Posted on 12/07/2007 8:10:37 AM PST by ZGuy
The Reuters headline said: "Mitt Romney Vows Mormon Church Will Not Run White House." Unfortunately, this time Reuters got its story right. In his long-awaited speech designed to win over conservative evangelicals, Romney actually did say something to this effect, making many people wonder why he needed to make such a vow in the first place. It's a bit like hearing Giuliani vow that the mafia will not be running his White House—it is always dangerous to say what should go without saying, because it makes people wonder why you felt the need to say it. Is the Mormon church itching to run the White House, and does Romney need to stand firm against them?
It is true that John Kennedy made a similar vow in his famous 1960 speech on religion, and Romney was clearly modeling his speech on Kennedy's. But the two situations are not the same. When John Kennedy vowed that the Vatican would not control his administration, he was trying to assuage the historical fear of the Roman Catholic Church that had been instilled into generations of Anglo-Saxon Protestants. Kennedy shrewdly didn't say that the Vatican wouldn't try to interfere—something that his Protestant target audience would never have believed in a millions years anyway; instead, Kennedy said in effect, "I won't let the Vatican interfere." And many Protestants believed him—in large part, because no one really thought Kennedy took his religion seriously enough to affect his behavior one way or the other.
The Mormon church is not Romney's problem; it is Romney's own personal religiosity. On the one hand, Romney is too religious for those who don't like religion in public life—a fact that alienates him from those who could care less about a candidate's religion, so long as the candidate doesn't much care about it himself. On the other hand, Romney offends precisely those Christian evangelicals who agree with him most on the importance of religion in our civic life, many of whom would be his natural supporters if only he was a "real" Christian like them, and not a Mormon instead.
To say that someone is not a real Christian sounds rather insulting, like saying that he is not a good person. But when conservative Christians make this point about Romney, they are talking theology, not morality. Anyone with even a passing familiarity with the Mormon creed will understand at once why Romney felt little desire to debate its theological niceties with his target audience of Christian evangelicals, many of whom are inclined to see Mormonism not as a bona fide religion, but as a cult. In my state of Georgia, for example, there are Southern Baptist congregations that raise thousands of dollars to send missionaries to convert the Mormons to Christianity.
Yet if Romney was playing it safe by avoiding theology, he was treading on dangerous ground when he appealed to the American tradition of religious tolerance to make his case. Instead of trying to persuade the evangelicals that he was basically on their side, he did the worst thing he could do: he put them on the defensive. In his speech Romney came perilously close to suggesting: If you don't support me, you are violating the cherished principle of religious tolerance. But such a claim is simply untenable and, worse, highly offensive.
The Christian evangelicals who are troubled by Romney's candidacy do not pose a threat to the American principle of religious tolerance. On the contrary, they are prepared to tolerate Mormons in their society, just as they are prepared to tolerate atheists and Jews, Muslims and Hindus. No evangelical has said, "Romney should not be permitted to run for the Presidency because he is a Mormon." None has moved to have a constitutional amendment forbidding the election of a Mormon to the Presidency. That obviously would constitute religious intolerance, and Romney would have every right to wax indignant about it. But he has absolutely no grounds for raising the cry of religious intolerance simply because some evangelicals don't want to see a Mormon as President and are unwilling to support him. I have no trouble myself tolerating Satan-worshippers in America, but I would not be inclined to vote for one as President: Does that make me bigot? The question of who we prefer to lead us has nothing to do with the question of who we are willing to tolerate, and it did Romney no credit to conflate these two quite distinct questions. There is nothing wrong with evangelicals wishing to see one of their own in the White House, or with atheists wishing to see one of theirs in the same position.
Romney's best approach might have been to say nothing at all. Certainly that would have been preferable to trying to turn his candidacy into an issue of religious tolerance. Better still, he might have said frankly: "My religion is different and, yes, even a trifle odd. But it has not kept Mormons from dying for their country, or paying their taxes, or educating their kids, or making decent communities in which to live."
