There has been a lot of hubbub lately about Mormonism being a cult because of an inflammatory statement made by Robert Jeffress, a Southern Baptist leader, at the Values Voter Summit in 2011.
So, as a public service, and to kick of our new blog Waxing Theological, I thought I would share the following experience:
So, as a public service, and to kick of our new blog Waxing Theological, I thought I would share the following experience:
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| actual pamphlet |
I was in the lobby of CBN (the Christian Broadcasting Network) in Virginia Beach, VA, and while waiting to meet up with a producer, a pamphlet caught my eye.
There, among the other informational brochures, in big, black capital letters hovering over a picture of a silhouetted gentleman in the late stages of male pattern baldness, wearing sweats, on a beach at sunrise, jumping in the air, throwing his arms and hands up to the heavens, read the word "CULTS."
Well, naturally that caught my eye. I pulled it out and quickly skipped to who was on CBN's "Cult List" and to see if I least made it to their top 10. Sure enough, guess who was number one?
You betchya!
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Was I really surprised? No. It actually made me laugh.
There, among the other informational brochures, in big, black capital letters hovering over a picture of a silhouetted gentleman in the late stages of male pattern baldness, wearing sweats, on a beach at sunrise, jumping in the air, throwing his arms and hands up to the heavens, read the word "CULTS."
Well, naturally that caught my eye. I pulled it out and quickly skipped to who was on CBN's "Cult List" and to see if I least made it to their top 10. Sure enough, guess who was number one?
You betchya!
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Was I really surprised? No. It actually made me laugh.
What made me laugh even more was further down the list they listed "occult groups" who "mix Christianity into their teachings" with the intent to deceive. Among those listed included, and I am quoting exactly (emphasis added):
"...eastern mysticism (including yoga and those where deities are named)..."
Apparently, according to CBN, you can't do yoga and be a Christian.
Whaaaahahahahat? (That's me laughing and saying "what" at the same time.)
So I just had to read on to learn more about their cult criteria and if my cult status was warranted. And what I found, was that by CBN's own definition... The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is NOT a cult!
Want to know how?
The first sentence of the brochure's opening paragraph reads as follows:
Whaaaahahahahat? (That's me laughing and saying "what" at the same time.)
So I just had to read on to learn more about their cult criteria and if my cult status was warranted. And what I found, was that by CBN's own definition... The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is NOT a cult!
Want to know how?
The first sentence of the brochure's opening paragraph reads as follows:
"Well," I thought, "that should be evidence enough to remove Mormons from the list." We don't fit CBN's own definition of a cult because we most undoubtedly "recognize Jesus Christ as the unique Son of God."
So, according to their definition, we shouldn't be on the list. End of story.
So, according to their definition, we shouldn't be on the list. End of story.
I should have stopped reading right there and put it away, realizing their claims were uninformed, when the tenants of my faith do NOT denounce Christ as the "unique Son of God."
But, I wanted to see what other gems were hidden in this pamphlet.
The first paragraph goes on to quote Walter R. Martin from the book Kingdom of the Cults. Apparently, Mr. Martin is an individual who, to pass the time, would rather tear down the religious beliefs of others instead of edifying and strengthening the faith of his own flock by teaching, expounding, and supporting the doctrines of his own theology. But I digress....
In his book, it says...
But, I wanted to see what other gems were hidden in this pamphlet.
The first paragraph goes on to quote Walter R. Martin from the book Kingdom of the Cults. Apparently, Mr. Martin is an individual who, to pass the time, would rather tear down the religious beliefs of others instead of edifying and strengthening the faith of his own flock by teaching, expounding, and supporting the doctrines of his own theology. But I digress....
In his book, it says...
Uh... what?
So, Mr. Martin, what you're saying is that God is not the same yesterday today and forever and should, instead, be defined by
I hope that's not what you're saying, even though it sounds like that's exactly what you're saying.
So, 1,500 years ago, when the total religious culture was Catholicism, according to your definition of cults, we should return to Catholicism because the early protestants were wrong in breaking with the total culture of that time.
Right?
Moving on.
The pamphlet goes on to explain this a little further.
- our culture?
- what's acceptable to the majority of Christians?
