Ontology of God, Part 2

Faith, Tradition, and the Evolution of Belief

Live from Salt Lake City, Utah, Heart of the Matter, hosted by Shawn McCraney, delves into the complexities of faith and tradition. In a recent episode, Shawn shared a story from Philadelphia about a man named Mark Postell, who was arrested for wire fraud after posing as a “Mormon pastor” to cash a $183,000 check meant for the LDS Church. The irony of the situation highlighted the absurdity of some traditional beliefs and practices.

Shawn then explored the historical resistance to new ideas, using the shift from geocentric to heliocentric views in astronomy as an analogy for religious growth. He emphasized the importance of questioning traditional doctrines when they conflict with new understandings supported by scripture. This approach encourages believers to embrace faith and love, as highlighted in Philemon 1:4 and other New Testament passages, rather than clinging to outdated interpretations.

The episode also touched on the evolving views of Joseph Smith regarding the nature of God, illustrating how beliefs can change over time. Shawn advocates for the freedom to explore new theological perspectives while maintaining unity in faith and love. This open-minded approach invites believers to seek truth and understanding, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic faith community.