Politicians have to modify their stances somewhat, depending on the circumstances. On the other hand, you can be a "purist" who never has a nuanced position and garner 1% in the polls. I'm not saying a candidate should not have core values that never change, but as one political strategist said recently, you can get 100% of the vote of a bloc of voters who represent 25% of the electorate and still lose by a landslide.
Politicians have to modify their stances somewhat, depending on the circumstances. On the other hand, you can be a "purist" who never has a nuanced position and garner 1% in the polls. I'm not saying a candidate should not have core values that never change, but as one political strategist said recently, you can get 100% of the vote of a bloc of voters who represent 25% of the electorate and still lose by a landslide.
Of course I disagree. I will only accept the Scriptures as binding upon myself as authoritative LDS doctrine. I will also accept as LDS doctrine the principle, “Whatever is true and whatever is right.” Whatever is DEMONSTRABLY TRUE AND RIGHT is Mormon doctrine. For example, 2 x 2 = 4, the earth revolves around the sun, the sun rises in the east. As long as something is demonstrably true and right; we Mormons are obligated to accept them as authoritative. But when it comes to preachings or teachings or speculations or opinions? That’s another matter.
Why? Am I not entitled to my own opinion? Do you seriously think all Mormons think alike on every issue and we are supposed to believe whatever our leaders say?
Boy, you really know nothing about us then. You should sit in our Sunday School class ...
I agree. Further, having both Christian and Mormon friends and having heard and read both sides of the issue ad infinitum, I can tell you that I do believe Mormons are Christians anymore than I believe that Christians are Pagans. The Democrats will tear that Christian - Mormon divide wide open if WMR happened to stumble into the nomination.
For all Inmans..."For example, 2 x 2 = 4, the earth revolves around the sun, the sun rises in the east. As long as something is demonstrably true and right; we Mormons are obligated to accept them as authoritative. But when it comes to preachings or teachings or speculations or opinions? That’s another matter."
Edward, is this a directive from headquarters? Link?
AND, then you do.
“is this a directive from headquarters? “
Are you sure it’s not from the mothership?
you have mail
There is meat available. FAIR, FARMS, the Book of Mormon, many other doctrinal books.
The Church doesn’t hide its doctrine. At the same time, a good foundation is crucial to understanding in any academic exercise.
~”They are clearly conflicted and anyone could still pull
ahead. There is no clear choice for most.”~
I agree with that. My thesis is that Romney’s religion speech will cause a great deal of crystalization over the next few weeks.
Either way, it’s certianly a rip-roaring fascinating primary season.
Merry Christmas to you as well.
I have found that a good bra and girdle work very well as foundation undergarments during exercise.
Those flimsy Mormon holy underwear kind don't support you at all! BTW, this is humor.
~”If Huckabee wins Iowa, Mitt is finished but at the same time Hilary is GUARANTEED to win the election since the vast majority of Americans will shudder in fear at the thought of a Southern Baptist MINISTER as POTUS.”~
I agree with the assertion, though not the premise. I don’t think any many people would be worried about a Baptist president - once we get past the primaries, religion will mostly fade as an issue, regardless of the nominee. Problem is, Huckabee’s not that great a politician. Like Thompson, his meteoric rise is due to buzz and frustration amongst conservatives - his rise just happens to be timed much better.
But Huckabee is not a great conservative, great orator, or great leader. He’s good at one-liners and zings, and he’s good on life issues. That’s about it.
And that’s why he would lose against Hillary Clinton.
~”BTW, this is humor.”~
I picked up on that, thanks.
I’m pleased that you get a kick out of demeaning things that are sacred to some. Just like Jesus did?
I know that wasn't directed at me, but you told me I didn't know why I believed the things I did. What's the difference?
~”...you told me I didn’t know why I believed the things I did.”~
You may have me confused with somebody else. If not, please refresh my memory.
