Exploring Mormonism and Biblical Christianity

LIVE FROM THE MECCA OF MORMONISM

• SALT LAKE CITY UTAH –

This is Heart of the MatterTGNN’s original show where Shawn McCraney deconstructed religion and developed fulfilled theology., where Mormonism Meets Biblical Christianity, face to face.
Show 38 Biblical Indictments of Mormonism – Part II
September 18th, 2012

And I’m Shawn McCraneyFounder of TGNN and developer of the fulfilled perspective—calling people to faith outside of religion., your host.

Special Guests and Upcoming Events

KIDS? You probably all recognize these young men standing here around me – the members of Adam’s Road! Micah/Matt/Steve/Jay/ and Joseph. How have you all been? How long are you in Utah and what will you be doing and where? You have a new album – love the cover by the way – tell us about it. We praise the True and Living God for allowing us to participate in this ministry. May He be with you (and us) tonight.

Every week we meet up at the University of Utah to focus on the Word of God which helps us focus on God Himself. We meet at 10 am and then again at 2:30 pm. Go to www.c-a-m-p-u-s.com for more information.

Dr. Norman Geisler's Visit

Now, we never miss gathering together on Sunday. But we are making an exception this coming Sunday. Why? Because Dr. Norman Geisler, perhaps one of the most important Bible scholars and Christian minds of our day, will be visiting Utah and speaking at the Grace Community Bible church in Sandy. Where: Grace Community Bible Church is located in Sandy Utah at 11592 South 1300 East. Dr. Geisler will be speaking from 1-3:30 PM. What will he be speaking about? “How to Interpret the Bible" and "Dealing with Alleged Errors in the Bible." Well worth the time and trip. That’s this Sunday, September 23rd 1-3:30 – Dr. Norman Geisler at the Grace Community Bible Church in Sandy Utah. It’s a free event but the information available will be invaluable.

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Transitions and Community Events

Onto another important event for you all. Tonight (RIGHT AFTER this program) there will be another segment of Transitions (right here on TV20). “Transitions” is an excellent product that teaches Christians how to help LDS people who are coming out of Mormonism. And right after the show tonight you can see what the Transitions product is all about. Every church in America would benefit from having this product in their libraries but how about we try and get them in the Christian Churches in Utah first? (long beat) Anyway, tune in, right after the program, and then go to your pastor and tell him he ought to check out Transitions by going to www.ldstransitions.com.

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We had a really great time out at the first annual Good News Celebration in Spanish Fork last Saturday. There was a really good gathering of believers who were there to see Doris Hansen and the Higley’s and Adam’s Road. They even let me get up and rant for a while. We truly and genuinely look forward to this event next year. They really did it right and our ministry was proud to be a part of it.

A Different Kind of Sunday

Well, it seems that in college football, Brigham Young University was beaten by the University of Utah last Saturday night. Final score – 24-21. Being new to the state (as a full-time resident) but not new to the LDS common but indiscriminate use of “God’s name” in everything they do, I was not surprised to hear from our “Inside Heart of the Matter” reporter (the WA) that the internet was on fire after the game with BYU devotees saying that the reason they lost was because “God” had intervened as a means to teach the students at His university a lesson. You see, the game's conclusion flew into a series of delays due to fans flowing out on the field during regulation play. After the dust settled, BYU was left with one second to attempt a 35-yard plus field goal – which would have tied the game up and sent it into overtime. But the ball hit the upright on the goal post, deflected wide, and left the Utes victorious for the fourth year in a row.

Now I would never report on this if it weren’t for what I’ve been told some BYU fans are attributing the loss to – God Himself. You see, Heavenly Father was apparently displeased that the game had run into what Mormons call “the Sabbath” and that members of “The Lord’s University” were still on the playing field at midnight. So God caused the kick to be just a smidge wide, teaching His University students that there are more important matters to Him than winning a football game. Not many more important matters, but some.

(beat)

Of course, if the field goal had been good and BYU had moved on to beat the

Mormon Leadership and Transparency

Utes that night, I am sure that the LDS would have said this proves – “Sabbath-day or not” – that God really is . . . a Mormon. I’ve learned from some Salt Lake locals of late that if there is one consistent thing to look for in the annual BYU/UofU football battle is that if BYU loses their fans will ALWAYS have an excuse. No different than their prophets and apostles.

