The LDS Commandments, Sacrament Prayer

Exploring the Burden of Commandments in LDS Sacrament Practices

In this week’s episode of Heart of the Matter, host Shawn McCraney delves into the sacrament practices of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) and how they differ from traditional Christian interpretations. The discussion begins with a prayer and a recap of last week’s focus on the sacrament, specifically the prayer over the bread, which emphasizes remembrance of Jesus Christ.

McCraney highlights that while the LDS sacrament prayer aligns with the biblical purpose of communion, it introduces a significant addition: the requirement to “keep His commandments.” This addition, he argues, creates a form of bondage for believers, as it imposes a heavy burden of expectations that goes beyond the simple act of remembrance established by Jesus.

The host contrasts the elements used in LDS communion—ordinary bread and water—with the symbolic unleavened bread and wine used in biblical times, suggesting that the LDS practice lacks the historical significance intended by Jesus. He emphasizes that the LDS interpretation of keeping commandments is not only demanding but also manipulative, as it ties the presence of the Holy Spirit to the adherence to an extensive list of commandments.

McCraney outlines the numerous commandments that LDS members are expected to follow, which he believes creates an overwhelming sense of obligation. He argues that this system of religious control is more oppressive than that found in many other faiths, as it fosters a cycle of guilt and fear among members who strive to meet these expectations.

The episode concludes with an invitation for viewers to engage in the discussion, encouraging them to share their thoughts and questions for the next broadcast. Through this exploration, McCraney aims to shed light on the complexities of LDS sacramental practices and their implications for believers.