Oh gosh, you’re something else.
From my own work:
****************
What is Mormonism?
There are two major portions to any religious faith: (1) the intellectual and scriptural portion and (2) the ethical and moral portion.
A) Mormonism is “Whatever is True”
This will examine the intellectual and scriptural portion of Mormonism which is termed “Mormon Doctrine.”
What is Mormon doctrine? Is it a codified set of beliefs? Can we find a compilation of what Mormonism is in a book somewhere? Are the speculation or folklore in the church “Mormonism?” How can we identify what Mormonism is from what is only speculation or assumption within the LDS church?
Mormonism, or more clearly, “Mormon doctrine” is unique among all the doctrines of existing religious groups because it isn’t a set of beliefs that the members must accept regardless of the evidence of the truthfulness of the belief.
Mormon doctrine is actually a principle instead of a creed. This principle states: “Whatever is true is Mormonism.”
Truth is Mormon doctrine. Truth is Mormonism,1 since the Gospel of Jesus Christ is “Truth” (Jas 1:18; 5:19; 1 Pet 1:22) and the church is the pillar of Truth (1 Tim 3:15).
This standard makes Mormon thought very fluid until the Truth can be ascertained, and only when the concept is determined to be an absolute Truth does it become “Mormon doctrine.”
Adherence to the principle of whatever is true is one of the greatest advantages of Mormonism since such a position can’t be legitimately refuted.
Ps 86:11 Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.
The importance of using whatever is true as our standard is clearly seen in the Scriptures:
(1) John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
(2) John 8:43-47 Why do ye not understand my speech? [even] because ye cannot hear my word. Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. And because I tell [you] the truth, ye believe me not. Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear [them] not, because ye are not of God.
(3) D&C 84:45-48 For the word of the Lord is truth, and whatsoever is truth is light, and whatsoever is light is Spirit, even the Spirit of Jesus Christ. And the Spirit giveth light to every man that cometh into the world; and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit. And every one that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit cometh unto God, even the Father. And the Father teacheth him of the covenant which he has renewed and confirmed upon you, which is confirmed upon you for your sakes, and not for your sakes only, but for the sake of the whole world.
Truth is our focus and members are urged to study and seek for Truth, wherever it can be found:
(1) D&C 88:118 And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.
(2) D&C 90:15 And set in order the churches, and study and learn, and become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues, and people.
(3) D&C 93:24-25,53 And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come; And whatsoever is more or less than this is the spirit of that wicked one who was a liar from the beginning ... And, verily I say unto you, that it is my will that you should hasten to translate my scriptures, and to obtain a knowledge of history, and of countries, and of kingdoms, of laws of God and man, and all this for the salvation of Zion. Amen.
(4) A of F 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.
It doesn’t matter what the source of truth is from, we will adopt it as our own and will never give it up (Prov 23:23). All members of the LDS church should have the same attitude Joseph Smith had: “True principle, even if I stand alone in it.”2
Such an open attitude to whatever is true explains why Mormonism is so intellectually satisfying.
Our loyalty is always to the Truth (Ps 71:22; 138:2; Prov 3:3; Zech 8:16-19; Rom 2:8; 2 Cor 4:2; Gal 3:1; Eph 4:25; Phil 4:8; 2 Th 2:10-13; 1 Tim 4:3; 2 Tim 2:25) which is given abundantly to the church (Jer 33:6) and shared with others (Isa 38:19). Truth being truth can never change. It is immutable, incapable of modification, and all Truth is compatible with God since he is the source of all Truth.
God is the God of Truth (Deut 32:4; Ps 31:5; Isa 65:16; Rev 6:10). Jesus is Truth (John 14:6; 1 Tim 2:7). The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of Truth (John 14:16-17; 15:26; 16:13; 1 Jn 2:27; 4:6; 5:6-10; D&C 6:15; 88:66; 93:9,11,23,26; 107:71).
