Reader comments
Noah Feldman: A majority of Americans have no idea what Mormons believe
316 comments | Read story
Salt Lake Mormon | 3:54 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I made a comment yesterday, but from what I can tell if was filter out by the
DN. I'll try again with softer words which is not easy to do with what I
have expericed.
The article was quite good. I appreciated the honesty. As a Mormon all my life that has learned the truth about the changing of church history to make things look good I can appriciate some honest reporting. Thanks again.
The article was quite good. I appreciated the honesty. As a Mormon all my life that has learned the truth about the changing of church history to make things look good I can appriciate some honest reporting. Thanks again.
deseretnews.com moderator | 4:32 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
As has been noted in several comments, this story is substantially shorter than
the version published in The New York Times Magazine. However, the version on
deseretnews.com was not edited or truncated by the Deseret News. The Deseret
News was only allowed to publish on its Web site an abridged version that was
sold to Deseret News by The New York Times Syndicate. At the time the Noah
Feldman piece was purchased it was not know that it was an abridged version,
which was more than 2,000 words less than the original. The full version can be
found on The New York Times Web site.
Comments continue below
Howdy | 4:33 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Much of the secrecy and faith promoting rumors are self-imposed ignorance.
I'm quoting Boyd K Packer here. A man who I feel very well may be willing
to use the "milk before meat" line to deceive and cover up.
"There is a temptation for the writer or the teacher of Church history to want to tell everything, whether it is worthy or faith promoting or not. Some things that are true are not very useful."
This is why the church excommunicates even-handed historians and why most members simply keep quiet.
"There is a temptation for the writer or the teacher of Church history to want to tell everything, whether it is worthy or faith promoting or not. Some things that are true are not very useful."
This is why the church excommunicates even-handed historians and why most members simply keep quiet.
THANK YOU HOWDY | 4:48 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Thanks for your point of view, HOWDY. I wish that the church would be a little
more open with some of the history of the church. Although, authentic documents
may have already been destroyed or lost. However, It certainly would help clear
the minds of many members, and members with pioneer ancestry.
more obedience | 4:50 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I've always had a problem with those who are told what they are supposed to
believe.
I agree that religion | 4:51 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Shouldn't be an issue in government. We should have that separation of
church and government by all means. The question is do all candidates really
feel that way too? They would probably mostly say in theory that they do (but
it's been shown in real life they sometimes do not).
As far as the "Christian" issue. Mormons are right that they want to be called "Christians" under their definition (believing in Jesus Christ). But they are wrong to say that they are the same. Other churches have heard that the Mormons don't believe that their religion as "true" as their Christian religion so they don't always want to include them in their type of Christianity. Mormons, you can't have it both ways!
As far as the "Christian" issue. Mormons are right that they want to be called "Christians" under their definition (believing in Jesus Christ). But they are wrong to say that they are the same. Other churches have heard that the Mormons don't believe that their religion as "true" as their Christian religion so they don't always want to include them in their type of Christianity. Mormons, you can't have it both ways!
Story quote not correct | 5:01 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Mr. Romney said Jesus was a Son of God not the Son of God as was quoted in the
story. Very clever crafting of words but therein lies the problem.
The difference is.... | 5:03 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
In marriages between LDS people and others is that other people don't
always think that marriage continues beyond the grave! Most Christians believe
that we can live with God and other spirits perhaps, but not in the same way we
live here. I find it offensive that a man feels that he can have more than one
wife in heaven. Did you know that this is the same belief that is in some of
the middle-eastern religions? Some of the radicals (especially )believe that if
they die (even in horrible circumstances) that there will be many
"virgins" waiting for them in heaven.
How offensive to me! (And how ridiculous to me) For a professed "Christian" to believe such a thing such as Mormonism teaches!
How offensive to me! (And how ridiculous to me) For a professed "Christian" to believe such a thing such as Mormonism teaches!
An Observer | 5:08 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I recall reading Jesus asking, "For what good work do you stone me?"
