Answerbag: the Otter's answers

Answer to Where are you going for Thanksgiving?

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 09:46:11 -0800

Where are you going for Thanksgiving?

We’re heading about five minutes to the west, to my sister-in-law’s house.

Answer to If you had to move to another country, which one would you choose and why?

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:15:35 -0800

If you had to move to another country, which one would you choose and why?

Spain. I spent two years there as a missionary, and I would absolutely LOVE to share it with my family. My only concern is that I’ve been gone for almost 13 years, and I just know it won’t be the same…. :-s

Answer to Why is it that white women marry black men in greater numbers than a white men would marry black women?

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:13:42 -0800

Why is it that white women marry black men in greater numbers than a white men would marry black women?

Couldn’t tell you, but it’s certainly true in my family. Now, white men marrying Latin women is a different story. ;-)

Answer to Have you ever made a film?

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:09:46 -0800

Have you ever made a film?

Depends on how literally you mean that. I’ve made home movies—particularly of my children—but I’ve never used any actual *film* to do it.

Answer to Is anyone else sick of hearing about new moon?.. I am,lol

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:08:44 -0800

Is anyone else sick of hearing about new moon?.. I am,lol

Definitely. I’m actually a fan of vampire legend, but omigosh enough already!!!

Answer to Joseph Smith omitted the Song of Solomon from his translation of the Bible and inserted his own "new revelations"into several books. But why didn't he also add anything from the extent apocryphal books that the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches use?

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:32:30 -0800

Joseph Smith omitted the Song of Solomon from his translation of the Bible and inserted his own "new revelations"into several books. But why didn't he also add anything from the extent apocryphal books that the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches use?

As Richard pointed out, the Lord told him “that it is not needful that the Apocrypha should be translated” (Doctrine & Covenants 91:3). Again, what more reason would you need? As an aside, MIT, it’s been a very long time since I saw you ask a question that you don’t...

Answer to Why was the Song of Solomon omitted from the Joseph Smith Translation (aka "Inspired Version") of the Bible?

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:28:18 -0800

Why was the Song of Solomon omitted from the Joseph Smith Translation (aka "Inspired Version") of the Bible?

Joseph Smith Jr’s notes stated that “the Songs [sic] of Solomon are not inspired writings.” What more explanation could be necessary?

Answer to What kind of persecution did early Christians face and why were they persecuted?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:33:19 -0800

What kind of persecution did early Christians face and why were they persecuted?

Depends on how early you mean, but the answer is often the same. Around 1700 BC, the Egyptians made the Christians their slaves and kept them that way for 400 years. The Pharaoh even commanded that all male Israelites be killed at birth (http://scriptures.lds.org/ex/1). In about 82 BC, a group...

Answer to I had a boyfriend for a month i loved him so much hes the most beautiful and perfect bf ever he told me hed never leave me but he broke up with me the 2nd day of middle skool its been 2 months and seven days i cry almost everyday over it that not normal?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:04:14 -0800

I had a boyfriend for a month i loved him so much hes the most beautiful and perfect bf ever he told me hed never leave me but he broke up with me the 2nd day of middle skool its been 2 months and seven days i cry almost everyday over it that not normal?

I feel for you, love bug, and yes, what you’re feeling is somewhat normal. However, I think you’ve got to recognize something here: you’re really too young to be dating, and I think your reaction is somewhat indicative of that. Now, don’t get me wrong; I understand what...

Answer to To religious people. Why do you want to live forever?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:48:53 -0800

To religious people. Why do you want to live forever?

Why wouldn’t I? There’s so much to do! Creating life, watching my children grow, striving to better myself each day… the list goes on and on!

Answer to Hey muslim haters since you think all muslims are terrorist does this mean that all catholic leaders are all child rapist?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:45:41 -0800

Hey muslim haters since you think all muslims are terrorist does this mean that all catholic leaders are all child rapist?

I suppose you’re not really addressing me, but I think either statement is absurd.

Answer to On 8/16/85 LdS Apostle Dallin Oaks pontificated that the White Salamander in Martin Harris's damaging letter was "a good approximation...of the Angel Moroni" But this 1830 letter was a fraudulent forgery. Why didn't the divinely inspired Oaks see this?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:39:10 -0800

On 8/16/85 LdS Apostle Dallin Oaks pontificated that the White Salamander in Martin Harris's damaging letter was "a good approximation...of the Angel Moroni" But this 1830 letter was a fraudulent forgery. Why didn't the divinely inspired Oaks see this?

A) Who says he didn’t? B) Even if he didn’t, I can think of several reasons that the Church might have benefitted from keeping that information from the public, which might also explain why God might choose to even keep the information from His apostles. In the meantime,...

Answer to What is the foundation of the Mormon belief in additional scripture?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:46:10 -0800

What is the foundation of the Mormon belief in additional scripture?

Um… the fact that we’re already receiving it? ^_^

Answer to Samuel A. B. Mercer: "Joseph Smith has been shown by an eminently competent jury of scholars to have failed completely in his attempt or pretense to interpret and translate Egyptian figures and hieroglyphics." So why is the BoA still in the LdS Canon?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:43:47 -0800

Samuel A. B. Mercer: "Joseph Smith has been shown by an eminently competent jury of scholars to have failed completely in his attempt or pretense to interpret and translate Egyptian figures and hieroglyphics." So why is the BoA still in the LdS Canon?