God’s servants speak the Truth (2 Cor 12:6; Gal 4:16) and are pleasing to God (Prov 12:22). God’s way (Rev 15:3) and word is Truth (John 17:17). His Truth will remain forever (Ps 100:5; 117:2).
When we receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost, we receive the ability to be guided by the standard of Truth. It consecrates Christ’s followers (John 17:19) since believing the Truth is concomitant with sanctification (2 Th 2:13) and purification (1 Pet 1:22). Truth is our shield and armor (Ps 91:4; Eph 6:14) and always remains with the righteous members (2 Jn 1:2).
Worshiping God includes adherence to whatever is true (Ps 145:18; John 4:24). We serve God by loyalty to the Truth (Josh 24:14; 1 Sam 12:24). Living righteously mea ns walking in God’s presence in Truth (1 Kng 2:4; 2 Kng 20:3).
This means anything that is true is part of Mormonism. All the truth in mathematics, physics, biology, geology, astronomy, etc. are part of Mormonism. 2 + 2 = 4 is a truth and is part of Mormonism. The earth is a globe is part of Mormonism. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction is part of Mormonism. Jesus is “God” is part of Mormonism.
Because the church belongs to Christ and is guided by the Holy Ghost, the doctrines of the church are whatever is true. Cultural straitjackets that restrain Truth are wrong and aren’t from God.
Because “Mormonism” is “whatever is true” any false doctrines believed by certain members or leaders are inherently not “Mormon doctrine.” Any dishonesty and any attempt to deliberately distort or deceive goes against God because God is Truth! Truth always comes from God (Eph 5:9)! We must love the Truth (Zech 8:16-19), rejoice in it (1 Cor 13:6) and teach it (1 Tim 2:7) no matter how unpleasant it may be.
Those who are evil don’t have the Truth. They reject, resist and oppose the Truth and will be punished by God (Isa 59:4,14-15; Jer 9:3,5,9; Hos 4:1,3; 1 Tim 6:5; 2 Tim 3:8; 4:4; 1 Jn 1:10; 5:10) for their actions of following Satan who is devoid of all Truth (John 8:44).
Truth is from God and accepting Truth entails accepting God. If we know something is true, then deny, refuse or fight against it; we are fighting against God. We must never reject the Truth (John 8:43-47):
2 Cor 13:8 For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.
Truth actually has three sides when two disagree:
Truth as I see it.
Truth as you see it.
Truth as it really is.
Perception of what is true is not necessarily the Truth. It’s possible both are wrong or one is actually correct. This makes it important to separate Truth from one’s perception or opinion of what the Truth is. This means if the church believed a doctrine was true but it turned out to be indisputably false, the church has an obligation to abandon falsehood and embrace the Truth. Her status as God’s true church demands she eliminate anything that is false within her so that she will be a holy and blemish-free bride at her future wedding to Jesus. We, as members of the church must await her decision and can never force her to make hasty decisions.
Truth is our standard as members and we must reject anything that conflicts with it. Our enemy isn’t the Truth or those who teach the Truth, our enemy is falsehood and those who seek to destroy the Truth.3
There are two kinds of doctrines in the church. There are doctrines based upon eternal principles from oral or written revelations given by God. They can’t be modified (such as Jesus being our Savior, the pre-existence, Joseph Smith being a true prophet, the three degrees of glory, etc.) and are inerrant4 (since they are derived from direct revelations from God). The second kind of doctrines (or more properly, “pseudo-doctrines”) are those doctrines based upon societal standards. These societal doctrines (e.g. birth control, oral sex, denying the priesthood to those of sub-Saharan ancestry, etc.) are doctrines derived from the milieu the church was in and the leaders and members of the church assumed they were based upon eternal principles despite God didn’t specifically say they were.
