- NEW!
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LdS: what does "We declare the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed"* mean EXACTLY?
If I remember correctly, this proclamation came out shortly after some of our earthly scientists began experimenting with trying to create life by cloning animals. Which was a forerunner to their wanting to clone humans. Our leaders were trying to emphasize the fact that only God could create life. And that can only happen through the union of a man and a woman. All mortalality began as a...
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19th Century Mormon Leaders ask us, "How did God & Christ get inserted into the First Vision by 20th Century Mormonism?"
I guess we cannot expect those outside the Church to really understand our doctrines as we do. But just for your information, any messenger who comes from the presence of God is an Angel. And that includes Jesus Christ. even though he is a God and even the Son of God, when he is sent to this earth as a messenger, he is filling the calling of an Angel. So what ever you attempted to show by...
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MORMONS: If Moroni devoutly practiced the Mormon Gospel, why is he an angel now rather than a God?
Moroni's work is not finished. When Joseph Smith translated from the Gold Plates, he could only translate 1/3 of the plates. 2/3 were sealed and Moroni told him he could not translate that portion at that time. So Moroni is still watching over the plates until such time as the portion that has been translated is more widely accepted. The Lord will know when that time is right...Later
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I propose that we proxy baptize all deceased past Presidents of the LdS Church into the Baptist Church - who's with me?
I doesn't matter how many people are baptized by proxy in our Temples, that baptism must be accepted by the individual on the other side or it is not valed. Someone just got wet for nothing...Later
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does the mormon god have a beginning?
Yes and no! As an individual intelligence he had no beginning and will have no end. However as a God he did have a beginning, just as Jesus did. Let me explain... In the Bible Jesus said something very astonishing that nearly everyone who reads the Bible seems to read right over it and not even realize what Jesus has said. It is found in John 5;19,20.."Then answered Jesus and said unto...
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How can the Mormon church be Christian if Mormons think they can't pray to Jesus?
In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we pray to the Father in the name of Jesus Christ just as the Bible directs us to do. John 15;16.."Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you." We do worship Jesus Christ...
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Is Jesus the Father? What does the Book of Mormon say?
Jesus is NOT the Father, although many of you would like to think so. Let me give you a scripture which cannot be explained away. It is found in John 14;28.."Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I." My question to you is "How can anyone be greater than...
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TRUE OR FALSE: Alma 32 forms and articulates the theological basis for 'The capstone of Mormonism': "I believe because I want to believe."
It is ridiculous to think that any one incident or sermon could serve as a basis for ones total belief in Faith. When the Book of Mormon is full of examples of individuals as well as whole cities who have developed faith where none existed. And Faith does not come simply because one wants to believe, Faith itself comes from God, only after one humbles themselves and prays for faith. Also I...
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LdS: What post OD-2 revelations and prophecies from the Living Prophet instantly changed your thinking/life the day that they were given?
My thinking was not changed nor my life, by any measure, because the Church had been teaching for many years that the day would come when the "seed of cain" would be able to hold the Priesthood, and go to the Temple and receive all the blessings that any other member has or will receive. We just didn't know when this would happen. But I truly believe this revelation came from God and I...
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Is traditional Christianity more likely to be inspired by God than Mormonism is?
Obviously, this kind of question will have two answers. One favored by those who claim to be traditional Christians and those who are "Mormon". So obviously all one can do is present their side, as to where they stand and let everyone else decide for themselves who is right. Or at least which has a better position.
Speaking as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints,...
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LdS: Is it accurate to say that personal revelation should plumbline against First Presidancy and the Twelve revelation?
I must concur with the other two posters. We are all entitled to personal revelation, meaning revelation meant just for us as an individual. If we have a family we are entitled to receive revelation for our family, if we are the head of the household. We are not entitled to receive revelation for the Church, that privilege is reserved for the Prophet only, and then is sustained by the quorum...
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"One key problem for all Mormons attempting to relate Mayan cites and culture to the Nephites...is the that Mayan civilization is dated 200 years or more after the destruction of the Nephites." (Richard and Joan Ostler, "Mormon America"; p. 274) Thoughts?
While I am not one who tries to relate Mayan cities and culture to the Nephites, I will point out that the Ostlers are not correct, according to http://www.indians.org/articles/mayan-indians.html.
I shall just post a couple of things from that website..."The Mayan Indians are part of a well-known civilization that dates back to 1000 BC. Archaeologists believe it was during the mid-Preclassic...
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"It seems clear that support for the Mormon doctrines of a corporeal and limited God, eternal progress, and deification can not be found in Eastern Orthodoxy, the early church fathers, or the... writings of C.S. Lewis." (Mormon America, p. 318) Thoughts?
Share your answer...
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"It seems clear that support for the Mormon doctrines of a corporeal and limited God, eternal progress, and deification can not be found in Eastern Orthodoxy, the early church fathers, or the... writings of C.S. Lewis." (Mormon America, p. 318) Thoughts?
First of all, we do not have a complete history of what was taught in the early Church, nor do we know what the early Church fathers taught and believed, so just because we do not have proof of those doctrines you mentioned doesn't mean they were not taught.
I have heard several "Christians" claim we believe in a "limited" God, but none of them have explained just how our God is limited. We...
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Why "EXACTLY" have the mormons said "IF mormonism is wrong- there's no way they can be saved and if it's right, there's no way anyone else can be? Where does that leave the free Methodists? LOL
First of all, let's get one thing straight, when you say Mormons said "If Mormonism is wrong...etc. you are only referring to what some "Mormon" probably said at one time. The Church of Jesus Christ does not say this, nor believe such.
However, I have often said, "If The Orthodox Christians are saved, as they claim, than the members of the Church of Jesus Christ are also saved. Since we have...
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"...if the devoted Mormon actually considers all of the facts at his disposal, he or she may feel some pain and, if honest with him or herself, will reluctantly acknowledge that the Mormon church is not at all focused on Jesus." Thoughts?
I consider myself a devout "Mormon" and I have considered all of the facts at my disposal. However, I feel no pain, and I am honest with myself and I can most assuredly acknowledge that the Church is focused on Jesus Christ.
I can understand how others may feel that we spend more time talking about Joseph Smith than Jesus Christ, but that is because they do not understand, It is because of...
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Are the secrets of Mormonism really all about the mystery religions of Babylon, including Horus and Set (Jesus and Lucifer) being actual brothers?
Please tell me, of which secrets of Mormonism are you referring? I know of no such secrets.
And certainly our belief that Jesus' and Lucifer are brothers is not a secret. Nor is it a secret that every man woman and child who now lives on earth or has ever lived on earth, or will ever live on earth in the future is also a spirit brother or sister of Lucifer, and Jesus Christ. We are all...
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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?
The scriptures are quite clear, The Father and the Son are two separate and distinct individuals. Allow me to give a few examples...Gen.1;26.."And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth."...
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Is there any biblical (or non-canonical) evidence that celestial marriage was taught in the ancient days?
Perhaps the best evidence is found in Genesis 2;25.."And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed." God Brought Eve to Adam and married them in the Garden of Eden before death entered into the world. They would have lived forever in that condition, married forever, had they not fallen. But the fact that they were still married after the fall, indicates their marriage...
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Revelations talks about a "war" between the army of the beast and the army of the Lamb. I heard a mormon speaker talk of the war between God and Lucifer. If the NWO is from the beast-then who are they (the mormons) fighting?
Plain and simple, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is in an all out war against Satan and anyone or people who joins with him and attempts to further his cause.
And just for your information Jesus spoke of having a One World Government when he returns the second time to usher in the Millenium. He said "every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ....
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In John 8:24 Jesus asserted His eternal divinity via the declarative "I Am that I Am" of Exodus 3:14 via the Greek equivalent "...if ye believe not that I AM he..." concluding with "ye shall die in your sins." How does this impact LdS Christology?
Actually it fits in quite well. In fact it is all the other Churches who need to look at this question and see how they could answer satisfactorily.
It isn't enough to just proclaim to believe in Jesus Christ. According to the Bible we must also Repent of our sins, be Baptized by immersion, by one having proper authority from God, as did the Apostles. Than we must have hands laid on our...
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If the mormons believe they are the "Saints" of Daniel and that "they will rule the world forever", is this why they say "If mormonism is wrong, there's no way they can be saved?" Is that why they are working so hard for it?
I am with John Cox on this one. Nowhere that I have ever read or heard that the Saints will rule the world. We believe and teach that when Jesus comes the second time, he will be our King and will rule the whole world.
We do believe, however, that we will be part of his Kingdom here on earth and that Jesus will have two World Capitols from which he will Govern the World. One will be in...
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When the mormons kill someone who is "standing in their way" and they "put them out of the way" (as mormons have told me they call it) couldn't this be considered performing human sacrifice?
You are aware, are you not, that there are other Churches today who call themselves "Mormon?" But are not members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints does not kill someone who is "standing in their way" and we do not "put them out of the way" either. This is totally ridiculous. Rest assured, if someone is killing someone who is...
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MORMONS True or False: There are three degrees of heaven, and only faithful Mormons can go to the highest degree - The Celestial Kingdom.
It is true, the very faithful Latter Day Saints will inherit the highest degree of the Celestial Kingdom. And that means they must be without sin of any kind and must have had all the Temple endowments and covenants and have been sealed as man and wife and have been sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise.(Holy Ghost)
This sounds like a lot, and it is, but if we have repented of all our sins and...
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When someone points out that that the axiom "Follow the prophet ... he won't lead you astray" sounds like blind obedience, Mormons will often respond that the members are to pray for themselves to know the truth. But isn't this oxymoronic, circular logic?
Absolutely not! even though the Prophet is called by God as His mouthpiece on earth, not everything that comes out of a Prophets mouth came from God. A Prophet is a mortal man, subject to all the same failings that any other man of woman is subject.
Many of the things a Prophet personally believes were arrived at before he became a prophet and may not necessarily be accurate. But when a...
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'He who is the Glory of Israel will not lie, nor will he change his mind' Doesn't this discredit Continuing Revelation & Lying for the Lord?
It is interesting that you have set yourself up as an expert on what constitutes a lie and what does not. By your definition even Jesus lied on several occasions. In John 6;53.. Jesus tells the multitude..."Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you." Was Jesus lying? If not show me one...
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1 Sam 15:29 '...God is not human that he should change his mind!' Doesn't this discredit the LDS doctrine that God is an exalted man?
No member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that I know of ever referred to God as human. Being human is always associated with being mortal. No immortal being is ever called human.
Our teaching that God is an exalted man, does not in any way suggest that He is human. However, the God to whom Samuel was referring, as the God of Israel, was actually Jehovah who later became...
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LDS:The doctrinal content of the Dead Sea Scrolls, Septuagint & Masoretic Text is consistent. Where's the corruption of the Great Apostasy?
If I may add a little to what I have already posted. The Great Apostasy involves much more than just a corruption of a few doctrines and practices, but actually involves a total Apostasy of the Church. I am speaking of the original Church which Jesus setup and organized, both while on earth and after he ascended into heaven.
While he was on earth, he began the organization of the Church, but...
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Who on earth has done the most to discern, determine and drive the modern LdS Church's Theology and Doctrine?
You seem to always want to tell us how to answer your questions. If you do not want to read our real answers, quit asking questions. If we must chose an earthly entity, it would have to be Joseph Smith. He saw the Father and the Son and learned about God from the original source. All our doctrines and beliefs have come from and through him as he was directed by the Lord.
I know you would...
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In your opinion, which of these expert's selections for "the crowning jewel of Mormonism" is the best one?
There is no, ONE, crowning Jewel of Mormonism, they are all equally important, plus many others that could be cited. Such as Priesthoods, Temple work, Temple building, proper Baptisms, Eternal Families, just to name a few. All of them and more are part of the Restoration of all things. Let's face it, we are unique among all the different Churches and religious institutions of the world...Later
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TRUE OR FALSE: "something that is true cannot be proven untrue." (Melph 5:7) And please explain your answer.
If a thing is actually true it came from God and cannot be proven false. However, there are some who will interpret some evidence which appears to be contrary to the truth and in their case that truth is interpreted to be false. But when sufficient good evidence is presented and is interpreted correctly, the truth will always be proven true.
Therefore, truth is never proven false, only the...
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MORMONS: Mormonism compared to mainstream Christianity is analogous to . . .
While my vote may seem a bit harsh, it is none the less true. The fact is the original Church which Jesus organized while he was on earth, ceased to exist at the death of the Apostles. Even though those members of the Church at that time were quite sincere, the Church organization which Jesus set in motion, came to a dead stop when the Apostles were taken from the earth. There was no...
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Richard Bushman: "There's nothing in Joseph Smith's life that prevents a reasonable person from believing in his prophetic status." TRUE or FALSE?
If a person were to consider only the facts and not include all the supposed things he did as a young boy, that statement would be true. There is nothing in Josephs life that would prevent any reasonable person from BELIEVING in Josephs prophetic status. That isn't to say they will all believe he is a true Prophet, but only that they could believe the possibility he could be a prophet.
No...
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According to LDS Doctrine will I have the opportunity to marry my girlfriend in the next life? She passed away almost a year ago and we never had the chance to marry while she was alive.
You did not say if your girlfriend was marriageable age or not, nor why you and she did not have a chance to marry. So it is very difficult to answer your question completely.
So let me just make some suggestions. 1.If God feels your girlfriend really did not have a chance to marry, she will be brought back to earth during the Millenium where she will find a man of her choice. 2.You on...
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TRUE or FALSE: "Mormons are taught to shun people who do not share their beliefs, including other family members"
We want to convert the whole world to our Church, why would we shun anyone not of our beliefs. It is riduculous to think the Church teaches this then goes out of our way to share what we have with anyone who will listen.
Now are there some members who do these kind of things in their own families? I am sure there is, but this is not the Church's fault. Every family conducts their own...
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Is Gestalt Closure - combined with and reinforced by subliminal implants - the basis for Mormon Testimony bearing?
It is quite apparent, the individuals from whom your information was gathered has never had a testimony and knows nothing about which they speak. A testimony comes from God through the Holy Ghost to the individual seeking such.
One can wish with all his/her heart for such a witness but none will come until the individual complies with all the requirements set forth by the Lord. ...
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"The most radical chasm between Mormon belief and the orthodox Judeo-Christian tradition centers on the doctrine of God. This is the great divide." (Ostler, "Mormon America"; p. 300) What do the authors mean by this statement?
Not knowing the authors personally, I cannot speak for them, but I can imagine what they may have been referring too. In the Old Testament the Jews were led and guided by God whom they came to know as Jehovah. Yeh, I know they had a variety of ways to spell Jehovah, but for now I shall just go with this rendering.
Very few Prophets in the Old Testament ever wrote that they had actually seen...
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Does anyone here know any other "secret" teachings of the mormon church other than the one I heard about them believing they are the Saints of the last days in Daniel?
What makes you think our believing we are the Saints of the latter days, as spoken of by Daniel, is a secret teaching? Doesn't our name give us away? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints...I didn't know it was supposed to be a secret...Later
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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?
The real key to this question is, "them that are sanctified". Apparently not everyone living on earth will be sanctified, or he would have said "by one offering he hath perfected and sanctified all mankind."
And since only those who are sanctified will be perfected, is it possible to be perfect and still have unresolved sins? Obviously not! To be perfect, one must have the Holy Ghost with...
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Elder Anderson: "Some listening today may need 'a mighty change [of] heart' to confront serious sins. The help of a priesthood leader might be necessary." How do you know if help of a priesthood leader is necessary or not?
The bottom line is, that serious sins, at some point, need to come to the attention of the Bishop. He is the "Judge in Israel" and can help an individual overcome all sins, if they are willing to follow his council and guidence.
However, sometimes an individual is not comfortable discussing those kind of sins with the Bishop, but they would be willing to talk to a Priesthood leader, which is...
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Elder Theodore M. Burton: "The most loving action the Church can take at times is to disfellowship or excommunicate a person." How is this action THE most loving action the Church can take?
When a person becomes a member of this Church they are required to take upon themselves certain covenants, which they agree to always keep. And even though we try, we often fall short of keeping them perfectly every day, or week. Therefore we repent often and each Sunday we partake of the Sacrament to re-new those covenants again.
However there are times when an individual does not repent...
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Elder Theodore M. Burton: "It is wicked to reject a child of God simply because he made an error." But isn't this what God and Christ do when they excommunicate someone from thir church? Isn't the person rejected and totally severed from the church?
I would add one very important point which others here did not mention, very clearly. And that is, no one is excommunicated from the Church for any sin or infraction, IF THEY WILL REPENT. It is only when they refuse to repent that they are excommunicated. Therefore it is the individuals decision to be excommunicated, not the Church leaders. And it is the individuals decision to return or...
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MORMONS: How Gods rule over this planet?
As usual, your question is not very clear. Are you asking "How God rules over the earth?" If so, we do not know how God is able to do all He does for us. But if you left out a word, like perhaps "many" as in "How many Gods rule over the earth?" the simple answer is ONE. Which is the Father, however the Father has given all judgments unto the Son. And Jesus Christ has charge of the earth...
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MORMONS: Do you secretly pray to Heavenly Mother?
I cannot speak of all members of the Church, but we are to pray only to Heavenly Father. We do not even pray to Jesus Christ, but we do pray in the name of Jesus Christ. If some "Mormons" are praying to heavenly mother, they are not following the council of Jesus Christ or of our Church leaders...Later
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LDS - When you testify and say 'I know' - I'm always a little frusrated because it's nice to say 'I know' but WHY do you know what you do and HOW do you know it?
I have been a member all of my life, and I grew up hearing many members say "I know" Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God", or that "the Church is true." So naturally I copied them when I bore my testimony, from age 12 till I went on a Mission at 21 years of age.
While on my mission I bore my testimony many times saying "I know" until one day we found ourselves teaching a Lutheran Minister. My...
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Andy Polland: "When I was a Mormon I determined leading from God and deception from the devil by how I felt. The LDS Church taught me that if I felt good, it came from God and if I felt bad it came from the devil ." Thoughts?
Feelings alone are not the best method for measuring truth, or false statements or doctrines. I am not sure who Andy Polland is but I fear he did not do a lot of studying of the Book of Mormon, for there he would have had a different criteria for measuring truth and error.
I quote from Moroni 7;15-17..."For behold, my brethren, it is given unto you to judge, that ye may know good from evil;...
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MORMONS True or False: Only Mormon apostates will go to hell.
This is much more than just a simple true or false issue. As Laie_Techie stated, there is more than 1 meaning for "Hell". Paradise is a Persian word which has several definitions, one of which is "A place of waiting for departed spirits. A place, where the spirits of the dead go to await the resurrection."
We have been told it is divided into two separate areas divided by a great gulf,...
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MORMONS True or False: Only Mormon apostates will go to hell.
This is much more than just a simple true or false issue. As Laie_Techie stated, there is more than 1 meaning for "Hell". Paradise is a Persian word which has several definitions, one of which is "A place of waiting for departed spirits. A place, where the spirits of the dead go to await the resurrection."
We have been told it is divided into two separate areas divided by a great gulf,...
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MORMONS True or False: People are essentially noble beings who can exercise their free agency to decide if they want to join the LdS Church.
This question is basically true, but not just for joining the LDS Church, it goes for all decisions made in this life, whether good or bad...Later
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MORMONS True or False: If people use their free agency to join the LdS Church their obedience binds God to bless them.
This statement is actually more true than false, but the fact is God is bound to bless us no matter what commandments we obey, as long as we do it with an eye single to His glory...Later
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LDS:The doctrinal content of the Dead Sea Scrolls, Septuagint & Masoretic Text is consistent. Where's the corruption of the Great Apostasy?
The problem is not just with what is written in those aforementioned scriptures but the interpretation of the existing scriptures along with what has been removed many years ago by various scribes involved with transceribing the scriptures, again and again.
And how can we know all of the things that were removed on purpose due to wicked men over the years. However, the Catholic Church was in...
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MORMONS: Since God (the Father) has a physical body of flesh and bones is He omnipotent? If so, how does this work?
Of course He is! Whether He has a body of flesh and bones or not, has no baring on His power. Because He is God He has all power, as is borne out by the Bible and all of our modern scriptyres....Later
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If a God actually did exist do you think he would be anything like the God of the bible?
Actually, for the most part, the God of the Bible, except the account in Genesis, is none other than Jesus Christ, who is also known as Jehovah, who was a spirit in the Old Testament, then was born of flesh and blood in the New Testament.
So I suppose it depends on which interpretation of the Bible you accept as correct...Later
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MORMONS True or False: "It is believed that Joseph was 'chosen' as prophet, in the pre-existence." (from an Internet discussion board)
It is absolutely true! The Book of Mormon in Alma 13;3-9 and Joseph Smith in "Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith" P.365, teach basically, quoting from Joseph Smith..."Every man who has a calling to minister to the inhabitants of the world was ordained to that very purpose in the Grand Council of heaven before this world was. I suppose I was ordained to this very office in that Grand...
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Would a true member of an LDS Institute abideth by all the following verses about forgiveness, letting go of anger, & being kind to others?
There really isn't any real accurate choice in which to vote. But the bottom line is, belonging to an institute, whether secular or religious, does not make one do the right thing when they are supposed too. When talking about forgiveness, an individual must come to a point in their life when they, of themselves must decide what to do and how sincere they really are. No one can do it for...
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MORMONS: Does Thomas S. Monson speak for you?
Pres. Thomas S Monson does not speak for anyone in the Church. He is a living Prophet and as such he may speak FOR God when God directs. However he does guide and direct the Church in all aspects of its organization.
He tells us what the Lord wants us to do, to better our lives and to progress toward exaltation. We decide whether to obey or not, but we alone are responsible for our...
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TRUE or FALSE 'If Joseph Smith's claim of restored priesthood authority is false then Mormonism is no different than any other Church.'
Everything this Church teaches and believes rests on whether Joseph Smith was a Prophet or not. And only God knows this answer and those to whom He has seen fit to reveal likewise.
I am one of many who has received this revelation from God, through Jesus Christ...Later
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MORMONS: From the outside looking in, the science of the Jaredite submarines seems highly implausible. What are we missing?
Since your question is "What are we missing?" My answer is you are missing a thing called Faith. Faith doesn't require proof or evidence, of a physical nature, it only requires Faith in Jesus Christ. I know the Book of Mormon is absolutely true, including the Book of Either and I do not question any statements made by that book. I know the day will come when all questions will be answered...
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How can I get a Mormon with anger issues to forgive someone?
If she is a Mormon and belongs to a Mormon institute, she has been taught about forgiveness. She and she alone is responsible for her anger and her lack of forgiveness. No one can get her to forgive another, it must come from her or it is not sincere. She will have to come to the point of forgiveness by herself, and of her own decision.
In short, I'm afraid there is nothing you can do,...
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Are mormon's christians?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is most definitely a Christian Church. And therefore its members are truly Christians.
However, we do not claim to be Orthodox Christians. That title has been adopted by nearly 1 Billion others on this earth. Our claim is supported by the Bible, while their claim comes from sources outside of the Bible.
According to the Bible, we are the...
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Sidney Rigdon was driven to compile and write the Book of Mormon by two things: 1) Money and 2) To eclipse Alexander Campbell's 1826 Restorationist Bible (which was never completed) with his "better" Restorationist Bible. Did he succeed? Why or why not?
Edndori, is right, your question is based on a false assertion. The fact is Sydney Rigdon himself testified that he did not even see the Book of Mormon until it was already in print and was shown to him by Oliver Cowdery. And Sydney Rigdon did not even meet Joseph Smith until 1 year after the Book of Mormon was in print...Later
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How do the mormons feel about the JST being different from the scrolls we've found, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls?
The Dead Sea Scrolls were simply copies of ancient scriptures made by sincere men from about 200 BC to about 70 AD. Even the experts do not know how accurate they really are, since we do not have any originals from which to compare.
The JST is a product produced by a Prophet of God under the influence of the Holy Ghost. Many things were restored that were lost, so this makes these things...
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Mormons: how do you respond when someone asks you "have you been saved"?
I simply respond, "Saved from what?" and quite generally it will lead to a discussion on Salvation, from which they usually walk away shaking their head, confused at the things I have told them...Later
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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 believe she is referring to someone like me, who is totally converted to the Church and has no doubts whatsoever. And when someone presents what they think is good evidence against what I know to be true, I will refuse to accept their evidence and continue to believe as before.
What these people fail to understand is, there are two kinds of evidence in this world. That which is true and...
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Why did Emma Smith - wife of Mormon founder Joseph Smith, Jr. - occassionally confide in others that he was a deceiver and a scoundrel?
If any of this is true, of which I doubt, the Lord will make all things right and just. It is no secret that Emma was very set against Joseph's plural wives, but that she would go to this extent I very much doubt.
And since all this is hearsay in the very least, Only the Lord knows the truth. I am satisfied that Joseph Smith was and is a Prophet of God, not withstanding his many human...
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Is it really true that the mormon church is the second largest land owner in the United States? And how would anyone know since they refuse to do a financial disclosure?
I am sure the Church does own a great deal of land, I do not know whether they are second or first, and it doesn't matter. I can assure you the IRS knows of their holdings, because the Church pays taxes on all their properties except their Chapels and Temples...Later
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Lyndon Lamborn accused the Bretheren of bearing testimony "in such a way that they are not calling upon, in general, an acurate, historocity of the Book of Mormon." In light of Elder Hollands recent testimony do you find his statement accurate?
As one who also has a very firm testimony of the Book of Mormon, I can say the historicity of the Book does not make one bit of difference as to its truthfulness.
It is the message that really counts. I say let the history take care of itself. When the Lord is ready he will cause the physical evidence to come forth to prove the history and the message...Later
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LdS Margaret Toscano on her Excommunication trial: "There's something vicious about niceness that struck me in this -- that the niceness covered over the violence of what was being done, because, in fact, excommunication is a violent action." Thoughts?
Excommunication is the final action the Church can take against an individual , when that individual refuses to repent, when given a chance to so so. Is it vicious? I suppose it depends of the perception of the individual involved. If a person were humble and honest and was told that their actions are not acceptable to the Lord and they should sincerely repent, or suffer the consequences,...
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Why would the Mormon church denounce polygamy if the Mormon founders taught and practiced polygamy?
First of all the "Mormon Church" did not denounce Polygamy! We only ceased the practice of this principle. We still very much believe in Polygamy, it is still very much a part of our Gospel.
However, it can only be practiced when the Lord commands such. If it is not commanded, it is not to be practiced...Later
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If Mormonism is Christian then why does much of the religious ritual within Mormonism finds its origin in both occultism and Freemasonry?
I concur with what the first poster stated. I will add just a few things I have found as well. 1.Joseph Smith began receiving the Temple Endowment as early as 1831. 2.In 1836 He began to administer some of those ordinances,(washing and anointing) in the Kirtland Temple. 3.He,(Joseph Smith) had received the full Endowment for the Temple ceremony by 1841. 4.Joseph Smith and Sydney Rigdon...
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MORMONS: "If someone (such as a Church) claims to have the truth you should probably first find out if they're lying to you." R. Packham
I must agree with the first post, although it is important to know your church is absolutely true, the problem is how does one go about doing that?
I found myself at a time in my life in which I totally believed my Church, (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) was not true. I was serving a Mission at the time and was considering leaving the Mission and going home.