I suspect it’s because Samuel A. B. Mercer apparently doesn’t know the first thing about ancient Judaism and its use of reformed and/or modified Egyptian texts.

Answer to Mormons, ExMormons, and Mormon Studies Scholars how would you respond to this assertion from famous Mormon Critic, Sandra Tanner: "...[The Book of Abraham] is one area where Smith's translations can be put to the test and he fails."

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:29:48 -0800

Mormons, ExMormons, and Mormon Studies Scholars how would you respond to this assertion from famous Mormon Critic, Sandra Tanner: "...[The Book of Abraham] is one area where Smith's translations can be put to the test and he fails."

I’d say that first of all, the source of the Book of Abraham has been missing for 125 years or more, so it’s kind of hard to claim that he mistranslated it. What she’s actually talking about are the repurposed Egyptian documents that were altered for use as illustrations, as...

Answer to Has any recent study been made of the Book of Mormon charactors that were apparently copied from the original record? What did the scholars discover?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:45:34 -0800

Has any recent study been made of the Book of Mormon charactors that were apparently copied from the original record? What did the scholars discover?

Great question, Richard, and I’m not sure that there has been. The only thing I know of that even remotely fits the bill are the archæological discoveries listed on this site: http://www.cometozarahemla.org/egyptian/reformedegyptian.html Basically, it shows that: 1) There is...

Answer to Why is progression and 'blessings' dependant of whether or not a person is sealed to their family (as a child and as a parent)? I find it quite disgraceful that mothers are counselled to give up children due to this teaching.

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 06:05:07 -0800

Why is progression and 'blessings' dependant of whether or not a person is sealed to their family (as a child and as a parent)? I find it quite disgraceful that mothers are counselled to give up children due to this teaching.

FIrst of all, I don’t claim to know why the blessings of Eternal Life are in part dependent upon the sealing power. Frankly, I never really thought about, so you’ve given me something new to learn. What I do know, though, is that Heavenly Father’s commandments are anything but...

Answer to My Christian flatmate tells me that I will go to hell because I don't believe in Jesus. She also said my relatives are burning and being tortured in hell as non-believers. Is this what Christians believe?

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:51:22 -0800

My Christian flatmate tells me that I will go to hell because I don't believe in Jesus. She also said my relatives are burning and being tortured in hell as non-believers. Is this what Christians believe?

That’s a pretty broad question, Kirzin, so let me tell you what *this* Christian believes. First of all, I’m a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or “the Church of Jesus Christ” for short. Many Christians out there are going to disagree with what...

Answer to How can Christians claim their bible talks of a hell when Genesis 3:19 clearly states that Adam (who sinned) would be returning to where he came from. "for dust you are and to dust you will return?"

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:18:18 -0800

How can Christians claim their bible talks of a hell when Genesis 3:19 clearly states that Adam (who sinned) would be returning to where he came from. "for dust you are and to dust you will return?"

Good question, MrJosh. Adam actually did return to where he came from: the spiritual portion of his soul returned to Heaven, the physical portion returned to the Earth to await the resurrection. Obviously God didn’t mean that Adam’s *spirit* came from the dust; that would contradict...

Answer to If Jesus was hung, would a noose be the symbol for Christianity?

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:11:52 -0800

If Jesus was hung, would a noose be the symbol for Christianity?

…or if he had been executed by a firing squad, would we see rifles hanging on the chapel walls? :-P This is *exactly* why the Church of Jesus Christ doesn’t tend to use the cross. It’s not like Latter-day Saints have anything against it; people want to remember Him, and if...

Answer to Anyone else find it ironic that atheist use many similar arguments against christianity as anti mormons use against mormons?

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:07:02 -0800

Anyone else find it ironic that atheist use many similar arguments against christianity as anti mormons use against mormons?

I’ve been pointing that out for years. ^_^

Answer to Should I feel bad about trying to point out how Mormons are a cult?

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:56:21 -0800

Should I feel bad about trying to point out how Mormons are a cult?

Depending on what you mean by “a cult,” you probably should. While all religions are technically “cults,” the word has come to have an extremely pejorative connotation that in no way accurately describes the Church of Jesus Christ nor its members. As an aside, I would...

Answer to The belief in a living Mother in Heaven is implicit in LDS Theology. This has been acknowledged by LDS Church Leaders and Theologians throughout Mormon History (and this is so today as well). Why then do many Mormons angrily and vehemently deny this?

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:48:26 -0800

The belief in a living Mother in Heaven is implicit in LDS Theology. This has been acknowledged by LDS Church Leaders and Theologians throughout Mormon History (and this is so today as well). Why then do many Mormons angrily and vehemently deny this?

Since this has been bumped anyway, allow me to add my experience to that of those that have already responded. I have also never heard of anyone denying the existence of our Heavenly Mother; in fact, quite the contrary. May I ask which “Mormons” you have heard “angrily and...

Answer to John Taylors 1882 revelation was included in several foreign-language editions of the Doctrine and Covenants but omitted from English versions. Does anyone know of any foreign language version that included it? I know of the Swedish version.