I hope that's not what you're saying, even though it sounds like that's exactly what you're saying.
So, 1,500 years ago, when the total religious culture was Catholicism, according to your definition of cults, we should return to Catholicism because the early protestants were wrong in breaking with the total culture of that time.
Right?
Moving on.
The pamphlet goes on to explain this a little further.
Then it gives the examples of how the Jehovah's Witnesses follow the "interpretations and teachings" of Russell and Rutherford and the Mormons follow the "interpretations and teachings" of Smith and Young.
This also struck me as interesting. Notice their phrasing of interpretations and teachings. I highlight that for a reason. Think about it.
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| John Wesley by George- Romney 1789 |
Aren't Methodists followers of the "interpretations and teachings" of John Wesley and George Whitfield? Are there any Methodists in the CBN audience? Why aren't they on the cult list? They fit Mr. Martin's definition.
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| John Smyth |
What about Baptists? Don't they ascribe to the "interpretations and teachings" of John Smyth and Roger Williams? I'm sure there are no baptists in the 700 Club audience. They should be on the list, too.
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| Luther in 1533 by Lucas Cranach the Elder |
I didn't see Lutherans on that list. Aren't they the followers of the "interpretations and teachings" of that heretic and renegade Martin Luther? The one who broke away from the "normative expressions of religion" in the "total culture" of that time? Surely they must be a cult.
How about Pentecostals? They're a fun bunch, aren't they? But, depending on which group they fall in:
- Wesleyan,
- Finished Work or
- Oneness,
...they follow the "interpretations and teachings" of their respective leaders including one John G. Schaepe who started the Oneness movement based on a "revelation" he received at an Apostolic Camp Meeting in 1913. But I didn't see any Pentecostals on the list.
Hmmmmm. A definite oversight.
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| Pat Robertson |
And finally, contemporary evangelicals, who are the primary target of the CBN audience. Aren't they the followers of the "interpretations and teachings" of Billy Graham, Jerry Falwell and, the big man himself, Pat Robertson? By CBN's own definition, should they not include themselves on their cult list?
There were things I agreed with in this pamphlet. The second paragraph informs us,
There were things I agreed with in this pamphlet. The second paragraph informs us,
Exactly right.
Now their "how to" is a little vague but they're on the right track.
The New Testament offers more specificity on how to know the truth, and even better, CBN tells you how to do it on their own website. *****link****
Next, under the heading reading What Scripture Says, it lays out three great scriptures about avoiding the wrong path and being watchful for those who wish to deceive. I won't write them out but I will link to them so you can read them in full if you wish.
This scripture in Mark 13 recounts when the Lord warns the early apostles that false Christs and prophets will appear and perform "miracles to deceive the elect."
When Matthew records this moment, we find an even better scripture where Christ tells them the same thing but adds "Ye shall know them by their fruits..." (Matt. 7:15-20). That must also be considered.
So now CBN's pamphlet moves on to tell us how to recognize a cult.
Now their "how to" is a little vague but they're on the right track.
The New Testament offers more specificity on how to know the truth, and even better, CBN tells you how to do it on their own website. *****link****
Next, under the heading reading What Scripture Says, it lays out three great scriptures about avoiding the wrong path and being watchful for those who wish to deceive. I won't write them out but I will link to them so you can read them in full if you wish.
This scripture in Mark 13 recounts when the Lord warns the early apostles that false Christs and prophets will appear and perform "miracles to deceive the elect."
When Matthew records this moment, we find an even better scripture where Christ tells them the same thing but adds "Ye shall know them by their fruits..." (Matt. 7:15-20). That must also be considered.
So now CBN's pamphlet moves on to tell us how to recognize a cult.
- First they tell us that once we know "authentic" truth, we'll eeeeeasily be able to recognize the "less than authentic" truth and that we need to search the Bible to judge whether a teaching is "cultish."
Well, my first question is... which version of the Bible?
Go into any Christian bookstore, especially the chain stores, and count how many different versions of the Christian Bible you find. Not only that, but obvious changes have occurred in the translation process making it confusing and difficult to know whether or not you're receiving the "authentic" truth.