Speaking of Apostles, the LDS faithful always maintain that their leaders are paid a small living allowance. First, why don’t they tell the membership what that amount is? I mean isn’t that fair? Shouldn’t the Prophet and Twelve release their tax records? The reason I bring this up is because I was told (and this information is completely without verification) but I was told from a very good source that in 2006 LDS Apostle Henry Eyring was paid for being an Apostle $600,000.00. Wouldn’t it be insightful to know if this rumor was true? I’d really like to know. Wouldn’t you? Why can’t we know?

Catholicism and Personal Faith

Got an email from a young man named Ryan. It says:

Hi Shawn!

I love your show! I'm learning so much about both the Bible and the differences between Christianity and Mormonism. I'm a Catholic, though I like to put my relationship with Jesus Christ before any denomination. What is your general standpoint on Catholicism? I'd just like to find out if it's a bad place to be for my relationship with Christ. I'm not sure if Catholicism is right. Half of me says it's right, half of me says it's wrong.

Response to Ryan

MY RESPONSE
Ryan – Catholicism, like all religious institutions, is made up of good and bad. With it comes consistency, some beautiful buildings, often tremendous liturgy and music and even ritual that includes Christ in almost all of it. There is "the family Catholic" which is nice to belong to, and some good moral teachings. I personally believe there are many Catholic people who, despite all the man-made detractions, have a saving relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

This being said, Catholicism, like Mormonism, has a lot of extra stuff that can serve to get in the way of a person having a personal relationship with the Lord. Because of this it does the heinous disservice of causing some people to believe that because they are Catholic they are going to heaven. Not true. All religions have issues – this is why religion cannot save a man – only Christ Jesus. I personally believe that Catholicism has more "issues" than most non-denominational Christian churches (papal infallibility, the eucharist, Mariology, etc) but ALL religious gatherings (including the one I started) have problems.

Relationship with the Church

The real question is does the church you attend truly do all it can to:

1. Teach you the Bible honestly?
2. Praise the Lord sincerely?
3. Increase your faith and love for God and Man?

It's a personal decision, my brother. Because of this I would seek out and see where our King leads you and your family – and then follow Him.

Interestingly, JEFF, A BROTHER OUT IN CONNECTICUTT wrote right after Ryan and said:

Dear Shawn,
I watched one of you older episodes in 2012 and a caller was looking for a church to go to and you mentioned that the church is made up of a body of believers and there are many he can choose from. Amen to that. However you mentioned the Catholic church as one of a few. I must tell you that here in Danbury CT. that the Catholic church is one of our major battles. Just as the Mormons are in Utah, the Catholics are here in New England, teaching false doctrine that base their salvation on works, praying to Mary, graven images, praying for the dead, infant baptism, etc. These Catholics do not know the gospel, only church rituals.

When we go door to door witnessing they have repeatedly slammed the door on us, been violent and denied the Savior and his words. I also have been kicked out of a local Catholic Church when witnessing to one of the clergy about 1John 5:13 and she stated "we don't go by the Bible,” and then said I need to leave. I care for the Catholic people but hate their false church and teachings. God bless and keep the good fight my loved brother, Jeff

So with all of this being said and done, I think it is clear that Catholicism has some

Peace in Times of Emotionalism

Jesus' Gift of Peace

We’re working our way through John and STILL find ourselves in chapter 14 – tonight at verse 27, where Jesus says:
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

We live in some very beguiling times – spiritually beguiling times. It’s a day and age when emotionalism has counterfeited itself as a spokesperson for God, and lightshows, and commercially refined media presentations have made many think they are being presented with truth. Watch most of Glenn Beck’s most influential pieces and your will see them accompanied by tears, go to any major Christian revival or mega-church and you will find see more of a theatrical production than a Gospel Message, and watch any LDS meeting and you are sure to be engulfed by emotionalism.

Listen – emotionalism is part of the peace of this world. So is that special feeling you get when you hear children singing about Santa on a snowy night outside your door, when you drink that extra glass of wine, or when you hear the Beatles sing, “Let it be.”

This is why God said:
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

Don’t let yourself be swayed and influenced by the peace this world provides. The Holy Spirit will teach you all thing in accordance with the written word of God and by and through this means you will know all truth, and the truth will set you free.

And with that, let’s have a Word of Prayer.