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:40:39 -0800

John Taylors 1882 revelation was included in several foreign-language editions of the Doctrine and Covenants but omitted from English versions. Does anyone know of any foreign language version that included it? I know of the Swedish version.

Interesting stuff. I actually had a friend in my mission that was a descendant of John Taylor, and he told me that when he was a little kid, his family discovered some of Taylor’s written revelations under the false bottom of a trunk that had been passed down through the generations. I...

Answer to In Protestant Theology we a saying: "In essentials unity. In non-essentials liberty. In all things charity." What are the 'essentials' in LdS Theology? What does your Ward do with those who depart from them?

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 06:39:14 -0800

In Protestant Theology we a saying: "In essentials unity. In non-essentials liberty. In all things charity." What are the 'essentials' in LdS Theology? What does your Ward do with those who depart from them?

According to the Prophet Joseph Smith Jr.: “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our...

Answer to I've noticed a new trend of some Mormons who longer believe that the LdS Church is the ONLY true Church - thus they take a softer, more inclusive stance toward other Churches and faiths. Are you one of these LdS and if so what led you to this conclusion?

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 06:35:14 -0800

I've noticed a new trend of some Mormons who longer believe that the LdS Church is the ONLY true Church - thus they take a softer, more inclusive stance toward other Churches and faiths. Are you one of these LdS and if so what led you to this conclusion?

No, I am not, and I’d actually be interested to learn who these people are. The way I see it, there’s really no room for a gray area here: either the Church is 100% true or it isn’t. Either way, it’s a logical impossibility for two (or more) contradictory churches to each...

Answer to Latayne Scott: "I have found that a True Blue Mormon would argue with a sack of turnips if it fell off a Mormon truck." What does she mean by this? Does this match anyone's experience dialoging with, or attempting to reason with True Blue Mormons?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:11:00 -0800

Latayne Scott: "I have found that a True Blue Mormon would argue with a sack of turnips if it fell off a Mormon truck." What does she mean by this? Does this match anyone's experience dialoging with, or attempting to reason with True Blue Mormons?

I know this isn’t going to help, but I frankly have no clue what she means by that. I’d actually think the opposite charge would make more sense.

Answer to Mormons: If man can become God and God was once a man, and all other Gods before him were first men, who created the first man to become God? In other words, which came first, the chicken or the egg?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:01:53 -0800

Mormons: If man can become God and God was once a man, and all other Gods before him were first men, who created the first man to become God? In other words, which came first, the chicken or the egg?

The way I’ve heard it described is that there is no first, which actually makes sense to me because if there were a first, there would logically have to be a last (which doesn’t make sense). Is this really any harder to understand than the standard Protestant belief that God has...

Answer to Don't the names of God in Exodus 6:2-3: "Elohim spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am YaHWeH: And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of El Shaddai, but by my name YaHWeH was I not known to them." mean He's 1 being not 2?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:48:00 -0800

Don't the names of God in Exodus 6:2-3: "Elohim spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am YaHWeH: And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of El Shaddai, but by my name YaHWeH was I not known to them." mean He's 1 being not 2?

I think there’s two problems with this assessment, Mister_IT. First of all, Elohim is a plural noun in Hebrew. Thus, this passage can easily be translated as “The Gods spake unto Moses,” with one God—YHWH—acting as spokesman for the group. Secondly, even if...

Answer to Will the US ever embrace the metric system?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:30:19 -0800

Will the US ever embrace the metric system?

I don’t know, but I wish we would. Does anyone even know what a peck is, anymore? :-P

Answer to Heb 1:1&2 (JST) "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son..." Doesn't this passage specifically state the need for a "Living Prophet" is over?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:10:47 -0800

Heb 1:1&2 (JST) "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son..." Doesn't this passage specifically state the need for a "Living Prophet" is over?

If it did, that would mean that the author of the Book of Hebrews wasn’t a prophet, which creates quite the paradox. (And btw - this passage is straight out of the KJV. Any reason for the “(JST)” in the citation? Thanks!) :-)

Answer to Matt 5:48: "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." Heb 10:14: "by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified." Doesn't that mean that Heavenly Father sees us as perfect despite our flaws & sins?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:55:42 -0800

Matt 5:48: "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." Heb 10:14: "by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified." Doesn't that mean that Heavenly Father sees us as perfect despite our flaws & sins?

Not at all. Each of these passages must be looked at in context. Matthew 5:48 is the last verse of the paragraph begun in v.43, which is itself the last paragraph of the entire chapter. Throughout this section, the Lord is comparing the Mosaic priests and their teachings to the Christian...

Answer to What if there is a vampire exists and see you in the middle of the night alone in a street?

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:14:43 -0800

What if there is a vampire exists and see you in the middle of the night alone in a street?

I give him a grammar lesson. ^_^ No, seriously…. Assuming he’s a traditional vampire (as opposed to the kinder, gentler vampires of today’s pop culture), I think I’m in deep doo-doo.

Answer to Haveyou every been around when a dog was being put down?

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 21:17:10 -0700

Haveyou every been around when a dog was being put down?

Yes. My first dog, a Shar-Pei named Penny, was dying of lymphoma when we made the decision to put her to sleep. My father didn’t want to watch her die, but I couldn’t bear to leave her alone, thinking I’d abandoned her. I crouched down next to the table, held her, petted her,...