I decided...
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Mormons: John McGee, BYU Professor of Egyptology and LdS Apologist: "The Book of Abraham is not central to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ....The Church does not stand or fall on the Book of Abraham." Since this is the case should it be decanonized?
Bro. McGee is right in a sense, it isn't central to the Restored Gospel, but it is very important and is just as much a part of the Restored Gospel as any other book of scripture.
Together they give us a brighter picture, than the Bible alone could...Later
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According to a number of accounts Dr. John C. Bennett perforned abortions for Joseph Smith's polygamous wives. Has anyone come across any information and evidence to support this?
There is a group at BYU at the present time who have been doing nothing but checking DNA from descendants of wives of Joseph Smith. There are only 8 who claim to have had a child by Joseph Smith.
So far they have checked the DNA of the descendants of 5 of those wives and have not found one who matches Joseph Smith. I doubt there is any truth to any of the so called accounts of...
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Brigham Young, second 'Living Prophet' of the LdS Church: "I have never yet preached a sermon and sent it out to the children of men, that they may not call Scripture." (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 13, p. 95) Then why AREN'T they LdS Scripture?
There are two things we need to mention in your quote. 1. Notice Brigham states..."I have never yet preached a sermon and sent it out to the children of men, that they may not call Scripture."
Many of the sermons recorded in the Journal of Discourses were not sent out by Brigham Young. He preached a sermon but many times it was not recorded until 2 or 3 days later from memory by someone....
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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?
Actually the scholars haven't proven anything regarding the Book of Abraham. They use the Rosetta Stone as a guide for all Hieroglyphics, but that is where they make their mistake.
Egyptian Hieroglyphics are pictographs used to represent things which an Egyptian author might want to convey in a message to others. And even though there are a set number of pictures they use for everything,...
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Why are the Athiests arguments against Christianity so often similar to the non-LDS Christians arguments against Mormons?
I suppose this kind of question is something for which there is no totally right answer, it just calls for an opinion, so here goes.
I have found that Atheists and Orthodox Christians find themselves in much the same position in the world, and both oppose the Church of Jesus Christ. For instance, the Christians believe the Atheists are totally wrong without any chance of being saved, if...
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Does anyone else find that what is written in the D&C of the CoJCoLDS Section 104 doesn't mesh well with the rest of the D&C? It just seems kind of weird that God decided to throw in an addendum giving the people of his church more property.
Each section of the D&C is a separate and distinct revelation for a specific event commanded by the Lord for His people to obey. And for that obedience he promises certain blessings. What is there to mesh?
It is pretty cut and dry, if that law is kept faithfully there are no rich and no poor in any part of the Church. What could be better than that?
United Order and greed do not go...
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Why was the Song of Solomon omitted from the Joseph Smith Translation (aka "Inspired Version") of the Bible?
Have you ever read the Song of Solomon? There is not one thing in that whole book that is of any scriptural value, that cannot be found elsewhere in the Bible. Why waste the effort...Later
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Where do 'feminist' Mormons get their authority from to say that women once held the priesthood in the LDS Church?
Women do not, nor have they ever, actually held the Priesthood. However women do receive authority to officiate in Temple ordinances for women, under the direction of the Temple President. Having authority is basically receiving permission to officiate and perform certain ordinances for women, under the direction of the Temple President. This is all according to the will of the Lord.
...
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The people of the Book of Mormon were Jews who followed the Mosaic Law. Where in the Book of Mormon is there evidence of all the Jewish religious festivals that are inseparable from that belief system?
First of all the Book of Mormon people were not all Jewish, but some were of Jewish descent. However, most of the Jewish festivals were to remind the Jews of things that happened only to them. Why would the people of Manasseh care anything about Passover, or any of the other festivals that were of importance only to the Jews.
It was enough that they lived the Law of Moses as they did....
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In a 4/12/1986 Deseret News statement Gordon B. Hinckley revealed that the LdS Church had acquired approximately 400 Mark Hofmann forgeries believed to be authentic. Doesn't this run counter to the LDS Church leadership's claims of prophetic discernment?
The documents which the Church acquired were only of Historical importance at best. They did not attempt to change any of our doctrines and therefore were not of any great importance that the Lord needed to get involved.
Joseph Smith was asked once if a Prophet was always a Prophet. He answered.."A Prophet is only a Prophet when he is acting in the capacity of such." The Lord does not...
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McConkie: "...not many revelations containing doctrinal principles are now being written, because all we are as yet capable and worthy to receive has already been written." Couldn't the same argument be used to support not adding to the Bible?
Absolutely! If the Bible was complete and did contain all that has been revealed from the beginning. But unfortunately we all know that is not the case. And if you doubt that, show me from the Bible what Jesus taught his Apostles during the 40 days he was with them after his resurrection. And what are we going to do with Jn.21;25..."And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the...
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How does the LDS Church explain DNA evidence that contradicts the Book of Mormon account?
When one rely' s on physical evidence to prove a thing true of false, or right or wrong, one must be patient for all the evidence to come forward. The experts early on stated that the early inhabitants or Native Americans came from Asia, according to DNA testing of over 7000 samples.
However, now several years later after many, many tests and improved knowledge, the experts now find...
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Latayne Scott: "Using those [the LdS Church's 'faithful' Mormon History] guidelines, a 'faithful history' Bible, for example, might omit Abraham's lies about Sarah, David's adultery, and Peter's denials of Christ." Do you agree or disagree? Why
I disagree...And just so you know, 1.Abraham did not lie about Sarah, she really was his half-sister as well as his wife. And besides he only said what God told him to say.
2. David did commit adultery. But Peter did not deny Christ, he only denied KNOWING him. There is a difference.
However, as far as history goes, and I am referring to ANY history, we are pretty much left up to what...
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The Book of Mormon story claims that descendants of the tribe of Manasseh (Alma 10:3) were made priests. But doesn't this contradict Numbers 3:9-10 in the Bible which says "And thou shalt give the Levites unto Aaron and to his sons" (See also Num 8:6-26)?
You forget, the Priesthood was on earth since Adam. And it was only because of the wickedness of the Israelites that God told Moses to choose only the tribe of Levi to receive the Levitical Priesthood to work in the Tabernacle.
This particular method for using the Priesthood only began with Moses and lasted until Christ came on earth. And as you might remember, Christ called and chose 12...
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Christ spoke of His church in the future tense: "upon this rock I will build my church" (Matt 16:18) referring to Pentecost (Acts 2:47) approx. 33BC. But the Book of Mormon claims the Christian church was established approx. 147BC (Mosiah 18:17). Why?
While the Church which Jesus organized in the New Testament was future tense, He had established his Church prior to this time on more than one occasion. Adam had a Church in his day, which carried forth for many years. It was not organized the same as the New Testament Church, but it was his church. The church organized in Mosiah was much like the Church which Adam had.
It wasn't until...
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If the BoM is a translation from Reformed Egyptian which was translated from Hebrew then why does it contain the Greek transliterated word "Christ"? Doesn't this suggest that the origin of the BoM was Old World and more current than 132BC?
Reformed Egyptian was not translated from Hebrew. It was written in Reformed Egyptian, Mor.9;32..."And now, behold, we have written this record according to our knowledge, in the characters which are called among us the reformed Egyptian, being handed down and altered by us, according to our manner of speech."
When the Book of Mormon was translated it was not translated word for word. It...
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The Bible in Acts 11:26 says that believers in Christ were FIRST called Christians after Paul's ministry in Antioch around approx. 34 AD. But the Book of Mormon in Alma 46:15 claims that people were FIRST known by this title in approx. 73BC. Why?
You must treat the Bible and the Book of Mormon as two separate books. Or two separate histories, if you will. As far as the people of the Bible go they were first called Christians in Antioch. And as far as the people in the Book of Mormon goes, they were first called Christians in 73 BC.
The people of the Book of Mormon knew of Jesus Christ as early as 600 BC. That was not the case...
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The Bible plainly states that the gospel, with its inclusion of Gentiles, was not fully revealed until after Christ's death (Eph 3:3-7, Col. 1:26; 1 Pet 1: 1-12; Rom 16:25-26) Yet, the Book of Mormon maintains that this knowledge was had in 545BC. Why?
Please show me where the Bible states the Gospel was not fully revealed until after Christ's death?
I understand the Lord revealed to Paul it was time to take the Gospel to the Gentiles in his day, but the Gospel had already been revealed long before this time. What do you think Jesus Christ did during the 3 years he was teaching the people, from which he chose his Apostles?
When you ask...
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The Bible says that Holy Ghost was bestowed on the Christians at the time of Pentecost (Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1-4) around 1AD. Yet the Book of Mormon in 2 Nephi 31:12-13 claims that people received the gift of the Holy Ghost as early as approx. 545 BC. Why?
The Holy Ghost has been around before any of God's creations. Why could not he be bestowed in approx.545 BC? We know he was bestowed on Adam, which also was long before the Biblical Christians received it. Doesn't seem to difficult to believe, nor accept...Later
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The Torah teaches that the 1st born of the flocks was to be given to the Lord. Sacrifices were to be made from the remaining animals (Ex. 13:12; Deu. 12:6; Num. 3:13; 18:15-18) BoM Mosiah 2:3 contradicts this yet claims to be according to Mosaic Law. Why?
Again your lack of understanding amazes me. Animal sacrifice was not part of the Law of Moses. This particular practice was originated with Adam, long before Moses. However, the Israelites did observe this practice, but many things were added to this practice which were not present with Adam. And these things were only meant for the Children of Israel during Moses' time and later.
What...
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Why do you think of New Order Mormons?
The fact is, there is no such thing as something being partly true and partly false, where the Church is concerned. A thing is absolutely true or it is absolutely false. Everything about God that comes from God must be absolutely true, or God would not be absolutely perfect.
When mankind decides what is true and what is false it very rarely is absolutely true and therefore will always be...
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MORMONS AND EXMORMONS: "This (LdS) church or no church." True or false?
I am totally and completely converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of latter Day Saints. There is no other Church, or religion, on earth today that even comes close to this true Church.
How could there be such. All truth comes from God, anyone who thinks God will teach different truths to all other Churches is totally deceived. God cannot let Himself be associated with anything less than...
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TRUE OR FALSE: "True Believing Mormons find it impossible to love their enemies - which demonstrates where their roots are truly planted."
I do not know that I can answer true to that statement. At least in all cases. I will admit there are some "true" Mormons who would answer "true" to that statement.
However, I can only speak for myself and I can say that I have some people who hate my guts, whom I still consider my friends. And I will and have done favors for them without expecting anything back from them. I do not...
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Since Mormons insist the Church must be led by a Living Prophet why do they reject the Pope?
Perhaps the simple answer is, our Prophet speaks to the Lord and speaks for the Lord to the Church. The Pope, while a good man, does not speak to or for the Lord, nor does he claim to do so. I'm sure he claims to be inspired at times, but I find that hard to accept, since their Church claims there will be no new revelation for the Church nor are they looking for such, until Christ comes...
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Is Mormonism Jewish?
Most Mormons are of one of the tribes of Israel, some are even of Jewish descent, but most Mormons today are of the Tribe of Ephraim. Why do you ask?...Later
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MORMONS: Through baptism for the dead many people will accept the Mormon gospel posthumously. Thus almost all of humanity will be heaven.
The gospel will be taught to any spirit that will listen and if they accept it and will accept Baptism by proxy from earth, (as well as all other Temple ordinances), they will be saved in the kingdom of God. But first they must accept the Gospel, then these ordinances will kick in, not visa, versa.
Unfortunately some will have these ordinances performed in their behalf but they will not...
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MORMONS: The 'good fruit' of Mormonism - pure lives, high standards, loving families, good works, miracles, etc. - prove that it's of God.
I know friends who are Orthodox Christian and Catholic who also live pure lives and have high standards, and loving families, good works, miracles, (or what they call miracles),etc. So those things alone do not prove anything.
However, if you throw in the fact that our Church is guided and directed by God and Christ through a living Prophet, you might hit the nail right on the head...Later
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MORMONS The Godhead consists of 3 persons, each of which is a god in his own right & is separate from the others in every way except purpose
I am quite sure you already know the answers to these questions, before you ask them. So why the questions? Do you think you will learn more? I think not, for the most part...Later
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MORMONS: God (the Father) is a resurrected being who achieved godhood by living obediently on another earth, under his god
By jove! I think you've got it! But His God was also His Father...Later
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MORMONS: Jesus taught a plurality of gods.
I do not recall that Jesus ever mentioned anything about plurality of Gods. But if you are referring to the fact that he said he would one day return to the Father and sit at His right hand, I suppose two would certainly be plural Gods...Later
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MORMONS: God (the Father) has a physical body of flesh and bones.
Not much more to say, God is a Resurrected, Glorified, man with a physical body of Flesh and Bones, as tangible as man's, the Son also, but the Holy Ghost is a spirit in the form of a man...Later
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MORMONS: Since Jesus was created by God & has always been in subjection to God as a son, he has never been equal with God the Father.
You are correct my friend. While Jesus was a God and a member of the Godhead, he has always been subservient to the Father, and will always be so.
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MORMONS: There was a council in pre-existent heaven where Jesus & Satan, both God's sons, gave advice on how to bring humans back to heaven.
There was a council held and two plans were presented, but one was presented by our heavenly Father, the other was presented by Lucifer, or Satan.
We who are alive here on this earth all chose Father's plan. 1/3 of our brothers and sisters chose to go with Satan and all were cast out because they rebelled against the Father.
The Father called for a volunteer to go down to earth and pay...
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MORMONS: Since the Holy Ghost and Jesus both have spirit bodies of their own, they can only influence people, not dwell in them.
As usual your questions could be answered either true or false and still be correct. Jesus does not just have a spirit body, but also has a physical body of flesh and bones. So he definitely could not dwell in us.
The Holy Ghost however does have only a spirit body, but he too cannot dwell in us. But his influence and power can and does dwell in us when we are worthy...Later
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CHRISTIANS True or False: Jesus was not conceived of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus was conceived OF the Holy Ghost, but not BY the Holy Ghost. The Bible clearly states in Luke 1;35.."And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God."
As this scripture explains there were to beings present with...
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MORMONS: Who speaks for you and/or the LdS Church?
When Joseph Smith was first organizing the Church he received many, many revelations. Many of which were written down and printed in the D&C.
However, through the years there were so many truths revealed to Joseph, he and others taught them all at one time or another.
Then after the Saints came to Utah, the Brethren decided to be more specific in what was taught from the pulpit. They...
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MORMONS: Speaking ONLY for yourself, which source of spiritual truth carries the most weight and authority?
Obviously all Prophets of God, speak for God and will not ever contradict another Prophet as to the revealed word of God. However, sometimes certain scriptures require some clarification, and a living Prophet can inquire of the Lord and receive answers as needed. So his word is final in that thing.
However, we are taught that anyone who has received the Holy Ghost is entitled to personal...
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Why does modern LdS Theology deny the Trinity when the Book of Mormon supports it?
It isn't that the Book of Mormon supports the Trinity, but that your interpretation of the Book of Mormon is what appears to support the Trinity.
And the same goes for all the quotes you listed. The words are the same whether you read them or we read them, but the interpretation we apply makes the difference.
So rest assured, none of our Standard works support the Trinity as is taught by...
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TRUE OR FALSE: Mormonism is the and restored form of biblical Judaism that was corrupted due to apostasy.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is a restoration of the whole Gospel of Jesus Christ. From the days of Adam all up through the New Testament Church.
Judaism is a product of the Jews, which is only 1 of 12 Tribes of Israel. Our Church is a restoration of of the original Gospel of Jesus Christ which has been delivered to every dispensation at one time or another.
1.Given...
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TRUE OR FALSE: Joseph Smith's and Sidney Rigdon's tarring in 1832 was done by an "anti-Mormon mob".
Unlike Anti-Mormons, these members of this mob just wanted to get rid of the Mormons out of their state, by threatening them with death.
Anti-Mormons on the other hand simply want to discourage anyone from investigating the doctrines of the Mormon Church, by making them sound so ridiculous and false, no one would check to see if what they say is correct or not. And most often they will...
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Why are Doctrine & Covenants 15 & 16 nearly identical when they were supposed to be unique & personal revelations for two different men?
My friend, your questions remind me of a young man who sees a bird and tries to kill it with a stone, but is afraid if he misses, the bird will fly away unharmed. So he picks up a whole handful of stones and throws them all at once hoping one of them will hit the target.
If the Lord has two men who are wanting the know the same thing, and the Lord wants to give them the same calling, why...
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MORMONS: When the President of the LdS Church enters a meeting hall all must stand and sing "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet".
While it is true in many cases many audiences do stand and sing that song, but it is only because they choose to do so. There is no official directive that mandates such.
We so revere our Prophet that out of respect for the Lord's anointed, we gladly stand and sing. But no one actually tells us to stand and sing. Often times when he enters the room the organist starts playing the song and...
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MORMONS How is it possible that a pre-exilic Nephite on another continent could quote Malachi before the post-exilic prophet was even born?
O ye of little or no faith...do you not know that Jesus could very easily tell two prophets the same things. Especially if both were living in two different time frames. It doesn't mean both messages will be published at the same time, nor would they need to be so.
If the two tried to record the same message and one got it wrong, then you might have something to question. But keep...
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MORMONS: How is it that in the Book of Mormon Christ quotes from New Testament books, before the books themselves were written?
By your question and comments it is clear that you think Jesus is not capable of teaching the same things to two groups of people, word for word. I should think if he had taught different things you would have faulted Joseph Smith for that also.
So tell me, are you obsessed with Joseph Smith because he got it right, or because you think he should have gotten it wrong and didn't?
Let's...
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MORMONS: Doesn't the contradiction between Moroni 8:8 and Psalm 51:5 discredit claims that the Book of Mormon & the Bible don't contradict?
How can you claim a contradiction here, when it clearly states in the Bible, David's mother CONCEIVED in sin. It doesn't say David was born in sin. And since we do not know who David's mother was, or the circumstances under which David was conceived, it is simply your faulty interpretation of scripture that is at fault, not a contradiction between the Bible and the Book of Mormon...Later
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MORMONS: If the BoM people observed "all things according to the law of Moses" (2 Nephi 5:10; 25:24) why isn't the Mosaic law IN the BoM?
This is very similar to a question you asked earlier, just in a little different way. So I shall give the very same answer, in a little different way.
1.At the time you speak of, the house of Israel was in one body, therefore they only needed one place where they could come to offer sacrifices and observe the Law of Moses.
2. what the lord said to the house of Israel in the old world,...
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MORMONS: Why does Mormonism violate the Bible's decree in Deuteronomy (12:5,13-14; 16:5-6) that there is only to be ONE Temple on earth?
First of all, God,(Jesus) is speaking only to the house of Israel who are present in one body. 2. Not at any time does he say or even suggest that they should not build but one Temple. 3.They do not even have a Temple at this time, it was later that Moses had them build a Tabernacle, which they carried with them from place to place.
Do not try to force everyone under your false...
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MORMONS: Why are the most common biblical terms used to describe the Old Testament priesthood, temple, and feasts, missing from the BoM?
Most of the things you are wondering about were given only to the Israelites in the Old World. They were not meant for the book of Mormon people. They did keep the Law of Moses as we read in...2 Ne.10.."And we did observe to keep the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments of the Lord in all things, according to the law of Moses."
Such things as "ark of the covenant", sons of...
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MORMONS: How did such an unrighteous and unworthy man like Laban have an interest in, and even come to possess, the precious Brass Plates?
It is very simple, the Brass plates contained a Genealogy of his fathers as well as Lehi's family. As we read in I Nephi 5;16..."And thus my father, Lehi, did discover the genealogy of his fathers. And Laban also was a descendant of Joseph, wherefore he and his fathers had kept the records." I hope this answers your question...later
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MORMONS: Why were the Brass Plates written in pagan Egyptian rather than Hebrew - which is considered sacred by the Jews? (Mosiah 1:2-4)
Perhaps because a scribe could get more words to a page by writing in Egyptian as opposed to Hebrew.
For instance in Mormon 9;32,33..we read..."And now, behold, we have written this record according to our knowledge, in the characters which are called among us the reformed Egyptian, being handed down and altered by us, according to our manner of speech. 33 And if our plates had been...
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MORMONS: Why was 1 Nephi 11:21 changed in the BoM from "the Lamb of God, yea, even the Eternal Father!" to "THE SON of the Eternal Father!"
You must remember, the Book of Mormon was dictated to Oliver Cowdery and had to be corrected many times later. Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery did a quick correction after the first edition went to press.
It wasn't until 1840, that Joseph Smith was able to actually sit down and make some real definite sentence corrections. This was one of the corrections made by Joseph Smith himself before...
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MORMONS: If the Lord will remove a Prophet before he can lead the LdS Church astray then why have so many been incapacitated by senility?
In defense of our aged Prophets I must relate what my cousin told me one day, while Pres. Benson was still living and quite feeble.
My cousin worked at BYU Nursing College, where all the General Authorities go to get shots before going over seas. My cousin was one who administered those shots.
One day one of the Apostles came to her to get his shot and she ask him about Pres. Benson and...
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How can Mormonism claim to be restored Christianity when it's doctrine's more akin to the Gnosticism denounced by the Apostles in the Bible?
You question is very subtle, but most incorrect. Gnosticism contains many doctrines which are not true, and a few which are quite true. To say the Apostles denounced Gnosticism, without qualifying that statement is not a true statement. Unless you are prepared to prove they denounced all Gnostic doctrines.
Whatever doctrines we teach came from the Lord through Joseph Smith. And may I...
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How do you see the schism between Internet and Chapel Mormonism playing out in the long term?
The only members who do not know our Doctrine or History and "can no longer simply ignore" are those who are members in name only. Or in other words, do not have a deep and abiding Testimony of Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon and the Church.
Those of us who know the Church is true will and do put our whole trust in our inspired leaders. Our General Authorities must answer to the Lord and...
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Why do Mormon missionaries start there conversations by immediately lying to the perspective convert? * "We are not here to convert you"
Otter, is correct, we Missionaries did not nor could we ever convert anyone we taught. Conversion comes only through the Holy Ghost.
While it is true we as Missionaries did teach them true principles and did teach them to pray for guidance from the Lord, and we did hope they would become converted through our efforts. But their conversion could only come from the Lord, through the Holy...
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ANTI Mormon, I am so tired of this ignorant phrase. It appears to me that if any one is Pro Mormon, they are by definition, anti-everything else. Do you agree or dis agree?
An Anti-Mormon is not someone who opposes the Mormon Church, but one who knowingly teaches false doctrine and attributes that doctrine to one of our leaders. Their agenda is to try to discourage anyone from investigating the Church by making it sound utterly ridiculous, even if they have to lie to do so.
Another way to recognize them is they think they understand the Bible better than the...
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What role is the mormon church playing in the "New World Order"?
There will only be one world order and that will take place when Christ comes again and puts all world governments under his rule. The New World Order you speak of will never happen, as they plan for it to occur...Later
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Ex-Mormons: "In the Shadow of the Temple" documents the dilemma of still-practicing non-believers who are trapped in the LdS Church due to family (and other) entanglements. What can be done to better aid, comfort and support those in this tough situation?
Perhaps we could just hand out some backbones. Either the church is true or it isn't. All the individual has to do is find out for him/her self which it is.
If they find it isn't true, they should just leave. If their family is living their religion, they will understand. They may continue trying to bring them back, but the responsibility is on the individual.
If the Church is true...
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But, if the LDS definition is just that simple, then why do you LDS believe all non-LDS Christians are not worthy to be in God's kingdom?
I can see why you have asked this followup question. I would do the same if an LDS really did give such and answer.
Allow me to give you the actual answer which that individual should have given. It seems there are two definitions for what constitutes a Christian. We do not claim to be Christian in the same way that Orthodox Christians claim that title.
We in fact comply with the...
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Is the Mormon campaign to ban other people from marrying each other just a form of revenge for the federal government requiring Utah to ban polygamy before admitting Utah into the Union?
I can only presume you are speaking of Gay Marriage. The Church has very definite reasons for opposing Gay marriages. Perhaps I can explain for your benefit.
It has to do with our very beginning in the pre-existence. While there we agreed to come to earth to learn to become like our heavenly Father. And one of the most important things we agreed to do was to come and bare Children so all...
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Former RLDS/CoC President W. Grant McMurray: [The Book of Mormon] ``falls outside the traditional standards of historical documentation and veracity.'' Why doesn't the LdS Church distance itself from the BoM as a historically true work as the RLDS has?
Let's see, we have had the testimony of a Prophet of God, who actually saw God and Christ and through fasting and prayer we know he was and is a true Prophet of God.
And we have had the Testimony of 3 witnesses who not only saw the Gold Plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated, but also saw the Angel Moroni who delivered them to Joseph Smith.
We also have the Testimony of 8...
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What constitutes an "Anti-Mormon" or "Mormon-Hater"? What, really, is the criteria for labeling some as either?
I shall tell you what I have found describes an Anti-Mormon. anyone or group which posts false doctrine about the Church of Jesus Christ, and knows it is false but continues to do so.
Perhaps I can give you an example...I visited a web site hosted by a Minister named David White. He had posted many articles about the "Mormons" which were absolutely not accurate.
Several quotes from...
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What constitutes an "Anti-Mormon" or "Mormon-Hater"? What, really, is the criteria for labeling some as either?
I shall tell you what I have found describes an Anti-Mormon. anyone or group which posts false doctrine about the Church of Jesus Christ, and knows it is false but continues to do so.
Perhaps I can give you an example...I visited a web site hosted by a Minister named David White. He had posted many articles about the "Mormons" which were absolutely not accurate.
Several quotes from...
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where do you see the LDS church in 20 years? (prophet? Book of mormon? missionary work? gays/ gay marriage? temples? membership?)
Where do I see the LDS Church in 20 years? 1. We will still have a living Prophet at the head of the Church. 2 We will still teach and believe as strongly as ever the Book of Mormon, but there will far more evidence in 20 years than today. 3. Missionary work, you bet and many many hundreds of thousands will continue to join the Church, as they do now. 4. Gays/Gay marriage, we will still...
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MORMONS: Why did Laban have Jewish scripture on brass plates when the convention for documents in the Middle East was scrolls not plates?
Perhaps you need to broaden your horizons, look at these references if you will...
Today we have hundreds of examples of ancient writings on metal plates. The oldest example of Hebrew writing on metal is a small engraved gold plate dating to approximately 1000 B.C. (William J. Hamblin , "Sacred Writings on Bronze Plates in the Ancient Mediterranean," (Provo, Utah: FARMS, 1994), 4.)
...
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TRUE OR FALSE: The LdS Leadership will continue to move the Mormon church even further in the direction of mainstream Christianity over time
The Church of Jesus Christ is not now or will ever try to become more mainstream. We do not even want to be associated with mainstream Christianity. We love the people, but we do not embrace any part of their doctrines and practices. Nor will we ever do such...Later
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Noah Feldman: "...even among those who respect Mormons personally, it is still common to hear Mormonism’s tenets dismissed as ridiculous."
I suppose he is pretty accurate as things go. Many people who do respect the Mormon Church also think our doctrines and beliefs compared to their own, are ridiculous, in their eyes.