Indicting LDS Doctrine

Insights from the New Testament

Last week we presented you with a number of the best passages that indict LDS doctrine, practice, and generally held beliefs. Tonight I want to hit you with the best from the New Testament. Before we do let me quickly share a true story with you.

A number of years ago I had an LDS man challenge me to sit with him, open up the Gospel of Matthew and just go verse by verseTGNN’s Bible teaching series—book-by-book, through the lens of fulfillment and spiritual liberty. pointing out “significant” passages. I was of the opinion that almost EVERY passage was significant but he really thought this exercise would be very revelatory for everyone involved, which included his sister and niece. Once we got started I think he too was taken back by how significant nearly every verse is in the Mormon /Christian debate between whose doctrinal position is supported by the Bible.

With this being said, please know that I am going to TRY and highlight those verses that truly show the ANTI-Biblical message of Mormonism. I realize there are a LOT more, but these are what I think are some of the best of the best from the four Gospels. Here we go.

Key Passages

Matthew 1:23 “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Then we consider all that LDS apostles, prophets, and teachers have said about the conception of Jesus and His divinity; this passage speaks volumes! Who with us? God with us.

Matthew 4
When Jesus was tempted of Satan in the wilderness He cited the Old Testament three times saying, “It is written.” If the Lord could trust the Bible why can’t we?

The LDS put family devotion on an equal basis with devotion to God. In fact, most active LDS families will reject a member of their own who chooses Jesus over their family – even though this is the exact attitude all followers of the Lord ought to embrace. Listen!
Matthew 10:37 “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”

Matthew 11:30 “my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Why is the LDS burden so heavy – they claim it is all in the cause of Christ – but His yoke is easy and light?

Examination of Biblical Teachings

Sidewalks clear when this guy rumbles down the street. So why does Jesus say in Mark 6:4: "A prophet is not without honor, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house?" (Hmmmmmmmm?)

The LDS follow an unoriginal but strict code of dietary rules for personal worthiness called the Word of Wisdom. How come Jesus said in Mark 7:15: "There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man."

LDS Beliefs Compared

In Mark chapter 9 the apostle John came to Jesus and said that a man was casting out devils in the Lord's name who did not follow them and so they forbade him from doing this but Jesus said: "Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part." The LDS lay claim to a priesthood authority to do such acts, but Jesus didn’t mention it nor did He forbid a man from operating on his own and using His name to do it! (Hmmmmmmmmm)

The Lord plainly states in Mark 13:31: "Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away." How is it the LDS do not believe the Bible is a trustworthy record? Did Jesus lie? Did His words pass away?

Symbolism of the Veil and its Interpretation

In the Old Testament there was a thick veil that separated everyone but the High Priest from the presence of God. In a similar and symbolic fashion Joseph Smith introduced "a veil" in their temples that everyone must pass through, after sharing secret handshakes and phrases to prove they qualify, in order for them to get into their celestial kingdom.

But in Mark 15:37-38 it says, speaking of Christ’s deathSeparation from God—now overcome. Physical death remains, but it no longer separates us from life with God. on the cross: "And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom." What does this mean to Christians? Jumping ahead, Hebrews 10 provides us who can now enter into the Holy of Holies and what veil we pass through for entrance, saying: "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh."

In Luke, it’s clear how Jesus was conceived, saying Luke 1:35 "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." LDS Prophet Brigham Young rejected this completely, saying:

Of course this little review wouldn’t really have any teeth if we didn’t read John 1:1-3, and then 14, which says

John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Most people – especially the LDS – struggle greatly with the idea of one God of three persons. Try and understand that prior to Jesus being born the Old Testament simply speaks of God. There were not Father/Son constructs in place. Once God took on flesh, the man in the flesh (who was God in the Spirit) became the Son of God.

Then, here is the same chapter of John we come across one of my favorite New Testament passages. Why? It really puts the LDS myth that all people are born "children of God" is John 1:11-13, to bed, saying: "He (Jesus) came unto his own (the Jews), and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."

Hand in hand with this is in John 3:7, Jesus said to Nicodemus: "Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." Why would rebirth be absolutely necessary for people who are born Children of God?

Of course the LDS say that God the Father has a body of flesh.