And if such discrepancies have happened with our modern translations, isn't it reasonable to conclude that it's happened throughout the past two thousand years in ancient translations? Especially during the dark ages when only the priests who had been corrupted by the fusion of church and state held and copied the sacred texts. See this article on bible.org for a fair overview and treatment on the topic of biblical translations. http://bible.org/article/why-so-many-versions
- Next, CBN's pamphlet instructs: "see if [the teaching] deviates from God's Word so as to pervert the clear teaching on important matters of faith and practice."
Key words for me are "clear" and "important matters."
What if you're reading a version that has left out an important matter? Are you damned? Is Peter going to stand there at the pearly gates and say,
"Sorry, little Sally, but there were a few important matters you missed."
"But mister, the Bible I had said..."
"Sorry. No excuses. Here's your ticket. Now run along. The line for Hell is right over there... NEXT!"
Well, not to worry. CBN printed these "important matters" in this pamphlet.:
1. The doctrine of God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). I agree that this is an important matter, but what is the doctrine?
In CBN's own audience there are sects who believe the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are all the exact same person but use a different title depending on the role He plays -- kinda like that boss who likes to micromanage everything.
Then there are other sects who believe they are actually three separate beings but are one in purpose -- much like how a sports team operates.
1. The doctrine of God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). I agree that this is an important matter, but what is the doctrine?
In CBN's own audience there are sects who believe the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are all the exact same person but use a different title depending on the role He plays -- kinda like that boss who likes to micromanage everything.
Then there are other sects who believe they are actually three separate beings but are one in purpose -- much like how a sports team operates.
Others believe they are bodies of spirit while some believe they have physical bodies, except for the Holy Ghost of course, while still others believe they have no form at all and are just an energy force that is in all and through all and only took on the form of man when it became flesh and visited us for a while.
What about those on the CBN approved "real" Christian list who believe God is more aloof, leaving us to our own designs, like a grand overseer? Or those who believe he is deeply involved in every aspect of our daily lives?
Has CBN given any clarity to this important matter? If it has, then not enough Christians are watching the 700 Club.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints believes in God the Eternal Father and in His Son, Jesus Christ and in the Holy Ghost as three separate and distinct individuals as witnessed by those on the banks of the Jordan River at the baptism of Jesus. Each of them has their own role and job to perform as laid out in scripture by the ancient apostles, most notably Paul, with the Father and Son having bodies of flesh and bone,and have a vested interest in our well being, our growth, our happiness.
This seems to fit within the plethora of beliefs within CBN's own approved religion list. So I'd say we fit this requirement.
Check.
Check.
2. Heaven. Well, today's Christian "total culture" says there's one heaven. Really? So why was that heretic Paul talking about a "third heaven" (2 Cor. 12:2) and teaching about different degrees of glory when talking about the resurrection? (1 Cor. 15:40-42)
Blasphemy! Paul was breaking with the "total culture" and "Bible truth" of Christians 2000 years in the future. We should just disregard everything Paul's said now. Right?
Oh, cut Paul some slack. The Bible didn't exist back then, and neither did CBN, so who would he know what was right.
Well, if you are using a Bible that includes the teachings of Paul, then Mormons fall right in with his teaching on this "important matter." So, we can check this one off too..
Check.
3. Hell. You will suffer for your sins, and are separated from God. Not fun. Check...
4. Satan. Father of Lies. Hates God; hates us; wants us to fail; is very real. Got it. Check...
Blasphemy! Paul was breaking with the "total culture" and "Bible truth" of Christians 2000 years in the future. We should just disregard everything Paul's said now. Right?
Oh, cut Paul some slack. The Bible didn't exist back then, and neither did CBN, so who would he know what was right.
Well, if you are using a Bible that includes the teachings of Paul, then Mormons fall right in with his teaching on this "important matter." So, we can check this one off too..
Check.
3. Hell. You will suffer for your sins, and are separated from God. Not fun. Check...
4. Satan. Father of Lies. Hates God; hates us; wants us to fail; is very real. Got it. Check...
5. Salvation. Agreed. Important matter, but how involved is it?
Some in the CBN audience believe all you have to do is say you believe, accept Christ as your Savior,... and you're done.
Others believe you have to show your faith through obedience and good works. Or be baptized. Has CBN offered any real clarity on this matter?