The principles of the church never change whereas societal doctrines sometimes have when the church receives additional Truth (either through a direct revelation from God or an indisputable scientific fact- since all truth ultimately comes from God no matter what its source may be). When this happens, the church modifies its stance to conform with the truth God has revealed or maintains the status quo, since many doctrines were based upon societal standards, and also may have been applicable to only that era. Despite the societal nature of a doctrine, it is better for members to conform to the church’s official stance on it, otherwise, we will be in a state of apostasy.
The first century church likewise experienced doctrinal modifications (the requirements for Gentile admission, the importance of circumcision, the proper relationship with the Gentile members, the extent of adherence to the Mosaic Law) but these modifications never invalidated the legitimacy of the church. All Christian churches used to have doctrines prohibiting contraception and divorce but now all do with the exception of the Catholic Church. They had doctrinal change, but are they “false churches” because of doctrinal change?
Is it then possible for the church to be mistaken or to have false doctrines? Of course! The error of the church would then be attributing a belief to be from God when in all actuality, it was merely derived from the environment it was in.
As the Lord gives further clarification of his will, the church changes its position to conform with what God has revealed. The church naturally doesn’t wish to advertise changes in its position over the centuries. What church does? Churches wish to be viewed as bulwarks for its members, giving stability in an uncertain world. Why should they abandon this image for the sake of a few detractors?
Faith-promoting folklore is not Mormon doctrine unless it is found in the Scriptures or sustained by the church body in General Conference, but even then, it still needs to adhere to the standard of Truth.
My attitude is identical with Brigham Young who said:
“I had a conversation recently with a prominent minister of a church in the East and he said, I do not agree with you in your peculiar views. I answered, are you not for the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth? If you are, so am I. How is it possible to get up an argument? I will make a bargain. I will compare my religion with yours. We will start out with the Bible alone, taking it as the standard. All that the Bible teaches for doctrine and practice we will take for our guide. If I have an error I will part with it. Will you do the same? If you can find that you have a truth that I have not, and that I have an error, I will trade ten errors if I have them for one truth.”5
“I fellowship everything that is good and virtuous, everything that is truthful and good; but sin I do not fellowship in them, nor in a Latter-day Saint, or one who professes to be so. I fellowship all good, and we have it. It is all right, and if we have error, it is because we do not live according to the Gospel that we have embraced. If we have embraced error in our faith, it is because we do not understand our own doctrine; if we have error in our lives, it is because we deviate from the path of rectitude that God has marked out for us to walk in.”6
Truth always comes from God. Anyone who rejects the Truth will believe a lie and will be condemned by God (2 Th 2:11-12).
We must be an obedient people. Despite a doctrine may be based upon a societal standard, we still need to conform to the church’s position until the church’s stance actually changes to maintain doctrinal unity in accordance with the Bible’s requirement (John 17:20-23; Acts 1:14; 4:32; 15:25; Rom 12:16; 15:5-6; 1 Cor 1:10; 11:1-2; 2 Cor 13:11; Eph 4:5; Phil 1:27; 2:2; Col 3:15; Heb 2:11; 1 Pet 3:8; 1 Jn 1:7). Who knows? Maybe a doctrine based upon a societal standard is actually based upon an eternal principle which makes it based upon the standard of Truth.
What is binding upon members of the church? The canonized Scriptures and oral revelation given by the Prophets. How can one know if a teaching is really divine?
“Search the scriptures-search the revelations which we publish, and ask your Heavenly Father, in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, to manifest the truth unto you, and if you do it with an eye single to his glory nothing doubting, He will answer you by the power of His Holy Spirit. You will then know for yourselves and not for another. You will not then be dependent on man for the knowledge of God; nor will there be any room for speculation. No; for when men receive their instruction from Him that made them, they know how He will save and learn what portion of them belongs to you and the people of the nineteenth century.”7
Prayer is the key to unlocking Truth. The fundamental testimonies members of the church receive reveal Divine Truth. If we receive a testimony the current prophet is true, we automatically know Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon are true by linkage. Receiving a testimony of the legitimacy of either the Book of Mormon or Joseph Smith automatically validates the other. Statements from the prophet aren’t binding unless he is giving a commandment from God with the accompanying, “Thus sayest the Lord... ”8
As members of the church, we realize we need to be critical thinkers and not unconditionally accept things. A healthy dose of skepticism is good for us. However, being hyper-critical about every single thing is wrong since we must have the faith of simple children (Mark 10:15; Matt 18:3-4; Luke 18:17). When in doubt, pray to God for guidance and confirmation since we are promised answers to our sincere questions. We must stand on our own two feet and not rely upon borrowed light.