And if their doctrines and beliefs were actually true, our doctrines and beliefs would be ridiculous. However, I know their doctrines and beliefs are not true, but ours in fact are totally true...Later
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MORMONS: Of the five (5) types of Mormons identified by well known, practicing LdS Salt Lake City columnist Robert Kirby which one are you?
I only chose Conservative Mormon because I was born into the Church and do not know what a Genuine Mormon is, and find the others ridiculous...Later
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Bob Betts: "The truth is the enemy of the Mormon religion." Do you agree or disagree?
Perhaps, the true statement should read, "Truth, perceived by non-Mormons is the enemy of the Mormons religion. We in fact embrace all truth. Now what about your so called truths mentioned in your post..1. You say, the Problem is, Mormons don't believe that Jesus was "The Everlasting Father"!
In this you speak the truth. Isaiah does not say Jesus IS the Everlasting father, but that "His...
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Why did Joseph Smith's wife get angry when her husband had sex with his celestial wives?
First of all, there is absolutely no evidence that Joseph Smith ever had sex with any of his plural wives. The common consensus is that he probably did, but there is no evidence to show such.
Emma actually got angry at his marring other wives, even though he was commanded by God to do so.
If Joseph actually had sex with any of them where are his children by them? Can we assume they were...
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Can those who have committed somewhat major sins (not criminal or adulterous) become leaders in the church?
Jesus Christ is the head of this Church and he alone calls his leaders as needed. And he knows every man/woman's heart, whether they are worthy or not.
He has leaders here on earth guiding and directing his Church, and he speaks through them when a new leader is needed, and who that leader will be...Later
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How do you know if you are ready to get baptized?
There is only ONE thing necessary for you to know if you are ready for baptism. If Joseph Smith was really a Prophet of God, then everything else that came from and through him has to be true.
Do you believe in Jesus Christ? My friend all Christian Churches, including the Catholics believe in Jesus Christ, but do they believe in him as Joseph Smith saw and taught? I do not think so.
If...
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Is there any archeological evidence supporting the idea that a race of people migrated to North America as suggested by the Book of Mormon?
Absolutely, let me give you a few examples..."The new data from a Genetic marker called lineage-x, suggests a "definite..if not ancient..link between Eurasians and Native Americans." Says Theodore Schurr, a molecular anthropologist from Emory University in Atlanta. Science Magazine, vol.280, issue 5363, 24, April, 1998.
Or perhaps this may be what you are looking for..."Wallace's newest...
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Is there any archeological evidence supporting the idea that a race of people migrated to North America as suggested by the Book of Mormon?
Absolutely, let me give you a few examples..."The new data from a Genetic marker called lineage-x, suggests a "definite..if not ancient..link between Eurasians and Native Americans." Says Theodore Schurr, a molecular anthropologist from Emory University in Atlanta. Science Magazine, vol.280, issue 5363, 24, April, 1998.
Or perhaps this may be what you are looking for..."Wallace's newest...
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Is it true that all adult males in the mormon religion are ordained ministers?? If so, why?
Yes as others have said, this is true. Why? For several reasons, in addition to what has already been said. Each Adult male who is worthy is given the Melchizedek Priesthood.
There is no paid ministry in the Church of Jesus Christ. Even the Bishop of the Ward works a full-time job to support his family. And because of that he does not have time to visit every member of the ward every...
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Is it true that all adult males in the mormon religion are ordained ministers?? If so, why?
Yes as others have said, this is true. Why? For several reasons, in addition to what has already been said. Each Adult male who is worthy is given the Melchizedek Priesthood.
There is no paid ministry in the Church of Jesus Christ. Even the Bishop of the Ward works a full-time job to support his family. And because of that he does not have time to visit every member of the ward every...
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Do Mormons believe that all Jews will convert during the last days?
I have to agree with Glenn on this one. All the Jews did not convert when Jesus was among them the first time, it doesn't seem feasible that it will happen when he returns.
While it is true that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that he is the Christ, but that doesn't mean they will all accept him and his Gospel. They will bow and confess because they have too, not because...
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The Bible states, "The cross is foolishness to those that are perishing". What is the importance of the cross in Mormonism?
The cross played a very important part in the Atonement of Christ. But as Glenn stated, other than that we do not need anything physical to remind us of his death.
Every Sunday we partake of the Sacrament, which reminds us how very blessed we are because of his life and Atonement.
But the cross itself now, is merely a symbol of his death, we prefer to remember he is no longer dead, but...
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I'm thinking of becoming Mormon, but I have a tattoo. Can I still do so?
Tattoo's are not encouraged, but many Members do have them. My brother wears a tattoo on his arm. He is a member and attends Church regularly and even attends the Temple. His long sleeve White shirt covers it up just fine...Later
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What do LDS believe was Almighty God's first creation? What existed before this first creation?
God's first creation was Jesus Christ. Everything God created after that all depended on Jesus Christ. God created Jesus and then through Himself,Jesus and the Holy Ghost, all His other creations were made.
But they were actually made by Jesus under the direction of the Father. And with the help of the Holy Ghost...Later
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What do LDS believe was the purpose of the Tree of Life if Adam and Eve were created immortal?
Actually, Adam and Eve were not created immortal, they were very much mortal, but were in a translated state. The fruit of the tree of life kept them in that state while in the Garden of Eden.
It was only the tree of the knowledge of good and evil they were commanded not to partake. Look at what God says in Gen.3;22,23.."And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to...
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Are there any Mormon experts (member or not) on here?
Funny thing about Expert..Do you know the meaning of an expert?
An Ex...is a has been and a Spert is a drip under pressure...Later
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Is the book of mormon based on the gospel?
Of course, Jesus was born in Palestine and taught the people there his Gospel. Then after his crucifixion and Resurrection he appeared to the people in the Americas and taught them his same Gospel.
Read his own words from 2Ne.29;7-9.. "Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the...
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Is the book of mormon based on the gospel?
Of course, Jesus was born in Palestine and taught the people there his Gospel. Then after his crucifixion and Resurrection he appeared to the people in the Americas and taught them his same Gospel.
Read his own words from 2Ne.29;7-9.. "Know ye not that there are more nations than one? Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the...
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Are the teachings of jesus christ in the book of mormom?
This is according to a Baptist Minister..."Like the Bible, the central theme of the Book of Mormon is the Lordship of Jesus Christ. There are over 160 passages in the Book of Mormon that speak of the Lord Jesus Christ. There were 22 men named in the Book of Mormon who saw Christ. Some form of Christ’s name is mentioned on an average of every 1.7 verses. The New Testament mentions a form of...
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Are the teachings of jesus christ in the book of mormom?
This is according to a Baptist Minister..."Like the Bible, the central theme of the Book of Mormon is the Lordship of Jesus Christ. There are over 160 passages in the Book of Mormon that speak of the Lord Jesus Christ. There were 22 men named in the Book of Mormon who saw Christ. Some form of Christ’s name is mentioned on an average of every 1.7 verses. The New Testament mentions a form of...
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I was under the impression that Mormons believe that Christ is a creation of the Father. Is this true?
This is very true. Jesus is the literal son of God, both spiritually and physically. And he himself taught this very doctrine while on earth...Later
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What must you do as a Latter Day Saint to have the gift of salvation?
We must endure to the end...Later
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Is President Gordon B. Hinckley a false prophet?
Of course not! Any other questions???...later
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To LDS members - what does it mean if someone's patriarchal blessing says that thery are "of the seed of Abraham" and doesnt state one of the 12 tribes?
I can only guess like everyone else, but I noticed your sign in name is Afrikan Kay. Are you by any chance Black? Not that it makes any difference as far as your blessings go, but if you were of the "seed of Cain" through the "seed of Abraham" you would be adopted into the "House of Israel" and not connected to any specific tribe.
Which, as I said before would not hinder you from...
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Http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2004-07-26-dna-lds_x.htm - Comments?
It would appear that mr. Southerton pretty much jumped the gun on this one. New DNA tests have been done by non-Mormons since that time. In fact in the latter part of 2008 DNA Experts discovered a new strain of DNA which shocked everyone who is in the know.
In fact they didn't even know what to call it, so they just called it Haplogroup x2. And another thing that amazed them, after...
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So why do you guys believe that the fall had to happen? to have children or something? but then when in Genesis does it talk about a man leaving his father AND mother to be united with his wife, to leave parents he would obviously have them.
The fall Absolutely had to happen, but not just so Adam and Eve could have Children. It has to do with the reason we came to this earth in the first place.
While we lived in the pre-existence we were in the presence of our Father in Heaven. His plan was that we should strive to become like Him. In order to do that we needed two things, which we could not get while in His presence. 1.A...
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Why in the book of mormon does it never talk about the Aronic priesthood, the one that GOD designated for his people, passed down through the Levites and moses' older brother aaron?
Why doesn't the Bible ever talk about the Aaronic Priesthood? Because it wasn't known as the Aaronic Priesthood, it was called the Levitical Priesthood.
The Priesthood is pretty much the same, but the Levitical Priesthood functioned under a Patriarchal system, where the leading Patriarch would pass his Priesthood to his 1st born son along with a double portion of his inheritance.
And...
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Why in the book of mormon does it never talk about the Aronic priesthood, the one that GOD designated for his people, passed down through the Levites and moses' older brother aaron?
Why doesn't the Bible ever talk about the Aaronic Priesthood? Because it wasn't known as the Aaronic Priesthood, it was called the Levitical Priesthood.
The Priesthood is pretty much the same, but the Levitical Priesthood functioned under a Patriarchal system, where the leading Patriarch would pass his Priesthood to his 1st born son along with a double portion of his inheritance.
And...
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Do Mormons believe that carrots can help you to see in the dark?
Only if you also have a good Flashlight...Later
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Is the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints the only way for anyone to get to Heaven and a decent life after life?
Actually, to answer your question as it is asked, NO! To explain, there are 3 heavens or degrees of glory. And many, many millions and maybe Billions will inherit the 2nd and 3rd heavens or degrees of Glory. and maybe a few of them will have been members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
But if you are referring to the very highest degree of the Celestial Kingdom, the...
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Can someone explain the Mormons view of the Holy Spirit and why it had no part in the revelation of the new text found on the gold plates?
What makes you think the Holy Spirit had no part in the revelation from the Gold Plates?
One of his responsibilities is to be a revelator. All revelation comes through the Holy Ghost. And as such he played a very big part in the translation of the Gold Plates..Later
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What are we to infer from the fact that through baptism we take upon ourselves the name of the Son, but through the Priesthood we are authorized to act in the name of the Father? Are these complimentary? supplementary? etc.
While it is true we take upon ourselves the name of Christ through Baptism, it is also true we are Baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
We take upon ourselves the name of Christ because all things pertaining to this earth has been given unto the Son. And we will bare his name until such time as the Son has completed all his work and then turns all...
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(Please only Mormons) Is there any "New revelation" necessary for Salvation that is in the Book of Mormon, Doctrines and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price, etc. That is not in the Bible?
Absolutely, Through the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price, and the Bible, we now have a full knowledge of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.
We now know, not only, that Baptism is important for our Salvation, but we know exactly how Baptism should be performed, and what words must be uttered in the prayer for Baptism, and by what authority Baptism is...
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Do Latter Day Saints believe we are born without sin?
Absolutely, how could a baby sin? You must have a knowledge of good and evil, then choose evil over good in order to sin. Babies do not have the ability to choose anything until they begin to know right from wrong, which generally happens somewhere between 7 1/2 --8 years of age.
And since Jesus paid for Adam's transgression, what sin could a baby possibly have when born?...Later
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Does Joseph Smith Jr. play a role in our salvation?
Yes, what Otter said, I second and third...Later
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According to Hebrews 7:24, the Melchizedek Priesthood is not transferable. Why do Mormons pass it from one to another?
I must agree with the first two answers. If the Melchizedek Priesthood is not transferable, why did Jesus Christ transfer this same Priesthood to his 12 Apostles? And they in turn did the same to Bishops, Elders, Seventies and other High Priests in the Church.
Could it be you have been taught incorrectly by someone, or maybe you yourself has just misunderstood the scriptures...Later
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Why are Latter Day Saints (Mormons) persecuted all the time for what they believe?
I think some pretty good answers were given, but I also think that in many cases the Saints themselves brought on the persecution, by their own failure to live the commandments. The Lord told Joseph Smith the Saints would be protected, if they would repent and keep his commandments. In fact that is the reason they were driven from Jackson County Missouri, they were not worthy to built the...
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What were your thoughts as you read the Book of Mormon?
I thought to myself, and still after 45 years I ask the same questions,,,How could a 27 year old young man, with no more than a rudimentary 3rd Grade education, write such a book of over 522 pages, with at least 400+ words to a page in just a little over 2 months.
And how could he possibly write about things of which he had no knowledge, and in fact things which were not even known at his...
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Mormons: what do you find most offensive while talking to Christians?
Actually, I am not offended by talking to Christians. It doesn't bother me that they think I belong to a Cult. If that is what they believe, so be it, it doesn't make it so as far as I am concerned.
I'm afraid many Orthodox Christians get more offended with me than I do with them. I happen to know what I believe, and know why I believe as I do. I am totally comfortable with my...
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Where does the LDS (Mormon) doctrine of rebaptism after excommunication come from?
Technically speaking, there is no such thing as re-baptism. When a person is excommunicated their baptism is wiped away. It is as though they were never baptized.
So when an excommunicated person is ready for baptism they are not re-baptized, they are just baptized and all things in the past are washed away and everything is fresh and new. The Lord remembers them no more, nor does the...
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Why did Joseph Smith teach "baptisms for the dead" in order for the deceased to obtain salvation? (see my answer)
Laie_Techie answered your question quite well, so I shall just comment on your answer, if I may.
In Alma 34, Alma and Amulek were speaking to a group of Nephites who had once belonged to the Church and had already been Baptized. But had fallen away and were quite wicked at that time.
They, (Alma & Amulek) were explaining that there is no second chance to accept the Gospel and partake of...
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Im a sent-home missionary for confessing previous sin. I had no fear or shame in making the steps to apply the atonement in my life. I've had no help since&the way my StakePres dealt with the situation&church procedure was v. negative. What can I do?
Repentance is a personal thing and sometimes it hurts when you are left alone to grieve and feel that Godly sorrow which comes with repentance.
However, this Church does not belong to your Stake President, nor to your Bishop, it is your Church as much as it is theirs.
Humble yourself and go to them and ask specifically for their help. Let them know, you know you have done wrong and you...
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Like all of us i've made mistakes but this lead to negative experiences with my Church Leader that I thought should have been faith promoting (they defiantly weren't that). I feel i've lost my faith in Christ, what can I do to get it back?
Faith comes from God, and you can get it back by prayer and fasting. Combined with a lot of personal study.
You might also try to find a friend whom you can trust to discuss the gospel with. And together you can bring yourself back to the point of Baptism. And this time make it for real in your life.
You need the Lord in your life more than you need Satan. And until you are Baptized...
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What does the Church say about the 'Joseph Smith Papyri' because I came across some evidence thatb since they were rediscovered shows they might not have been translated as Joseph Smith said?
All we have at the present of the Joseph Smith Papyri is a small portion of what Joseph actually had in his position. We have accounts from several eyewitnesses who actually saw all of the ancient materials which Joseph Smith once possessed.
According to Oliver Cowdery’s account written in 1835, Lebolo and his work crew had discovered several mummies in one of the catacombs near the place...
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Did Joseph Smith really say he translated a part of the Kinderhook Plates as some citations say or was this quote in 'History of the Church' changed slightly as others claim as eventually they were found to be a hoax?
Regardless of the other answers which have been given, it is the facts for which we are really concerned. The question is "Did Joseph Smith SAY he translated a part of the Kinderhook Plates?"
The answer is NO! So let's consider the facts...1.Joseph Smith did not at any time state he actually translated any part of the Kinderhook Plates.
2.The strongest piece of evidence has been...
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Did Joseph Smith really say he translated a part of the Kinderhook Plates as some citations say or was this quote in 'History of the Church' changed slightly as others claim as eventually they were found to be a hoax?
Regardless of the other answers which have been given, it is the facts for which we are really concerned. The question is "Did Joseph Smith SAY he translated a part of the Kinderhook Plates?"
The answer is NO! So let's consider the facts...1.Joseph Smith did not at any time state he actually translated any part of the Kinderhook Plates.
2.The strongest piece of evidence has been...
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When we give into tempation the Holy Ghost withdraws from us. Isn't this when we need his help most?
I think you misunderstand, my friend. The Holy Ghost will help you until you decide to "give in" to temptation. At that point He cannot stay with you, because God cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance.
While you may need Him at that time, your decision to give in, tells Him you do not need Him, so He leaves for a time. He will only return when you have repented and...
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In the Mormon/LDS Church, what are the covenants made at Baptism?
At Baptism we make 3 Covenants with the Lord. 1.We are willing to take upon ourselves the name of Christ. 2.We promise to always remember him. 3.Keep all of his commandments, which he has given us.
And in return he promises that we may always have his spirit to be with us.
And each time we partake of the Sacrament we renew these covenants...Later
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I'm excommunicated but still feel my Baptism is valid as I made covenants and do my best to keep them. The Church tells me it's not and that I will have to be baptised again. Why do I have to covenant again if i've already made those covenants?
The bottom line is, any organization that has the authority to make you a member of that organization, also has the authority to remove you from their organization based on your actions.
Therefore they also have the authority to accept you back as a member and they also have the right to decide what you must do to rejoin their organization. Your feelings, as sincere as they may be, do not...
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Is it permissible within the Mormon religion for a Mormon man to look at pictures of nude people on the internet, even if it is advertisement?
NO! Generally speaking, looking at nudes of any kind is not good. And it is very much discouraged in the Church. The General Authorities have been quite concerned about the number of men in the Church who are addicted to pornography, and have devoted many of their Conference talks to battling this problem.
Unfortunately it is becoming so wide spread it is effecting nearly everyone in some...
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When it comes to Church Discipline men usually get 'punished' the most because they hold the Priesthood. Do you agree?
I would say for the most part that is correct. But it comes down to a couple of things. 1.The seriousness of the infraction. And the actual knowledge the individual had at the time. "To him whom much is given, much is expected."
The entire organization of the Church is under the direction of the Priesthood. Therefore those who hold the most responsibility are expected to be the best...
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In the 'Guide to the Scriptures' Excommunication is followed by Apostacy&Rebellion&says that excommunication only occurs when someone has chosen to live in opposition of the commandments. Does this mean they have rebelled and apostasised from the Church?
Speaking from the Church's point of view, everything about the Church is absolutely true. The church is guided by the Lord through a living Prophet.
Therefore, anyone who publicly opposes the Church leaders or the Gospel or any of our scriptures is in a state of apostasy. And if they refuse to repent and do not cease to air their personal beliefs in public will be excommunicated. Or at...
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For Mormons: One has to be married in the temple to progress to godhood. If God has a wife, I assume the belief is that He too went through this process. Is it written anywhere that the sacred ordinances are identical for all worlds, not just ours?
To my knowledge there is nothing written pertaining to what happens in other worlds.
However, we do know from the Pearl of Great Price that God has created worlds without number and each of them is an earth and has inhabitants like us.
We also learn from the Temple, after God discovers that Adam has partaken of the forbidden fruit and blames Eve and Eve blames Satan God asks Satan what he...
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Would you say Church Leaders are more lenient with Church discipline when pregnancy is the result of sexual sin, even when the father holds the priesthood/is endowed?
It really isn't up to the Church leaders, when a sexual sin is involved. they have certain guidelines they must follow.
If someone comes to them and confesses a sexual sin, and shows they are ready to repent and do whatever their leaders require of them, they are not excommunicated.
The only reason anyone is excommunicated is because they admit their guilt and refuse to repent. I...
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If Moroni devoutly practiced the Mormon Gospel, why is he an angel now rather than a God? (Doc. & Cov. 132:17,37)
The only person connected with this earth, meaning one who actually lived here as a mortal, and is now a God is Jesus Christ.
No one will ever become a God until after the judgment and they have attained the Celestial Kingdom. Which Kingdom is not even created yet. And even then it may take eon's of years, maybe millions of years to attain Godhood. We will spend eternities learning to be...
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How can a man who is not a descendant of Aaron hold the Aaronic Priesthood? (Numbers 16:40; Heb. 7:13,14).
Sorry, MIT and moosermose, your posts were so long I doubt anyone, but yourselves, read them.
The fact is the Levites were called and ordained under the Law of Moses only, to act in the office of the Aaronic Priesthood duties.
However, The Church of Jesus Christ received this same Priesthood from John The Baptist in 1829, when John appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, giving them...
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If Jesus was conceived as a result of a physical union between God and Mary, how was Jesus born of a virgin? (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 1, page 50).
We do not know if God actually had physical union with Mary or not. Many of our leaders happen to believe so, but this particular notion is not taught as Church doctrine.
However, the manuscripts from which the Bible was translated, does not contain the word "virgin" but the word used in Greek means "young woman."
Therefore, it could also be stated that Mary was a virgin because she had...
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21male LGBT is a SIN in the Christian Church, then why have I lived with a STRONGuhhh feeling to my friends all my life growing up? How can it be a sin if I was born that way, and NEVER put porn and ect into my head. the gay 'feeling' was always just ther
First of all it isn't mankind that decides what is right or wrong, it is God. And God showed us how He feels about same sex people. Just read about what He did to Sodom and Gomorrah.
If people were born that way, God would be punishing them for something that wasn't their fault. And that would make Him an unjust God. Which means He would cease to be perfect and therefore would cease to...
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Question to Latter Day Saints: “How important is it to you that the claims of Mormonism are really true?”
To me it is everything. No one wants to go through life not knowing what in the heck they are doing here on this earth. Why are we here? Are we supposed to be doing something while we are here?
Surely, some intelligence created everything around us, including the Universe, for some reason. Someone gave me the ability to reason and figure things out as much as I possibly can. Why?
The...
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For those of you that ARE LDS (Mormon) : - Do you at times get upset with the way some questions are asked, ie those in a confrontational manner. How do you deal with these?
The same way I answer any question, as simply and honestly as I can. Even if I have answered the same question, worded differently before.
I just remember that there are many more people reading my answers than the one who asked the question. I hope to help them understand our Church a little better.
I do not seek any recognition from those who post or just read. I know what I write...
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For those of you that ARE LDS (Mormon) : - Do you at times get upset with the way some questions are asked, ie those in a confrontational manner. How do you deal with these?
The same way I answer any question, as simply and honestly as I can. Even if I have answered the same question, worded differently before.
I just remember that there are many more people reading my answers than the one who asked the question. I hope to help them understand our Church a little better.
I do not seek any recognition from those who post or just read. I know what I write...
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If God is a spirit (John 4:24) and a spirit is a being without a body (D&C 129:2), why do Mormons teach that God the Father (D&C 130:22) and Angels (D&C 129:1) have bodies of flesh and bones?
It is true, God is a spirit. Clothed with a body of flesh and bones! Now I know you do not believe this so let's examine this situation, shall we?
In Matt.5;48 we read.."Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." This particular scripture was given by Jesus to his disciples at the beginning of his ministry.
But we read in Heb.5;8,9.."Though he were a...
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Since there are several different contradictory accounts of Joseph Smith’s first vision, how did the LDS Church choose the correct one?
There are actually about 13 different accounts of his 1st. Vision. But only 3 of them actually came from Joseph Smith.
Two of the three, from him, were only excerpts written as part of a larger history and were not intended as a complete report.
Joseph did not intend to ever write about his vision, he didn't think it was necessary. But by 1838 there were so many versions written by...
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The 11th article of faith for Mormons states,"We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience,and allow all men the same privilege,let them worship how,where,or what they may." Why force it on others then?
Giving people an opportunity to hear the restored Gospel, is not done by force. How, exactly do we force our religion on others?
We send our missionaries out to see if there are any who would like to know more about our church. If they say no we say thank you and move on to the next home.
The Gospel which is taught in the Church is so unique and so totally complete it doesn't need to be...
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I just read how sealings in the Church have changed over time in regards to being sealed to one's own family or being sealed by "the law of adoption" to a prominent church leader - for example Joseph Smith, Joseph F. Smith etc. What was this teaching?
For a time, in the early days of the Church many women, who had children and wanted to assure themselves they would be in the Celestial Kingdom were held back because their husbands were either not members of the Church or were very inactive.
So for a time they were allowed to be sealed to one of the prominent leaders, whom they were sure would be in the Celestial kingdom. With the approval...
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Has anyone been or known someone that has been disfellowshipped or excommunicated from the LDS Church that can help explain how this process helps someone repent?
Being disfellowshipped, or Excommunicated is not supposed to help you repent. It simply releases you from adding more condemnation on yourself until you choose to repent.
Every time an unrepentant individual partakes of the Sacrament unworthily they bring more condemnation upon themselves, for which they will need to repent. When we partake of the Sacrament we re-new special Covenants...
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Why was polygamy practiced in the LDS Church? When did it official start in this 'dispensation' and by whom was it taught?
Why was polygamy practiced in the LDS Church? There are two reasons...1.It was command by the Lord. 2.Through Joseph Smith all things from Adam through the New Testament Church was restored back to the earth.
One of those things which was restored was the New and Everlasting Covenant of Marriage, which also includes plural marriage. In order to truly restore polygamy it needed to be...
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Why was polygamy practiced in the LDS Church? When did it official start in this 'dispensation' and by whom was it taught?
Why was polygamy practiced in the LDS Church? There are two reasons...1.It was command by the Lord. 2.Through Joseph Smith all things from Adam through the New Testament Church was restored back to the earth.
One of those things which was restored was the New and Everlasting Covenant of Marriage, which also includes plural marriage. In order to truly restore polygamy it needed to be...
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Will all Churches remain on earth during the Millennium?
Actually as we have been taught, there will be many Religions here on earth during the Millennium. Even though Jesus Christ will reign here for the 1000 years, missionary work will continue to go on, and many will choose to join the church.
But there will also be many who are so deceived by Satan they will not accept the restored Gospel. They will be satisfied to inherit the Terrestrial...
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How do so many mormons like to get their temple recomend, shouldn't their conscience teach them that it's all in vain if they've lied to get there?
Anyone who lies, cheats and steals long enough, will soon become calloused and without feelings of guilt whatsoever.
However, people go to the Temple of one of two reasons. 1.To receive their own Endowments, which sometimes includes marriage for Eternity. 2. To go and represent someone who is dead and has not yet received their endowments.
In the case of the person attempting to...
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Can someone explain if a temple recomend is to show a person is in good standing with the church why many people lie to get one, doesn't it defeat the whole purpose?
It certainly does in their case. Remember what goes on in the Temple is not secret but sacred. Everyone who enters the Temple will one day have to stand before the Lord and give an accounting as to their worthiness at those times.
A Recommend only shows the individual has appeared before a Bishop and a Stake President, or a councilor of such and has been found worthy according to the...
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From a Mormon Studies Scholar describing the history of LDS Theology: "Today's doctrine is tomorrow's heresy, today's heresy is tomorrow's doctrine." LDS Scholars and Latter-day Saints why would he say such a thing?
Because our leaders do not tell us what to think and say, contrary to popular opinions among non-Mormons.
As Joseph Smith stated on one occasion when ask how he was able to control so many members..."I just teach them correct principles and let them govern themselves."