Answer to Daylight Savings Time in the USA ends tonight. When do/did you change your clocks?

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 21:09:01 -0700

Daylight Savings Time in the USA ends tonight. When do/did you change your clocks?

I usually reset a bunch of them before bed, then start noticing the rest in the morning. ;-)

Answer to Why do Mormon missionaries start there conversations by immediately lying to the perspective convert? * "We are not here to convert you"

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:32:43 -0700

Why do Mormon missionaries start there conversations by immediately lying to the perspective convert? * "We are not here to convert you"

Actually, that’s not a lie. While there’s obviously the occasional bad apple, Latter-day Saint missionaries are explicitly instructed to never, ever, under any circumstances attempt to convert anybody. All the missionary is authorized to do is teach truth so that the Holy Ghost can...

Answer to What order was the Book of Mormon translated in? I read that "the translators did the small plated of Nephi last, came near the end of the translation period." (Busham, Joseph Smith and the Beginnings of Mormonism, p.105)

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:22:15 -0700

What order was the Book of Mormon translated in? I read that "the translators did the small plated of Nephi last, came near the end of the translation period." (Busham, Joseph Smith and the Beginnings of Mormonism, p.105)

It’s Bushman, not Busham; but you (and Glenn) are right: it went: 1) Book of Lehi (the “lost” 116 pages) 2) Mosiah – Moroni 3) Small Plates of Nephi (1 Nephi – Words of Mormon) I believe the title page was actually translated between 2) and 3), but I...

Answer to Because the Bible exists in its complete form, is that a reason to believe God and Jesus exist?

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:24:05 -0700

Because the Bible exists in its complete form, is that a reason to believe God and Jesus exist?

I’m not quite sure what this question means. What do you mean by “the Bible exists in its complete form”? Thanks!

Answer to Why is the Bible more believable than Dianetics?

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:22:04 -0700

Why is the Bible more believable than Dianetics?

I’ve asked God to know if the Bible be true, and He answered me. I’ve never asked Him about *Dianetics*, but from what little I know of it, I’m not sure it couldn’t also be true. Is there any reason to think the two are mutually exclusive? Thanks!

Answer to It's the night before Halloween! In my part of the world we call this night 'Devil's Night'. What is it known as in your part of the world?

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:38:30 -0700

It's the night before Halloween! In my part of the world we call this night 'Devil's Night'. What is it known as in your part of the world?

I grew up in New Jersey, where it’s called “Goosey Night.” Here in Indiana, it doesn’t have any special name.

Answer to What is the most powerful file compression tool?

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:47:51 -0700

What is the most powerful file compression tool?

I generally find StuffIt X to be the best. It allows you complete control over your compression: choose from a variety of formats, toggle between faster compression/decompression and smaller files, and generally shrinks things to a smaller size than the OS’s built-in zip functionality. ...

Answer to How do you drop pounds FAST? I need to lose 20 pounds and within the next 6 months? Any good Ideas out there?

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:39:35 -0700

How do you drop pounds FAST? I need to lose 20 pounds and within the next 6 months? Any good Ideas out there?

That depends on what your body is like. About a year ago, I cut out snacks after my kids were in bed and dropped 20 pounds within two months, with no other lifestyle changes. My wife, on the other hand, did aerobics, aquaerobics, and 5Ks for over a year and couldn’t take off more than 10...

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:12:22 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

I love this one: I actually came up with the same argument on my own, quite a few years ago. It’s fascinating to learn that it was already well over 100 years old! “There is quite a distinction between us and all the rest of the people called Christians. I do not know, however,...

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:12:04 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

“Wherein do the Latter-day Saints, or ‘Mormons,’ differ in their views from the rest of the people who profess the Christian religion[?]” (Charles W. Penrose, *Journal of Discourses 21:138 [11 April 1880]).

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:11:53 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

“[T]he God of the patriarchs, and God of Moses is also the Christians’ God.” (Orson Pratt, *Journal of Discourses* 13:184 [7 October 1869].)

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:11:39 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

“After [Jesus’] crucifixion and the death of the apostles whom he had chosen… it appeared that his mission and ministry had been a failure; but as time passed, and the doctrines of Christianity became better understood, thoughtful men turned to him as their source of light and...

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:11:27 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

“We are a Christian people, we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and we feel that it is our duty to acknowledge him as our Savior and Redeemer.” (Joseph F. Smith, *Gospel Doctrine*, 293.)

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:11:16 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Of the time of the Second Coming, “we may not know any more than other Christians.” (Joseph F. Smith, John R. Winder, Anthon H. Lund: *An Address from the First Presidency of the Church to the World*, delivered to and accepted by vote of the Church in the April 1907 General Conference.)

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:10:40 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

“We believe this Church will prepare the way for the coming of Christ to reign as king, and that this Church will then develop into the kingdom of God, which all Christians pray will come; that the will of God may be done on earth as it is in heaven [see Matthew 6:10].” (Wilford...

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:10:32 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

“Joseph Smith was a virtuous, high-minded, honorable man, a gentleman and a Christian.” (John Taylor, *The Gospel Kingdom*, 355.)

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:09:53 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

“The Christian world believe in God, but they say He has no body. Christianity does not teach any such thing.” (Brigham Young, discourse: *The Source of Intelligence* [29 May 1870].)