Nope.
My faith teaches that through the Atonement of Christ (his sacrifice for our sins), all mankind may be saved by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel.
This fits within the doctrines of the "CBN approved Christian-church list," so that's another check for Mormons.
Check.
6. Baptism. Just a few questions, CBN.
How?
Some in the CBN audience believe all you have to do is say you believe, accept Christ as your Savior,... and you're done.
Others believe you have to show your faith through obedience and good works. Or be baptized. Has CBN offered any real clarity on this matter?
Nope.
My faith teaches that through the Atonement of Christ (his sacrifice for our sins), all mankind may be saved by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel.
This fits within the doctrines of the "CBN approved Christian-church list," so that's another check for Mormons.
Check.
6. Baptism. Just a few questions, CBN.
How?
- Sprinkling?
- pouring water over the head?
- immersion of a part of the body?
- full immersion?
When?
How about...
For the record, Mormons believe
Since there is such a division of beliefs concerning this important matter, and with CBN itself reporting confusion on the subject, http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/cbnteachingsheets/FAQ_water_baptism.aspx, it cannot exclude anyone from being a Christian denomination on the basis of baptism. So, I believe that's another check on the Mormons ARE Christians list.
Check.
7. Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Also known as the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
Our faith teaches that this is another essential part of salvation and must be associated with the baptism by water.
In each account of Christ's baptism, it was followed by the bestowal of the Holy Ghost. We believe that only those holding the proper authority (Heb. 5:4, oh heck, just read all of chapter 5) can give this Gift through the "laying on of hands." (Acts 8:15-20, 19:6)
Check.
8. Matters of righteousness and holiness in the Lord. Well that's conveniently broad, but we, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, strive to live righteous and holy lives. Let me quote in full our thirteenth Article of Faith:
- Infants or
- Old enough to understand what it means to accept the responsibility of accepting Christ as their Savior?
How about...
- Is it necessary?
- Is it just a formality because what matters is the intent of one's heart?
- Baptized in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?
- In the name of Christ?
- Should you be baptized only once?
- More than once, for example, if you change churches?
- Is it to cleanse one of Original Sin or to symbolize a rebirth or both and who should perform it?
For the record, Mormons believe
- baptism is essential to salvation;
- that it is a covenant we enter into with God to take upon us the name of Christ and be obedient to His commandments and stand as witnesses of Him in all times and places, and that by so doing, He will bless us with His Spirit;
- that it is to be performed by complete immersion, in the same manner as Christ was baptized (Matthew 3:13-17) and
- it is only valid if performed by one holding the proper authority from God. (Hebrews 5:4 and Acts 19:3-5).
Since there is such a division of beliefs concerning this important matter, and with CBN itself reporting confusion on the subject, http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/cbnteachingsheets/FAQ_water_baptism.aspx, it cannot exclude anyone from being a Christian denomination on the basis of baptism. So, I believe that's another check on the Mormons ARE Christians list.
Check.
7. Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Also known as the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
Our faith teaches that this is another essential part of salvation and must be associated with the baptism by water.
In each account of Christ's baptism, it was followed by the bestowal of the Holy Ghost. We believe that only those holding the proper authority (Heb. 5:4, oh heck, just read all of chapter 5) can give this Gift through the "laying on of hands." (Acts 8:15-20, 19:6)
Check.
8. Matters of righteousness and holiness in the Lord. Well that's conveniently broad, but we, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, strive to live righteous and holy lives. Let me quote in full our thirteenth Article of Faith:
13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
I believe that's another check.
Check.
9. Resurrection of the dead. Happened. Check
10. Recognition of the Bible as the guide and truth for faith and practice. May I refer you to one of my original questions.
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints love the Bible and use The King James Bible as a "guide and for truth for faith and practice" as this CBN pamphlet says a true Christian church must do. Our church's Articles of Faith clearly state that we believe the Bible is the Word of God as long as it is translated correctly.
Check!
These are the 10 only "important matters of faith and practice," and CBN was able to fit them in a few pamphlets. If that's the case, then God made the Bible much longer than it should have been!
The last of CBN's cult criteria are these:
Check.