Academia has long been a deterrent to religious studies. Religion is based on spiritual knowledge and faith. Academics...
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Latter Day Saints Members: What do you feel is the biggest misconception that non-LDS have about LDS members? Have you done anything to dispel that notion?
The biggest misconception is that they believe we do not worship the Jesus Christ of the Bible.
When in fact they could not be more mistaken. While I do admit we do not worship the Jesus they have adopted from the Catholic Creeds.
Our Jesus is found in the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price, which all describe him in the exact same...
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How many Latter Day Saints (a.k.a. Mormons) will be in Heaven?
I do not know the exact number, but I do know that all who do go there will be members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. But unfortunately not all Latter Day Saints will end up there...Later
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Why has the Leadership of the LDS Church not filed a libel lawsuit against all those who preach false doctrine about what the Church believes? If they have the truth on their side as they claim then what are they scared of?
There is no law against a person or group of people believing what they so desire.
And since no church can prove their truths beyond all reasonable doubt, by any physical means, it becomes one's word against another.
And nothing would be accomplished by such a lawsuit. Those who oppose the Church before, would still oppose the Church after, so what good would be accomplished? ...Later
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How is the RLDS church ("Reorganized Latter-Day Saints", now called "Community of Christ") seen by the main Mormon church? (Eg, "more correct than other churches, but not as correct as LDS", or "Death to infidels!",or somewhere in between?)
In Daniel 2;44, we are told the God of heaven will setup a kingdom which shall never be destroyed, nor left to other people and that it will stand forever. We know the Church which the Lord setup through Joseph Smith is that kingdom. And since it will never be destroyed, nor left to other people and will stand forever, the Reorganized Church cannot be the Lord's Church, no matter how sincere...
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How is the RLDS church ("Reorganized Latter-Day Saints", now called "Community of Christ") seen by the main Mormon church? (Eg, "more correct than other churches, but not as correct as LDS", or "Death to infidels!",or somewhere in between?)
In Daniel 2;44, we are told the God of heaven will setup a kingdom which shall never be destroyed, nor left to other people and that it will stand forever. We know the Church which the Lord setup through Joseph Smith is that kingdom. And since it will never be destroyed, nor left to other people and will stand forever, the Reorganized Church cannot be the Lord's Church, no matter how sincere...
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If the Book of Mormon contains the "fullness of the Gospel," why doesn’t it teach that God was once a man and other important teachings of the LDS Church?
When the Lord states that the Book of Mormon contains a "Fullness of my Everlasting Gospel" he was referring to the fact that it contains a fullness of the Saving Principles of the Gospel.
Such as Faith, Repentance, Baptism and the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Along with many other things which are necessary for our Salvation. That doesn't mean it contains every subject we teach.
The...
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LdS like to point to the competition between Christian groups as signs of a Great Apostacy. But what about this from a secular journalist: "...competition, I think, keeps American religion enduringly fresh." Thoughts?
I suppose if one thinks having a new Church come forth every week with all new doctrines is enduringly fresh, then one could make that statement.
I do not fine the Lord agreeing with this thought, ever...Later
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You hear the term a lot from Latter-day Saints but what exactly IS this Mormon "Plan of Salvation" that they're always talking about? Why is it called that and what are the steps or requirements to attain or complete this "plan"?
Laie, gave you the "what" as to the Plan of Salvation, so let me give you the "why". The whole plan of Salvation is geared toward attaining Eternal Happiness. And this can only be accomplished by our becoming like our Father in Heaven.
The more of His Children who attain this eternal Joy and Happiness, the more He becomes greater and happier Himself. How could God become any greater?...
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What if there is no God? What is this whole earth thing all about?
If there is no God, then it really doesn't matter what we do or don't do, whatever is going to happen will happen.
But if there is no God, explain to me why people who have no contact with society or any other humans, always have some belief in some kind of Deity. What is it that makes mankind reach out for some power or being higher than himself?
However, I know there is a God and I...
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A common Mormon refrain is that the primitive Christian Church apostatized due to syncretism with Hellenism. Why then do LdS Apologists cite heavily Hellinized Jewish works like Philo and The Wisdom of Solomon to justify the LdS doctrine of preexistence?
Actually, the primitive Church Ceased to exist as Jesus organized it, when the Apostles were taken from it by death. The Keys of the Priesthood were taken with them so the remainder of the Church leaders no longer had authority to act for God.
The Hellenism came later, which added to the Apostasy, but did not cause such.
And we do not need to justify any of our doctrines. They came from...
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Is anyone here willing to admit they know what the mormon saying "The nail that sticks up gets hammered down" means? If not, I will answer it.
As a Mormon I can tell you this is not a saying found in "Mormonism" but has come from those outside the Church looking in. It is clearly stated from the standpoint of one who has no idea of what the Church is all about.
The fact is, judging from the responses thus given, many of you have made judgments about that which you know nothing.
Perhaps you should consider what you yourselves...
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Mormons: How does one recognize a "false Christ"? (see Matthew 24:24 and Mark 13:22)
For us today, when Jesus Christ returns to the world, he will appear in all his Glory. And he will bring all the hosts of heaven with him. And anyone here on earth who has not received the Gift of the Holy Ghost will not be able to withstand his presence and his Glory will burn them as stubble.
I doubt it will be too difficult to know him then...Later
PS. And he will come from the...
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Mormons: How does one recognize a "false Christ"? (see Matthew 24:24 and Mark 13:22)
For us today, when Jesus Christ returns to the world, he will appear in all his Glory. And he will bring all the hosts of heaven with him. And anyone here on earth who has not received the Gift of the Holy Ghost will not be able to withstand his presence and his Glory will burn them as stubble.
I doubt it will be too difficult to know him then...Later
PS. And he will come from the...
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Mormons: How does one identify a "false Apostle"? (see 2 Corinthians 11:13)
This is not too difficult in the Church today, there are only 12 of them and we know them by name and by sight and we have heard them speak many times. If one came claiming to be an Apostle, we would spot him right away...Later
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Mormons: "We tend to reject theories and rumors -- and facts and truths -- that challenge our worldview and embrace those that affirm it." (Gregory Rodriguez, LA Times Columnist) How do you think this impacts your LDS Theology and/or World View?
World views can change and often do as we mature and gain more knowledge. However, where the Church is concerned we start with a sure knowledge that it is true. Therefore any theories, rumors, facts and truths which tend to oppose what we know to be true, will be set aside as untruths from the very beginning.
When seeking truth in any field, whether it be Medical, Political, Mechanical,...
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I talked with a mormon locally who told me he was "taught" about Odin in his church. He wouldn't explain. What does this mean?
I have been a member of the Church all my life and have lived in several ward areas. I have never heard of Odin until I saw your question!
If such a thing was ever taught or is now being taught I would have known. There is no such connection to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints.
Not all members of the Church have good strong testimonies and therefore find themselves...
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Why does the LDS church only discipline and excommunicate active members and not worry about those that are members but dont attend?
Actually a Bishop is concerned about all the members in his Ward area. However, until he is made aware of wrong doing on the part of any of his members, there is very little he can do.
Generally it is the active member that goes to the Bishop for help. And through the help of the Bishop the member can repent and be forgiven as needed.
It is only when the Bishop is made aware of a...
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Why does the LDS church only discipline and excommunicate active members and not worry about those that are members but dont attend?
Actually a Bishop is concerned about all the members in his Ward area. However, until he is made aware of wrong doing on the part of any of his members, there is very little he can do.
Generally it is the active member that goes to the Bishop for help. And through the help of the Bishop the member can repent and be forgiven as needed.
It is only when the Bishop is made aware of a...
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If the 'restored gospel' is no longer subject to apostasy why do members of the Church of Jesus Chrsit of Latter-day Saints believe that they have to 'contend for the faith' when views different from their own are presented here on AB? (See Jude 1:3)
Even though the Church and it's restored Gospel will never apostatize from the truth, our members may, if they do not get answers to their questions. Many do not know where to look for answers, so they end up on some board like AB to try to find answers. And there are many Anti-Mormons who are more than happy to spread false doctrine and attribute it to the Church. So we need to constantly...
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Mormons: If the fall was such a blessing, then when Adam & Eve heard God walking in the Garden, why did they suddenly feel guilty and afraid, and try to hide from Him? Why didn't they run up to God and rejoice in starting "the plan" with Him instead?
I am going to play one of your tricks..the short answer, they felt guilty because they had broken one of God's commandments.
The long answer..They broke one of God's commandments, by partaking of the forbidden fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. And now they were about to die, or thought as much, since God told them that would happen if they partook of the forbidden...
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Mormons: If Adam & Eve couldn't procreate prior to the fall then why weren't they counted transgressors before eating the forbidden fruit, for failing to fulfill God's commandment to do so in Gen 1:28? Wasn't that the GREATER of the two commandments?
When God gave them their two commandments He did not give them a time line as to when these commandments had to be obeyed. Therefore He could not count them transgressors, until they actually disobeyed one of His commandments...Later
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MORMONS: Bible passages like Exodus 31:18, Isaiah 30:27 and Isaiah 65:5 that mention body parts of God should be taken literally.
All of those references you posted refer to Christ and not God the Father. However they are simple cases of symbolism, for the most part. However Jesus did give Moses some tablets of stone containing the Ten commandments. Did he literally write them with his finger? We do not know how he actually did this particular feat, but I'm sure his fingers or hands were involved in some way...Later
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Is the book of Mormon a true book?
Well, let's see...We have a young man who has barely a 3rd grade education in the fundamentals of reading, writing and arithmetic. He is 27 years old, he knows nothing about his subject, but he produces a book containing 522 pages. And he produces this book in the presence of many witnesses in just a little over 2 months. And experts, to this day cannot prove that anything he wrote is in...
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Are mormon's christians?
First, we must determine what is meant by Christian. There are two prevailing beliefs associated with this term.
One has a following of about 2 Billion members,(If we include the Catholic Church) which base their beliefs strictly on the doctrine of God and Christ. And anyone who does not believe as they do will not be accepted as a Christian.
The other group, which is much smaller by...
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Where are there not other scriptures quoted in the Book of Mormon other than scriptures that are canonised in the Bible? Wasn't the records they had meant to me more extensive than our current 'Old Testament'? Or are there other quotation sources?
There are many, many scriptures quoted from Book of Mormon Prophets, which are not found in the bible. And what few scriptures there are in the Book of Mormon that are also found in the bible, did not come from the bible, but came from the Brass Plates of Laban. But then I believe you would have known this if you had read the book of Mormon for yourself...Later
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Where are there not other scriptures quoted in the Book of Mormon other than scriptures that are canonised in the Bible? Wasn't the records they had meant to me more extensive than our current 'Old Testament'? Or are there other quotation sources?
There are many, many scriptures quoted from Book of Mormon Prophets, which are not found in the bible. And what few scriptures there are in the Book of Mormon that are also found in the bible, did not come from the bible, but came from the Brass Plates of Laban. But then I believe you would have known this if you had read the book of Mormon for yourself...Later
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What is the "real" reason the mormons call themselves Jews? They are from all cultures and countries and not really descendants of Hebrews.
"Mormons" do not call themselves Jews, but they do call themselves "Israelites." However, there are a few Members of the Church who are Jewish by birth who do call themselves Jews.
The fact is Jews are only one of the twelve Tribes of Israel. Most members of the Church today, including most of those who join today are of the Tribe of Ephraim, a son of Joseph, who was sold into Egypt. And...
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Has God, or can he, change his mind? (See answer for clarification)
I do not believe God has ever changed His mind, nor will he ever have to do so. We read in Isa.46;9,10..."Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, 10 Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:"
If God knows...
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Are there any genuine archeological proofs of the book of mormon?
There are many archeological evidences found which could quit easily be associated with the Book of Mormon.
One of the main problems we have encountered with the Book of Mormon is trying to determine where it took place. Some believe it was in Central America, others think it was South America, and now just recently it has been determined by a growing number of scholars that it took place...
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Is it true the mormon church only ceased requiring its converts to make the "oath of Vengeance" against the United States because they lost a lawsuit with the government over it?
I have been a member all my life and have served a full time Mission and 6 Stake Missions and brought many people into the church and never was I required to have anyone sign an "oath of Vengeance" against United States! I have never even heard of such a thing. Could it be, someone is trying to discourage people from investigating the Church and will tell them anything to get them not to...
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What happens when a women commits adultry in the LDS CHURCH? If she was inactive, and repents to the bishop after months of showing dedication to the church and to Heavenly Father, can she be worthy to enter the temple?
It makes no difference if the woman was active or inactive, as long as she meets with the Bishop and confesses her sins and obeys all the requirements set forth by the bishop. He and the Stake President will determine if she is sincere and has truly repented before they sign her Temple recommend.
But the bottom line is yes, if she truly repents and confesses her sins, she can once again...
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If the Bible says “for in the resurrection neither do men marry nor are women given in marriage." in the books of Matthew and Mark, why do Mormons "seal" themselves to spouses to be with in the resurrection?
This question has been hashed over many times. And those who believe marriage is NOT continued in heaven still believe the same after all is said and done.
Perhaps I could add something you have not considered. Who married Adam and Eve? Can you show me where the Bible says "till death do you part?"
Remember they were married by God before they fell, so is they had not fallen,...
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MORMONS True or False: 'To be saved you must be baptized by someone with priesthood authority and live all the laws & ordinances of the restored gospel' & please start your answer with a very clear and distinct "True" or "False" before you explain it.
Actually, this is basically true. Although we must be striving to live all the commandments and keeping all our Covenants.
And we are expected to repent as often as we need, to be forgiven of those things in which we fall short.
Now hit us with your bombshell, which you have maneuvered us into...Later
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MORMONS True or False: 'The rapid growth of the LDS Church, even under persecution, proves that it is the true church' And please start your answer with a very clear and distinct "True" or "False" before you explain it.
I would have to join the group that answered "False". As has been mentioned, there are many groups and Churches which have suffered both persecution and rapid growth and we know they cannot all be true and disagree as they do.
The Church of Jesus Christ is small in comparison to the Catholics and Protestants,(if taken as a group, as they choose to do) and we shall remain...
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MORMONS True or False: "If a man is ordained in the Melchizedek priesthood, he is called of God to that office and must be heeded." And please explain your answer.
I see you are still at it, trying to catch us in our words?
If a man is ordained to an office in the Melchizedek Priesthood, he is called of God, period! But we are to heed him, ONLY if he is doing God's will.
It doesn't matter if he is a Bishop, or an Apostle, if he is not following the guidance set forth by the Lord through our Prophet, we do not need to follow him.
We...
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MORMONS True or False: '1 Nephi 13:24-28 tells us that the Bible we use today is unreliable because so much was taken out of it by Gentile scribes when the Christian Church apostatized' Please start with "True" or "False" before you explain your answer.
My friend, again you try to catch us in our words... This question also cannot be answered with a simple "True" or "False" statement.
It is true, the Bible today does contain many mistakes, contradictions, and omissions. But that only hurts the Catholics and Protestants who do not have access to a living Prophet of God to guide them in the right way.
By the grace of...
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MORMONS True or False: 'The Bible could not be God's Word because it contains a lot of contradictions.' Please start your answer with either "True" or "False" and then explain your answer.
IT...you always try to frame your questions in such a way as to catch us in our words, much like the Scribes and Pharisee's did with Christ.
This particular question cannot be answered with a simple "True" or "False" statement on our part.
Does the Bible contain Words spoken by God? Absolutely! Does the Bible also contain words substituted by men? Absolutely!
...
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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?
I have found very few Members of the Church actually take time, during the week, to study the scriptures on a regular basis.
And as a result their only exposure to the doctrines of the Church comes from what they learn in Sunday School.
So when they are confronted about our doctrines, they do not know how to answer, so they get angry or just say "I don't know."
This is...
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When do you think the LDS Church will again allow polygamy, as doctrinally the LDS theology states it is essential for our salvation?
Polygamy will always be a part of the New and Everlasting covenant of Marriage. But it does not need to be practiced unless the Lord Commands it, to build up a righteous seed unto him.
It was necessary to practice it for a time so that it could be restored on earth again as part of the New and everlasting Covenant.
It's practice was stopped because it was no longer needed.
...
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The 12 Apostles of the LDS Church have been called as "Special Witnesses" of Jesus Christ. Does this mean they have been given a "special witness" of Christ such as an appearance by Him?
To be a special witness of Jesus Christ does not require an actual sighting of his person. One can hear his voice and receive a powerful witness from the Holy Ghost that the voice is that of Jesus Christ.
All that is necessary is that they know of a certainty that Jesus Christ lives and was Resurrected. However, as Laie said, most of them I am sure have at some time seen the Savior in his...
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Were temple ordinances performed for Adolf Hitler and Eva Braun on September 28, 1993, in the Jordan River Temple, Utah?
It doesn't matter it they were or not. Everyone who has had their Temple work done must still appear before the Lord to be judged.
If they cannot show they are worthy of their Covenants, their Temple work will not be accepted by the Lord and they will be judged according to their works...Later
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If Mormons do not believe that they work out their salvation by deeds, then by what measure do they attain different levels of heaven?
We can only attain the very highest degree of the Celestial Kingdom by keeping all of God's commandments.
Such as having Faith in Jesus Christ, and Repenting of all our sins, and being Baptized by one having authority from God, and by receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of hands, by one holding the Melchizedek Priesthood from God.
Then when we marry, we must go...
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Do Mormons believe Joseph Smith is their saviour?
Of course not, but we do believe he was instrumental in restoring the true plan of Salvation, for which all who are saved in the Kingdom of God must comply.
Joseph Smith was simply a mortal man, whom God called to be His Prophet. A calling he did quite well, until lawless men murdered him and his brother. I doubt he thought of himself as a Savior...Later
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Is the God of mormonism really Zeus, the Greek father God? I did a search on the web and there were some fascinating similarities.
The God of Mormonism is the same God worshiped by all Churches. We may all speak and describe Him in different ways, but it is the ONE and only God with whom we have to do.
The Greeks may have borrowed some characteristics from our God and claimed them for their own. But our God existed long before there were any Greeks...Later
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"The Articles of Faith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" follows the "We believe..." convention/formula/language of creeds. Some non-LDS Scholars and Theologians have asserted that it IS in fact a creed. So why isn't it called a creed?
The Creeds are focused on one basic subject. Who and what God and Christ are and how the Church believes they should be worshiped.
The Articles of Faith is a short list of some of the basic beliefs of the Church of Jesus Christ. None of which go into any great detail by way of explanation, as do the Creeds.
And each article deals only with one subject and does not try to show how they...
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LDS, Article #7 of the Articles of Faith says, "We believe in the gift of tongues ... interpretation of tongues, and so forth." It's clear from the historical record that the Early Mormons spoke in tongues. So why don't modern Mormon speak in tongues too?
We do, but there are many ways to speak in tongues. And in every case it comes only through the Holy Ghost. He decides when and where "Tongues" are necessary.
That which the Pentecostals speak is not tongues, they speak a strange gibberish which no one understands. And theirs is just for show to help those with little faith to increase their faith.
Several years ago President...
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Many teachings in the 'restored' LDS Church have changed over time. But how could there be a 'restoration' of these teachings if God comes along and changes them whenever he wants?
God never gives any of his people everything all at once. He gives line upon line, precept upon precept. However, His basic doctrines do not change, other than they can be added too from time to time.
I have read Bro. Alexander's report, and I do not agree with all of his conclusions. Although I do agree that the early members did have some difficulty understanding some of the deeper...
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Do Mormons believe that we are sinners from birth?
Absolutely not! Sin requires a person to know the difference between right and wrong, or good and evil.
If you really want to do something, show me where the Bible ever says Adam and Eve sinned? It only says they transgressed the law. The difference between transgression, as I understand it, is wrong doing without knowledge.
However, to believe we are born in sin does away with one...
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Mormons: Are you an "Evidentialist" or a "Presuppositionalist"? That is, did you join the LDS Church because the Book of Mormon (BoM) evidence demanded a verdict OR were you only open to the BoM evidence because God disposed you to believe it?
I would have to say neither. I was born and raised in the Church by active parents.
However when I was called to serve a Mission I truly believed the Church was true, until a Lutheran Minister responded to my testimony about Joseph Smith by shouting, "YOU DO NOT KNOW HE WAS A PROPHET! YOU MAY BELIEVE HE WAS A PROPHET, BUT YOU DO NOT KNOW ANYTHING OF THE KIND!
After I recovered...
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Answer to:
Do Mormons actually have the Priesthood?
Not only do we have the Priesthood, but we received it in exactly the same way the Apostles received it from Christ, as the Church of Jesus Christ was being organized.
At first, however, John the Baptist appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and gave them the Aaronic Priesthood, which holds the authority to Baptize among other things.
Then a short time later, Peter, James and John...
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Do the mormons really believe they are the Saints of the last days, as spoken of in Daniel? Is that why they have been called latter day saints? Anyone else been told this?
Of course! The members of Christs early church were called Saints. And since the Church of Jesus Christ is a restoration of that early Church, we are the Saints of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days. Or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Not too difficult to figure out...Later
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Answer to:
When Jesus returns, will he have a physical body, or will he be a spirit?
Jesus is a Resurrected being and therefore can only appear with a physical body.
Just as we read in Acts 1;9-11.."And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee,...
Answer to:
Why do LDS celebrate Christmas?
Because we can! And because we enjoy spreading cheer and good will among all our family's, friends and acquaintances.
Some of you are concerned about Jesus not being born on Dec. 25th. So what! Do any of you know the exact day he was born? We do, but we do not feel the day is as important as the event itself.
Which is more important, the day he was born or the fact that he was...
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Answer to:
Why was Satan created?
I guess I shall have to answer my own question. Satan was born to our heavenly Father. But when he was born,(created) meaning his spirit was organized from spiritual matter, he was not evil.
He only became evil later, when the Father chose Jesus as our savior instead of him.
But why was he brought forth as a child of God? Because the Father's plan of salvation required one...
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Answer to:
Is it true mormon "prophesy" says the United States will eventually be the mormon kingdom of Zion and that Joseph Smith said it "Will be that- or the sword"? Does it mean they will kill anyone who doesn't Join them?
This is close, but you got off the track after your first word.
There are several prophecies which tells us that the time will come, in the not too far distant future, when the US will become a huge battlefield.
Father's will be fighting and killing their sons and Mothers will be killing their daughters and visa versa.
And mobs will rule neighborhoods, cities and states....
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Why did the mormon general conference of 1987(88) say the forces were gathering for a battle between God and Lucifer and not Christ and Satan? Is this the same as the army of the Lamb and army of the beast?
There are several reasons for this statement. 1.God the Father is in charge of this earth and all that pertains to it. Jesus has devoted his whole life to doing the Father's will, and not his own.
2.In the Pre-existence it was the father's plan that was presented to us, and in which all of us accepted. Jesus was chosen by the Father to come down and be our Savior, in place of...
Answer to:
Mormons claim that the atonement occurred in the Garden of Gethsemane rather than on the Cross. However, the Bible only mentions the Garden in 1 Gospel, the Cross in all 4, and then throughout the rest of the NT. If LDS Soteriology is true why is this?
Perhaps I can shed some light on this subject. Or maybe not, we shall see.
First of all before Jesus could atone for our sins it was necessary for him to take upon himself our sins. Which he did in the Garden of Gethsemane. In doing so he suffered so greatly that he bled as it were, great drops of blood from every pore.
Then when he died on the cross he completed his atonement in our...
Answer to:
Mormons: Please explain what empirical survey method(s) you used to compare the LdS Church with all other churches, and what evaluative method(s) of determining what truth means that you used to conclude that the Mormon Church is the only true Church.
Empirical methods? Evaluative methods? My friend neither of these methods will bring one to a knowledge of the truth!
All truth comes from God and only from God. If one wants to know the truth about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, they do not need to take any one's word, here on earth, they can go directly to the original source for truth.
God has promised to...
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Answer to:
Does the Holy Spirit inspire all ministers in all Churches, if they claim to be Christian?
First of all, let me say, neither Jesus or the Holy Ghost will ever act on their own behalf. Everything they do will be directed by God Himself, through them.
Therefore to believe that the Holy Ghost, or Christ will inspire all Ministers in all Churches, who claims to be Christian, is to also believe that God is a God of confusion.
If you doubt this, just take a look at all the different...
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How do you know your Church is teaching correct doctrines?
Since we are asking about our Churches, we must also include the Bible. Since that is the main source from which most Churches claim their truths come.
However, there is just one little problem with this source. There are no instructions given whereby everyone who reads the Bible will understand it exactly the same way, every time. And as a result there are over 40,000 different...
Answer to:
Why do Mormons think that paid clergy is wrong when Doctrine & Covenants 42:70-73 specifically mandates that, "the elders or high priests who are appointed to assist the bishop as counselors...are to receive a just remuneration for all their services."
Paid Clergy is wrong, unless specifically commanded by the Lord. As he did in the case in D&C 42;70-73.
This was a period of time when the members were ask to consecrate all their time, money's and properties and all they possessed to the Church.
And those who were involved in taking care of these various Consecrations were given a living sustenance or remuneration for their...
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Answer to:
Joseph F. Smith: 'I am susceptible, I think, of the impressions of the Spirit of the Lord upon my mind at any time, just as any good Methodist or any other good church member might be.' Why then is a LdS Prophet's 'revelation' superior to any Methodist's?
All truth comes from God and nowhere else. Therefore it is quite apparent that no other Church Minister, or member, anywhere in the world is receiving inspirations from the same spirit we do. Or we would all be teaching the same doctrines.
Pres. Smith was right, many people could receive many impressions of the spirit. But there are more than one spirit available who is willing to give...
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Joseph F. Smith: 'I have had impressions of the Spirit upon my mind very frequently, but they are not in the sense of revelations.' Then what is the point of having a designated 'LdS Prophet' who doesn't receive & utter 'revelations' for Christ's Church?
From the time of Joseph Smith, the Church has been fully organized, with all its officers, and various Church leaders in place. We have had all our additional scriptures as well to aid in our Gospel studies.
Since that time it has not been necessary for the Lord to reveal any great doctrines for which we did not already have.
But there is a great need for Missionaries to carry this...
Answer to:
As a Mormon, do you believe the three kingdoms of glory are on seperate planets from each other or all are all on the same planet? And are there literal divides between these kingdoms or can people intermingle?
Actually Laie is right. This earth will be transformed into our Celestial Kingdom.
And no, there will not be any other people here except Celestial beings. However, there will be three separate kingdoms within the Celestial Kingdom.
The very highest will be for those who have been married (Sealed)in the Temple. The other two kingdoms will be for Ministering Angels, of which we know...
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Do you think the Jaredites were black?
First of all, if Jared and his brother were Black, they could only have gotten their skin color from Cain through Ham. Which means they would have been under the same curse as Cain, since they would have been "of the seed of Cain" which was cursed as to the right of Priesthood.
However, we know the brother of Jared was a Prophet, having seen the Lord Jesus Christ in a special way....
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D&C 129 gives a test by which you can know whether someone claiming to be an angel from God is telling you the truth: you offer to shake his hand, and if you can feel his hand, that proves he is an angel. How does this prove they're a true angel from God?
It is quite simple really, there are only two kinds of Angels. Those from God and those from Satan.
Those from Satan will always be a Spirit. While those from God will either be a Spirit surrounded by glorious light, or they may be a Resurrected being, also surrounded by a glorious light.