Discussion on LDS Beliefs

and bone. But Jesus makes this lie perfectly clear when He said in John 4:24:

“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”

What makes matters worse for the LDS, of course, is that where they get the whole idea that God actually has a physical body is from a tale their founding prophet made up after the fact. This is proven – read Grant Palmer’s book, An Insider’s View of Mormon Origins or go to www.UTLM.org

The LDS claim that all people came from a pre-mortal existence located above with God.

Biblical References

But Jesus said in John 8:23

“Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.”

Proving that the ONLY pre-mortal being to ever walk this earth is Jesus.

Again, the LDS have long besmirched the validity of the Word of God. But John the Beloved wrote in His gospel account:

“But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” John 20:31

I trust that promise – don’t you?

Audience Participation

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Viewer Correspondence

My name is Melissa I have always been a nondenominational Christian. In March my husband's Father passed away and he went searching for answers and the LDS church was the first place he looked. Since then he is trying to get me to join the church. I have told him I can't because in my heart it just feels wrong, like I am turning my back on God. His argument is since I have never gone to the LDS Church how can I have such an opinion. I feel a huge rift forming between us because of this, I am looking for guidance for how to get my point across to him. He goes to Church every Sunday morning and then every Sunday evening makes me feel bad for not going with him, and goes on about how happy everyone is who goes there. He is now trying to take our daughter too. I keep praying and saying no every week but see our family falling apart over this. I can't make him see they are putting on an act. I worry for him. Any advice you can offer is appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Melissa S.

EMAIL WAS TITLED: This is not hate mail!

Shawn, we show we are following Christ by the things we do and the things we say and the way we are. If a man is belittling or arguing or mocking a man for his belief in christ, HE IS NOT A TRUE CHRISTIAN. Just because you don't think we don't believe in christ, doesn't mean you need to (or have the right) to slander us and despise us and mock us. Do some soul searching brother.

Throw away any hate you may have for the church and show some TRUE CHRISTLIKE LOVE. I'm warning you of the consequences of an almighty god that if you continue on with your backbiting and hate, you'll see that these years of fighting "til the day you die" have been for nothing and there will be much pain and sorrow and regret. I'm warning you shawn. Christ WILL NOT BE MOCKED!

RYAN passed along an insightful article off of FOX NEWS: African-American Christians waver over vote Published September 16, 2012 Some black clergy, seeing no good presidential choice between a Mormon candidate and one who supports gay marriage, are telling their flocks to stay home on Election Day.

The Role of Faith in the 2012 Election

The pastors say their congregants are asking how a true Christian could back same-sex marriage, as President Barack Obama did in May. As for Republican Mitt Romney, the first Mormon nominee from a major party, congregants are questioning the theology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its former ban on men of African descent in the priesthood.

There's no question which candidate is expected to win the black vote. In 2008, Obama won 95 percent of black voters and is likely to get an overwhelming majority again. But the nation's first African-American president can't afford to lose any voters from his base. "When President Obama made the public statement on gay marriage, I think it put a question in our minds as to what direction he's taking the nation," said the Rev. A.R. Bernard, founder of the predominantly African-American Christian Cultural Center in New York. Bernard, whose endorsement is much sought-after in New York and beyond, voted for Obama in 2008. He said he's unsure how he'll vote this year.

Concerns Over Voting Behavior

It's unclear just how widespread the sentiment is that African-American Christians would be better off not voting at all. Many pastors have said that despite their misgivings about the candidates, blacks have fought too hard for the vote to ever stay away from the polls. Black church leaders have launched get-out-the-vote efforts on a wide range of issues, including the proliferation of state voter identification laws, which critics say discriminate against minorities. Last Easter Sunday, a month before Obama's gay marriage announcement, the Rev. Jamal-Harrison Bryant of Baltimore formed the Empowerment Network, a national coalition of about 30 denominations working to register congregants and provide them with background on health care, the economy, education and other policy issues.

Yet, Bryant last month told The Washington Informer, an African-American newsweekly, "This is the first time in black church history that I'm aware of that black pastors have encouraged their parishioners not to vote." Bryant, who opposes gay marriage, said the president's position on marriage is "at the heart" of the problem. Bryant was traveling and could not be reached for additional comment, his spokeswoman said. The circumstances of the 2012 campaign have led to complex conversations about faith, politics and voting. The Rev. George Nelson Jr., senior pastor of Grace Fellowship Baptist Church in Brenham, Texas, participated in a conference call with other African-American pastors the day after Obama's announcement during which the ministers resolved to oppose gay marriage. Nelson said Obama's statement had caused a "storm" in the African-American community.

