riggs | 12:16 a.m. Jan. 7, 2008
It's great to live in a country where people have the right to freely
express their beliefs. I'm surpriesed that no one has suggested that the
"Articles of Faith", sometimes known as the Wentworth Letter, which
contain thirteen of the most fundamental beliefs of the LDS Church, which were
written by Joseph Smith in response to the request of a non-Mormon editor, would
ge a good starting point for any non-Mormon to learn about LDS doctine and
beliefs. And, while tying the LDS Church to the Republican Party, does anyone
know which church the Democrat leader in the U.S. Senate (Harry Reid) is
actively involved? MItt Romney appears to stand by his membership and beliefs,
and I can accept and admire that fact. His family values (actual practice and
not just words), business acumen (ability to diagnose and correct problems in
many businesses) and truthful and candid repsonses to questions has given me a
positive feeling about his character and ability to serve as President, and his
being a Mormon would not deter me from voting for him.
Jesus wasn't always inclusive | 12:49 a.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Consider quotes such as these, from Matthew 10: "I came not to send peace,
but a sword." "I am come to set a man at variance against his
father." "He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy
of me."
To those who were not able to participate in marriage ceremonies with loved ones have my heartfelt sympathy. I hope you can overcome your hurt feelings and still allow them to be part of your lives, because I can assure you that they still love you and did not make this decision casually.
But at the same time please realize that they are doing what they believe to be right. Such sacrifices are entirely consistent with what early Christians were asked to make too.
To those who were not able to participate in marriage ceremonies with loved ones have my heartfelt sympathy. I hope you can overcome your hurt feelings and still allow them to be part of your lives, because I can assure you that they still love you and did not make this decision casually.
But at the same time please realize that they are doing what they believe to be right. Such sacrifices are entirely consistent with what early Christians were asked to make too.
steve nielsen | 12:53 a.m. Jan. 7, 2008
When I read this article I thought to myself, this guy is totally prejudiced and
then when I read his "credentials", I understood....a member of the
"Council on Foreign Relations"...from what I understand, a "left
wing", almost Communist,organization. Enough said!!
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