Answer to What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:09:32 -0700

What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)

Here’s one to start: “The enemies of this people will never get weary of their persecution against the Church, until they are overcome. … He that will war the true Christian warfare against the corruptions of these last days will have wicked men and angels of...

Answer to I ask this question in relation to http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/7595711 What religions will deny the presence of family members at a wedding simply because they are not adherents? What religions will split a family?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 22:48:09 -0700

I ask this question in relation to http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/7595711 What religions will deny the presence of family members at a wedding simply because they are not adherents? What religions will split a family?

The irony is that we’re *not* splitting families; we’re doing just the opposite. The point of a temple marriage is that, unlike other marriages, which are dissolved as soon as either spouse dies, marriages sealed in the temple can last *forever*. What’s more, parents can be...

Answer to Can the non-Mormon parents of an adult Mormon child attend a temple wedding when it's their child being married?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 22:33:37 -0700

Can the non-Mormon parents of an adult Mormon child attend a temple wedding when it's their child being married?

As others have rightly pointed out, the answer is no. The temple is an *extremely* sacred place, and while the Church invites anyone that so desires to tour it, before its dedication, it will ultimately become a place “set apart” from the world. Part of this includes restrictions on...

Answer to Since most people on earth who are married are married "till death do you part" what does your Church teach about when a man and a woman meet in the hereafter, who were married on earth? Will they still love each other the same?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 22:18:44 -0700

Since most people on earth who are married are married "till death do you part" what does your Church teach about when a man and a woman meet in the hereafter, who were married on earth? Will they still love each other the same?

Since laie_techie and I are members of the same Church, my answer is essentially the same: if a marriage is only performed “till death do you part,” the marriage will be dissolved, as soon as one of them dies. That’s part of the beauty of a temple sealing: it’s not just...

Answer to "As a missionary tool, for public relations reasons, a Bible that the world at least tentatively accepts - such as the King James Version - has advantages." Joseph Smith Translation expert Robert Matthews on why the LdS Church doesn't use it. Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 22:12:49 -0700

"As a missionary tool, for public relations reasons, a Bible that the world at least tentatively accepts - such as the King James Version - has advantages." Joseph Smith Translation expert Robert Matthews on why the LdS Church doesn't use it. Thoughts?

I’ve always thought that to be true. However, it’s not the only reason. The biggest problem with the so-called “Joseph Smith Translation” is that it’s just a bunch of scribbled notes that somebody bothered to put into print. Some of it is translation, some of it...

Answer to If your son married a Mormon, what would you do about him?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:58:27 -0700

If your son married a Mormon, what would you do about him?

As long as he married her in the temple, I’d be ecstatic. Otherwise, it really doesn’t make any difference, now does it?

Answer to Who allowed the Jews to return from exile and rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:54:03 -0700

Who allowed the Jews to return from exile and rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem?

God. That’s kind of the point. (Or did you mean which mortals?)

Answer to Don't you hate when people say "God works in mysterious ways?"

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:52:37 -0700

Don't you hate when people say "God works in mysterious ways?"

Often, yeah. I mean, I know He does, but that comment is usually made when I’m in the depths of pain, and it just doesn’t help anything. In fact, rather than comfort me, it makes me want to wring the speaker’s neck. (Not that I ever would ever actually do such a thing.) ;-)

Answer to "The Baptist experience of knowing Jesus, in a solitary and renewable encounter, takes priority over public worship, doctrine, or acts of charity." (Harold Bloom, "The American Religion" p. 205) Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:49:50 -0700

"The Baptist experience of knowing Jesus, in a solitary and renewable encounter, takes priority over public worship, doctrine, or acts of charity." (Harold Bloom, "The American Religion" p. 205) Thoughts?

Not that I generally identify myself as a Baptist (although I suppose an argument could be made), but that certainly sounds logical to me. Thanks for sharing!

Answer to Has anyone witnessed an actual, indisputable, make a believer out of an atheist miracle? Not looking for answers like "my son/daughter", drug recovery, or "the world/universe".

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:47:28 -0700

Has anyone witnessed an actual, indisputable, make a believer out of an atheist miracle? Not looking for answers like "my son/daughter", drug recovery, or "the world/universe".

(edited to correct misspelled word) Given the “make a believer out of an atheist” criterion, I’m guessing nobody has. Signs and miracles are almost never given to unbelievers, but rather follow the faithful as a gift for their belief. I’ve both heard and made...

Answer to I have a BIG question. How come only monotheistic religions ( Christians, Muslims, Jews) are the only ones who have wars? Seriously they all believe in the same stuff but just different approach.

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:38:20 -0700

I have a BIG question. How come only monotheistic religions ( Christians, Muslims, Jews) are the only ones who have wars? Seriously they all believe in the same stuff but just different approach.

Well, first of all, I think that’s a *highly* inaccurate question. If nothing else, it’s generally tribes and/or nations that have wars, not particular religions. Secondly, even if you want to define each tribe or nation as being of a particular religion, remember that there have...

Answer to Why do you think the New world order meeting as shown in the video "The Obama deception" was held in a Marriott hotel?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:31:59 -0700

Why do you think the New world order meeting as shown in the video "The Obama deception" was held in a Marriott hotel?