(John 10) And those holding the stones felt justified in their bigotry citing
THEIR understanding of the nature of God. Things haven't changed much over
the centuries. Religious bigotry is still in fashion but no one dares to call
it what it truly is. Bigotry, plain and simple.
"By their fruits ye shall know them." Judge Romney on his ability to govern, not some esoteric threads of his faith. If Washington, Jefferson, or any of the myriad of Presidents who were Masons were judged as he has been, our history as a nation would be sad in deed. Romney is not the first to encounter bigotry and he most certainly will not be the last.
It is sad to see so called "Christians" acting in such an unchristian manner.
"By their fruits ye shall know them." Judge Romney on his ability to govern, not some esoteric threads of his faith. If Washington, Jefferson, or any of the myriad of Presidents who were Masons were judged as he has been, our history as a nation would be sad in deed. Romney is not the first to encounter bigotry and he most certainly will not be the last.
It is sad to see so called "Christians" acting in such an unchristian manner.
To "I agree that religion" | 5:09 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I personally believe every candidate's faith should be under scrutiny. It
should not qualify or disqualify a candidate, but it should be made available to
the voting public. A person of faith is likely to have their life's
guidelines built around the demands of their faith or religious leaders.
When a candidate takes a religious oath such as "consecrate yourselves, your time, talents, and your blessings to the church" I feel the voting public should know that. It's a simple example of letting the voters know that a candidate's religious beliefs may be pervasive in decision-making in government affairs.
When a candidate takes a religious oath such as "consecrate yourselves, your time, talents, and your blessings to the church" I feel the voting public should know that. It's a simple example of letting the voters know that a candidate's religious beliefs may be pervasive in decision-making in government affairs.
Keeping my own nose clean | 5:09 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I was born into the LDS church, but took seriously the counsel I have always
heard to study and pray and use my God-given agency. After studying many
different religions, I have decided that for me the LDS church is the one. I
have always had non-LDS friends and in each of us asking questions, we have come
to know each others faiths and our own a little better. I personally think
that's what God would want from us, to love each other. I do not think
that only Mormons will go to heaven. I feel that each person has that
opportunity, depending on their own choices and relationship with God. It is
interesting to me that the Pilgrims (mostly protestants) came to American to
worship according to their own consciences, but once here, theirs became the
only acceptable religion? If anyone asks me what I believe, I am happy to tell
them. If I don't know the answer, I find out and get back to them. I will
not vote for a candidate because of his religion, but I will refrain from voting
for anyone who is intolerant of another's religion.
A Non-Mormon in Utah | 5:10 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
One's religion is there business. Far be it for me to criticize
anyone's faith. My issue is with having LDS (only) seminaries bordering
all public high schools. Also, many non mormons are in fact subject to
prejudice, exclusion, and bias simply due to their faith, or lack therof. It is
universal that if you're not Mormon in Utah..you'll have a rough go of
it. Having said this, some of my good friends are Mormon, yet they are open
minded and accepting. We don't judge based on our differing faiths. I
think if the leadership within the Mormon faith would try to change the
views..in other words..the mormon church may not have the monopoly on truth,
then this would go a long way. Yet, unfortunately faith takes a front seat
here, when perhaps it should be in one's heart, not on the sleeve.
No way in heaven! | 5:25 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
TO The Differenc is...
I think there is going to be some very disappointed men in the hereafter. There are so many men who have died and have been killed by the millions and millions in wars who have never been married. So are these poor unfortunate men just suppose to just hang around in heaven all by their little lonesome selves... I don't think so. To every woman here without a husband, there will be one man for each in heaven. These polygamist men down here will have a rude awakening. These guys are so greedy and place themselves so far above other men and woman. Let me ask, Who in their right mind would want one of the lusty fellows anyway.... NOT ANYONE! Every woman I know wants her own man. I am certain heaven isn't going to be what these polygamist men are dreaming of. Sorry Guys!