9. Resurrection of the dead. Happened. Check
10. Recognition of the Bible as the guide and truth for faith and practice. May I refer you to one of my original questions.
- Which one?
- Which Bible?
- Which translation?
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints love the Bible and use The King James Bible as a "guide and for truth for faith and practice" as this CBN pamphlet says a true Christian church must do. Our church's Articles of Faith clearly state that we believe the Bible is the Word of God as long as it is translated correctly.
Check!
These are the 10 only "important matters of faith and practice," and CBN was able to fit them in a few pamphlets. If that's the case, then God made the Bible much longer than it should have been!
The last of CBN's cult criteria are these:
"One test of a cult is that it often does not strictly teach that Jesus is the only begotten Son of God who Himself is God manifested in the flesh."
This statement is a little confusing but we don't fit that definition either.
Members of the LDS church believe Jesus is the literal and only begotten Son of the Father and that He is God the Son, separate from God the Father. The biblical accounts of Christ's baptism is proof enough of that. (Christ is in the water, the Father speaks so all can hear, and bears witness of Christ as his Son... unless you believe Jesus was a ventriloquist, you'd have to accept the Father and Son are two physically separate beings.)
Together, they operate as one, much like a sports team. When you think of God as a title, rather than a name, it's easier to understand and makes more sense when the scriptures teach that Christ is God manifested in the flesh.
The Father acts through Christ. Under the direction of the Father,
Just because they are inseparable, does not mean they are not separate individuals.
Together, they operate as one, much like a sports team. When you think of God as a title, rather than a name, it's easier to understand and makes more sense when the scriptures teach that Christ is God manifested in the flesh.
The Father acts through Christ. Under the direction of the Father,
- Christ created all things (Ephesians 3:9),
- is the Jehovah of the Old Testament (Exodus 3:14, John 8:58) and the Savior of mankind (John 14:6).
- Christ is referred to as the "everlasting Father" (Isa. 9:6) and
- Christ even states this inseparable relationship between He and the Father when he said "If you have seen me, you have seen the Father" (John 14:7-9) and the several references he makes to having come in his "Father's name" (John 5:43, John 10:25).
Just because they are inseparable, does not mean they are not separate individuals.
Christ explains this relationship by comparing it with the relationship with our earthly fathers.
38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father. (John 8:38)
The last cult criteria they give is:
"...[T]he person or leader of the group or movement promotes himself as being equal to or greater than Jesus or promotes allegiance to himself in asuch a way as to take away from obedience to and worship of Christ."
Not at any time has any leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints promoted themselves as being equal to or greater than Jesus Christ. Not once. Not ever.
End of story.
That's all the criteria and, as you can see, according to CBN's own definition, we are not a cult and don't deserve the unfair, biased, ignorant, uninformed, dishonest and/or bigoted treatment by today's "total culture" of contemporary Christianity.
Therefore, based on evidence presented, I formally request CBN take us off of their Christianity's Most Wanted list.
But will they?
Probably not.
They will continue to tow the line, stick to and promote today's mainstream Christian total culture which has a long tradition of Mormon hating as passed down through the generations over the past 180 years.
They will just redesign the pamphlet and rewrite their cult definitions to better fit their agenda.
The rest of the pamphlet goes on to tell the reader how they can save themselves if they have been caught up in one of these cults or been involved in cultish behavior.
End of story.
That's all the criteria and, as you can see, according to CBN's own definition, we are not a cult and don't deserve the unfair, biased, ignorant, uninformed, dishonest and/or bigoted treatment by today's "total culture" of contemporary Christianity.
Therefore, based on evidence presented, I formally request CBN take us off of their Christianity's Most Wanted list.
But will they?
Probably not.
They will continue to tow the line, stick to and promote today's mainstream Christian total culture which has a long tradition of Mormon hating as passed down through the generations over the past 180 years.
They will just redesign the pamphlet and rewrite their cult definitions to better fit their agenda.
The rest of the pamphlet goes on to tell the reader how they can save themselves if they have been caught up in one of these cults or been involved in cultish behavior.
One of the things this asks the reader to do is:
"Participate in a local church fellowship and church-recognized, Holy Spirit-oriented Bible/prayer fellowship where the Bible is the only rule for faith and practice."