Challenges With Theological Differences

Still, he said "I would never vote for a man like Romney," because Nelson has been taught in the Southern Baptist Convention that Mormonism is a cult. As recently as the 2008 GOP primaries, the SBC's Baptist Press ran articles calling the LDS church a cult. This year, however, prominent Southern Baptists have discouraged use of the term when addressing theological differences with Mormonism. Many Southern Baptist leaders have emphasized there are no religious obstacles to voting for a Mormon. Nelson planned to vote and has told others to do the same. He declined to say which candidate he would support. "Because of those that made sacrifices in days gone by and some greater than others with their lives. It would be totally foolish for me to mention staying away from the polls," he said in an email exchange.

Romney has pledged to uphold conservative positions on social issues, including opposing abortion and gay marriage. But many black pastors worry about his Mormon beliefs. Christians generally do not see Mormonism as part of historic Christianity, although Mormons do. African-Americans generally still view the church as racist. When LDS leaders lifted the ban on blacks in the priesthood in 1978, church authorities never said why. The Mormon community has grown more diverse, and the church has repeatedly condemned racism. However, while most Christian denominations have publicly repented for past discrimination, Latter-day Saints never formally apologized.

Bernard is among the traditional Christians who voted for Obama in 2008 and are now undecided because of the president's support for gay marriage. But Bernard is also troubled by Romney's faith. "To say you have a value for human life and exclude African-American human life, that's problematic," Bernard said, about the priesthood ban. "How can I judge the degree to which candidate Romney is going to allow his Mormonism to influence his policies? I don't know. I can't." Romney said in a 2007 speech that LDS authorities would have no influence on his policies as president. He also said he wept when he learned that the priesthood

Religious Influence on Political Perceptions

ban had been abolished because he was anxious for it to be lifted. But that has done little to change perceptions among African-Americans and others. "Obama was supposed to answer for the things that Rev. Wright said," said the Rev. Floyd James of the Greater Rock Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, at a recent meeting of the historically black National Baptist Convention. "Yet here's a guy (Romney) who was a leader in his own church that has that kind of history, and he isn't held to some kind of account? I have a problem with that." Obama broke in 2008 with his longtime Chicago pastor, Jeremiah Wright, after videos of his incendiary sermons were broadcast.

Political Campaigns and Religious Discourse

Many Democrats and Republicans have argued that Romney's faith should be off limits. The Rev. Derrick Harkins, faith outreach director for the Democratic National Committee, travels around the country speaking to African-American pastors and other clergy. He said concerns over gay marriage have receded as other issues take precedence, and no pastors have raised Mormonism in their conversations with him about the two candidates. "There's just no space in this campaign for casting aspersions on anyone's faith," Harkins said in a phone interview. "It's not morally upright. It's not ethically appropriate."

The Rev. Howard-John Wesley, who leads the Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Va., said he is telling his congregants, "Let's not make the election a decision about someone's salvation." Last spring, when it became clear that Romney would be the GOP nominee, congregants starting asking about Mormonism, so Wesley organized a class on the faith. He said congregants ultimately decided that "we could not put Mormons under the boundaries of orthodox Christianity." But Wesley said, "I don't want Gov. Romney to have to defend the Mormon church, the way President Obama had to defend Jeremiah Wright." Wesley, whose congregation has more than 5,000 members, said he will be voting for Obama.

The Rev. Lin Hill, an associate pastor of Bethany Baptist Church in Chesapeake, Va., said in a phone interview that he plans to travel with other local pastors to about 50 congregations over two weeks to hold discussions and distribute voter guides that will include a contrast between historic Christianity and Mormonism, and educate congregants about the former priesthood ban. Hill is active in his local Democratic Party but said he's acting independently of the campaign. He said Mormon theology becomes relevant when congregants argue that they can't vote for Obama because, as a Christian, he should have opposed gay marriage. "If you're going to take a tenet of a religion and let that dissuade you from voting, then we have to," discuss Mormon doctrine, Hill said. "We want folks to have a balanced view of both parties, but we can't do that without the facts."