I think there is going to be some very disappointed men in the hereafter. There are so many men who have died and have been killed by the millions and millions in wars who have never been married. So are these poor unfortunate men just suppose to just hang around in heaven all by their little lonesome selves... I don't think so. To every woman here without a husband, there will be one man for each in heaven. These polygamist men down here will have a rude awakening. These guys are so greedy and place themselves so far above other men and woman. Let me ask, Who in their right mind would want one of the lusty fellows anyway.... NOT ANYONE! Every woman I know wants her own man. I am certain heaven isn't going to be what these polygamist men are dreaming of. Sorry Guys!
no one is taking a stab at it | 6:01 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I have noticed that not one person has attempted to explain away Mitt
Romney's comment on Channel 4 that "God hasn't spoken to Man
since Moses" not one!
It seems to me that this contradicts Mormon doctrine and belief.
It seems to me that this contradicts Mormon doctrine and belief.
New Utahn | 6:04 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Coming from someone from another state when Mr Romney entered the political
forum, the scrutiny about his Mormonism came from:
1) the fact he avoided the subject, until his interview
2) Utah is considered (right or wrong)to be influenced heavily by the Mormon leadership
3) Romney was receiving a lot of money from a state that campaign money was not normally sought from
It made him different than the usual candidates and so of course the media focused on it cause it was interesting.
1) the fact he avoided the subject, until his interview
2) Utah is considered (right or wrong)to be influenced heavily by the Mormon leadership
3) Romney was receiving a lot of money from a state that campaign money was not normally sought from
It made him different than the usual candidates and so of course the media focused on it cause it was interesting.
Carol P. Warnick | 6:34 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
What Mormons believe:
1 We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression.
3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
(continued)
1 We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression.
3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
(continued)
Carol P. Warnick | 6:43 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
This is what we as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints
(or known by some as Mormons) believe. It's called The Thirteen Articles
of Faith:
1 We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression.
3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.
1 We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression.
3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.
Carol P. Warnick | 6:46 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
7 We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing,
interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
9 We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
10 We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.
8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
9 We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
10 We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.
Carol P. Warnick | 6:48 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
11 We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates
of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship
how, where, or what they may.
12 We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul�We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
12 We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul�We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
kieth | 6:51 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Keep religion to ourselves and we will just be fine as I believe it is a
personal relationship with God.. The primary dislike of mormons and baptists
alike are the proselytizing nature of these religion. If you believe it is the
true religion than it is fine; I just don't want it shoved done my throat.
I believe in God as well but I'm not about to tell you I have the truth and my faith or religion is better than yours---now this statement I believe is Christianity at it's purest. I believe there is a mystery about god and no man ever has possessed the �truth� onto to his being. It is a mystery and that why we call it faith.
I believe in God as well but I'm not about to tell you I have the truth and my faith or religion is better than yours---now this statement I believe is Christianity at it's purest. I believe there is a mystery about god and no man ever has possessed the �truth� onto to his being. It is a mystery and that why we call it faith.
Salt Lake Mormon | 7:15 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
WK, I have a friend at work that went on a mission to the Chicago area before
1978. He told me he was instructed not to proselyte black people. If while
tracking they came upon a black family they just introduced themselves and told
them to have a nice day and left. This policy evidently changed after 1978.
Yes, the church is growing in Africa. I wonder, do they have the internet?
Jane | 7:28 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Carol, I think most people on this post may be familiar with the articles of
faith. That must have taken some true emotion to put them on here. I hope it
does some good.
The article was nice. Doesn't answer too many questions though.
The article was nice. Doesn't answer too many questions though.
Calvin in Ogden | 7:31 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I too am invested in the faith and praying for the answer. The doctrine is
correct in my eyes but the more I research the more I come across the
anti-mormon sentiment, as much are posted in these comments. Can I get a serious
answer on the anit-mormon sentiments such as the Book of Abraham, Garden of Eden
in Missouri, DNA, Horses in North America ect� and the such
that all critics of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints have to
offer. Please no amateur or immature comments please I am just looking for the
real skinny from the informed LDS faithful. Thank you, Calvin
Re Calvin | 8:13 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Calvin it is true and just pray on it and it will provide your testimony. Ignore
the soiled and the ignorant, follow the Prophet and your eternal salvation will
be achieved.