Whoa, hold on... my brain just fell on the floor. Let's take this slowly.
"Local church fellowship...", okay, got it... "church-recognized...", wait -- !!!!!!!!! Put on the brakes. "Church-recognized???" What is that?
Does that mean it has to be a denomination recognized by the Christian Broadcasting Network? Or a church that's widely recognized?
To me it sounds like someone, or some church, is taking on authority it doesn't have to tell others what constitutes a true Christian church and what doesn't.
Who is setting themselves up to have this kind of authority and make those kinds of calls? "No man taketh this honor unto himself..." (Heb. 5:4) comes to mind.
Isn't religion and spirituality a personal thing? A personal quest? And how do you know which church to join? If they're all true, then why are they each so different?
STOP! Never fear, CBN is here! Because you can go to CBN's website and they will help you find a "proper" church. A CBN approved church. (But shouldn't the Lord lead you?)
Let's keep going...
"Holy Spirit-oriented..." okay, I understand what they're saying, but why not "Christ-oriented" or "Christ-centered?" Oh, well, I'm not going to be too nit picky.
"...where the Bible is the only rule for faith and practice." --
Well, that could be a problem.
If I draw a dot...
"Local church fellowship...", okay, got it... "church-recognized...", wait -- !!!!!!!!! Put on the brakes. "Church-recognized???" What is that?
Does that mean it has to be a denomination recognized by the Christian Broadcasting Network? Or a church that's widely recognized?
To me it sounds like someone, or some church, is taking on authority it doesn't have to tell others what constitutes a true Christian church and what doesn't.
Who is setting themselves up to have this kind of authority and make those kinds of calls? "No man taketh this honor unto himself..." (Heb. 5:4) comes to mind.
Isn't religion and spirituality a personal thing? A personal quest? And how do you know which church to join? If they're all true, then why are they each so different?
STOP! Never fear, CBN is here! Because you can go to CBN's website and they will help you find a "proper" church. A CBN approved church. (But shouldn't the Lord lead you?)
Let's keep going...
"Holy Spirit-oriented..." okay, I understand what they're saying, but why not "Christ-oriented" or "Christ-centered?" Oh, well, I'm not going to be too nit picky.
"...where the Bible is the only rule for faith and practice." --
Well, that could be a problem.
If I draw a dot...
How many lines can I draw through it?
Infinite. Right?
The answer is simple.
Each line represents a different interpretation, and like one nail trying to secure a 2 X 4, one Bible allows anyone to twist and turn the gospel according to their own interpretation.
And how are you going to find a group to fellowship and worship with if you don't even know if the Bible they're using is a correct translation?
There is a growing belief in modern Christianity that the Bible is infallible and without error and the complete word of God. If that is the case, explain the different versions. Where does the Bible claim that it is infallible, inerrant and that it's complete.
- Why do you think there are so many churches? Even among CBN's approved list?
- If everyone has the Bible, why is there so much confusion and differing of doctrines, interpretations and rituals? Some using one Bible, others using another version of the Bible?
The answer is simple.
Each line represents a different interpretation, and like one nail trying to secure a 2 X 4, one Bible allows anyone to twist and turn the gospel according to their own interpretation.
And how are you going to find a group to fellowship and worship with if you don't even know if the Bible they're using is a correct translation?
There is a growing belief in modern Christianity that the Bible is infallible and without error and the complete word of God. If that is the case, explain the different versions. Where does the Bible claim that it is infallible, inerrant and that it's complete.