The Rev. Dwight McKissic, a prominent Southern Baptist and black preacher, describes himself as a political independent who didn't support Obama in 2008 because of his position on social issues. McKissic said Obama's support for same-gender marriage "betrayed the Bible and the black church." Around the same time, McKissic was researching Mormonism for a sermon and decided to propose a resolution to the annual Southern Baptist Convention that would have condemned Mormon "racist teachings." McKissic's Mormon resolution failed. On Election Day, McKissic said, "I plan to go fishing."

New Initiatives in Mormon and LGBT Communities

Mormon marchers taking new strides toward LGBT harmony
Building Bridges • Group is forming a choir in Utah.
By Peggy Fletcher Stack
The Salt Lake Tribune
Published: September 17, 2012 09:47AM?Updated: September 17, 2012 09:47AM
?Scott Sommerdorf | The Salt Lake Tribune Mormons Building Bridges group leads the annual Gay Pride Parade through downtown Salt Lake City, Sunday, June 3, 2012.
A newly formed group of Mormons marched in gay pride parades in several U.S. cities earlier this year. These Latter-day Saints dressed in their Sunday best and carried signs, expressing love for their LGBT friends and family. The effort was meant as a symbol of outreach and peacemaking between two communities so often at odds.

Efforts to Promote Understanding

The group, known as Mormons Building Bridges, was launched by active Latter-day Saints and carried no political message, nor critique of the LDS Church’s opposition to same-sex marriage. Now Bridges is creating a more permanent symbol: a choir. By singing together, the group hopes to “promote mutual understanding,” said director Bryan Horn, “and share the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” The choir will hold auditions for singing and instrumentalists soon, Horn said, and plans to have weekly rehearsals in Salt Lake and Utah counties. The group will be open to all interested performers, he said, regardless of skill.

Music and Community

“Even if you can’t sing or play an instrument,” he said, “we’ll find something for you to do.” The choir will perform religious music — not just LDS hymns — including a range of pieces from classical Christian to African American spirituals. Horn grew up as a Mormon in Nashville, Tenn., and served a two-year mission to Las Vegas. A few years ago, he resigned from the Utah-based Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but still attends services regularly with the man he considers his husband (though they are not legally married). “I am actively Mormon in my own way,” Horn said. “I pray, read the scriptures, and go to church at a friend’s ward.” Horn, who is working on a master’s in international studies at the University of Utah, hopes the choir swells to hundreds of participants, enough to break off into smaller groups. “Whoever — gay or straight — shares our vision,” he said, “is welcome.” Erika Munson, the Sandy Mormon who organized Bridges, will not be directly involved with the choir but endorses it as a valuable cog in the movement. “We are so excited, even thrilled about it,” Munson said. “Everyone loves to sing. There is no better way to reach hearts and minds and bring people together than through music.” Munson reiterates that the choir, like all other Bridges activities, has no political or theological agenda, other than love. “We just want everyone,” she said, “to express their joy in being people of God through music.” Together — in harmony.

The Special Edition Appeal

FROM DANNY, a FAITHFUL VIEWER AND FRIEND

THE FAIR JOURNAL
SPECIAL EDITION
September 2012

The Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research

This is a SPECIAL EDITION of the FAIR Journal. We are sending out this special edition to notify you of something that cannot wait until the next FAIR Journal is readied and sent out. We need your help! We are encouraged when we receive notes of gratitude from those of you who have used our services. We regularly hear that FAIR has helped to answer difficult questions and strengthen testimonies. However, one of the most difficult things we hear are the stories of family members who have left the Church and the frustration felt by those who wonder whether it would have made a difference if the family had known about FAIR sooner. Too often, it seems that by the time people discover FAIR, it is after a friend or family member has lost faith.

If FAIR is going to be more effective in helping to prevent people from losing their testimonies, people need to know about FAIR before a crisis sets in. For this reason, FAIR is undertaking a more aggressive effort to advertise. Our first step will be to run ads on KSL radio during General Conference. We will expand our efforts beyond this in the future, perhaps with television advertising as well, but it takes money!

Just as we had been wondering how we were going to move forward with this new advertising effort, an anonymous donor stepped forward and has offered to match any donation we receive through September 30, or until we reach our goal of raising $6,000, whichever comes first. This past week, we have received donations totaling $445, so we have a long way to go. Please consider making a donation of $500, or $300, or $100. For those who are able, maybe you could donate $1,000. If that is too much of a stretch, maybe $50 or $25. A donation of any amount would be welcome. Please make a donation now!

