Priesthood Transfer: The Real Deal or Sham?

Historical Claims and Controversies of LDS Priesthood Authority

In a recent episode of “Heart of the Matter,” host Shawn McCraney delved into the historical claims surrounding the LDS Church’s priesthood authority. Broadcasting live from the heart of Mormonism, Shawn invited viewers to explore the origins and legitimacy of the LDS priesthood, questioning the narrative of angelic visitations that purportedly bestowed divine authority upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery.

Shawn recounted his personal experiences and motivations, drawing parallels between his methods and the rigorous training he received as a Junior Lifeguard under the legendary Ray Bray. This story served as a metaphor for his approach to examining and challenging the LDS Church’s claims.

The episode scrutinized the timeline and evolution of the LDS priesthood narrative, highlighting the absence of early references to angelic ordinations in Joseph Smith’s accounts. Shawn referenced historical research and testimonies from early church members, suggesting that the story of angelic visitations was a later addition to the LDS narrative, possibly as a response to external criticisms and internal challenges.

Shawn emphasized that, according to biblical and early LDS texts, divine authority is granted through God’s call rather than through a direct line of priesthood authority. He argued that the LDS Church’s claims of exclusive authority are not supported by historical evidence and that any true believer called to the work has the right to act in God’s name.

The episode concluded with an invitation for viewers to call in and share their thoughts, continuing the conversation about the nature of authority and belief within the LDS Church and beyond.