EdJ | 8:38 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I have enjoyed reading all the posts here this evening, after having read the
article in its' full form. Each person posting on here has made
interesting points as to their particular view of the LDS faith and the
teachings of the LDS Church.
I consider myself to be a man of deep faith who was baptized Catholic as a child and who still considers himself to be an active Catholic, attending Mass weekly and sometimes during the week. I have read the BofM at the request of my LDS girlfriend and did not feel the spirit move me. To her, and to others...I did not read it with a humble heart. I have found that for those of us who read the BofM and did not convert...that we didn't do it "sincerely" enough. Yet, I have great love in my heart not only for her but for all of my LDS brothers and sisters. I can't worry about being caught up in the ways of organized religion. All I CAN do is to live according to the teachings of Jesus Christ through the four Gospels of the Bible. I will let HIM decide my eternal fate.
I consider myself to be a man of deep faith who was baptized Catholic as a child and who still considers himself to be an active Catholic, attending Mass weekly and sometimes during the week. I have read the BofM at the request of my LDS girlfriend and did not feel the spirit move me. To her, and to others...I did not read it with a humble heart. I have found that for those of us who read the BofM and did not convert...that we didn't do it "sincerely" enough. Yet, I have great love in my heart not only for her but for all of my LDS brothers and sisters. I can't worry about being caught up in the ways of organized religion. All I CAN do is to live according to the teachings of Jesus Christ through the four Gospels of the Bible. I will let HIM decide my eternal fate.
EdJ | 8:45 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
To Re Calvin: This is what I was just talking about. Each of us has our own
road to take to salvation. Organized religion only provides the structure that
speaks to some souls one way, other souls another way. What is the one constant
in this world? It is not organized religion....it is love. That is the gift of
the Savior. We get so caught up in this religion versus that religion that they
automatically go AGAINST love. Jesus himself said that three things last:
faith, hope and love...and the greatest of these is love. GREATER than faith!!!
We get faith confused with religion. Calvin in Ogden.....I wish you much joy
and love in your journey to figure out what speaks to your soul. No matter
where you go...know that you are loved.
Anonymous | 9:16 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
I have read the posts, laughed at many and appalled by some. But there is indeed
truth; please reach out for yourself and find the truth of The Book of Mormon.
By definition there is only one truth and it is here in Zion. Please research
for yourself and don�t take the embarrassing comments of
those who do not believe in the truth to prevent you from looking into the
Church. The Church is true and I have a testimony of the truth.
No thanks | 9:27 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Sorry LDS folks. When it comes to Mormonism it always comes down to this -
either Joseph Smith was telling the truth or was lying.
With nothing substantial but Smith's word, I think I'm not interested. But if it keeps you off anti-depressants and happier in your life - go for it.
With nothing substantial but Smith's word, I think I'm not interested. But if it keeps you off anti-depressants and happier in your life - go for it.
Matt | 9:36 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
To: No Thanks
The minute that Mr. Hinckley said in the interview for the PBS show "Well, it's either true or false. If it's false, we're engaged in a great fraud. If it's true, it's the most important thing in the world." he opened up THE VERY POSSIBILITY of it not being true.
So let me chime in, "No thanks".
Count me out as well.
The minute that Mr. Hinckley said in the interview for the PBS show "Well, it's either true or false. If it's false, we're engaged in a great fraud. If it's true, it's the most important thing in the world." he opened up THE VERY POSSIBILITY of it not being true.
So let me chime in, "No thanks".
Count me out as well.
Optimist | 10:00 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Religion is a tool that has been practiced through the ages. It has been used in
creating self-gratification, dominance, and furthering social agendas. The LDS
Church is no difference in these respects. It is purely keeping social order
which civil laws are perceived lenient and unfortunately has become big
business. Believe in God and live a Christ-like life but please
don�t become a zombie and pit your believes against
another. Religion is divisive and if you truly believe the
�truth� then you know there is living
personal relationship with Our Father other than the trivials of religious
endeavors which divide our Christian Family.