Doctrinal change by itself doesn’t automatically mean the church that had such a change is false. It takes courage for one to admit she misunderstood some teachings of her fiancé. The church won’t lose her status as the future wife of Jesus Christ as long as she strives to obey her Groom as best she knows how, and makes the effort to abide by Truth.
“Mormonism” = “Truth.”
Anything that deviates from such a position isn’t really “Mormonism” or “Mormon doctrine.”
B) Mormonism is “Whatever is Right”
The ethical and moral position is on what kind of behavioral attitudes Mormons are required to have. What must a Mormon do when faced with moral choices? Should he return a cash-filled wallet to the owner? Should he defend those who are being slandered? Should he make fun of the misfortune of others? Should he lie, steal, misrepresent, murder?
The ethical and moral side of Mormonism is also a principle and states, “Whatever is good and righteous is Mormonism.”
Members of the church are required to “do what is right” regardless of the consequences:
(1) Job 29:14 I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment [was] as a robe and a diadem.
(2) Ps 11:7 For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.
(3) Acts 10:35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
(4) Rom 6:19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
(5) 1 Jn 2:29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.
(6) 1 Jn 3:7,10 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous ... In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
(7) 1 Ne 14:14 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld the power of the Lamb of God, that it descended upon the saints of the church of the Lamb, and upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth; and they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.
(8) Mosi 27:25 And the Lord said unto me: Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters.
(9) Alma 41:6 And so it is on the other hand. If he hath repented of his sins, and desired righteousness until the end of his days, even so he shall be rewarded unto righteousness.
(10) D&C 20:14 And those who receive it in faith, and work righteousness, shall receive a crown of eternal life.
(11) D&C 58:27 Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.
(12) D&C 59:23 But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.
(13) D&C 121:36 That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
(14) Mos 7:18 And the Lord called his people ZION, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them.
We must live in a manner that causes minimal evil, pain and suffering, especially to those who are innocent of any wrong-doing. Just as a spiritual and intellectual standard equates Mormonism with Truth ( Mormonism = Truth); so does an ethical standard equate Mormonism with good and proper behavior ( Mormonism = Righteousness). Outsiders automatically expect Mormons to live higher standards of morality and ethics than the average person. We are supposed to “Choose the Right” in every situation. This is best described by the 13th Article of Faith which says:
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.
The proper ethical behavior of Mormons can be specified as:
1. Live a Christ-like Life. Mormons are required to have moral integrity, pure love towards others and to be honorable. We need to be honest, trustworthy and morally upright. The popular phrase:“What would Jesus do?” is our guiding standard. This is the primary conduct we are required to adhere to.
2. Proclaim the Gospel. We are required to share the gospel of Jesus Christ to enable others to enjoy the blessings associated with membership in the Lord’s church. This is to enable others to become part of the body of Christ and begin the transformation into replicas of the glorious Jesus.
3. Perfect the Saints. We must enhance the quality of the lives of all members by raising our standard of living, improving our educational and economic levels, ecclesiastical participation of all members,9 developing new abilities and talents and extending comfort, assistance and love towards all.
4. Redeem the Dead. We need to assist those who are unable to help themselves by performing work for those who’ve never had the opportunity of joining the Lord’s church.