Perhaps the rates were really good?

Answer to If God is the sole creator of every single thing in the universe, from the smallest creature to the largest galaxy. Why does he care about your prayers?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:30:15 -0700

If God is the sole creator of every single thing in the universe, from the smallest creature to the largest galaxy. Why does he care about your prayers?

He cares because He’s our Father, and He loves us. I know I care about what my children want, and I try to do what’s best for them—just like my Father in Heaven does, for me. HTH!

Answer to (Most particularly at University branches,) how often do student members of an LDS church lie to a fellow member who happens to have a form of Autism?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:28:07 -0700

(Most particularly at University branches,) how often do student members of an LDS church lie to a fellow member who happens to have a form of Autism?

ENG, is there any way you could clarify the question a bit? Why would either being a student or being autistic have anything to do with lying? Thanks!

Answer to "4. The moral axiom: To be responsible man must be free." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:21:48 -0700

"4. The moral axiom: To be responsible man must be free." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Agreed wholeheartedly. That’s what life is supposed to be about: the freedom to make choices.

Answer to "5. The religio-civic axiom: A free Church in a free State." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:21:09 -0700

"5. The religio-civic axiom: A free Church in a free State." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Sounds logical enough, though I’m not entirely sure what it means. Clarification?

Answer to "6. The social axiom: Love your neighbor as yourself." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:18:54 -0700

"6. The social axiom: Love your neighbor as yourself." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

If each of us would actually practice this, the world be an *immeasurably* better place.

Answer to "1. The theological axiom: The holy and loving God has a right to be sovereign." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:18:11 -0700

"1. The theological axiom: The holy and loving God has a right to be sovereign." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Definitely.

Answer to "2. The religious axiom: All souls have an equal right to direct access to God." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:17:53 -0700

"2. The religious axiom: All souls have an equal right to direct access to God." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Unequivocally agree.

Answer to "3. The ecclesiastical axiom: All believers have a right to equal privileges in the church." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:17:10 -0700

"3. The ecclesiastical axiom: All believers have a right to equal privileges in the church." (E.Y. Mullins, "The Axioms of American Religion") Thoughts?

It sounds good in theory, but only if some official determination is made as to who gets to decide what constitutes a “privilege.” All one need do is look at the current political climate, and he’ll see that what one deems a “privilege” might not be considered...

Answer to Mormons, what would you say to someone who compared the LDS Temples to Saddam’s palaces? How would you feel?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:12:49 -0700

Mormons, what would you say to someone who compared the LDS Temples to Saddam’s palaces? How would you feel?

My first impression would be to say that it’s ridiculous, but I do try to not jump the gun, on these things. Would you care to elaborate on why someone might make such a comparison? * * * ETA: Okay. Now that the question has been further explained, it’s obvious that the...

Answer to "Unlike modern translations and editions by traditional Christians this current [1979] Mormon edition [of the King James Bible] was published without reference to the best available ancient manuscripts..." (Mormon America, p. 298) Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 21:08:26 -0700

"Unlike modern translations and editions by traditional Christians this current [1979] Mormon edition [of the King James Bible] was published without reference to the best available ancient manuscripts..." (Mormon America, p. 298) Thoughts?

Well, first of all, who gets to decide what constitutes “the best” available manuscripts? Since Mister_IT has asked me to point out spin doctoring as I find it, I’ll send up a small red flag on that one. Second, there are so many footnotes in the Latter-day Saint edition of...

Answer to What are your thoughts regarding “Mormon America,” but Richard and Joan K. Ostling?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:59:21 -0700

What are your thoughts regarding “Mormon America,” but Richard and Joan K. Ostling?

Forgive me for being the first to answer my own question, but from what little I’ve read, I’d give it a B+. It’s substantially accurate (and mostly positive), but it’s obvious that the Ostlings don’t have as firm a grip on Latter-day Saint doctrine as they think they...

Answer to "Mormon scriptural scholarship functions almost entirely within an enclosed, intramural world...Mormon Bible scholars face serious problems." (Mormon America, p. 299) Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:41:54 -0700

"Mormon scriptural scholarship functions almost entirely within an enclosed, intramural world...Mormon Bible scholars face serious problems." (Mormon America, p. 299) Thoughts?

My primary thought is that you should continue reading p.299. As the Ostlings rightly point out, this kind of issue isn’t even vaguely unique to so-called “Mormon” Bible scholars. The /sum bono/ of the chapter comes in its final sentence, at the bottom of this very page: ...

Answer to "4-days before Smith's Christmas revelation [D&C 87], Eber D. Howe's Painesville Telegraph, published just 12 miles from Kirtland, had editorialized that 'civil war' was at hand and that it was possible 'our national existence is at an end.'" Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:30:44 -0700

"4-days before Smith's Christmas revelation [D&C 87], Eber D. Howe's Painesville Telegraph, published just 12 miles from Kirtland, had editorialized that 'civil war' was at hand and that it was possible 'our national existence is at an end.'" Thoughts?

No, it just proves he knew how to write an editorial. Lots of people were concerned about civil war, at the time. The fact that Joseph was also concerned about it has nothing to do with whether he was a prophet or not. Remember: the whole point of a prophet is to get the Lord’s will...