If an Angel from Satan appears and you offer him your hand, he will offer his hand and you will...
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Answer to:
If the Father is Elohim and Jesus is Jehovah (as the Mormons teach), how does a Mormon explain Deuteronomy 6:4, which in the Hebrew says, “Hear, O Israel: Jehovah our Elohim is one Jehovah”?
It is quite clear that many will try to ask questions that attempt to confuse the members of the Church of Jesus Christ.
But in the end, it all boils down to what we ourselves believe and know to be true, that really matters.
Whether the Old Testament God was known as Jehovah or Adonai, or Yahweh, makes very little difference.
The Apostle Paul tells us that the Old Testament God...
Answer to:
Mormon tradition emphasizes that it is holders of the Melchizedek priesthood who should anoint the sick with consecrated oil and bless them, using their power. But oil isn't mentioned in LDS scripture as necessary or helpful for healing so why is it used
Actually, using oil in administering to the sick is mentioned in our LDS scriptures.
As has been stated before, one place is found in the Bible, James 5;14,15..."Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up;...
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.
I'm quite sure, you do not mean what your question implies. Mothers are not counseled to give up their children, due to the doctrine of Eternal Progression and families being sealed together.
They are two different things. However, Our Father in Heaven is all about unity and purpose. No one person can make it to the Celestial Kingdom by him/her self.
It takes a whole family...
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Mormons: Is the glory of God intelligence? Why or why not? (and if you're not Mormon the equivalent question for you can be found here http://www.answerbag.com/ask/1791143)
The Glory of God IS Intelligence! Or the Light of truth. All Light and all truth comes from God, which enlightens all of His creations, worlds without end. Satan is the author of all darkness and lies as pertaining to this earth.
But that has nothing whatsoever to do with our members and their intelligence. Although we have had some very brilliant minds in the Church from time to time,...
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Mormons: Just how and why were the "wonderful blessing" of mortality and a sinful world introduced, if it was not actually sin that Adam & Eve committed by partaking of the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good & evil?
As has been stated before, Adam and Eve did not sin, but they did transgress the law. And the difference is, sin requires knowledge, transgression does not.
Now let me pose a few questions for you, my friend...If God really did not want Adam and Eve to partake of the forbidden fruit, why did He place that tree in the "Midst" of the garden?
And why did He even plant that tree...
Answer to:
What would you do, if you found out Jesus was a Mormon?
I realize this seems like an unusual question, but it is not as unusual as some of you may think.
We know Jesus organized a Church while he was on earth. He chose 12 living Apostles to guide and direct that Church after he ascended into heaven.
And we know the Apostles remained as head of the Church, until they were all killed, except John, but he walked away one day and was never...
Answer to:
What remains at the end after our death?
It is difficult to really know what you mean? When we die, all our friends and acquaintances and family all remain, along with our body, which we assume will be put into the ground.
I suppose a lot of memories will remain with our friends and family, etc. Both good and bad. But I wonder how long those memories will remain, before they fade? Will we leave unforgettable memories that will...
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If someone commits a serious sin - is it better for them to commit suicice as an act and expression of repentance than continue to live?
My friend if you were to commit suicide, you would be guilty of Murder. I do not think that would help much. I presume you are referring to blood atonement.
The doctrine of blood atonement came from the Lord, way back in the early part of the Old Testament.
Gen.9;8.."Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man."
...
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Answer to:
For those mormons that know about the critics very reasonable claims ablout the Book of Abraham- How can you know the arguments/evidence and still believe it to be scripture? I'm not attacking- I just have doubts.
I have yet to see any of the critics "very reasonable claims about the Book of Abraham."
You want to know how we can know the arguments/evidence and still believe it to be scripture? I know of their arguments, but I have not seen any evidence that will hold water yet!
Let me give you an example of what we are really talking about.
A non-Mormon, named William S. West,...
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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?
There is no beginning and there will be no end! If there was a beginning, there will also be an end!
Its as simple at that. Joseph Smith was ask this question once, and in answer he took his wedding ring off and held it up for all to see.
Then pointed out his ring was a complete circle, there was no beginning and no end. But if you were to cut it somewhere there would then be a...
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Answer to:
This question is for current LDS; what's the deal with Kolob. Is the idea of Kolob as God's home planet a current teaching? (this is NOT meant to poke fun, sorry)
Kolob is the planet nearest the residence of God, as was stated before.
It is also our Father's governing Star. It controls all the other planets created by God and Christ.
Their orbits, revolutions, seasons, etc. all controlled by Kolob.
This is not recent doctrine it has been with us since Joseph translated the Book of Abraham...later
Answer to:
Why wasn't there any religious excitement in Joseph Smith's hometown until 1824 yet he states that there was a religious revival in 1820 - at the same time he has his 'First Vision'?
Perhaps you are not looking in the right place. So many of you are so full of doubt, it is unbelievable! Allow me to quote from a book written by Henry Howe, "Historical Collections of the Great West."
Palmyra, New York, the home of the Smiths, was in the zone of this widespread religious agitation. In the spring of 1820 the ministers of the several churches in and about Palmyra...
Answer to:
Can the LDS God give contradictory commandments?
No! This is not possible. Our LDS God is called Eloheim, and He is totally perfect. He does not make any mistakes. Therefore it is not possible for Him to give any conflicting commandments. Only men make mistakes. So if a commandment seems to conflict with any another, it is you who has made the mistake, not God...Later
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Answer to:
What are some examples of contradictory commandments that the LDS God has given?
There are none! Eloheim is absolutely perfect, it is impossible for Him to give any conflicting doctrines or commandments.
However it is highly possible that mankind could interpret God's commandments incorrectly and could think they were in conflict.
But that should be a sure sigh that the individual has misunderstood God's commandments...Later
Answer to:
"...if the devoted Mormon actually considers all of the facts at his disposal, he or she may feel some pain and, if honest with him or herself, will reluctantly acknowledge that the Mormon church is not at all focused on Jesus." Thoughts?
I have been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, all my life. And I have made an in depth study of all our doctrines.
I have not found one thing that has caused me pain, or has indicated in any way that the Church is NOT focused on Jesus Christ and his Father.
I cannot speak for every other member of the Church, but I can say it all depends on the level of...
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Answer to:
In the book of Mormon, Jesus Christ was clearly worshiped (see 2 Nephi 25:29, 1 Nephi 11:24, 3 Nephi 11:17) Then why has the historic stance of the LdS Church been, "Our Father in Heaven should be the object of our worship" And what is the stance today?
If Jesus Christ were to appear before us and encourage us to worship him, as he did the Nephites, we would worship him.
But when he goes to the Father we only worship the Father, in the name of Jesus Christ.
We certainly have cause to worship all 3 members of the Godhead, but we don't. We only worship the Father, in Jesus' name...Later
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Answer to:
Mormons: Does God Dwell in the Heart of the Righteous? There seems to be a contradiction between Alma 34:36 and Doctrine and Covenants 130:3 on this one.
My friend, when you quote from Mormon scripture or from Mormon leaders, you need to use Mormon thinking to interpret those quotes correctly.
In this case we know God(Eloheim) has a physical, Resurrected body, of flesh and bone. Therefore it is not possible for him to literally dwell in anyone's heart.
However, it is possible for His spiritual influence to penetrate any heart,...
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Answer to:
What is the purpose of Baptism?
Baptism really has two purposes. 1.After one has repented of all their sins, Baptism is symbolic that their sins will be washed away. 2.It is also the Gate by which one enters into the kingdom of God(Church).
This is why Jesus Christ was Baptized. He did not have any sins, so did not need his sins washed away, but he did need to enter the gate into the kingdom of God. Showing, that no...
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Answer to:
Why does the LDS church excommunicate polygamist today when they accept that many of their prophets and leaders practiced polygamy in the past? Why excommunicate someone today but not denounce and excommunicate past polygamists?
Joseph Smith received his first revelation commanding Polygamy as early as 1831.
He did not want to live plural marriage, but was commanded by an Angel to do so or die. By 1834 he took his 1st plural wife.
And from that time until the Lord allowed Wilford Woodruff to cease the practice of plural marriage, it was a commandment.
Since 1890 it is no longer a commandment and is not...
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Answer to:
Why has the 'reasons for excommunication' changed over time? 'God' excommunicated people in the past for refusing missions, not obeying the word of wisdom etc but doesn't today. And 'God' accepted polygamy in the past and now excommunicates polygamists.
I doubt the reasons have changed as much as the qualifications have changed. And I perceive your understanding may not be quite accurate.
For instance when Oliver Cowdery was excommunicated, the Brethren accused him of 9 out of 12 charges brought against him.
Martin Harris was found trying to help plot the murder of Joseph Smith, among other things.
No one was excommunicated for...
Answer to:
Why is the Mormon temple ceremonies very similar to masonic rituals?
That is a real puzzler isn't it? Let me explain a few things about our Temple Ceremonies.
Joseph Smith began receiving revelations about a higher Endowment as early as 1830. Just shortly after the Church was organized.
By 1836, when the Kirtland Temple was dedicated, Joseph had received enough to start administering some of the Endowments to the Saints.
By 1841 Joseph had...
Answer to:
Can Salvation be free if you have to do something to obtain it?
Continued from last post..
It seems incredible to me that a Billion people could actually believe Jesus left His home in heaven and came to earth specifically to suffer, bleed and die for all mankind and not require anything of us in return!
What happens when parents give their children everything they want and do not require anything of them in return? have you ever heard it turning...
Answer to:
Can Salvation be free if you have to do something to obtain it?
This can be a very controversial subject. It isn't as simple as some people try to make it. Just think about what I have ask. Can Salvation be free, if you have to do something to obtain it?
Our home basketball Team once had a promotion. They gave away free a new Basketball to the first 10,000 fans who attended their game.
Now was this Basketball actually a free gift? Only...
Answer to:
Mormons: Are you going to have eternal life, know Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and dwell with Them forever?
We certainly hope so! That is why we are here on this earth.
We promised our Father in heaven that we would come to earth and prove ourselves worthy to return to Him.
He promised to send His only begotten Son to suffer, bleed and die for our sins, and to overcome eternal death through his Resurrection.
And if we do all we have promised to do, He will do His part in our...
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Answer to:
Are Mormons polytheistic, monotheistic, or what?
Does it really matter? You claim to be monotheistic, but when you pray to God you are really praying to 3 Gods, which you claim is only 1 God in 3 persons.
But since they are all of the same substance all 3 are together literally joined together as 1 God, but still 3 Gods. Is that technically considered monotheistic, or polytheistic?
We on the other hand believe in God,(Eloheim) Jesus...
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Answer to:
What is it, that the mormons call "Lamb's blood?
As has been stated before, the "lamb's blood" was first used by the Israelites anciently as a protection from the Angel of death.
Today Jesus is the lamb which was sacrificed in our behalf. By which we are required to do certain things to avail ourselves of his Atonement.
Just as the Israelites had to actually apply lamb's blood around their door, to protect them...
Answer to:
In The King Follett discourse Joseph Smith said, "In the beginning, the head of the Gods called a council of the Gods . . ." Who is this "head of the Gods" Joseph Smith didn't correlate this deity with any specific God in his discourse. Thanks.
We do not know the name of this God. It has never been revealed to us. Perhaps it is not something we need to know for our Exaltation. But we believe this council did take place.
Joseph Fielding Smith has suggested the head of the Gods was none other than Eloheim. Which certainly fits with the scriptures.
I do not recall the Church actually giving an official name to this head of the...
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Answer to:
Tenth Mormon President Joseph Fielding Smith described the RLDS Church, of which Emma Smith was a founding member, as a cult (Doctrines of Salvation 1:284). Does the LdS Church still consider the RLDS/Community of Christ a cult today?
When "Joseph Fielding Smith wrote the "Doctrines of Salvation" he was not the President of the Church. And all the things contained in those books are his own opinions.
He was not speaking for the Church. The Church of Jesus Christ will not call any Church a "Cult". We may individually believe such, but it is not so, as a Church.
I have said before, the Lord...
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Answer to:
Excommunication for the LDS is understood as an ‘appropriate’ or as a ‘necessary step’. How is it appropriate and necessary? What are its benefits? And how does it help the disciplined individual?
Most every organization, whether secular or religious, has some form of separating offenders of the organizational laws, from the organization.
Some separations are permanent, and others are temporary, depending on the organization, and the offender, complying with said laws which were broken.
In a nutshell, when one breaks certain serious rules, or laws or regulations, etc. There must...
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Answer to:
"When our leaders speak, the thinking has been done." Improvement Era message to [Mormon] Ward Teachers circa 1945. "When the [LdS] Prophet speaks the debate is over." LdS Church First Counselor, Eldon Tanner in a 1979 article. Thoughts?
This situation can be looked at in two different ways.
1.From your perspective, you see a group of old men setting in their high tower discussing various problems, then deciding exactly how things will be done.
Then demanding that all members conform to their way of thinking, without question.
2. And from our perspective, we see a group of dedicated holy men who rely totally and...
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Answer to:
Why do the mormons believe the Apostle Paul is alive on earth today?
I am sure you are speaking of John the Beloved and not Paul.
Just before Jesus was about to leave the Apostles for the last time, he ask what he could do for them. Most of them ask to come to him after they died, that is all but John.
We find this recorded in D&C 7;1-8.."And the Lord said unto me: John, my beloved, what desirest thou? For if you shall ask what you will, it shall...
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Answer to:
Gordon B. Hinckley: "The traditional Christ of whom they speak is not the Christ of whom I [LdS President and Living Prophet] speak. For the Christ of whom I speak has been revealed in this the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times'" Thoughts?
Pres. Hinckley is absolutely right! We do not believe in the same Jesus, as the Orthodox and Catholic Christians believe.
However, we do believe in the Jesus of the Bible, the same Jesus who appeared, with his Father, to Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove, in 1820.
We do not so much disagree with Orthodox Christians themselves, about Jesus, but we do disagree with their interpretation of...
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Answer to:
Mormon leaders often say: "The Lord Will Never Permit the Living Prophet to Lead the Church Astray" (ex: heading in the 1982 Manual for LdS college students) Then why have so many past teachings/revelations been condemned as heresy by new Living Prophets?
Actually it only makes sense. Why would God setup a Church, then allow someone to start teaching doctrines contrary to what He has revealed?
We have been told this is the last time the Church will be established on earth, and that it will "stand forever".
Even though many in the Church have spoken incorrectly at times, they have been corrected as needed. Truth will always...
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Answer to:
Do Mormons believe there are spirit brothers and sisters on other worlds and that Jesus is their Savior also?
We most certainly do believe there are worlds without number. And each world is inhabited with men and women just like us.
Each world had their own Adam and Eve, and their own Satan,with his angels.
We also do believe that Jesus is an infinite sacrifice for all the Fathers creations, worlds without number.
And this includes all plants and animals as well as anything else that has...
Answer to:
"Educated Mormons are well aware that their doctrine concerning God the Father, particularly the idea that he was once a mortal man and has a literal body, is offensive to traditional Judeo-Christian believers." (Mormon America, p. 301) Thoughts?
We are well aware, as you have suggested. But we cannot help what we have received from God, about Himself.
I suppose if some are offended at our doctrines, it is their problem not ours. We do not intend to change our doctrine to please others.
We acknowledge their discomfort and pray for them. But I can assure you, your doctrines are just as astounding to us as ours are to you.
Our...
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Answer to:
According to LDS, where was Jesus' sacrifice made, in the garden or on the cross?
In order for Jesus to pay for our sins, it was necessary for him to first take upon himself our sins, prior to his crucifixion.
He did this in the Garden, where he suffered so great he actually sweat great drops of blood from every pore.
Then a week later, he was hung on the Cross to complete his sacrifice for us. And 3 days later he raised his body from the tomb to bring about his...
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Answer to:
Will the Lord reward us for good, no matter which Church we belong too?
Rewards from the Lord are blessings we receive, for doing good. The Church of Jesus Christ believes every blessing is a result of obedience to the law upon which that blessing is predicated.
D&C 130;20,21..."There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated— 21 And when we obtain any blessing from...
Answer to:
With all the different Churches in the world today, can they all be sanctioned by the Lord?
There are two powers of influence in this world. One from GOD (Elohim), and the other is of course from Satan.
Both powers oppose each other. God, however, only deals with truth, and always dispenses that truth in one way and one way only. Satan, on the other hand will use as much truth, mixed with false doctrines as a means to deceive all he can.
Therefore, if all Churches do not...
Answer to:
Whats the best thing God has ever created .....?
The best thing God ever created was His Children.
Everything He has done since we were spiritually created,(Born)has been for us. Even the the creating Jesus,(His Firstborn) was for His children.
This earth was created for us, and all the commandments He gave, with His Gospel, through His Prophets, were for us. To help as many as possible, to be worthy enough to return to Him, free...
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Answer to:
I recently heard this quote and loved it: “Catholicism teaches an infallible Pope, yet few Catholics seem to believe it; Mormonism teaches a fallible prophet, yet few Latter-day Saints seem to believe it.” What are your thoughts?
Like most people, we are all a product of our environment, meaning, basically we only really know what we have actually witnessed, or read somewhere or heard someone say things of interest.
I know of several large Catholic families who have been Catholic for many generations, who truly believe the Pope is infallible all the time!
And they were taught this by their fathers and...
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Answer to:
How do we know the Bible is complete? We know it contains God's word, but does it contain ALL of God's word? How do you know?
I found an interesting article about the Bible which tells quite a story. And which agrees somewhat with what the Church of Jesus Christ has been saying, from the beginning, about the Bible. I shall also post the link where this article can be found in full...
(Quote) "it is important to remember that all modern attempts to represent the Bible via shining new translations from...
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"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?
Andy Pollard left out one small phrase in his statement.
He should have said "The truth,IN MY OPINION,... His statement would then have made more sense.
Everyone is entitle to their own opinion. It doesn't mean their opinion is correct, it is just their opinion.
I have learned, in discussing religion with Orthodox Christians, you have to throw the Bible away. Their...
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Does the LDS Church release information (exact figures/estimates) to its members about how tithing money is spent?
I don't care what it is used for, the Lord commands that we give 10% of our increase to Him. And for doing so we are blessed, period.
I know our leaders are all called of God and they will do what is right with the Tithing and Fast Offering money.
And if they don't, they will answer to the Lord. I am blessed for doing what I'm commanded to do. Why would I want to...
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Do Mormons believe in creationism, intelligent design, or evolution?
Actually, we believe in all three.
Although we as a Church do not get involved much in scientific fields of endeavor.
However, we do believe in creation, and support intelligent design by God, who created all things from existing matter.
And as for evolution, we believe things can evolve, or at least adapt to changing environment, within their own species. But they cannot evolve...
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Do Mormons believe that they can set a date for the second coming of Jesus?
Actually YES! I believe any Mormon can set a date for the second coming.
However, if you mean, can we predict the CORRECT date, the answer is NO! As has been explained before, even Jesus Christ himself does not know that date. Or at least he didn't while he was talking to Joseph Smith in the 1800's AD. So if anyone tries to set a date for that event, they have a 50-50 chance...
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Question for Mormons or ex-Mormons: Were you ever taught, as I was, that Bigfoot is ACTUALLY Cain from the Genesis story, and that a general authority actually met him while on a horseback ride?
I have heard the story and I didn't believe it then and I do not believe it now.
It is possible that David Patton did see a large black man, and it is possible that the man's name was Cain.
But it is not possible that he was the direct son of Adam. Unless he was able to swim or stay afloat on the ocean for 5 months or more, during the Flood!
Which I rather doubt. This...
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Bill McKeever: "...why do so many Mormons insist we throw the more controversial teachings of their past leaders onto the ash heap of mere opinion?" Mormons how would you answer Mr. McKeever's question if he were standing in front of you?
I doubt that any true doctrines were thrown out anywhere. I do know that we have tried to explain some of the early teachings, but we always face the fact that we do not know, in every case exactly what they taught.
We now know from various diaries, and journals that many members heard certain doctrines taught quite different than what was recorded in the Journal of Discourses and even in...
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LDS Apologist: "Prophets are not suddenly divine. They are subject to their own bias, mistakes, misconceptions, and world-views..." Mormon.org: "...follow the prophets, and you can enjoy the assurance of being in harmony with God’s will." Which is true?
God does not call puppets to be His Prophets. He calls men, who have the same failings as you and I.
However, I think Joseph Smith answered this question quite well...A couple from Michigan ask him "Is a Prophet always a Prophet?" His answer was "No a Prophet is only a Prophet when he is acting as such."
In other words, when he speaks for the Lord, he will tell...
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Respected scholar, Tyler Stoehr describes the three prevailing camps in modern LdS Theology as "sola scriptura", "the prophetic tradition", and “sticking power” (see link for full descriptions). Mormons in your opinion which one is right and true?
Since all three "camps" involve truth, as we know it, we must use all 3 when determining truth.
If God has called a Prophet to lead this Church today, anything coming from God through our Prophet will never conflict with existing Scripture. It may, however supersede what is recorded in scripture, since scripture is known to not be complete. But there will never be any conflicts...
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Do Mormons believe in "God the Mother"?
We most certainly do! Sean, hit the nail right on the head, in post #7..The answer is found on page 292 of our Hymn book, from which we sing every Sunday.
And anything found in our Hymn Book is Church Doctrine. Here is the 3rd and 4th verses..
3."I had learned to call thee Father,Thru thy Spirit from on high, But until the key of knowledge was restored, I knew not why. In the...
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What quotes can you find that support the Church of Jesus Christ as a “Christian” religion? (Note: I will participate in answering this question.) ;-)
Perhaps the best quotes I can come up with are found in the Bible.
1.Acts 2;38..."Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
These are instructions given by the Apostles for becoming a member of Christ's Church.
2.Acts...
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When I was Mormon, I was taught that what the Book of Mormon calls "the great and abominable church which is the whore of all the Earth" is actually the Roman Catholic Church. Was this taught in your ward? Has this changed, as other LDS beliefs have?
Over the years, in my growing up in the Church, I heard that the Catholic Church was the Great and Abominable Church of the Devil.
As I got older I found this was not Church Doctrine, but was just beliefs of some individuals in the Church.
In fact at one time the first edition of "Mormon Doctrine", by Bruce R. Mckonkie stated that the Church of the Devil was the Catholic...
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Respected scholar, Tyler Stoehr, sympathizes with the common complaint that: "defining LDS doctrine [is] being like nailing Jell-O dipped in olive oil to a wall" Why do you think that so many people - scholars and non-scholars alike - feel this way?
I suppose that description is as good as any, from a non member.
However, there is a good reason for the difficulty in identifying our actual Church doctrines today. When Joseph Smith was first receiving revelations, while setting up the Church, he received many, many truths from the Lord.
I read once where he stated that revelations filled the air and anyone who was in tune with the...
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Why do Mormons emphasize part of the Word of Wisdom and ignore the part forbidding the eating of meat except in winter, cold or famine? (Doc. & Cov. 89:12,13).
Actually, those particular verses give two different options..D&C 89;12,13.."Yea, flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used sparingly; 13 And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine."
verse 12 uses the term...
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Can a mormon go to hell? please watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtOHB1l_d8w
You bet your life they can! In fact I suppose there will be many who will not make the Celestial Kingdom. And that, to them, will be just like Hell.
I watched the video and got the impression this woman was reading her story word for word. So she could have been a plant or she could have been a member in name only. I am quite sure she was not an active member, if she was a member at all....
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D&C 10: "...whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church. Whosoever declareth more or less than this, the same is not of me, but is against me; therefore he is not of my church." Doesn't this indict ALL Churches - and the CoJCoLdS too?
You ask..Doesn't this indict ALL Churches-and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints too? My answer is NO! It does however, indict all other Churches on earth as I shall explain.
The Lord states.."whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church."
Anyone, from any Church, can repent all day long, but in order to "cometh unto me" requires...
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Does the Bible say there will be no Prophets on earth, in the last days?
I must concur with those posters before me. The Bible, to my recollect, does not state specifically there will NOT be any Prophets IN THE LAST DAYS.
But there are plenty of scriptures that imply there will in fact be Prophets called. I shall just list a few.
1.Daniel 2;44.."And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed:...
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In Genesis 3 the serpent tells Adam and Eve "you will be like God." Isn't this the same thing that is taught in Mormon Exaltation?
Actually Satan said..Gen.3;5.."For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil." He didn't say "You will be like God" but "ye shall be AS gods, knowing good and evil. Which proved to be true, although Satan was only trying to get Eve to partake of the forbidden fruit. But even...
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If Mormons do not believe that they work out their salvation by deeds, then by what measure do they attain different levels of heaven?
First of all let's put all our cards out on the table, So that we are all on the same page.
When we speak of Salvation, you need to understand there are two kinds of Salvation mentioned in the scriptures. Most Churches today only know of one kind and use all the Salvation scriptures to support that one doctrine, ignoring the other which is equally important.
I speak of two...
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OK, so the Heavenly Father has a physical body. Did He come down to Earth, get His body, then return to Heaven, or did He always have it? I've heard it both ways, and would like to know which is right.
Perhaps the easiest way to explain this is to let Jesus Christ himself explain it to you.
JN.5;19,20.."Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. 20 For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself...
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((For Mormons))If there are numerous Gods....and they don't seem to defined by names how do they know which to direct prayer to or which is Jesus' real father? And if God is/was a man who was Jesus' father how come we don't know his real name?
Others have answered this already, but since I believe everyone is entitled to my opinion..(Just kidding.)
Actually there are numerous Gods somewhere in existence. We know of their existence, but we have nothing whatsoever to do with them, nor do they even know of our existence.
But for us we worship ONE God, who is also our Father in heaven. Who also is the literal Father of Jesus...
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If the Book of Mormon is true, then why has the Mormon church changed it?
One could also ask "If the Bible is true why are there so many different versions?" I have heard there are some 3300 versions or more.
The fact is Joseph Smith did not translate the Book of Mormon word for word. Experts who do translate from one language to another, tell us you cannot translate word for word, you must translate ideas. You read the original language and form an...
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Mormon, Catholic and a couple other "Religions" won't disclose their income from worshipers. But you hit local churches and they'll show you their books. Why is that?
If you want to know what the LDS church does with their money, all you have to do is watch April Conference, every year. They give a financial report right in conference. And they inform everyone that an Audit has been conducted by two different firms. One is Church owned and operated, the other is not affiliated with the Church at all. The report is also posted in the May Ensign. So knock...
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Did Joseph Smith do more for us, save it Jesus, than any other man who ever lived? Including Moses?
The answer to that question lies in a close examination of what Joseph actually did for our salvation.
1.Restored the true Gospel of Jesus Christ from Adam all through the New Testament period. 2.Restored both Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods, so official ordinances could be performed for , both the living and the dead. 3.Translated additional scripture by the gift and power of God....
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For '773491': Do Mormons really believe that they will populate a planet in the afterlife or something like this? I heard this from my religion teacher (she's nuts though, so I don't trust her at all). It's hard to do research on this...
Perhaps you could look at it in another way. We start out as a Child, knowing very little, or not much, but each day we learn things we didn't know the day before.
Now if we multiply that learning experience for Eternity, And place ourselves in a position where knowledge is absolutely unlimited, and add to that no end to Eternity. What eventually would have to happen?