The money you contribute will be matched by our anonymous donor, so your donation will count twice as much. Your donation will help get the word out that there are answers to the questions that cause people to lose their faith and leave the Church. Please donate now at http://www.fairlds.org/donate.

FAIR is a 501c(3) corporation, so in the United States your contributions are tax deductible. Please check with your tax adviser.

–Scott Gordon
FAIR President

The Restoration's Defense

Critical Evidences of the Restoration
By John Lynch

Critics of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are often quick to jump forward with any and all criticisms that they believe might prove the undoing of the testimony of our members. It

The "Shotgun" Approach to Criticism

It is not uncommon to see the proverbial “shotgun” approach of bombarding individuals who are young in the gospel with a barrage of information that all seems damning on the surface. Just as with birdshot that only requires a single pellet to bring down a flying bird, such an approach relies upon the notion that with so many things being claimed, that if only a few – or even one – were proven true, then the Church cannot be true! Such tactics, also referred to as the “spaghetti” method of “throw it and see what sticks,” do not require depth of thought, or for that matter, even truth or context. It relies exclusively on the notion that if you throw enough at someone, they may just give up under the burden of fending off the attacks.

Evidences of Authenticity

It is interesting, however, that there are a number of criticisms raised about the Church and the restoration that initially appear damning, but under closer scrutiny prove to be evidences of authenticity often for the mere fact that they prove counter-intuitive to what one would expect from a fraudulent enterprise.

First Vision- Prophetic or Farce?

For example, critics have claimed that Joseph Smith invented the visions he had. As has been proven with many individuals who claimed prophetic status, it is typical of such individuals to establish themselves as the exclusive point of access to divine will. If Joseph were one seeking such glory, it would seem reasonable that he would similarly concentrate all the power in himself. However, such was not the case! Joseph had his first vision in the spring of 1820. It was not, for him, an earth shattering revelation shedding light for the world on the nature of God! No, it was a deeply personal experience that answered for him what he most sought – how he might draw himself close to God through religious devotion. In his desire to know which Church to join, he innocently approached the Creator of the Universe, and God answered back, personally!

Following this vision, Joseph encountered stiff opposition to his recounting of his experience, and as might be expected of a 14 year old boy, he quickly learned to keep it to himself. But, the Lord had other plans. When Joseph later sought to reconcile himself to God through prayer, God sent his messenger, the prophet Moroni, to answer Joseph. He was given very precise instructions from this heavenly visitor, who spent the entire night instructing the prophet and expanding repetitively on an important role he was to fill in the restoration. This role included returning to the earth critical truths and authority necessary to help us make and keep covenants with God in preparation for the future return of Christ. This also was a personal visit, but it foretold the role Joseph would play in the restoration of the Gospel upon the earth. Following this visit of Moroni, numerous critical events of the restoration happened, not in the solitary presence of Joseph, but in the presence of others who were witness to divine interaction with man.

Priesthood Authority Given to More Than One

For example, Oliver Cowdery was scribe to Joseph while translating the Book of Mormon. Together they learned that authority to baptize was needed. Joseph, as much a learning participant in the unfolding of the restoration as he was a critical player, retired with Oliver to the banks of the Susquehanna River, and they supplicated God for guidance. In response to this sincere inquiry, John the Baptist appeared to the men and bestowed upon them the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood (See D&C 13). For the better part of two millenniumA symbolic period of Christ’s reign—fulfilled by 70 A.D., not a future thousand-year timeline. More, this authority had been lost from the earth. But it was not restored to a glory seeking, power concentrating individual as might be expected if Joseph was fabricating a story to concentrate power in himself. No, it was restored to both men!

While we do not have the details of the later encounter, we know that Joseph and Oliver were both present when Peter, James, and John, the three ancient apostles who were with Christ at the mount of transfiguration, returned to the earth to bestow the Melchizedek priesthood. This was necessary as a precursor to the restoration of critical keys needed for the full restoration of the Gospel. Joseph was not one who was eager to concentrate the influence and power within himself as would be expected from a fraud. Rather, he sought and invited others to seek and know for themselves. When he was entrusted with the

Joseph Smith's Burden and The Three Witnesses

Plates, keeping them hidden from others was a significant burden. He was not allowed to show them to anyone. In one account of some bemusement for me personally, Joseph returned to his house with the plates wrapped in one of his shirts. Some family members present asked if they could see them, to which Joseph is reported as saying that he could not show them to these people, but he had no instruction preventing him from letting people feel them! So, with the plates covered, those present were allowed to feel and touch the plates under the cloth.