5. Human Rights. “Every human being is born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Everyone has rights that governments and others must not violate as stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights [UN General Assembly Resolution 217 A (III) of December 10, 1948]. We need to assist those whose inalienable rights are being trampled upon.
6. Humanitarian Aid. We need to charitably assist societies and individuals who experience catastrophic loss, whose lives and health are endangered, and whose livelihoods and future has been jeopardized, regardless of their race or religion.
7. Animal Welfare. We need to eliminate hunting for sport or fun because of the infliction of pain, suffering and terror upon innocent creatures. We must minimize consumption of meat and meat products and ensure that the slaughter of such animals is done as painlessly and as quickly as possible. We must also assist animals that are in pain and suffering and eliminate the unnecessary slaughter of animals, especially the endangered creatures.
8. Environmental Protection. We must do our best in ensuring our environment is keep as clean and habitable as it possibly can. We need to avoid dumping poisons into the environment and must also avoid destroying habitats. We need to help the earth heal itself in areas that have been destroyed.
9. Species Loyalty. Any product or new development must be for the benefit of all Mankind and for Life in general.
“Mormonism” = “Righteousness.”
“ What would Jesus Do?” Proper ethical behavior lies at the heart of the Golden Rule: “Do unto others what you want done unto you.” How would you like it if these things were done to you, your family, your loved ones and your home? Not only must we not do evil ( sins of commission), we must not allow evil to exist due to our inaction ( sins of omission). When we face a moral dilemma, we must do what we know is right. If we don’t know what to do, we should seek guidance from the church and especially the Lord by sincerely praying about it. All must make the effort to live the holiest lives possible. Violation of these issues dehumanizes us and makes us less than what God expects of us.
C) Mormonism is “Whatever is True and Right”
We are supposed to stand for “Truth and Righteousness.” Mormons are obligated to ask themselves “Is it true? Is it right?” when faced with problems.
Mormonism’s stance can be seen in the Scriptures which state:
1) Prov 12:17 [He that] speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.
2) 2 Cor 6:1-10 WE then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now [is] the accepted time; behold, now [is] the day of salvation.) Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all [things] approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and [yet] true; As unknown, and [yet] well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.
3) Eph 5:9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)
4) Eph 6:13-18 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Unto whom I have committed the keys of my kingdom, and a dispensation of the gospel for the last times; and for the fulness of times, in the which I will gather together in one all things, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth.
5) Phil 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.
6) D&C 27:14-18 And also with all those whom my Father hath given me out of the world. Wherefore, lift up your hearts and rejoice, and gird up your loins, and take upon you my whole armor, that ye may be able to withstand the evil day, having done all, that ye may be able to stand. Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, having on the breastplate of righteousness, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, which I have sent mine angels to commit unto you; Taking the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked; And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of my Spirit, which I will pour out upon you, and my word which I reveal unto you, and be agreed as touching all things whatsoever ye ask of me, and be faithful until I come, and ye shall be caught up, that where I am ye shall be also. Amen.
7) D&C 50:9 Wherefore, let every man beware lest he do that which is not in truth and righteousness before me.
8) D&C 76:5 For thus saith the Lord—I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end.
9) D&C 107:84 Thus, none shall be exempted from the justice and the laws of God, that all things may be done in order and in solemnity before him, according to truth and righteousness.
10) D&C 121:45-46 Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven. The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee forever and ever.
11) Mos 7:62 And righteousness will I send down out of heaven; and truth will I send forth out of the earth, to bear testimony of mine Only Begotten; his resurrection from the dead; yea, and also the resurrection of all men; and righteousness and truth will I cause to sweep the earth as with a flood, to gather out mine elect from the four quarters of the earth, unto a place which I shall prepare, an Holy City, that my people may gird up their loins, and be looking forth for the time of my coming; for there shall be my tabernacle, and it shall be called Zion, a New Jerusalem.