There is truth but it is individual and independent. No one can dictate what my truth is and I will not fall on the sword of the self-interests of religion.
There is truth but it is individual and independent. No one can dictate what my truth is and I will not fall on the sword of the self-interests of religion.
Secrets | 10:08 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
For such a "secretive" church, there sure are a lot of young men,
women and even senior citizens ( missionaries ) out world wide telling people
about the "Mormon secrets".
Truthmonger | 10:13 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
To edj:
In revelations it is said we will be judged out the books and by our works. So it isn't really left up to HIM.
It up to us to work out our salvation. And our salvation is dependent on what we do, our works.
The only grace we get from HIM are the we things can't do for ourselves.
It up to us to study to pray to find the truth and do good works and do his will.
This world is to test if we do what is right and test our faith not to test what HE will do or HIS faith.
In revelations it is said we will be judged out the books and by our works. So it isn't really left up to HIM.
It up to us to work out our salvation. And our salvation is dependent on what we do, our works.
The only grace we get from HIM are the we things can't do for ourselves.
It up to us to study to pray to find the truth and do good works and do his will.
This world is to test if we do what is right and test our faith not to test what HE will do or HIS faith.
Las Vegas Mormon | 10:30 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
If people won't pray about it, they won't know. Period. Our church
gives hope. It makes it possible for 100,000 plus members of the church to live
in a place as crazy as Las Vegas and prosper. Members in Las Vegas are
incredible. Members in other states I've lived in are great also. (I went
to Olympus High). Some of the posts from both sides miss the whole point.
Simply stated, if ye love me, keep my commandments. The rest of these posts are
just venting.
To; Truthmonger | 10:31 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
This is not a test, it is life and it is hard but it is not a test. If that is
what you believe it is fine but I would suggest you are misguided in the true
interpretation of the bible and the concept of God and Jesus Christ. As you say
pray on it and you will find the truth.
Re: Las Vegas Mormon | 10:44 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Oh Yeah Las Vegas, How does the church prefer Mormons owning and working in
casinos? Well yeah they prosper and it is indeed 10% percent to the Church. Just
an observation but don't boast without the feedback. Just as I side note I
much more enjoy the company of my LDS business relationships in Vegas than those
from the SLC Area.
sb | 11:10 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Wow, what an astonishingly good article. Let me thank you, Mr. Feldman, for
your efforts (that is if you have the unfortunate experience of reading these
comments). I have struggled to figure out why Romney has had such a tough row
to hoe and I think I now understand what he is up against. I don't know
what you have been reading about Mormonism besides Kathleen Flake but your
understanding of it is uncanny. I hope you favor us with more of your attention
in the future.
Anonymous | 11:35 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
LOL, the majority of MORMONS, dont know what mormons believe... If Utah is so
big on culture and Heritage then why dont they embrace their polygamist heritage
and be a proud people, instead of a bunch of sheep..... I dont live Polygamy,
but i am a young DIRECT descendent of it and i fully intend on living it should
the Lord direct me too.....
Anonymous | 11:36 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Good article but bad context. As the old saying goes "if you want to learn
about mormonism then talk to a baptist."
LDS and living my religion. | 11:39 p.m. Jan. 7, 2008
Get a copy of the LDS church "Articles of Faith" that Joseph Smith
wrote. It states our beliefs and my favorite one is that we have the right to
worship who and what we want and we give everyone the same right.
Do other churches tell their members the same thing.
Some Christian churches main thrust seems to be to cast stones at other religions in order to make themselves look better.
You who are without sin cast the first stone.
Sound familiar?
Do other churches tell their members the same thing.
Some Christian churches main thrust seems to be to cast stones at other religions in order to make themselves look better.
You who are without sin cast the first stone.
Sound familiar?
Living with god but not religion | 12:04 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
Christianity is not all about scripture, quotes or directives. It is and can be
a personal relationship with God outside of religion. Religion divides but
personal beliefs unite. Just ask your non-LDS neighbor what is important to them
and it will surely match your values but without the LDS overtones and
theocracy.