Three Witnesses! So eager was Joseph to share the burden of the restoration that he felt great relief upon the final approval by the Lord for Oliver Cowdery, Martin Harris, and David Whitmer to become what would later be referred to as the Three Witnesses. These three were all visited by the angel Moroni. All three of them saw the plates and other sacred artifacts, and all three heard the voice of God command them to testify that they had seen the plates, and that they were translated by the Gift and Power of God. Despite all three later becoming disaffected with Joseph, none of them ever recanted their witness which now accompanies every printing of the Book of Mormon. Both Oliver and Martin returned to the Church after the martyrdom of Joseph. Only David Whitmer remained apart, but he never recanted his witness!

The Quorum of Twelve Apostles

“Subordinates” Chosen By Others- Not by Loyalty

As a further contrary notion, Joseph needed to re-establish the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in order to help build the kingdom. These individuals would become the second highest authority in the Church, subordinate only to the First Presidency. But Joseph did not select these individuals. They were selected rather by Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer, who sought them out based on the specific criteria set by the Lord (see D&C 18:37-38). And while a number of these men would prove a test for the prophet, Joseph nevertheless accepted these individuals as critical players in the hierarchy of the Church.

Miracles and Visions

Miracles and Visions Seen By Many

Beyond these events, Joseph received the restoration of critical keys needed for much of what we recognize today as requisite authority for many of the sacred ordinances of the temple to be performed. As such, he was visited by Moses, Elias, and Elijah. He was not alone when such occurred, but was accompanied by Sidney Rigdon. A man whom some would claim was seeking to perpetrate a fraud was successfully convincing others that they were participating in the “delusion.” It did not stop here. No, when the Kirtland Temple was dedicated, there were a great many visions had by others, which included seeing angels and other ancient prophets. Miraculous events occurred en masse by those who attended.

When the remarkable vision of the degrees of glory descended upon the prophet which gives us critical understanding of the conditions of the kingdoms that will follow, he was not alone! No, Sidney Rigdon was present, and witnessed all that Joseph saw (See D&C 76).

Joseph Smith's Legacy

A Humble Con-Man?

No, Joseph as a charlatan was as unskilled at the craft as could be expected. He did not concentrate the power in himself. He did not make himself a sole conduit for access to divine will. He was not the sole source for critical truths that were restored. No, he foolishly allowed many individuals to join in his “delusions,” including many who would leave him for varied reasons. As a con-man, Joseph did everything wrong. But as a prophet?

As a prophet, Joseph exemplified humility! He was eager to lift others and to have them learn for themselves the truths of the gospel. He was not alone when the most critical events of the restoration occurred, but was accompanied by others. He did not exclusively experience the great visions that instruct us, but such experiences were witnessed by others!

No, Joseph makes for a very improbable fraud, but a very probable prophet! The very things one would expect from a con-man is absent from his history, while those things consistent with one inspired by the Almighty are everywhere present. The very contrary nature of his behavior, and the behavior of those around him in these critical experiences of the restoration, speaks to the authenticity of his claims! The efforts of our critics to impugn his character are betrayed by his behavior, and the loyalty of those who were present in the most significant events of the restoration speaks to the truth of his

Critical Evidence in Church Teachings

Critical Evidence
In coming weeks I will explore myriads of such “critical evidences” that speak as evidences of authenticity in contrast to the criticisms they were originally intended to be. We will examine criticisms in the Book of Mormon, the Book of Abraham, Church History, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Joseph Smith translation of the Bible. We will discover that such criticisms, under close scrutiny, serve to authenticate the claims of Joseph not only because they were found to be correct, but because they were discovered to be correct when all evidence would indicate they should be wrong if Joseph were not what he claimed to be.

Personal Confirmation of Faith

In the end, we have our own access to God to confirm that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is where we find the authority needed to covenant with God. We can know for ourselves that such a restoration occurred, not under the solitary experience of one man, but under the collective experiences of the many participants in the restoration. And like those who shared in his visions and visitations, we can become our own witness that Joseph was the prophet he claimed to be.