Members of the church need to adhere to whatever is True and Right. This isn’t about one’s perception of truth or one’s perception of righteousness. It doesn’t mean Mormons don’t ever make mistakes or ever misunderstand what the real Truth or real Righteousness are. It doesn’t mean the LDS church has never made any mistakes in the past. What it does mean is we are required to adhere to whatever the real Truth and Righteousness are when we find out what they are!
If we find out there are ten planets in the Solar System instead of the nine we believe exist, this means we are obligated to change our view of the Solar System and teach there are ten planets. If we find out petrochemical burning is an evil that’s destroying the environment, we are obligated to switch to alternate benign sources when they are available. We don’t know of any error within the Church’s beliefs and practices, but if there are, we are obligated to cast them out of the church when we find out they are incontrovertibly wrong.
Mormonism is whatever is true and right.
When asked, “What is Mormonism?” We reply, “Whatever is True and Right.”
Adherence to this principle ensures a Mormon will never run into intellectual or ethical problems since Mormonism is defined to mean “whatever is true and right.” This means any scientific matter whose methodology is valid and consistent is part of Mormonism. We can always stay true to our religious faith and be true intellectuals at the same time without compromising any portion. Any ethical dilemma can be solved by always following what we sincerely believe is right. If it happens to be demonstrably wrong, we must repent and learn from it.
I’m so grateful for belonging to a church that encourages me to seek out Truth and Righteousness wherever it can be found.
“ Mormonism” = “Truth” + “Righteousness”
All who seek and desire Truth and Righteousness are invited to look into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I know this church is the True Church and invite all to enjoy the blessings associated with incorporation into the Bride of Christ.
[ENDNOTES]:
1.TPJS. p. 139.
2.TPJS. p. 332.
3.JD. 16:24.
4.TPJS. p. 368.
5.JD. 16:41.
6.JD. 15:128-129.
7.TPJS. pp. 11-12.
8.TPJS. p. 136.
9.I am not aware of any other church that has such a high layman participation. Those who give talks during Sunday services are usually ordinary members who have no formal training in oratory, preaching or biblical studies. This makes the overall “quality” of the talks to be inferior than those found in other churches which are usually given by one professionally trained. Ordinary members are given administrative and organizational responsibilities. All of these are done on a rotational basis which forces regular members to develop proficiency in multiple fields. What we lack in polished preaching, we more than make up in the universal improvement of all the members. Mormons learn to lead, work as a team, take orders and direction, speak in front of others and run a voluntary organization. This is why Mormons as a whole are more “well-rounded” than members of other churches, many of which, passively let their leaders do all the work for them.
Yep just like Jesus did.
Matt 15:1-3 “Then the scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus, saying, “Why do Your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.” He answered and said to them, “Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?”
Matt 23:31-33 “Therefore you are witnesses against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers’ guilt. Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell?”
Matt 23:1-5 “Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do to be seen by men.”
Matt 15:14 “They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.”
Matt 23:13 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in.”
I believe you’re confusing doctrinal assertion with ridicule. Show me a place where Christ ridiculed others to get his point across, and I’ll accept your humor as funny.
The author is ridiculous. He assumes that people who do not care what a candidate’s religious affiliation is, are OK with any affiliation as long as the candidate is not too serious about it. It shows how out of touch they are with ordinary people, especially in the midwest, the inter-mountain west, and the southland.
Well, this does explain why the secularists are so hateful about George W. Bush. The President is serious about his personal faith and admits to reading the Bible every day. It also recalls the dismay of the MSM when Bush was asked a question in a 2000 Presidential debat regarding which philosopher he admired the most and GWb answered “Jesus Christ”. After that it was all downhill for Bush with the the MSM. The MSM declared he was an idiot and that he was a liar and everything else they could throw at him.
I didn’t ridicule YOU tanti. I ridiculed Mormonism’s underwear, and their Pharisical dotting of “i’s” and crossing of “t’s”,..... like underwear are going to save anyone...or even the stupid covenants associated with them.
Only Jesus saves.
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