Answer to "It was natural for the Book of Mormon, the D&C revelations and other Smith writings to use that [19th Century KJV Bible] diction" ("Mormon America", p. 295) Thoughts?

Sat, 29 Aug 2009 20:27:27 -0700

"It was natural for the Book of Mormon, the D&C revelations and other Smith writings to use that [19th Century KJV Bible] diction" ("Mormon America", p. 295) Thoughts?

My only thought is to wonder why someone might have a problem with that.

Answer to Bill Maher: America, you're stupid! Obama should just ram healthcare down America's throat because people are 'too stupid' to get it. Do You Agree?

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:22:20 -0700

Bill Maher: America, you're stupid! Obama should just ram healthcare down America's throat because people are 'too stupid' to get it. Do You Agree?

Having lived in a nation with socialized medicine, I definitely do not agree—especially when one considers that even countries that *do* have socialized medicine get most of their technology, prescription drugs, etc. from the United States’ tremendous R&D budget. (And yes, I know...

Answer to What is wrong? my mother works 60 hours/week to support her shopping habits (she spends $30/week on clothes) and dad is away for most of the week due to work. We are never happy and together. My bro suggests we take a family vacation, but mom says no?

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:03:31 -0700

What is wrong? my mother works 60 hours/week to support her shopping habits (she spends $30/week on clothes) and dad is away for most of the week due to work. We are never happy and together. My bro suggests we take a family vacation, but mom says no?

It sounds to me like your family might be overspending. It’s like the old saying: $1,000,000/year in income, $1,200,000 in expenses = sad. $1,000/year in income, $800/year in expenses = happy. It’s ultimately about learning to live on what you’ve got, and ideally saving a...

Answer to How do you like to eat your potatoes?

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 19:56:32 -0700

How do you like to eat your potatoes?

My wife lunches on a baked potato with sour cream and chives, pretty much every single day. (Her medication affects her appetite, but somehow a baked potato *always* sounds good.) As for me, I generally prefer instant mashed potatoes with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits; or with gravy. ...

Answer to I just read that sex outside of marriage is considered one of the top 3 sins in the Mormon Church. Can anyone tell me what the other MAJOR sins are in the Mormon Church. I am just curious.

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:10:51 -0700

I just read that sex outside of marriage is considered one of the top 3 sins in the Mormon Church. Can anyone tell me what the other MAJOR sins are in the Mormon Church. I am just curious.

Since this question has been brought back to the forefront, I’ll add my testimony to Glenn’s. The blasphemy against the Holy Ghost is the only unpardonable sin, per Matthew 12:31. Murder is also an *extremely* serious sin, second only to the aforementioned. Adultery is likewise...

Answer to "The truth about my Mormon god was that he was weak and unable to save me unless I completely abandoned my sins. He was just a[n exalted] man that existed before me ..." Andy Pollard, former LdS Church Member. Thoughts?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:03:03 -0700

"The truth about my Mormon god was that he was weak and unable to save me unless I completely abandoned my sins. He was just a[n exalted] man that existed before me ..." Andy Pollard, former LdS Church Member. Thoughts?

It sounds like Andy has taken yet another simple truth—that Christ cannot save anyone that refuses His Atoning Grace—and turned it into his own, bastardized version of Christianity. If the Church of Jesus Christ really did teach half the things he claims it does, Joseph Smith Jr....

Answer to Would you ever be someones second wife?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:54:29 -0700

Would you ever be someones second wife?

Aww… de Joisey beat me to it. (I would certainly hope not!)

Answer to What I REALLY want to know about the Book of Mormon is whether or not Nephites drank Grape Nephi! Or was it Pale Lay Ale? Orange Nephi? Inquiring minds want to know!

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:52:46 -0700

What I REALLY want to know about the Book of Mormon is whether or not Nephites drank Grape Nephi! Or was it Pale Lay Ale? Orange Nephi? Inquiring minds want to know!

While I sort of doubt the second one, the other two could very well be possible. Much like the Egyptians’ use of the word “Pharaoh” before them, the Nephites seemed to use the word “Nephi” like the Smurfs used the word “smurf.” ^_^

Answer to "I perceived the world differently as a Mormon. Those who had not lived valiantly in the pre-existence were cursed to be born black, dark or yellow skinned or into Christian, Buddhist, or Muslim homes." ExMormon, Andy Pollard. Thoughts?

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:49:03 -0700

"I perceived the world differently as a Mormon. Those who had not lived valiantly in the pre-existence were cursed to be born black, dark or yellow skinned or into Christian, Buddhist, or Muslim homes." ExMormon, Andy Pollard. Thoughts?

My only real thought is that it’s pretty obvious why Andy Pollard left the Church of Jesus Christ. No Latter-day Saint would ever believe such horrible things.

Answer to I'm feelin' "saucy" and a little "snarky" to boot . . . so riddle me THIS: The answer is "Joseph Smith, Jr." what's the question? (the embedded video will give you a hint)

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:42:55 -0700

I'm feelin' "saucy" and a little "snarky" to boot . . . so riddle me THIS: The answer is "Joseph Smith, Jr." what's the question? (the embedded video will give you a hint)

Who is one of the most revered and misunderstood individuals in history?