Many of you may not know that the word Bible comes from the Greek word ta biblia meaning "the books" referring to a collection of books and wasn't used until the 3rd century. During the centuries following the death of the apostles, who were the foundation of the church, this collection of books varied and many arguments arose as to which writings should be included. There are many lost books that the Bible itself references. I found this in my Bible Dictionary (emphasis added):
The so-called lost books of the Bible are those documents that are mentioned in the Bible in such a way that it is evident they were considered authentic and valuable, but that are not found in the Bible today. Sometimes called missing scripture, they consist of at least the following: book of the Wars of the Lord (Num. 21:14); book of Jasher (Josh. 10:13; 2 Sam. 1:18); book of the acts of Solomon (1 Kgs. 11:41); book of Samuel the seer (1 Chr. 29:29); book of Gad the seer (1 Chr. 29:29); book of Nathan the prophet (1 Chr. 29:29; 2 Chr. 9:29); prophecy of Ahijah (2 Chr. 9:29); visions of Iddo the seer (2 Chr. 9:29; 12:15; 13:22); book of Shemaiah (2 Chr. 12:15); book of Jehu (2 Chr. 20:34); sayings of the seers (2 Chr. 33:19); an epistle of Paul to the Corinthians, earlier than our present 1 Corinthians (1 Cor. 5:9); possibly an earlier epistle to the Ephesians (Eph. 3:3); an epistle to the Church at Laodicea (Col. 4:16); and some prophecies of Enoch, known to Jude (Jude 1:14). To these rather clear references to inspired writings other than our current Bible may be added another list that has allusions to writings that may or may not be contained within our present text, but may perhaps be known by a different title; for example, the book of the covenant (Ex. 24:7), which may or may not be included in the current book of Exodus; the manner of the kingdom, written by Samuel (1 Sam. 10:25); the rest of the acts of Uzziah written by Isaiah (2 Chr. 26:22).
The foregoing items attest to the fact that our present Bible does not contain all of the word of the Lord that he gave to his people in former times, and reminds us that the Bible, in its present form, is rather incomplete.
Matthew’s reference to a prophecy that Jesus would be a Nazarene (2:23) is interesting when it is considered that our present O.T. seems to have no statement as such.
The other problem that I alluded to earlier in this post is that ancient scribes, like us, took notes in the margins of the manuscripts. Some did it to correct what they though was wrong and made other notes regarding the doctrine. Well, when the next scribe was copying the copy, they didn't know what were margin notes, corrections, what to include or what to leave out. This is one of the reasons why there are no two ancient manuscripts alike. And since there are no original writings of the prophets and apostles in ext, we have no basis for comparison.
Origen Adamantius, an early Christian scholar stated:
Origen Adamantius, an early Christian scholar stated:
"It is an obvious fact today (3rd century A.D.) that there is much diversity among the manuscripts, due either to carelessness of the scribes, or to the perverse audacity of some people in correcting the text, or again to the fact that there are those who add or delete as they please, setting themselves up as correctors."
2nd century Corinthian bishop Dionysius complained:
"When my fellow-Christians invited me to write letter to them I did so. These the devil's apostles have filled with tares, taking away some things and adding others. For them the woe is reserved. Small wonder then if some have dared to tamper even with the word of the Lord himself, when they have conspired to mutilate my own humble efforts."
The late Bruce Metzger, professor at Princeton Theological Seminary, Bible editor and member of the American Bible Society wrote in his book The Text of the New Testament. It's Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration first published in 1964 (emphasis added)...
"...The manuscripts of the New Testament preserve traces of two kinds of dogmatic alterations: those which involve the elimination or alteration of what was regarded as doctrinally unacceptable or inconvenient; and those which introduce into the Scriptures 'proof' for a favorite theological tenet or practice."
I could go on and on, but the point is, the Bible as it stands is not perfect. Which is why Mormons believe the Bible as far as it is translated correctly. It is also the reason for so much confusion in Christianity today over points of doctrine.
So how do you know?
CBN gives you the answer and it's completely right!
In CBN's Spiritual Life section on CBN.com, they answer the question of "Why is the Bible, and not other religious books, the Word of God?" I'm not going to go through their entire answer but I want to point out something that I do NOT like, first. Something that can give Christians a bad rap. In the last paragraph you'll find this phrase:
So how do you know?
CBN gives you the answer and it's completely right!
In CBN's Spiritual Life section on CBN.com, they answer the question of "Why is the Bible, and not other religious books, the Word of God?" I'm not going to go through their entire answer but I want to point out something that I do NOT like, first. Something that can give Christians a bad rap. In the last paragraph you'll find this phrase:
"Only the Christian Bible claims to be God’s very word to man...."
Why do they say this? Where is this claim? Nowhere in the Bible does it make this claim.
Do I believe it to be God's word? Yes. But not because this claim is found in the Bible.