Would we...
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Mormons what do you think of the members of the LDS Church whose behavior could lead one to the conclusion that they venerate and worship Joseph Smith more than they venerate and worship Jesus Christ?
I suppose how one looks at Joseph Smith is personal to each individual. The fact is, we as a Church do put a lot of emphasis on Joseph Smith for the simple reason that everything we teach and believe came through him. If he will not measure up to what we claim he did and said, then nothing we teach or believe will stand up either.
And on the other hand if everything attributed to him...
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If Mormonism is true then the Bible is false. If the Bible is true then the Book of Mormon is false. What's your thought?
Let's face the facts, shall we? When two people read the same words from the same book and both come away with a different understanding, what must we conclude as to the reason?
Obviously both individuals have interpreted the same words differently. Does that mean the book is at fault? The book is an inanimate object and has neither the intelligence nor the power to speak a word....
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This question is for LDS. If you believe that the Father and Christ are separate then who is speaking to Moses in Exodus 3?
This question is based on a belief of only ONE God, as apposed to more than One God. So rather than spend a lot of time trying to answer your question directly I shall go right to the point.
We do believe there are 3 separate and distinct individuals in the Godhead. One scripture will bear this out conclusively..JN.14;28.."Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again...
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Could someone explain eternal progression because I've heard it mentioned by LDS missionaries but they always seem to side step.
Basically it has reference to the fact that from the time a person is born on this earth they began to progress, or improve themselves in some way.
A baby can only lay in a bed for a time, but eventually as he/she begins to grow they learn to do other things. Cry,smile, frown, etc. and later crawl and walk. Every day some improvement is noticed.
Just add this fact to a period of...
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Are you trying to be like Jesus? Are you following in his ways? Are you trying to love as he did in all that you do and say?
Since you ask..Are you TRYING to be like Jesus. I guess I am. People tell me I am very trying at times. Some even ask if I am trying to piss them off? Well I guess I am trying something all the time, does that count? I prefer to Let Jesus be the Judge!...Later
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"...it is quite difficult...to say exactly what Mormons believe, because they are likely to believe very different, even contradictory doctrines." (Harold Bloom, "The American Religion", p. 113) Thoughts?
In the early days of the Church, Joseph Smith received many, many revelations from the Lord. All of which were true Gospel principles. And in the beginning Joseph and others simply taught what ever truths fit the occasion.
However, sometime after the Saints settled in the Salt Lake valley, the brethren decided to be more specific in what was taught from the Pulpit and from the Brethren...
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What evidence do we have that there is a supreme being from which everything we know and see, has come?
Obviously there is no actual evidence of God or everyone would believe in Him. But I often remember a quote from a famous philosopher named Voltaire.."If a Clock proves the existence of a clockmaker, and the Universe does NOT prove the existence of a supreme architect, then I consent to be called a fool."...Later
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How do you explain the Teachings of Joseph Smith, “We have imagined and supposed that God was God from all eternity. I will refute that idea, and take away the veil, so that you may see.... he was once a man like us” (p345) in light of Psalm 90:2?
I realize you and other "Orthodox Christians" think you are the only ones who can interpret the Bible correctly, but if it is alright with you, we happen to believe we also can interpret the Bible correctly.
We don't just use one scripture and expect a complete explanation for a given subject, we use several scriptures when they apply. Psalms 90;2.."Before the...
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Is there any biblical reference for the teaching that Jesus and Satan were spiritual brothers?
Actually there is..Col.1;15 we read.."Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:" Immediately we know every creature was actually born, Jesus Christ being the first. Now all we have to decide is, was Satan a creature or some form of vegetation? In Isaiah, we read..(14;12-16.."How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art...
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Do you think the LDS church is a religious organization, or just another business selling Christianity?
Well, it is a religious organization!
2. It is a business, of sorts!
3. But I do not believe it is selling anything. Our Missionaries go from home for two years at their own expense. Not paid by the Church.
4. Oh, yes we do sell Books of Mormon when ever we can, just for the printing costs. But actually, the missionaries give them to their investigators. So I guess they really do...
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If Mormonism claims to be "Biblical" - even going so far as to say it's the superior & "restored" form of both Judaism and Christianity - then why does LDS Theology contradict the Bible?
1. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is ONLY a Restoration of, those things which were once had on earth and had been lost, that were part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ from Adam through the New Testament. Judaism as we know it today has been in apostasy for many thousands of years, and will be restored to its original form when Christ appears to usher in the Millennium. Now as...
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If the Book of Mormon is another Testament of Jesus Christ, then why do we find so much archeological evidence for the Bible and the stuff written around Jesus time and we find none for the Book of Mormon?
One of the problems we have had with Book of Mormon Geography is, we do not know exactly where they landed and where they first began settling. In short, we do not know for certain where the Book of Mormon actually took place!
Unlike the Bible we have always known where Jerusalem was located, as well as other landmarks, which have not changed for thousands of years. But with the Book of...
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During what year did Joseph Smith stop teaching that Jesus was God and start teaching that Jesus and God were separate individuals?
Joseph Smith first saw the Father and the Son as two separate and distinct individuals in the Sacred Grove in 1820. He has known and taught nothing else since that time. Regardless of what others have said before me, Joseph never knew what God was like before that time, and certainly never taught anything contrary to that grove experience. I would challenge anyone to show different. I know...
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Who or what do Mormons believe created their God?
We believe God works through natural means. Therefore just as Jesus had a God and Father, so did his Father have a Father. There is a scripture in the Bible that is so little used, and yet preaches a great sermon. Rev.1;6.."And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen." Now I realize this scripture could be...
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints claims to be THE Church of Jesus Christ. However, others have claimed that the Mormon Jesus isn't the same Christ that other Christian Churches worship and follow so this is deceptive. Who's right?
The fact is, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints does in fact worship a different Jesus than the Catholics and Protestants. Or perhaps I should say it is the same Jesus, but he is perceived differently. You see, the Catholics and Protestants concocted their version of Jesus long before there was a Bible. In fact the Bible would not even be compiled until 75 years AFTER they...
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Do you think Mormons are not Christians? Why?
Since there are at least two different definitions for Christian, I suppose one would have to ask, of which Christian definition are we referring? The most common definition given by the majority of Orthodox Christians does not even began to fit the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. But does that mean we are not Christian? The definition by which the Church of Jesus Christ claims...
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Mormonism..respecatable religion or crazy cult?
I suppose it all depends on who you ask. As far as I am concerned, any man/woman can say what ever they want about another religion. But the opinion that really matters is what the Lord has to say. And according to those who decided what constitutes a "Cult", The original Church organized by Jesus Christ while he was on earth, would qualify as a "Cult" as well. So as a...
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Do Mormons believe Jesus was a polygamist?
Anonymous, and Glenn are both right. The church has not nor will they teach that Jesus was married. However, it can be found in the Naghamadi, (not sure of the spelling) library that Jesus was married to both Mary and Martha, and even Mary Magdalene, that is why the Jews killed him, for practicing Polygamy. The Church doctrine will only consist of doctrines that help bring about our...
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How do Mormons explain no archeological evidence of the supposed big battle in New York?
One of the biggest problems we have had in trying to physically prove the Book of Mormon, is not knowing exactly where to look. Until now! Recently Non-Mormon Scientists have discovered a new strain of DNA which is most unusual. They didn't know what to call it so they just gave it the name of Haplogroup x2. And another surprising fact they discovered is, there are ONLY two areas of...
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Do Mormons believe that Jesus died for their sins? Why or why not?
Absolutely we do! However there is something everyone else needs to know about this subject. Jesus did come into the world to pay for the sins of the world, BUT, ONLY THOSE who, 1. Have Faith in Jesus Christ. 2.Repent of all their sins. 3.Are Baptized, as Jesus was, by one holding the Priesthood from God. 4.Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of hands, by one holding the...
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Do Mormons believe the Bible has stood the test of time without needing additional scripture?
Absolutely not! Tell me, does it take the whole Bible as we know it today, to be complete? If so, then you must admit that God has toyed with mankind for the past 4400 years, before He finally gave us a complete Book of Scripture. And that means God IS a RESPECTER OF PERSONS! And therefore is not perfect after all! Meaning, Millions and Millions of people just like you and me, were born,...
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Do Mormons believe that Hell is an escapeable place, And that once your time is served you get to go to Heaven?
Glenn gave a pretty good answer, but I doubt there is enough time or patience here to really do this subject justice. When we die our bodies remain here on this earth, either buried or Cremated,or whatever. Our spirits go to a place called Paradise. This is a Persian word which has several meanings, but one is "A place of waiting for departed spirits." We learn from scriptures...
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What are mormons (who are married) not allowed to do during sex? I've heard there are rules, and no one will answer my questions.
Smoke, drink Coffee, and get drunk!, Does it matter, why do you want to know? Are Mormons somehow the trendsetters for what to do during sex? I think someone needs to get a hobby, they have far too much time on their hands...Later
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Do Mormons believe that Jesus Christ died twice, once in Europe, and another time in America?
Of course not! Jesus Christ was crucified once, just outside Jerusalem. And Rom.6;9, says.."Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him." A resurrected being cannot die again, ever, they are eternal. Christ only died once!...Later
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Do Mormons believe in angels?
We certainly do! Now what is an Angel? There are actually two basic kinds of Angels. 1. Those whom God uses to convey messages to earth to prophets. 2. Those who followed Satan and were cast down to the earth to try and torment man. The first, may be spirits, or could be resurrected beings, or perhaps translated beings, as God desires. The second are all evil spirits and will be for...
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Do Mormons believe Joseph Smith sits on the left-hand side of God?
I doubt that will ever happen. Since the Lord has always stated the sheep will reside at His right hand, while the goats will be on His left...Later
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Do Mormons consider The Bible or the Book of Mormon to be the higher authority?
Actually we believe God, our heavenly Father to be the Highest authority of everything. It isn't our fault you are not receiving any revelations from God, and that your highest authority is the Bible. Except you seem to forget, the Bible cannot speak, it cannot teach, it cannot answer any questions. It is only an inanimate object. Simply put, it is a book filled with words. In order...
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Do Mormons believe Mary was a virgin when she gave birth?
Actually, the ancient manuscripts, from which the Bible was translated do not contain the word "Virgin" the manuscripts use the word that means "young woman." It was the Scholars who inserted the word virgin. Although most young women were virgins, Mary would not be one, after she bore Jesus. And in fact, if the Father Himself, "overshadowed Mary" as the bible...
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Do Mormons follow rules for what they are supposed to do on Sundays? If so, what are these rules?
Our rules are more of what we are not supposed to do, rather than what we are supposed to do. As Glenn said we do not do anything that would require someone else to work in our behalf. So we do not shop anywhere on Sunday's, and we do not attend any Sporting events either. Nor attend the Zoo, or other exhibits where someone would have to be there to take care of us. Mostly we are to...
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Do Mormons believe African-Americans can go to heaven?
I can tell you quite plainly, there will be no Black people in heaven! Actually, that is because the day will come when there will be no Black people at all, period. Perhaps I should explain..in 1978 the Lord removed the curse from the "Seed of Cain." and now all worthy righteous men may hold the Priesthood. However, the "Mark" placed upon Cain and his posterity will...
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Do Mormons allow children to take part in Halloween celebrations?
My wife and I had 7 children and every year they all looked forward to going door to door to say "Trick of Treat? They got far more candy and toys than they ever needed, but they had fun. And that is all it was, to them. They knew nothing about it being a Pagan Holiday, as well. But then a Pagan Holiday is only a Pagan Holiday, if you celebrate it as such. Otherwise it is just another...
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Can mormons be cremated? what is the church's stance on the matter if your body is to be resurrected in perfection do you need to actually have one rotting in the ground somewhere or could it just rise from you scattered ashes?
Years ago, My wife's Mother stated she wanted to be cremated. She was not Mormon so she could request anything she wanted. However, my wife wanted to know if she should try to talk her out of it, so she went to our Bishop to find out about Cremation. He explained how we discourage it for our members, but if those outside the church specifically request Cremation, we should honor their...
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Are there different kinds of Mormons?
Not knowing exactly what you are looking for, as can be determined by the answers already given. I will say there is also another way in which two kinds of Mormons exist. 1.Those who are totally and completely converted to the Church and all it stands for, because of a deep spiritual experience. 2.Those who try to believe, but still have some doubts and some questions. In other words, they...
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Do Mormons believe the Bible is inspired by God?
It really doesn't matter whether the Bible is inspired by God or not. What really matters is whether the one who interprets the Bible is inspired, or not. There are 40,000 different Christian Churches in the world today, and 3300 different versions of the Bible. They are all different because no two of them agree completely, with another. Whether it be a Christian Church or a version...
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If Christ died for ALL of the sins of those who believe, why is Murder considered a sin that can not be forgiven?
Perhaps you could show me one scripture which says Jesus came to pay for ALL of the sins of those who believe? All I have read says Jesus came to suffer for the sins of all mankind! One can clearly see that Jesus did not pay for ALL sins, when he himself stated..Matt.12;31,32.."Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against...
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Is it true that Brigham Young believed that it was acceptable to kill people to atone for their sins?
It is true, that Brigham Young did preach a doctrine similar to this. However, this was not his personal doctrine, nor did it originate with the "Mormon" Church. This was taught by the Lord many years ago. I refer you to Gen.9;6.."Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man." I would suggest if anyone has a problem...
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Mormons: Where is Joseph Smith's grave site?
The last official word I have read, years ago, stated Joseph and Hyrum were buried in the basement of the Nauvoo Mansion. Then fearing that their bodies may be dug up and desecrated, they were moved secretly to an unmarked location. Which only Emma, and a couple of people who helped move them, knew about. I know the Community of Christ Church thinks they have found the remains of Joseph and...
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If the official First Vision story was so important, why did it go unpublished until 1842?
Joseph Smith was so uneducated he could hardly write his own name. He frankly, never intended to record the First Vision. But because so many others had given their version, of his vision, and added things that were not true, He decided to, with the help of a scribe, record an official version himself. He decided, by 1838, that everyone should know exactly what happened on that beautiful...
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Latayne Scott in a recent interview posed this thought provoking question: Why is it that the vast majority of Joseph Smith's direct disciples and wives (that is those who knew him intimately) left him, denounced him and became publicly critical of him?
I suppose it was for the same reason that the 12 Apostles abandoned Jesus, when he was arrested by the Jewish High Priests and roman Solders. It just goes to show, no matter how true a thing is, people are only as strong as their personal beliefs, in the thing they hold to be true. Those who turned against Joseph Smith, were critical of him and his calling, but never denied their Testimony in...
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If Joseph Smith's First Vision was the most important historical event since the atonement, then why does the Historical Record clearly demonstrate that early LdS Church members and leaders didn't know about it?
I am not sure, to which Historical Record you refer, but I can assure you that as early as 1832 the first account of Joseph's vision was recorded. And other accounts were also written in 1834,1835,1838, as well as 1842. I have found as many as 13 separate accounts recorded by different people about the First Vision. How can you say the early Leaders knew nothing about it? We do not...
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Do Mormons believe the Native Americans to be descendents of Jews?
I am not going to give the same history that has been given concerning the book of Mormon and which Tribes were represented, except to say I agree with what has been said by other LDS posters here. But I will add some new information that has just been discovered by Scientists,(non-Mormon) about the Native Americans here in the Americas. The former DNA tests which were done have now been...
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How many Mormons are Free Masons? or How many Free Masons are Mormon? They're kinda one in the same, aren't they?
Does it really matter? Besides how could anyone know?...Later
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Do Mormons pray to Jesus?
No, of course not! Nor does Jesus ever encourage us to do so. He has always told us to pray to the Father in his name. Jesus even told his Apostles, (Jn.15;16).."Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you." No...
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Did joesph smith wrote the book of mormons according to the bible
I'm sure you meant to ask..Did Joseph Smith "write" the Book of Mormon, according to the Bible? The answer is, absolutely not! Joseph Smith did not have the ability to do such a thing! His wife Emma, testified "Joseph could not even write a simple letter, let alone a Book of Mormon." She was right there, while he was translating. In fact she even acted as his...
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Why do some Mormon parents not like their children dating non-Mormons?
There is a saying, or two, we parents use in the Church, when instructing our kids about dating. 1. Pick a date fit for a mate. 2. You will marry whom you date. We happen to believe the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Say Saints, is the one and only true Church on the earth today. And we will not hesitate to tell you so. It is not just a belief, we know beyond all doubt, this is true....
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Why did the Mormons settle in Utah?
Why did the Mormons settle in Utah? 1. Joseph Smith prophesied they would be driven there. 2. Brigham Young saw in vision the salt Lake valley, long before they got there, and when they arrived, he took one look and announced.."This is the place." Also, there is another reason why they ended up in the mountain west. In 1832 Joseph Smith received a revelation on "War."...
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Are Mormons allowed to drink alcohol?
Are Mormons allowed to drink alcohol? Allowed by whom? If they choose to drink alcohol, they will one day answer to the Lord. The Church does not have an alcohol police, checking every bar, or saloon, or nightclub, etc where alcohol is sold or available. But when they come in for a Temple Recommend Interview they will be ask if they keep the Word of Wisdom. Their answer whether, yes or no,...
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I heard Mormons believe that God sent angels with swords to enforce polygamy. Is this true, and if so, why do they believe He did this?
Glenn is correct in his statement. However, allow me to elaborate a little bit, if I may. Very few people understand that Polygamy was and is a principle of God and always has been. And when Joseph Smith was called to restore the Gospel, it was his responsibility to restore the whole Gospel of Jesus Christ. That means he was to restore everything which had been had on earth once but had...
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What is the significance of baptism to Mormons?
Although there are many things that could be mentioned, let me just mention a few. 1. Jesus told Nicodemus "Except a man be born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God." 2.Then later clarified his statement by saying.."Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." 3.What many people do not know is that even Jesus had to follow...
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What makes the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Mormons, and Jehovah Witness a cult more than other christian groups?
The biggest reason is because the Orthodox Christians got together and decided what a Cult was. Using as their criteria any and all of those religions which do not meet with their agenda. And by their standards, the Church which Jesus organized while he was on earth would also be a "Cult." But I'm sure most Orthodox Christians do not know this. So much for opinions...Later
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Did you know that Mormons massacred 120 people in cold blood on September 11, 1857?
And did you know that in 1838 many Christians joined a mob of about 200 and massacred 18 men and boys at Hauns Mill, near Far West? Does either one strike you as being fair? The Mob had no excuse, except pure hate. The Mormons were not alone at Mountain Meadows. There were about 10 Tribes of Indians who started fighting the Wagon Train two days before they forced the Mormons to help them....
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Why do Mormons Practice Baptism for the Dead? Did any of the early church leaders teach this principal?
Very few people know, or understand that God, our Heavenly Father has placed Himself in a very precarious position.
Let me explain..In Acts 17;26, we read.."And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;" Then in Jn.14;6.."Jesus saith unto him, I am...
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Answer to:
Can you explain the mormon religion to me?
Yes I can! do you have any other questions?...Later
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Do Mormons believe God is a human man on another planet, and that they will become other gods someday?
Do we believe this? Absolutely! Do we teach this today? NO! At least not as Church doctrine. A few years ago Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley in an interview stated..in a 1997 Time Magazine interview, the current President, Gordon B. Hinckley, when asked if the church still holds that God was once a man said, "I don't know that we teach it. I don't know that we emphasize it. . . . I...
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According to the Bible, how does God communicate with mankind?
Using the Bible as a guide, and looking at the whole picture as to how God actually works in this area we find the following. Ever since there has been a righteous man on the earth, God has called one to speak to Him and for Him. These men are called Prophets. And for 4000+ years, God has always called Prophets, by which to communicate with mankind. In fact Amos 3;7 reads..."Surely the...
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What exactly is a Mormon and how is a Mormon really different for any other Christian faith? And is it true that not black people can not go to Mormon heaven?
Let me address your last question, first. "Not black people can go to Mormon heaven? 1.There is no such thing as Mormon heaven! 2.All Heavens and Hells belong to God. It is He who decides who will reside there. Now what is a Mormon? I know this has been answered before, "Mormon" is a nickname given to the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. When...
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Do Mormons believe in a "different Jesus" from that of other Christians?
I certainly hope so! Their Jesus was concocted in a council of 318 Catholic Bishops, 75 years before the Bible was even compiled. And then, only after Emperor Constantine (a Sun worshiper) made a change to their wording, and then under threat of exile, was it accepted. Our Jesus, which is clearly described in the bible, is somewhat different. But primarily we know about him from a vision of...
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"The LDS scriptures simply do not allow Mormons to view the others [non-LdS groups] as legitimate churches. Separation, then, makes theological sense on both sides." (Mormon America, p. 329) Thoughts?
I shall have to agree with this statement. But by way of explanation, there can only be ONE true Church on earth at a time. Even though we accept other Churches and or Religions as being sincere, we also accept them as being sincerely wrong! Why only ONE true Church? If that Church is true, it will teach all truth! Why would God need another Church, to teach the same things? There is only...
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Why was the book of mormon created and what is its purpose?, when compared to the bible
Regardless of the comments which have already been posted, allow me to add my two cents.(I'm sure that's about what many of you think they are worth.) First let's look at the Bible. What do we actually see..we see a book filled with words. Or (if you will)an inanimate object. So many people here, say.."The Bible says this, or the Bible says that", but in fact the...
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Do Mormons believe in the Immaculate Conception?
No we do not! The Immaculate Conception is strictly a doctrine held by the Catholic Church. And since it is not found in the Bible, it had to come through the Church many years (1854 AD)after the death of the Apostles. And since the Catholic Church teaches and believes.."The Christian dispensation, therefore, as the new and definitive covenant. Will never pass away, and we now await no...
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What is a "Mormon Stumper"?
Why can�t you drink tea or coffee? Answer: Because God said these hot drinks are not good for the body.
There was no reason given, we were just told not to do it. No stumper here!
Question: Does the church practice polygamy? Common Mormon answer is no. But if you ask when married in the temple is it for eternity the answer is yes. What if the wife dies? Can you marry another? Answer is...
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I hear there are beleifs in the Mormon church that have been proven to be wrong. Can anybody give me examples?
Actually, when you ask for beliefs which have been proven to be wrong, you are asking for things that actually do not exist! Sure there are many things which people from all Churches today do not accept and who use their own interpretation of things to prove to themselves our doctrines are false, but that really doesn't prove anything to actually be true or false. For instance, if...
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Is the Book of Mormon worth anything as an allegory?
The Book of Mormon should be read as an actual history of a people who lived on another continent, thousands of miles away and contemporary with the people who lived and wrote, what we know today, as the Bible. It does not intend to replace the Bible, nor does it claim to oppose it. But it indeed testifies that the same Jesus, of which is spoken of in the Bible, did in fact visit them in the...
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Why is it the Mormons believes having black skin is a curse from god?
Several have already posted as to where the idea came from concerning the "Negro and the Priesthood" So I shall not dwell too much on that. I would just ask a question or two. From History we know that most of Ham's children were black. We also know Ham was NOT Black, so where did his children get their Black skin? Obviously from his wife. But where did she get her Black...
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What is the Mormon belief about UFOs and life on other planets?
First let me say, The LDS Church does not tell us what to believe. They,(our leaders) teach us correct principles, then let us govern ourselves. Therefore they do not venture to say one way or another as to the visits of others from other worlds. Our scriptures tell us there are worlds without number, and each is called Earth, and there are inhabitants on each one of them. But beyond that...
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If the Lord had a Church on earth today, what would it look like?
Actually it would look exactly like the Church Jesus organized when he lived on earth. As he said, "My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work." The Church Jesus organized was absolutely perfect. And you cannot change something that is perfect and still make it perfect! It will be built upon the foundation of 12 living Apostles. It will have all the...
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When the Bible and the Book of Mormon contradict each other, which one do Mormons use?
Actually we use both, because they never contradict! Contradiction only enters the picture when non-Mormons try to read and interpret them using their own understanding. Actually, by us using both books together we can get a fuller explanation of just about any Gospel subject. However, there are times when the Bible has clearly been changed from it's original source, as we understand....
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Why would a Baptist want to convert to Mormonism when in Mormonism salvation is not guaranteed?
I would say the Baptist saw the light and was converted to the one and only true Church. You say "salvation is not guaranteed" in the Mormon Church. And you are right! Actually, the Salvation, you speak of, is not guaranteed in any Church, including the Baptist! I know you think so, but I can assure you it is not! You also say Salvation is a free gift from God. In one sense you...
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What does the Mormon church do with all the tithing money they collect? 10% of every mormon's income? Where does all that untaxed money go?
First of all, what makes you think our Tithing money is not taxed? We pay Tithing on our total Gross income, before anything is taken out. That is the way we figure our total increase of which we pay 10%. Tithing is a principle of the Gospel which the Lord instituted many years ago. Long before the "Mormon" Church came to be. What we do with our money is between us and the Lord....
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Where in the mormon scriptures (book of mormon,doctrine and covenants,or pearl of great price) say in the afterlife we will get our own planets to populate.
First of all, our doctrines do not come from any books, scripture or otherwise. They come from a living prophet which then becomes scripture. And becomes binding on the whole Church when it is voted on by all the congregations of the Church, to accept it as scripture. But the voting must be unanimous among the General Authorities as well as the members. Now as to your question, this...
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Can religious truth only be found in the one true Church?
Of course not! All truth comes from God and believe it of not Satan often uses some truth, or at least half-truths to deceive us from time to time. So there are some truths found in all religions throughout the world. But there can only be ONE true Church on the earth at any given time. And that Church will be led by a living Prophet, will have 12 living Apostles at its foundation, and will...
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If a person lives the best he/she knows how, but does not belong to a Church, will they still go to heaven?
When I ask this question I knew it could be answered in a number of ways. And as I look over the numerous answers I find it was answered in a number of ways. So now let me give you a "Mormon" answer, which is somewhat different than all the other answers given.
First of all let me say a Church is not necessarily a building. In this case a Church is an organization of people, who...
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Why is it important to find the true Church?
In the world today there are over 40,000 different Christian Churches, comprising over 1 Billion members. The Catholic Church also has over 1 Billion members. I know the Mormons number nearly 14 Million members. And of those many billions of people in those different Churches, except for the Mormons and maybe the Catholics, you cannot find two Churches or groups of people who teach and...
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Do Mormons believe Jesus will return to Earth and have His headquarters in a Mormon temple in Jackson County, Missouri, USA?
Actually, when Christ returns to the earth to usher in the Millennium, he will set up two separate headquarters, from which he will work. One will be in Jerusalem and the other will be in Jackson County Missouri. From Jerusalem will come the word of God, and the Law will come forth from Independence, Missouri. and from these two Capitols Jesus will rule the World...whew4
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Besides 9/11 & Iraq conspiracy theories and any religious beliefs (including the evolution vs creationism debate), what’s the theory or belief that a fair number of people have that you think is totally crackpot?
Perhaps the biggest crackpot theory I have heard is the "Big Bang Theory" which is supposed to have started the creation of man! Whew4
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Answer to:
Is salvation denied if one does not accept Joseph Smith as a prophet of God?
Yes and no! If you are referring to the salvation in the Celestial Kingdom, the answer is yes, we must accept Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith as his Prophet to enter that kingdom. However many will be saved in two other kingdoms without having to accept Joseph Smith at all. If you have any complaints, take it up with the Lord. Joseph Smith was either God's Prophet that restored His true...