Answer to Why did Thomas S. Monson celebrate the anniversary of an old cathedral belonging to "the church of the devil" on August 15th, 2009? (and yes, Mormons, I am indeed being deliberately polemic and provocative for a reason)

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:40:44 -0700

Why did Thomas S. Monson celebrate the anniversary of an old cathedral belonging to "the church of the devil" on August 15th, 2009? (and yes, Mormons, I am indeed being deliberately polemic and provocative for a reason)

Why wouldn’t he help the Catholics celebrate? The Savior places pretty high priority on loving everyone, of rejoicing with those who rejoice and mourning with those who mourn. The Catholics—members of an organization with which the Church of Jesus Christ has often partnered, to effect...

Answer to Whats is an MP3 downloading program that is SAFE for a computer and does the job well?

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 12:58:44 -0700

Whats is an MP3 downloading program that is SAFE for a computer and does the job well?

iTunes

Answer to Has anyone ever heard of the company Vector and if so, what can you tell me about it.

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 02:23:25 -0700

Has anyone ever heard of the company Vector and if so, what can you tell me about it.

Are you talking about Vector Marketing Corporation? If so: http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/7492060

Answer to Has anybody worked for Vector Marketing, selling CutCo brand knives?

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 02:21:32 -0700

Has anybody worked for Vector Marketing, selling CutCo brand knives?

Since everyone on here seems to hate Vector for no apparent reason, I’ll share my experience: I worked for Vector between my freshman and sophomore years of college (Summer 1993) and made about $2,000 in the process—roughly what any other summer job would have paid, at the time. My...

Answer to Note on the passing on Eunice Kennedy Shriver : Which of the Kennedys has had the most impact on you?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:44:32 -0700

Note on the passing on Eunice Kennedy Shriver : Which of the Kennedys has had the most impact on you?

With all due respect to the Kennedys, I don’t know that any of them has had any impact on me, with the possible exception of Jackie. I still remember when she passed away: it was the same day that the Prophet Ezra Taft Benson died, and I couldn’t find a single mention of him on any...

Answer to Know your Bible? True or False. . .Revelations has the word antichrist in it.

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:09:05 -0700

Know your Bible? True or False. . .Revelations has the word antichrist in it.

Perhaps, but since there’s no book called “Revelations” in the Bible, whether or not I know my Bible is fairly impertinent to the question. ;-)

Answer to Can Mormon men date older women?

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:06:37 -0700

Can Mormon men date older women?

I sure hope so, or my wife’s going to be *very* unhappy, next date night.

Answer to WellPoint, the nation's largest health insurer, rewarded employees for canceling coverage of sick patients. Should this be legal? http://www.consumerwatchdog.org/patients/articles/?storyId=27969

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 02:53:00 -0700

WellPoint, the nation's largest health insurer, rewarded employees for canceling coverage of sick patients. Should this be legal? http://www.consumerwatchdog.org/patients/articles/?storyId=27969

Yes, it should definitely be illegal—as should a lot of other anti-consumer tactics that the insurance companies use. That doesn’t mean universal health care is necessarily a good thing, though. http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/4758574

Answer to There is a lot of talk in the US right now about Universal Healthcare. What do folks from places with national health plans think about how their plans work? Are there mistakes we should avoid?

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 02:24:48 -0700

There is a lot of talk in the US right now about Universal Healthcare. What do folks from places with national health plans think about how their plans work? Are there mistakes we should avoid?

I’m not currently someplace with a national health plan, but I have been. Here’s my thoughts, in response to a similar question: http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/4758574 HTH!

Answer to Why can't the US have free healthcare for it's citizens?

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 02:17:49 -0700

Why can't the US have free healthcare for it's citizens?

Ignoring, for a moment, that truly “free” health care would be impossible (it would come out of taxes), here’s why I think it’s an *extremely* bad idea, anyway: http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/4758574 . For the record, I’ve been one of the teeming millions without...

Answer to People from New Jersey and Oregon (where attendants pump your gas): Is it considered customary to tip the gas attendant?

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:20:37 -0700

People from New Jersey and Oregon (where attendants pump your gas): Is it considered customary to tip the gas attendant?

I’m originally from New Jersey and to be honest, it never even occurred to me. Having worked for tips in the past, myself, maybe it should have!

Answer to Are you saved? And if so, by whom?

Sun, 26 Jul 2009 19:49:35 -0700

Are you saved? And if so, by whom?

…by Jesus Christ. That’s why He’s called “the Savior.”

Answer to Walter Kronkite just died; who remembers when the news was really that; news, not entertainment?

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 17:32:54 -0700

Walter Kronkite just died; who remembers when the news was really that; news, not entertainment?

I do remember that. What’s odd is that I just told my wife the news, and her response: “Sorry to say, but he’s someone that I wouldn’t have been sure wasn’t already dead.” What’s even odder is that I was forced to concur. Still, I do remember him, and...

Answer to I'm trying to get out of debt this year, Do you think God would understand if I didn't pay my tithe's for alittle while and put all money's on bill's?

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 05:00:37 -0700

I'm trying to get out of debt this year, Do you think God would understand if I didn't pay my tithe's for alittle while and put all money's on bill's?

Sorry to contradict what others have said, but while God would certainly understand, He will *not* be happy about it. I had an absolutely *horrible* year financially, last year—the Church even had to make my mortgage and health insurance payments, several times—but I *always* paid an...