Just a thought | 12:25 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
Just a thought..
Christianity is not all about scripture, quotes or directives. It is and can be a personal relationship outside of religion. Religion divides but personal beliefs unite. Just ask you non-LDS neighbor what is important to them and it will surely match your values but without the LDS overtones and theocracy. Just a thought..
Christianity is not all about scripture, quotes or directives. It is and can be a personal relationship outside of religion. Religion divides but personal beliefs unite. Just ask you non-LDS neighbor what is important to them and it will surely match your values but without the LDS overtones and theocracy. Just a thought..
Truthmonger | 12:39 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
If it is not a test then why will we be judged on our works, and why then is
faith so important?
Why vote for Romney? | 7:04 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
Why would anyone vote for a man who swore an oath to dedicate all of his talents
and resources to building up his church before all else?
Doesn't this leave the door wide open for church leaders to influence national policy?
To the LDS here : If it came out that a non-LDS candidate you favored swore in secrecy to dedicate his end goal to building up his church above all else, would this be a sticking point that would prevent you from voting for them?
Doesn't this leave the door wide open for church leaders to influence national policy?
To the LDS here : If it came out that a non-LDS candidate you favored swore in secrecy to dedicate his end goal to building up his church above all else, would this be a sticking point that would prevent you from voting for them?
Reality | 8:22 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
To those who insist that the Mormon church is not secretive and is exposed to
the light of day by the fact that there are thousands of missionarys in the
world telling the Mormon story; I would caution you that for every Mormon
missonary there are over ten used car salesmen. Be carefull, they may not be
telling you all you should know. Sometimes they do not know and other times they
just do not want you to know. But, all said and done, you are saver with the
used car salesman because they are some what regulated by law; however, there is
no truth in preaching law.
Led Zeppelin | 9:10 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
To all these anti-Mormon comments here. How can you call yourselves Christians?
I don't go bashing your religions. And Mormons don't use any money to
bash others. Or teach to bash others. They teach of Christ. Why don't you
Mormon haters learn about Christ.
the bottom line | 10:07 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
When it comes to Mormonism is always comes down to this - either Joseph Smith
was telling the truth or was lying. Seeing that no substance exists rather than
the word of Smith as "absolute proof or truth" - this group and their
beliefs holds no interest for me.
Certainly believe what you want to believe (or have been told to believe) but please cease calling everyone else's religious affiliation "an abomination."
Thank you.
Certainly believe what you want to believe (or have been told to believe) but please cease calling everyone else's religious affiliation "an abomination."
Thank you.
re: bottom line | 10:23 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
i think he made up a good story. men benefit by it.
a lie is a lie | 11:07 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
A lie (or good story) by any other name - is still a lie.
I can imagine however, how excited the menfolk of the day must have been after hearing Smith say "God commands us men to have lots and lots of different wives."
But as far as men "benefitting" by this re:bottom line - sounds pretty self-serving to me.
I can imagine however, how excited the menfolk of the day must have been after hearing Smith say "God commands us men to have lots and lots of different wives."
But as far as men "benefitting" by this re:bottom line - sounds pretty self-serving to me.
Anonymous | 11:18 a.m. Jan. 8, 2008
At least there is one person honest enough to admit the story was made up. (see
re:bottom line 10:23)
I don't see Mormonism as anything spiritual. I see it more of a business venture.
I don't see Mormonism as anything spiritual. I see it more of a business venture.
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Step 1: Believe there is a God.
Step 2: You belive (or at least want to believe) that he answers prayers).
Step 3: You pray and discover that he does answer prayers.
Step 4: Read the scriptures, have faith in Christ, and try to live by them.
Step 5: Pray about the Book of Mormon, and receive a spiritual witness that it is true
Step 6: You also receive a witness that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, and you come to know that what he taught was true-- even the less popular things.
This is roughly what people who are not members of the LDS church need to follow in order to understand and accept what we believe. You can't skip steps. If you reject the next step, you won't get to the top. If you become a member of the Church, there are a couple of other steps, such as going to the temple.