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Resolved: "Via the doctrine of 'progressive' or 'ongoing' revelation Latter Day Saint movement rejects propositional truth in favor of relative truth." How do you respond to this resolution? And please state if you are LDS or non-LDS in your answer.
As a Latter Day Saint I can say your definitions of truth is quite simple, but true. However, many truths which we receive from God are not complete in and of themselves. Or in other words, God can and often does add to His truths as He sees fit. The truths do not change, nor cease to be true, they just encompass a greater scope than they originally did. For instance, Jesus told Nicodemus...
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My great grand-parents were baptized Mormon after they died. As far as I know they did not request this. Why do Mormons baptize the dead?
I see a lot of people claim to be offended because we LDS Baptize for the dead. The real emphasis should be placed on the act itself. The fact is IF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS HAS AUTHORITY TO BAPTIZE, WE COULD ONLY GET IT FROM GOD. And if we did get that authority from God, what we are doing is His will. If we do not have the authority to baptize, it doesn't...
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If the Book of Mormon is true, why do Native Americans fail to turn white when they become Mormons? (2 Nephi 30:6, prior to the 1981 revision).
Actually the word "white" was written in by Oliver Cowdery. It was not supposed to be included in the Book of Mormon at all. Here is a quote from the Ensign.. "Here is a short excerpt taken from an article found in the Dec. 1983 Ensign, an official publication of the LDS Church. A few other changes involving meaning appear to be more significant. In 2 Nephi 30:6 [2 Ne. 30:6],...
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In the Book of Mormon it describes how God told Nephi to slay Laban. (1 NE 4: 1-38) Does that indicate that Murder, Robbery, Identity Theft and Kidnapping are acceptable to Mormons if they believe that God told them to do it?
First of all, Murder is defined as "shedding innocent blood". Laban was anything but innocent. 2. The plates in question did not belong to Laban. He was only the next in line to watch over them. They contained the Lords Law as well as a genealogy of a whole group of people, including Laban and Lehi and his family. And the Lord knew that Laban would send his army after Lehi and...
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Mormons-one of you just said this to explain why some people have different colour skin-"God had a very good reason for marking a certain group of people in order to allow another group of people to avoid them." Do you agree?
First of all there were two separate instances in which God placed some kind of mark on a people for the purpose of identifying them. Which the scriptures state was so that others would avoid them. However, neither event had anything whatsoever to do with the other. And racism was not involved in either case. The people who were marked were not persecuted or discriminated against because of...
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If we met intelligent beings from another planet whose religious beliefs differ from yours, how do you think you would interpret their beliefs?
I can only answer this question from a Latter Day
Saint point of view. 1. No being from another world will ever visit this earth, God will not allow such. 2. If such a thing did happen, their religion or beliefs would be exactly the same as is taught in the LDS Church. Since we both have the same God, our beliefs would be the same. Therefore there would not be a need to interpret...
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Answer to:
Rather or not you are religious.
Do you choose your beliefs because you feel they are correct, or because you loath all other beliefs?
I have been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints all my life. I have not always believed what they taught, but through much study and prayer, I now know that what they teach and believe is absolutely true. There is no doubt in my mind, I know we teach the whole truth. I also believe everyone else has the right to claim the same for their church or religion. I do not...
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Do you control your BELIEFS or your beliefs CONTROL you?
I suppose it depends on where a persons beliefs come from. Or at least where a person believes his beliefs come from. If a person really believes his beliefs come from God, his/her beliefs should control or at least influence their decisions in life. If they are not sure than they should control their own actions,based on that uncertainty. As for me, I know my beliefs come from God and...
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How much evidence to you require to change your current beliefs to non beliefs?
No amount of evidence would make me change my beliefs. Physical evidence is always subject to the interpretation of the individual viewing the evidence. And no one has gotten it right every time thus far. No matter what the evidence, there will always be a certain few who will interpret that evidence differently. The only sure proof is spiritual conviction directly from God, in the form of...
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What are mormans beliefs in medical decisions vs catholic beliefs
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints believes that all medical knowledge on earth today came from God, as does all truth. Therefore we do believe in Doctors who are properly trained in their fields of Medicine. We however do not necessarily encourage our people to go to a doctor for things such as "Breast Implants", or "Tummy Tuck's", or other cosmetic...
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If there was evidence that contradicted your beliefs, would you deny the evidence or change your beliefs?
Absolutely Not! I have a firm knowledge and Testimony of my beliefs and doctrines. Evidence is always subject to the individual viewing and interpreting such. There has been no piece of evidence to date that is accepted equally by all Scientists and Scholars! No evidence is universally accepted by all Scientists or Scholars as being complete or fact! Why would anyone base their religious...
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What belief system were you raised with? What belief system are you now?
I was Born to parents who belonged to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and was Baptized at the age of 8 years old. I have been a "Mormon" all of my life and I will die a "Mormon". And happy to do so! whew4
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I want to find out about people who continue to uphold a belief and/or a belief system, despite the fact that they are confronted with all kinds facts that their beliefs are false/unfounded.
I am sure you are aware that there are true facts and there are some things which are believed to be true facts, but are later proved to be false. So it is not too likely that anyone who really believes in something is going to surrender that belief just because someone thinks he/she is wrong. Faith and prayer are needed to know if the facts presented are accurate or not. Things not proven...
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I want to find out about people who continue to uphold a belief and/or a belief system, despite the fact that they are confronted with all kinds facts that their beliefs are false/unfounded.
I am sure you are aware that there are true facts and there are false facts. Or at least facts which are later proven false but in the beginning believed to be true. So just because someone presents what he/she considers to be true facts, does not mean they actually are true or are fact. If a person really believes something to be true, they are not going to surrender that truth just because...
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Mormons believe that Native Americans descended directly from Ancient Israelites. Native Aerican historians believe the Native Americans migrated from parts of Asia an Russia How do Mormons explain this discrepancy.
New evidence has just been uncovered in just the last few years. A young man named Rod Meldrum has done some extensive Scientific research on the Book of Mormon and has uncovered some very earth shattering information. It is his contention that the Book of Mormon DID NOT TAKE PLACE IN SOUTH AMERICA! But by DNA Evidence has found that the Book of Mormon took place here in United states. It...
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Mormons and Freemasons use many of the same symbols on their "lodges" and "temples." These symbols include the compass, square, beehive, and more. What's the connection?
The connection, believe it or not, comes from the Lord. Originally the things of the temple were revealed to David and Solomon, for the temple ceremonies. Which have come down through the years, by tradition, through the Masons. Who have a very distorted semblance of the original. So how did Joseph Smith receive these similar ceremonies? Certainly not from the Masons! Joseph Smith started...
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Mormons, if we choose our parents before we're born, then why do some of us choose non-Mormon parents?
Aren't we risking the possibility of not getting into heaven through no fault of our own?
(I'm truly curious as to your stance on this issue.)
Although this question has been answered quite well, I feel I should add a couple of things here. I was told in my patriarchal blessing that I was blessed to come to righteous parents. And one of my sons was told in his blessing that he chose my wife and I as his parents in the pre-existence. Although this is not common, nor is it taught as a doctrine of the church, but the Patriarch is a...
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Are Mormons anti-Christians?
In answer to your question, absolutely not! We are Christian, why would we be against ourselves? Silly question in my humble opinion. We do not claim to be Protestant or Catholic Christian, nor do we want to be such. We are Christian according to Christ's instructions, not according to man's instruction, as are the "Orthodox" Christians. Jesus gave his Apostles specific...
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Any others really ticked at the mormon CHURCH after prop 8?
After reading all the other answers here I see none of you have any clue why the LDS Church did what they did with Prop.8. First of all, the church did not invest one dime in fighting for prop 8. All donations came from members of the church. Now why were the members of the Church so in favor of prop 8? It goes much deeper than a few Gay's and Lesbian's. We have nothing against...
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Is this a good representation of Christian beliefs?
I suppose they are pretty close to the Protestant Christian beliefs. At least to most of them. The Catholics as one stated is not quite the same. And there is another group of Christians which differs greatly from either of these groups. That is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It doesn't matter that we are not recognized as Christian, by the others, we know better,...
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Does Science back up Christian beliefs? ae8
I suppose it depends on which brand of Christianity you are asking. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints believes "True Science and true Religion will never conflict." However, we do not check to see if Science agrees with what we teach and believe, because science has not yet reached the point of truth. They are still in the speculative stage. They have not yet reached...
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Can you legislate someone's beliefs?
Your question is so vague there could be a number of answers. Are you speaking politically, religiously, metaphorically, etc. Are you asking "Is it possible?" In some instances yes. The government does it all the time. They regulate Taxes, Health Insurance, welfare, Unemployment, The Housing Industry, etc. Many Churches set boundries as to what is acceptable and not acceptable....
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When God revealed the "Word of Wisdom" (D&C 89) as a health guide for the Saints why did He recommend tobacco as a poultice for bruises in verse 8? Is some some scientific or medical evidence that validates this? Do some Mormons follow this practice?
I cannot speak for other LDS members, but when I was growing up in Arizona, we had a Milk Cow most of my growing years. One time our Cow got into some wet hay and became bloated and would not respond to any treatments from the Vet. So he just told my dad the only humane thing to do was to put her down. But my dad decided to try to use tobacco instead. He purchased a plug of chewing tobacco...
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Do Mormons study the Bible?
Absolutely we do. In fact it is a very important part of our scriptures. And we study the whole Bible, both Old and New Testaments. I often hear of many Christian Churches who only study the New Testament and completely ignore the Old Testament. Oh well, to each his own. whew4
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Joseph Smith said that he found a book of golden plates in the hill Commorah in Palmyra NY in a Stone Box with specific dimensions. Where is this stone box today?
I am not sure why there is such an interest in the Stone Box. Even if we had such a thing, you would then want us to prove that box was the exact same box in question. However we have a quote from Chicago Times in an interview with David Whitmer "David Whitmer, a contemporary resident of the area and early convert to the church, and one of the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon,...
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Why do conservative Christians demonize Mormons and say that they are a cult? Both groups have similar beliefs on many subjects, including chastity. So why are conservative Christians reluctant to accept Mormons as fellow Christians?
They are basically just saying the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is so different in doctrines and practices, than any other Christian Church, they are more suited to be a Cult, than a Christian Church. But what they do not understand is, everything they describe, for what makes a Cult, which can be found in our church, can also be found in the Original Church of Jesus Christ,...
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Who's beliefs are more "out there" Mormons or Scientologists?
I suppose it depends on who you ask! Every individual has their own idea and interpretation about "out there". So I guess you are the only one who can really answer that question, for you...whew4
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Mormons, it's been said, 'Belief trumps evidence' in regards to how people approach religious faith. If there WERE an evidence that would cause you to abandon Mormonism what would it be?
I'm afraid there is no evidence I would accept, except to have God and or Jesus Christ appear to me in person and tell me the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is false. Then I would have to know beyond all doubt that it was God or Christ I was seeing. I am that sure of what I know to be true...whew4
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Why do mormons have masonic beliefs
It would be interesting to know which of our beliefs you think came from the Masons? The only similar connection we have with the Masons is our Temple Endowment Ceremonies. But Joseph Smith did not become a Mason until 1842. And he and Sydney Rigdon attended 3 meetings in two days and attained the level of Master Mason, which is that of a Novice. As a novice Neither of them would be exposed...
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Is the Bear Lake Monster part of official Mormon doctrine? Why did Brigham Young spend Church dollars trying to catch it with a giant hook?
Perhaps, you could show me where this is recorded? I know about the "Bear Lake Monster" but I can find nothing about Brigham being involved in this myth. I would be happy to see where you get your information. ..whew4
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Why does the Mormon church spend so much money in support of anti-gay marriage legislation? You'd think that they would sympathize with being an oppressed people?
This a good question, So let me tell you why the Church is so set against Gay marriages. It really has nothing whatsoever to do directly with the gay communities. They just happen to be caught in the middle. In the pre-existence we all lived with our heavenly Father, who presented us with a plan whereby we could one day become like Him. It would require two things. 1. A physical body. 2....
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What is an Anti-Mormon?
An Anti-Mormon is anyone who publishes or posts any false information about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, KNOWINGLY. Unfortunately many sincere people often post information from Christian or Catholic websites about the church of Jesus Christ, not knowing that the information is not true. They trust their sources, not realizing they would lie just to discourage anyone from...
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Why is the Passover mentioned 71 times in the Bible, but zero times in the Book of Mormon?
There is actually a couple of reasons for this. 1. Lehi and his family left Jerusalem in 600 BC. Long before Moses received the Law of Moses, which included celebrating the Passover. 2. The Nephites were not in bondage in Egypt for 400 years, which resulted in the Passover. So they would have no reason to remember something they never experienced, let alone celebrate the event. There were...
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Is it a regular LDS Church practice to keep a copy of a persons Patriarchal Blessing archived?
It would probably be more accurate to say, they try to keep a copy of every members Patriarchal Blessing. However, in reality it is not true. My wive and I visited Salt Lake a few years ago, and went to get a copy of my blessing, but they did not have any on file for me. They told me that it is up to the Stake Patriarch to send them a copy of every Blessing he gives. Sometimes they fail to...
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Jesus christ must have taught the american natives a new gospel, or their would have no need for the book of mormon, is that right?
Not exactly! The fact is the Bible is a witness, from the old world, that Jesus is the Son of God, the Savior of the world. The Book of Mormon is a witness from the new world, that Jesus is the Son of God, the Savior of the world. In fulfillment of his teachings found in the Bible, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, shall every word be established. If you remove the Book of Mormon...
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Why do Mormons deny the truth of their own history?
We do not deny anything that is proven true. History is a matter of perspective. Very few Historians will agree 100% even when given access to the same materials from which to draw. It is a proven fact that all histories written, are from the perspective of the author. Most have an agenda of one kind or another. Just look at the histories written about the Civil War. Southern writers...
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How do Mormons interpret the portion of Isaiah 45:5 that says, "besides me there is no other God"?
First of all we need to read the scriptures in context. Isaiah 45;5.."I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:"
1. Who is speaking? Answer.. Jehovah. And who is Jehovah? Answer..Jesus Christ. Where was the Father? Answer..In heaven. So right away we know that scripture does not mean what the Christian...
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Those who don't follow the Word of Wisdom aren't allowed to enter the Temple, but wouldn't Jesus allow someone into his home who smokes or drinks coffee? Jesus invites the sinner in.
Jesus said "for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Matt.9;13) Yes Jesus came to this earth to call sinners to repentance. However, your question involves what Jesus would do in his house. His house is in heaven, so I doubt he would invite sinners into his house now. He has already fulfilled that calling on this earth, of inviting sinners to come unto...
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Am a new convert to the LDS Faith... What books should I read to strengthen my faith?
My dear, as a new member, I would suggest you get a book called "A marvelous Work and a Wonder", written by Legrand Richards. This book was written especially for investigators and new members. It is not used much anymore, but it is still a great book. If none of your ward members have a copy, I'm sure you might find a copy in your Ward library, or at the LDS Book Store. Good...
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What evidence is there to support the total apostasy of the early Christian church, eventually leading to the Joseph Smith restoration? Also, If the TOTAL apostasy never occured, doesn't this mean that no restoration was necessary?
You must first understand, Apostasy is a process not an event. And point #2 we are talking about a falling away of the Church organization and teachings. Not a falling away of the members. Although many did fall away through the years. Now was there a TOTAL APOSTASY from the church Jesus organized? All you need to do is look at the Church that remained after the Apostles were killed. The...
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How do you think that today's Mormonism would be different if Joseph Smith hadn't been assassinated at 38-years of age and instead had lived to 86.6-years of age? (Not counting Joseph Smith, 86.6 is the average longevity of the remaining 15 presidents)
Although this is a great question, there are certain things that make this impossible. Joseph Smith stated at one time that every man who has been called to a Church position, was pre-ordained to that calling in the pre-existence. Had Joseph lived to 86.6 years, some of our Prophets would not have been called to lead this Church and that would have disrupted the Lords plan. Our Father would...
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I am searching my spiritual path and I am looking into the Mormon faith and have been for 3+ years. I have a friend who just converted was baptized just a few weeks ago... When will she be able to go to the temple?
I have to ask you a question. Why is it taking you so long to come to a decision? Did you know you do not have to have a full knowledge of the Church before you can join? Actually, all you need to know is whether Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God or not. If he was a Prophet then everything he gave us in this Church has to be true. A Prophet of God is not going to give us anything that is...
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For current or former Mormons: According to doctrine, did the God of this world create the souls of its inhabitants, or have our souls ALWAYS existed?
I have hesitated to answer this question for a couple of reasons. So many of our Protestant Christian friends have many times purposely asked questions here to try to catch the LDS members in their words. For instance you have asked if the "God of this world" had created the souls of it's inhabitants. To the LDS, we know Satan calls himself the "God of this world."...
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My son wants to serve a mission but will have to complete two years at the Naval Academy first. By the time that comes around, he will be 21. Is there an age limit for young men?
Times and events do change and I am not sure what the requirements are now. I served my mission in the early 60's and I was 21 and two brethren who served with me were in their 60's, serving their 4th mission. So I would suggest you contact a local Bishop, he would know what the present policy is today. whew4
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Why did the Nauvoo House not stand forever and ever? (Doc. & Cov. 124:56-60).
Perhaps, because forever and ever has not happened yet. How do you know it will not stand? There is a lot of time left for that to happen. It is still standing as of today...whew4
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If I Accept You as a Christian, Will You Accept Me as a Mormon?
I am a Christian Latter day Saint already, whether you accept me or not. But do I wish to be an Orthodox Christian? Not on your life! Why give up the only true Church, for one that has only some truth to it, at best. I am totally satisfied with where I am, thank you...whew4
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Latter Day Saints and Evangelicals bicker endlessly over whether Mormons are "Christians." Is there an objective criteria that's external to BOTH groups that we can use to make a determination? If so, what is it?
There is no external criteria that both groups would accept as authority. However, we LDS do not want to be considered mainstream Christian, under any circumstances. We love our Christian brothers and sisters, but we are not one of them. We are Christian however in our own right, as I shall explain. The very first sermon preached by the 12 Apostles on the day of Pentacost, laid out certain...
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If the Bible says “for in the resurrection neither do men marry nor are women given in marriage." in the books of Matthew and Mark, why do Mormons "seal" themselves to spouses to be with in the resurrection?
first of all you need to understand there are two kinds of marriages spoken of in the bible. 1. Eternal Marriage, and 2. Civil Marriage, or till death do you part. Let's look at the very first Marriage performed in the bible. Who performed it? God. Who were they? Adam and Eve. At what point were they married, before or after they partook of the forbidden fruit? Before. So why does...
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Many utterances by past LDS prophets and apostles are now disregarded as non-inspired opinion. Yet today's leaders expect us to accept their utterances as divinely inspired. Why should we if future LDS are going to do the same to their "revelations?"
In the early days of the Church the Lord revealed many, many truths through Joseph Smith, and other succeeding Prophets. However, many of those truths were never meant to be taught as Church doctrine. And consequently many of the members became confused at times. Church doctrine is defined as those things which will bring about our Salvation and Exaltation. All other truths are meant for...
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Joseph Smith stated that without the ordinances and authority of the priesthood no man can see the face of God and live (D & C 84:21, 22). He also said that he saw God in 1820. Joseph Smith, didn't recieve the priesthood until 1829,HOW did he live?
Joseph Smith also stated prior to this revelation,(D&C 84;21,22) that something else was needed. This can be found in D&C 67:11.."For no man has seen God at any time in the flesh, except quickened by the Spirit of God." And as you will notice during the first vision Joseph was totally enveloped by the Holy Ghost. whew4
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What makes mormons christian by thier theology?
There is more than one way to be a Christian Church. We could just stand up and tell the world we are Christians, like you folks do, then make up our own rules, to keep those out that do not meet our criteria, as you Christians have done. Or, we could just do it the Lords way, which we prefer. And just in case you are not familiar with the Lords way, I shall be glad to bring it to your...
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Why is it that mormons have so many different books? whats wrong with just the bible? that confuses me... im just tryin to understand :D thanks!
Just the Bible? Which Bible? There are at present 4300 versions of the Bible available. And which Church? There are at present 40,000 different Christian Churches in the world today. And that is just Christian Churches. Not Catholics, not LDS, not other religions, just Christians. Apparently 1 Bible is not enough, and one Church is not enough either. Are you still confused? So are the...
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How good, evil, or in between is the Book of Mormon?
The Book of Mormon, like the Bible, Koran, Torah, etc. Are neither good, evil nor in between. They are all inanimate objects and not capable of speaking, acting, or guiding anyone in any direction. It is only the individual who reads these books, then acts Good, Evil or in between, according to how he/she interprets the words recorded in those books. I suppose the spirit with which the...
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Is the God of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints a different God than the God the Baptists, Episocpalians, Presbyterians, and Evangelicals believe in?
You tell me..The Catholic and Protestants believe God is a spirit without body, parts or passions, with 3 personalities. Who is large enough to fill the universe, yet small enough to dwell in your heart. And who is incomprehensible.
The LDS Church believes in 1 Godhead, made up of 3 separate and distince individuals. The Father and the Son both have Resurrected, Glorified, physical,...
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The Roman Catholic Church claims superstition is a sin why then do we believe in an invisible deities and holy ghosts etc.?
I am not a Catholic, but in their defense I would offer to the author of this question, Go to the Catholic Church for your answer. Every Church has their own definition of what constitutes superstition, and what constitutes dogma. As you have already seen on this thread, you ask a question here in this forum, you will get many answers. And some of them will actually address the question...whew4
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Is it hypocritical for the Mormon church/Hierarchy to serve coffee at the Mormon owned/operated Polynesian Cultural Center In Hawaii?
First of all, how is the Mormon Church Hierarchy involved in the Polunesian Cultural center. I doubt very seriously the Cultural Center is owned by the Church. But in fact could be owned by a member of the Church. Just like the string of Merriot Hotels, which in some cases show pornagraphic movies on television in their rooms. I found they are actually Franchised out and each manager is...
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I read that Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon by consulting a stone in his hat. Is this true? If so, how did he claim that worked?
Joseph Smith at first used some instruments dalled Urim and Thummim, while Martin Harris scribed for him. Until Martin lost the first 116 pages they translated. Then after the Angel took the Plates and the Urim and Thummim away for a time. (several mionths) Then Moroni returned the Plates, but did not return the Urim and Thummim. So after a new scribe named Oliver Cowdery arrived, he and...
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Do Mormons believe that Adam was God?
No, absolutely not! So what did Brigham Young mean when he said.."Adam is our Father and our God and the only God with whom we have to do." If this phrase is understood correctly he is absolutely right. The fact is we will have many judges on judgment day. Jesus told his 12 Apostles they would judge the 12 Tribes of Israel. We are also told that each Prophet who became the head...
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Do Mormons[sp?] celebrate Christmas?
That we do! It is my favorite time of the year. Even though Christmas has become so comercialized. It is the one time of the year when most all people you see out and about are thinking about someone else rather than themselves, most of the time. And I love to hear the different Christmas Carols for the whole month of December. We know Jesus was not born on december 25, but the day is not...
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Do Mormons believe that Jesus is God?
I presume you are asking do we believe are Jesus and God the father one and the same? There are a few scriptures found in the Bible which make this belief impossible. I shall give a couple...Jn.14;28.."Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I." Could...
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Why did God could have sex with Mary without being married to her?
In fact He didn't. God had to take Mary as one of His spiritual wives, prior to her conceiving. God would not go against His own laws...whew4
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Did The Mormon god have literal sex with Mary to produce Jesus?
I can only speak for myself. The LDS Church only states that The Father is the literal Father of Jesus. They do not go beyond that statement. However I personally believe He did have sex with Mary and I will tell you why. God the Father is absolutely perfect. That means everything He does must also be perfect. If there had been a better way to produce a child between a man and a woman,...
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Mormons, why does God need our "mother in heaven" to produce spirits?
Because that is the only way spirits can be produced. In exactly the same way you and I were produced. A Resurredted being is composed basically of spirit material. But also has a physical body of flesh and bone. And because they are basically spirit, all their offspring will be spirits. That is why the Father had to come unto Mary to produce Jesus. Jesus had to have a mortal body in...
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Do Mormons think that the Jews are the chosen people of God? If they do, then why do they claim that they are the One True Church?("I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong.." As quoted by Joseph Smith, about other churches.)
Yes, we do believe the Jews are the chosen people of God. That is the Tribe which God chose to send His Son into the world. But that does not mean they are righteous by any means. In fact the Book of Mormon states they were the most wicked of all Gods creation. And the only people of His creation that was wicked enouigh to crucify the Messiah. But we are the One and only true Church on...
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My great grand-parents were baptized Mormon after they died. As far as I know they did not request this. Why do Mormons baptize the dead?
First of all, we do not baptize the dead. We baptize by proxy FOR the dead. And you ask why? Let me put it to you this way. Jn.14;6 says.."Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." and in Acts 17;26.."And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the...
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What is the foundation of the mormon belief of there being more than one God (Eternal Progression)? And, how do mormons handle passages like Isaiah 43:10, 44:6,8 where God says he knows of no other Gods?
First of all, I am afraid you have greatly misunderstood this thing about God. The Lds Church worships only ONE God. In the Godhead there are three separate and distinct beings, namely GOD The Father, the Son, Jesus Christ, who also is A God, but who is subservient to the Father, and the Holy Ghost, who is a God, but who is subservient to both the Father and the Son. We pray to the Father in...
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Why did Joseph Smith have so many wives when the Bible expresses the importance of faithfulness in marriage and sexual morality?
Perhaps some of you do not know why Joseph Smith introduced plural marriage into the Church, so let me explain, if I may. The LDS Church is a Restored Church. It is made up of all the things which were once had on earth since Adam which had been lost. From Adam clear through the New Testament Church, the Lord has restored ALL THINGS. One of the things that needed to be restored was the New...
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Did Joseph Smith have more than one wife? If so, how many did he have?
Yes, as a matter of fact he did. He had 33 confirmed wives while he was alive. And yes he did marry some women who were married to other men. But he was only sealed to them for eternity, his marriage did not effect this life. He never lived with any of them and their husbands gave them permission. There is no evidence that Joseph ever had sex with any of them whatsoever...whew4
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Was Joseph Fielding Smith a false prophet?
Absolutely not! He was called of God just like any other Prophet of God was called. Go to the source and find out for yourself..It works...whew4
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Answer to:
Was Joseph Smith a prophet?
Put me down for an absolutely yes! Even though there is no way to prove such a thing. Whether he is or was a prophet can only be deserned by spiritual means. And why shouldn't it be, who better to answer that question than the Lord himself? But the real question is, do you have the Faith necessary to pray for an answer? I did and I do know for myself and I do not need any further...
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How long did Joseph Smith have the golden plates and how long did it take to translate the Book of Mormon?
Joseph Smith received the Gold Plates Sept.23,1827. But he did not actually start translating until the Lord sent Martin Harris as a scribe. They began translating April 12, 1828 until June 14,1828, after translating 116 pages, which Martin Harris lost while showing them to some friends and relatives. The Lord took the Plates and the Urim and Thummim back for a time. The plates were...
