Understanding the Symbolism
Rock
Represents the Law written in stone. It breaks scissors (the spirit) but is engulfed by the paper (word).
Paper
Represents the written word which covers the law (rock) but can be cut through by the Spirit (scissors).
Scissors
Represents the Spirit which is broken by the Law but rightly discerns the Word of God (paper).
Different Approaches
Old Covenant Approach
Moses with the Law written in stone
Apostolic Record Approach
Apostles writing to saints in that day with instructions on how to survive then
Spirit Approach
The Holy Spirit governing people from the heart who have come to Christ by faith.
Comparisons Among Influential Figures
Joseph Smith
Religious LegalismRule-based religion is over. Faith and love—not law—define life with God now.
Temple Rites, Priesthoods and Prophets
Certainty and Superiority
“All mankind may be saved by obedience to the Laws and Ordinances of the (LDS) Gospel”
Chuck Smith
Objective Religion
Sectarianism
Factional Warring
“Accepting our view of biblical interpretation is mandatory for another person to be considered a saved Christian. There is a vetting process we put all said believers through as a means to determine if they are legitimate in their stated faith.”
The Role of the Spirit
Smithereens
Subjective Relationship
Scripture by the SPIRIT
Absolute Freedom to LOVE ALL IN HIS NAME (all the time)
The Spirit is Primary and Preferential. The Scripture is Secondary and Referential. Religious Traditions are, at best, tertiary and deferential, Organized Religious rule is obsolete and inconsequential.
