Ontology of God, Part 3

Authoritarianism, Obedience, and Evolving Beliefs in Religious Contexts

Live from Salt Lake City, Utah, this is Heart of the Matter, where we strive to worship God in Spirit and in Truth. I’m your host, Shawn McCraney. Today, we delve into a tragic incident involving the Word of Life Church in upstate New York, where a young man lost his life due to extreme disciplinary actions. This heartbreaking event highlights the dangers of authoritarian religious practices, where submission is demanded under the guise of spiritual authority.

In a related discussion, we explore the culture within the LDS Church, where obedience to church leaders is often emphasized. Despite claims of free agency, historical statements from LDS leaders suggest a culture where questioning leadership is discouraged. This raises important questions about the balance between faith and personal discernment.

We also touch on the evolving views of Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, regarding the nature of God. Smith’s teachings shifted from a Trinitarian perspective to a belief in multiple gods, reflecting a departure from traditional Christian doctrine. This evolution underscores the complexities and challenges of interpreting religious texts and doctrines.

Finally, we introduce the concept of Subjective Christianity, which emphasizes love, acceptance, and the personal relationship between individuals and God. This approach seeks to transcend doctrinal divisions and promote unity among believers.

As we continue our journey through faith, let us remember the importance of love, understanding, and the pursuit of truth.