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Why has no Mormon prophet (including Joseph Smith) provided a translation of the few "reformed Egyptian" characters which were copied from the plates and presented to Professor Anthon?
(also see questions #5563804 and #1272110)
What makes you think Joseph Smith did not provide a translation of the characters he copied from the
Gold Plates? The fact is he did provide both a copy of the characters, and the translation of them. It was intended that Martin Harris would show the characters first to see if they were authentic Egyptian characters. Then he would show them the translation done by Joseph Smith to see if...
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If "salvation" means returning to the presence of God, does that mean that the Celestial Kingdom is on the planet near Kolob? (see Abr. 3: 3-4, 9, 16; 5: 13 and D&C 88: 4, 20, 22, 25; D&C 101: 65; D&C 105: 4-5; D&C 130: 11; D&C 137: 1, 7, 10; )
Salvation simply means being saved from..1. Eternal death, which was brought on by Adam's transgression. 2. Having our sins paid for through Christs Atonement, after we show we have 1.Faith in Jesus Christ. 2. Repented of all our sins. 3. Have been Baptized by immersion by one holding the same Priesthood as the Apostles. 4. Have had hands laid on our head, by one holding that same...
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What evidence is there to support the total apostasy of the early Christian church, eventually leading to the Joseph Smith restoration? Also, If the TOTAL apostasy never occured, doesn't this mean that no restoration was necessary?
Perhaps the most visible proof that there was a total Apostasy of the Church is the fact that the only thing the Protestants took away from the Catholic Church is the doctrine of the Trinity. Everything else the Protestants teach and believe came from other sources. If the Catholic Church is still the true Church of Christ, why could they not find anything else with which to borrow? Another...
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What is the foundation of the Mormon belief in additional scripture?
I must ask, additional scripture to what? Are you implying that the Bible is the end of all revelation from God? If so what is your foundation for such a belief? I know of no scripture in the Bible which says God will no longer speak His truths to mankind. I know of no scripture in the Bible which says God will no longer call Prophets who speak for Him. Does your version of the Bible have...
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I have a paper to write about protestant faith. Could someone tell me the difference between mormon belief and protestant believe?
Obviously this will not be a short paper, on your part, I am sure, but in a nutshell here goes. All Protestant Churches can trace their beginning back to the Catholic Church. They either broke away directly from the Catholics or they broke away from a Church which broke away, etc. And many of their beliefs can be traced from there as well, but not all of them. The LDS Church is much...
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Are Mormon beliefs consistant with the bible and teachings of Jesus Christ?
I suppose that depends on who is interpreting the Bible. If you ask a Mormon the answer would of course be absolutely yes. But if you ask a Catholic or Protestant, their answer would be absolutely not. And since they far out number the LDS, I guess it is up to whom ever one wants to believe. whew4
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How did Joseph Smith translate the Book of Mormon, did he use the Urim and Thummim, the Seer stone in his hat, the Gold Plates or through the power of God?
Actually, he used all three. For the first 116 pages with Martin Harris, he used the Urim and Thummim. Then when Martin lost those pages, Moroni came and took the Plates and the Urim and Thummim back for a time. Then later brought them back, keeping the Urim and Thummim. And the present Book of Mormon we have today was translated with the Seer Stone, in Joseph's hat. Even though the...
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If your prophet gave a revelation that differed from church teachings in the past, how do you determine which to follow?
First of all, that will never happen and therefore there is no correct answer to this question. But we are told to always check to make sure all doctrines taught by our leaders agree completely with all the scriptures we have received. And if they do not agree, we are to disregard the new teaching. God is a God of order, not of confusion...whew4
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If the Book of Mormon contains the “fullness of the everlasting gospel”, why does the LDS Church need additional works?
When the Lord calls the Book of Mormon the fullness of his Everlasting Gospel, he is not implying that it contains all of his Gospel. He simply means it contains a fullness of the saving principles of the Gospel. Such as Faith, Repentance, Baptism and the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Along with a greater understanding of Jesus Christ, among many other things. Even though the Bible mentions these...
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A question for Mormons. I am Christian, and I have heard many times from the Christian side the differences between Mormonism and Christianity. But now I am curious... Would a Mormon care to explain to me the differences as you see it?
I would be glad too! I believe everyone is entitled to my opinion, LOL. Actually, there are many differences between what I call the Orthodox Christians, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. For one, the Orthodox Christians have decided who qualifys as a Christian Church and who does not. And we, the LDS Church do not qualify! And that is fine with us, we do not want to be...
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Can salvation come only through the LDS Church?
Salvation can be used in many ways, but since we are discussing salvation in connection to a Church we will just stick to that version. First of all, Jesus is our Savior, and the author of our salvation. And that is the main reason he came to earth as he did. But what most religions fail to realize is that Jesus came to earth to fulfill two missions, and both had to do with our salvation....
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Do you still believe that zion will be build in Missouri?
Absolutely! However, there is much that must happen between now and then, so don't be too concerned for a while. But it will happen before Christ returns the second time...whew4
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I am unable to follow today’s LDS teachings when its foundation (Joseph Smith story) is so flaky and easily seen as nothing but a big fat lie. That the Mormon faith has grown to its present size with so many intelligent people really bewilders me. How?
I have studied the life of Joseph Smith and the doctrines of the LDS Church for over 50 years and have found them to be absolutely true! Plus I have gone to the Lord in prayer and received a very powerful witness that all of these things are absolutely true. There are no flaky areas, no lies, no scams, nor conmen. Just pure unadulerated truth, given through a living Prophet of God. Satan...
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Should polygamy be legal if all involved are 18+ and willingly consent to plural marriage?
If you are talking legal, you must go through Congress. None of us have any jurisdiction over that body of men/women. But I wouldn't recommend it, Congress has not done much right yet for many years now. So I would say it is better to leave it like it is...Whew4
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Was there nobody in History more qualified than Joseph Smith to see the face of God? If so, then why did NOBODY in History, not even the person you mention see the Face of God, and Joseph Smith did?
The fact is several men and at least one woman did see the face of God and they all lived. 1. Adam, and 2. Eve. 3. Cain. 4. Enoch. 5. Jacob. 6. Moses. 7. Steven 8. Joseph Smith. And if the Bible were actually complete, there are probably others. It doesn't matter if some of you on this board do not believe it, The bible says they saw God, pure and simple...whew4
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Mormons. Are they right for adding another book to read from?
Well that is one way to look at the situation. But how about the 4300 different versions of the Holy Bible? And not one version agrees totally with any other version. Talk about adding another book to read from! Why is the Book of Mormon, the D&C, the Pearl of Great Price any different? whew4
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Its Pretty odd that mormons are resticted from using GOOD drugs to cure illnesses, why is that?
I would like to know where these good drugs are that will cure any illness! Most drugs just treat the symptoms, they do not even try to cure the illness. The Drug companies could not afford to release any drugs that will cure an illness, only treat the symptoms. whew4
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Why do mormons gamble?
Are Mormons human? Yes! However, I doubt there are very many who actually gamble regularly. But I will say I know of a few who have gambled. Not really realizing they were gambling. Things like the Lottery, an office football, or baseball pool, etc. But I would say there are far more of other religions who gamble than a few LDS. That doesn't make it right, we do not believe in...
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How come there are so many warnings about the Mormon church?
Well, let's see, we are one of the fastest growing Churches in the World by convert baptisms. And just where do you think most of these people are coming from? That's right all over the world! I'm talking between 250,000, to 350,000 every year. The Christians and Catholics should be afraid of us, we are taking far more of their people than they are of ours. Could it be we...
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I have been dating a memeber of the LDS church for a little more than 3 years. He is now serving a mission in Argentina and he told me he is only allowed to e-mail his family. I think this is a little rediculious, and im wondering why they
I have to agree with otter. As a former missionary, before email, I can say having a girl back home is a real distraction. I have seen so many of my companions get their "Dear John" letters, it was down right funny. Not for them, but for me. They could not concentrate before the Dear John and they couldn't concentrate after the dear John. They were a mess for at least a...
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At what age should a child be baptized?
Since Baptism is primarily for the remission of sin, It only stands to reason that they are not accountable until they know right from wrong. James 4;17.. "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." Most experts say this happens at about 7 1/2 to 8 years of age. The LDS Church baptizes at the age of 8 years old. At what age do other Churches...
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Many utterances by past LDS prophets and apostles are now disregarded as non-inspired opinion. Yet today's leaders expect us to accept their utterances as divinely inspired. Why should we if future LDS are going to do the same to their "revelations?"
My friend, you must realize the Lord does not call puppets to be his Prophets. He calls men, who are human, and who have opinions and feelings just like you and me. Joseph Smith was once asked if a Prophet was always a Prophet. He answered "A Prophet is only a Prophet when he is acting in the capacity of such." Simply meaning A Prophet is entitled to express his own opinion like...
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Do Mormons believe that the Garden of Eden was in Missouri?
As a matter of fact we do. We have been told it was located in what is now Jackson County Missouri. Is there any proof? None that I know of, but then we do not require any proof. A Prophet of god said it and we believe him. However, if you take into account the actual event of the flood, you will find it very hard to reconcile the Garden being located in mesopotomia as scholors claim. for...
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Why do Mormons believe that God has a body without having seen Him?
While I totally agree with the other LDS posters here, I shall approach this subject from another angle. In the very early point of Jesus ministry, he said to his disciples, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."(Matt.5;48) Then we find written in Heb.5;8,9.."Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;...
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Why are there so many conflicting stories about Joseph Smith practicing Polygamy?
Joseph Smith received a Revelation for Plural Marriage in 1831. He didn't record it because he didn't want to practice this principle at all, let alone teach it to the Church. Finally in 1834 an Angel appeared to him with his sword drawn demanding he commit to practicing plural marriage or he would be killed on the spot. Joseph then agreed to began it's practice immediately,...
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What is an acceptable method for Baptism?
The only acceptable method for baptism is the way Jesus showed in the Bible. We must be Baptized by immersion in water, by one who has received the Priesthood from God. Jesus walked nearly 100 miles from Galilee to Jordan unto John to be baptized of him. So how important was the Priesthood to Jesus? He could have had anyone he wanted, baptize him if he wanted, but John the baptist was the...
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Answer to:
Is it possible to be saved, by just accepting Jesus Christ as my personal Savior?
No is isn't. Although many many Orthodox Christian Churches have this belief. The Bible does not support any such belief. Perhaps the one thing that may show this is not possible is found in Matt.10;22.. I will not quote the whole scripture, but here Jesus is speaking to his 12 Apostles and telling them all the things that will happen to them, even that they may be killed and says to...
Answer to:
Should there be just one true Church on earth?
Since God is perfect and He only has one Gospel, why would He need thousands of different Churches teaching thousands of different doctrines on earth at any given time? The Lord inspired his writers to say, "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism." That should answer that question. So why do we have so many Churches on earth today? And why do they all teach different doctrines? The...
Answer to:
Do mormons really belive they are going to be a God of there own planet one day?
I don't know, but when I get to heaven, I'll find out and send you an email, as soon as I find out your address...Whew4
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Answer to:
Do we really need Prophets today?
For over 4000 years the Lord has always called Prophets whenever He has communicated with mankind. The only time He did not have a Prophet on earth was when mankind was so wicked they killed the Prophets He called. But when there was a righteous man available, he was called by God to be His Prophet. Amos 3;7.."Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but He revealeth His secrets unto his...
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Answer to:
According to LDS, where was Jesus' sacrifice made, in the garden or on the cross?
So many different Churches do not understand that Jesus came to this earth to fulfill two missions, not just one as they think. Both missions have to do with our salvation. 1. He came to pay for Adams transgression. Or in other words, Adam brought physical death into the world. And before Christ came, physical death was permanent and Eternal. But Christ died on the Cross, then 3 days...
Answer to:
If the Book of Mormon is another Testament of Jesus Christ, then why do we find so much archeological evidence for the Bible and the stuff written around Jesus time and we find none for the Book of Mormon?
The Book of Mormon like the Bible must be spiritually deserned. Physical evidence is the worst kind of proof for anything spiritual. Scientists themselves admit there is no such thing as "exact science." If someone finds some physical evidence one day and claims it shows such and such, a few day or years later someone else will find additional evidence that shows almost the...
Answer to:
Are Mormons typically racist?
As a group, Mormons,(LDS) are not racist at all. If you think so, let me ask you a question? How come since the days of Cain, no seed of Cain ever held the Priesthood? In 4000+ years, not one descentant of Cain ever held the Priesthood, why? I know you have been told this started with the Mormon Church, but as you can see it started over 4000 years ago. This is obviously something which...
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If Mormon's are Christians than how can they believe that God was once an exulted man? And who is his father, if there is only one God in Christianity?
Let's take this one step at a time. First, if Mormons are Christian! Let me say my friend, the LDS Church is actually the only Church on earth that can claim to be Christian, according to the Bible. I realize there are Billions of Catholics and Orthodox Christians which all claim to be Christians, but I shall show that Christ does not recognize you as such. I am sorry if this is a...
Answer to:
How many wives did Joseph Smith have?
I am guessing you are more interested in Polygamy, than how many wives Joseph Smith had. If not there are others who do not know why the Mormons even practiced Polygamy at all. The fact is the LDS Church is a Restored Church. We are neither Protestant nor Catholic. Joseph Smith did not belong to any Church before he Organized this Church under the direction of the Lord. Now when I say we...
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Answer to:
Do Mormons study the Bible?
Absolutely! I love the Bible and read it quite frequently. I also read the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price. along with other good church books. And am very happy with what I read...whew6
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Answer to:
Did you know that Mormons massacred 120 people in cold blood on September 11, 1857?
Did you know some Mormons were massacred at a place called Haun's Mill, in Missouri in 1838? "Thirty to forty LDS families were at Haun's Mill when some 200 to 250 militia from Livingston, Daviess, and Carroll counties, acting under Colonel Thomas Jennings, marched against the village. Assuming that an earlier truce still held, the residents were surprised by the late afternoon...
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Answer to:
Joseph Smith said that he found a book of golden plates in the hill Commorah in Palmyra NY in a Stone Box with specific dimensions. Where is this stone box today?
Jesus has left a message for everyone who seeks for a sign..Matt.12;39.."But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; So I suggest those of you who need some physical proof of Joseph Smith or anything connected with him, be aware, one day you will encounter Jesus Christ himself. Then ask him for a sign, if you dare...whew6
Answer to:
My boyfriend and his family are Mormon. I am not and my family is completely against Mormon beliefs. We are serious about one another and are in love. Should I convert?
My dear, Conversion can only come from the Holy Ghost. You can investigate the Church, and read our literature and pray to God, in the name of Jesus Christ, if the things you are studing is true. And if you are really sincere and want to know the truth for yourself, you will receive an answer. But if you are just going through the motions just to become a Mormon for your boyfriend, you will...
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Answer to:
If Joseph Smith said that temple ordinances were in force before time and cannot be changed, why have these ordinances been changed over the years?
Actually the Temple Ordinances have not changed. The only thing that has changed is the way the Ordinances are presented. The ceremony has changed several times but the Ordinances themselves have not changed. They are still the same Ordinances as before. They will never change...whew6
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Answer to:
Was Joseph Smith a prophet?
Yes indeed he was! I know that, without any shadow of a doubt. I have studied and prayed for three long hard weeks to know for myself. One night I was enveloped by the Holy Ghost, and I heard the voice of Jesus Christ tell me that Joseph Smith really was a Prophet of God and the Book of Mormon does contain a fullness of his everlasting Gospel, and this (LDS) Church is his one and only true...
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Answer to:
If someone believes in Moroni, doesn't that make them a Moron?
Actually the Moron's are the ones who will take someone's word that the Book of Mormon is of the Devil. And that they shouldn't read for themselves, or they will become a Mormon. Just because hundreds of thousands have already done this and it happened to them, doesn't mean it will happen to you. What's the matter are you scared? Are you afraid your God is not...
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Answer to:
How do I testify my christain faith, to a devoted Mormon? I mean mormons are usually the nicest people around, but they seem to have a reason to prove you wrong about your faith. I'm just concerned about my Mormon friends eternal destiny.
My friend, it is you who should be concerned about your eternal destiny. You see, if you are right in what you believe, then we Latter Day Saints are right as well. But if we are right, then you have a huge problem. We have everything you have and then some, but you have hardly anything we have! Perhaps it would be to your advantage to find out what we have from a reliable source, before...
Answer to:
Is the Mormon Church the true religion?
Absolutely! Without a doubt! Now what are you going to do about it? whew6
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Should we consider mormons to be christians just because they claim to believe in Christ?
Actually, there is more to it than that. We seem to have two definitions for what or who is a Christian. The Catholics and Protestants have their own definition of what makes a Christian.
We Latter Day Saints, do not qualify, nor do we wish to be known as a Christian Church by their definition. We do however know ourselves to be Christian according to the Bible definition.
The...
Answer to:
Is the Mormon religion considered a Protestant religion?
NO! The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is neither Catholic nor Protestant. Nor does either faction claim we are or were a part of them. The fact is our founder, Joseph Smith, was never a member of any Church, prior to setting up the LDS Church. Therefore he did not protest from any Church. Nor did he borrow any of the principles or doctrines from any other Church. He, through...
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Answer to:
Is Mormonism considered a Christian religion?
Is Mormonism CONSIDERED a christian religion? To the Catholics and Protestants we are not Christian. But according to the Bible we are not only true Christians, but we are the ONLY Church on earth today that can make that claim. There is apparently two definitions of Christian today. The Catholics and Protestant Christians have their own definition of who or what constitutes a Christian....
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Do Mormons believe in another Jesus?
Mormons believe in the very same Jesus as Protestants and Catholics but we do not believe in him from the same source to which they accept. Their Jesus was formed by a group of Catholic Bishops in a council at Nicea in 325 AD. under the direction of Emperior Constantine, a Sun Worshiper. Our Jesus appeared with his Father to a young boy in a grove of trees in New York in the year of 1820....
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Answer to:
Why does the church now extol the witnesses (those who witnessed the BOM and the Golden Plates) when Joseph Smith condemned them?
My friend, the Church has "Extolled" the three witnesses, from the time they first became witnesses. That also goes for the 8 witnesses, whose names also are found in every Book of Mormon. The fact is their witness is the one thing the world cannot refute. They continue to verify that Joseph Smith did have Gold Plates and did translate them, and no one else helped him except a...
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Answer to:
Why is Joseph Smith called a "translator" when he didn't use the Golden Plates in the "translation" process?
(This question was asked during the Q&A portion of very enlightening 2002 Sunstone Symposium [session #SL02153] Lecture by C. Jess Groesbeck)
Joseph Smith did use the Gold Plates for a time while translating, but only until he learned how to translate. Once he reached that point, he no longer needed the actual plates before him. He couldn't read them anyway, so why else would he need them. He started using the Seer Stone in a hat to complete the translation. David Whitmer gave an explanation of how Joseph did this, but...
Answer to:
Are Mormon beliefs consistant with the bible and teachings of Jesus Christ?
Absolutely! Now if you are really asking if the "Mormon" beliefs are consistent with the Christian or Catholic beliefs of the Bible and teachings of Jesus Christ, I would have to say NO. But your question was if the Mormon beliefs were consistent with the Bible,etc. And again I say most certainly. In fact I would go even further and say our beliefs are more consistent with the...
Answer to:
Do Mormons believe in the Holy Spirit, and that Christians should be filled with said Holy Spirit?
Yes, we Latter Day Saints do very much believe in the Holy Ghost.(Holy Spirit) However, there is only two ways for anyone to be filled with the Holy Ghost. 1.He can only be sent by the Lord to very special prepared people, for a short time. 2. The only way to actually receive the Holy Ghost as a constant companion, it to be baptized by one having the authority, or Priesthood from God, and...
Answer to:
Why during a sacrament meeting do mormons only sing hymns and never dance or sing like king david? shouldn't we want to be so filled with the holy spirit that we can't contain ourselves?
I have been filled with the Holy Ghost before and I did not feel like dancing, I was humbled and full of love for My Heavenly Father, and wept like a baby because I was overflowing with Joy.
Our Sacrament meetings are for only one thing and that is to come before the Lord with a repentant heart and a contrite spirit, ready to renew our covenants with the Lord. The Lord knows we are human...
Answer to:
Do Mormons worship Joseph Smith, Mormon or Moroni?
Do Mormons worship Joseph Smith, Mormon, Moroni? Well you tell me? We do not pray to any of them. We do not baptize in any of their names. We do not bless the Sacrament in any of their names. But we do all those things to the Father in the name of Jesus Christ. Does that give you a clue? whew6
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Answer to:
If a Mormon were to be asked by one of the LDS general authorities to kill somebody because it was Gods will would they do it?
I can only speak for myself. If a General Authority came to me and ask me to kill someone, I would do exactly what we have been taught to do, my whole life. Do not take anyone's word for anything, go to the Lord yourself and receive confirmation directly from Him, through the Holy Ghost. We are not robots who can be commanded to do what ever we are told, without using our heads. This...
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Do Mormons believe that women are less than men in the eyes of God?
Are you kidding? The LDS Church would fall apart if it wasn't for our women. We men know better than to even to think such a thing. And God knew exactly what He was doing when He designed women. He knew we needed a lot of help. If the truth were known, the women could do everything a man does in the Church, and still do their jobs just as effectively and not even break a sweat. But...
Answer to:
Does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have special names for God?
While God Himself has revealed many names for Himself in our scriptures, we LDS do not use them to refer to Him. As others have stated we generally just refer to Him as "Father" or "Heavenly Father" or even God. Depending on the situation. whew6
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Answer to:
Why would a Mormon missionary, that I invited into my house, tell me that all of my loved ones are burning in Hell because they were not Mormon? Why would he be shocked because I snapped and threw him out? Is this really the best way to convert others?
Do I understand you correctly? You say a mormon missionary, and not missionaries? They always travel in pairs, and yet you speak as though he was alone. Makes me think someone was trying to turn you off of the Mormon Church by posing as a mormon missionary. And another thing I question, we LDS do not believe anyone will burn in Hell. There is no actual fire in Hell, or the Spirit World....
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Answer to:
Where would Christians go if the Book of Mormon and its teachings were true? And where would Latter Day Saints go if the Book of Mormon and its teachings were false? Heaven or Hell?
I have to agree with HTH on this one. I doubt there is one correct answer. A person could concentrate on discussing the Book of Mormon, or perhaps heaven and hell. I shall focus my attention on Heaven and Hell.
We LDS are a bit more kind to the Orthodox Christians,(Catholics and Protestants) then they are to the LDS. But let's put some things into perspective here. We believe God...
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Is it possible for a gay mormon to still have God in their life, or am I just doomed to hell?
I think most others have already expressed their opinion, so why not me? First of all I do not believe God made anyone Gay, or Lesbian. Something happened in their life that made them have those tendencies. Now can a gay person still have God in their life? That depends on whether we are talking of someone who is actually gay, by living a gay relationship, or if a person considers himself...
Answer to:
I have Mormons coming over tonight and I have told them repeatedly that I am not ready to commit to any religion. I still love to drink beer and whiskey and there is no way I want that life style change. How do I tell them thanks but no thanks.
My friend it's very simple, just tell them up front I'm really not interested in hearing any more. But leave me your number, and if I have any questions I will call you. Thank you for coming. They will leave you their number and leave. That doesn't mean other missionaries wont drop by to see if you might be interested, but say the same thing to them. The missionaries...
Answer to:
Some people say "Christ on a bike" but I can find no reference to Our Lord riding a bicycle in the Holy Bible. Is this a reference to the Book of Mormon?
Not knowing under what circumstances you heard this phrase, I can only guess. Since our missionaries for the most part all ride bicycles, and preach of Christ I can forsee someone saying "Christ on a bike" in reference to them, perhaps. Again if I knew how this phrase was used at the time, it would help. Meanwhile I'm sure you already know the bicycle was not around during the...
Answer to:
I have been an excommunicated member for nearly 9 years. I recently decided I was ready to put my life in order and started going back to church. How long can I expect to wait before the Bishop feels I am ready to be rebaptized.
My friend, I have not been where you are now, but I have known a few who have. Others have already given excellent advise, so I shall not repeat what they have said, but I will tell you this, no matter what you are required to do, do it with patience and longsuffering. The Lord wants you to show him how serious you really are, and probably inpress on your mind just how serious your offense...
Answer to:
What is the purpose of tithing?
First and formost, it is a commandment, period. What our leaders do with it is between them and the Lord. I have total confidence in our Prophet and Apostles and I do not worry what they do with the Lord's Money. Whew4
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Answer to:
It is one thing to not agree with another church's beliefs but why do so many so called christians think they have a right to tell mormons they are not christian just because their beliefs are different from their own
Well, when the Protestant Orthodox Christians make up the rules for who is Christian and who is not, I guess they have the right to say who can join their club and who can't. However the truth is, if they are Christian, we do not qualify, and that is ok. Because the Bible tells us we are actually the only people today who can qualify as Christians. It is the Protestants and Catholics...
Answer to:
Bill Maher said on his show that Mormons believe that the only way a black person can go to heaven is as a slave. Is this true or was he just making a joke?
Whether he was joking of not makes no difference, what he said was wrong. The Lord removed the curse from the "Seed of Cain" and they can now enjoy all the blessings that anyone else in our Church can enjoy. The color of their skin means nothing to the Church. One day we will all understand everything. But for now let the Lord deal with his children in his own way. We must answer...
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Answer to:
Do you think Mormons are not Christians? Why?
Mormons,(LDS) are most definitely Christian, according to the Bible, and our other scriptures. We are not Protestsnt Orthodox Christians, nor do we claim such. We are not mainstream Christians either. I shall explain the difference. The Bible tells us how to become a Christian. In Acts 2;37,38, we read.."Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter...
Answer to:
Was Jesus born of a virgin birth?
Technically speaking Mary had not known a Mortal man and therefore was a virgin. But make no mistake about it, God the Father was the literal Father of Jesus Christ. Otherwise Jesus could not have been The "ONLY" begotten of the Father. Read Luke 1;34,35.."Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her,...
Answer to:
What exactly do Mormons believe? I'm christian, and I would like to understand the mormon religion a little bit better.
I would be happy to help you out. I shall not try to overburden you at first. Lets start with God, shall we? Unlike most Christian Churches we believe the Godhead,(which Christians call the Trinity) consists of three separate and distinct individuals. 1.The Father,(Elohim) 2.The Son (Jesus) and 3.The Holy Ghost. The Father and the Son both have Resurrected, Glorified, physical bodies of...
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Answer to:
Why do Mormons find it necessary to go door to door recruiting people into their religion?
Because the people behind those doors will not come to us! And when you know you belong to the only true Church on earth today, you naturally want to share what you have with all your brothers and sisters, so they too will have a chance at eternal happinesss.
And it could be too that we have been commanded by the Lord to "Go ye into all the world and preach my Gospel, unto every...
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Answer to:
Do Mormons believe all other religions are based on false doctrine?
Actually, to be more correct, we believe all other Churches are based on true doctrines, which are simply misinterpreted, which then makes their beliefs false. Most all of their beliefs come from the Bible, but because they do not understand them correctly, much false doctrine gets taught. But not everything they teach is false, but they do not know which is which. From the days of Adam,...
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