In their answer to the question "Can We Trust the Claims of the Bible," they hit the nail on the head:
Do I believe it to be God's word? Yes. But not because this claim is found in the Bible.
In their answer to the question "Can We Trust the Claims of the Bible," they hit the nail on the head:
"There’s only one way that you can know if the Bible is true: Check it out. Try reading it for yourself and put into practice what it says. I think you’ll discover an authentic message that can bring sense to your life."
But there's more to it than just that. You have to ask God if it is true or not true.
How many times in the scriptures do we read words to the effect of "ask and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you," or Christ's parables of the unjust judge (Luke 18:1-6) or of how a parent gives to their child (Luke 11:9-13)? James couldn't have said it any clearer:
How many times in the scriptures do we read words to the effect of "ask and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you," or Christ's parables of the unjust judge (Luke 18:1-6) or of how a parent gives to their child (Luke 11:9-13)? James couldn't have said it any clearer:
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God...." (James 1:5)
I know mainstream Christianity would agree. But for some odd reason, they only want you to pray about the Bible and not any other "religious books."
Nice, huh?
So only pray to God about truth the First Baptist Church tells you to pray about.
If it's one thing Mormon's are guilty of, it's telling people to pray about everything. Never take the word of man; only the word of God.
Our message to the world, the message of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, is
And all we ask is that people not take our word for it. We don't expect you to, but expect you to use the Lord's formula for discovering His truth by sincerely and honestly asking God if it is true. And by the power of the Holy Spirit, you will know of it's truth and divine nature. (John 14:26)
But modern Christianity would tell you not to pray about it -- as this sign so clearly dictates. That God only answers prayers if you're praying about the Bible? To me, this picture is a blatant admission of the truth. "That's how they get you?" Please.
Are they seriously telling you not to ask God to help you discern between truth and error? If they know the Book of Mormon is a false book, then what are they afraid of? That He'll say "Yes?" And if it is "yes," well, wouldn't that the greatest news of our time?!
I've also seen signs outside of churches that advertise classes on "How to beat the Mormons." I've listened to Christian radio stations that will pray on air with people for God to intervene with friends who are meeting with Mormon missionaries.
Why the hostility toward another Christian religion? Is it because we're the fastest growing church? Do church leaders feel their careers are being threatened?
So only pray to God about truth the First Baptist Church tells you to pray about.
If it's one thing Mormon's are guilty of, it's telling people to pray about everything. Never take the word of man; only the word of God.
Our message to the world, the message of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, is
- that the heavens are not closed,
- that Christ has restored His church as He promised He'd do, and
- God continues to call prophets today as in the days of old.
- That, in His wisdom, knowing the apostasy that would occur and the corruption of His word that would take place, he prepared and preserved his word to come forth in these days to support and confirm the truths and correct teachings of the Bible. That there be no more confusion; that there may truly be "one Lord, one faith and one baptism" (Ephesians 4:5).
And all we ask is that people not take our word for it. We don't expect you to, but expect you to use the Lord's formula for discovering His truth by sincerely and honestly asking God if it is true. And by the power of the Holy Spirit, you will know of it's truth and divine nature. (John 14:26)
But modern Christianity would tell you not to pray about it -- as this sign so clearly dictates. That God only answers prayers if you're praying about the Bible? To me, this picture is a blatant admission of the truth. "That's how they get you?" Please.
Are they seriously telling you not to ask God to help you discern between truth and error? If they know the Book of Mormon is a false book, then what are they afraid of? That He'll say "Yes?" And if it is "yes," well, wouldn't that the greatest news of our time?!
I've also seen signs outside of churches that advertise classes on "How to beat the Mormons." I've listened to Christian radio stations that will pray on air with people for God to intervene with friends who are meeting with Mormon missionaries.
Why the hostility toward another Christian religion? Is it because we're the fastest growing church? Do church leaders feel their careers are being threatened?
What's happening is what I call "The Nancy Kerrigan Effect." For those of you who don't remember:Back in '94, Olympic figure skating medalist, Nancy Kerrigan, was brutally clubbed in her right knee, forcing her to withdraw from the U.S. Championships. It was an attack plotted out by the ex-boyfriend of Nancy's opponent, Tonya Harding. This philosophy can easily be stated as "If you can't beat 'em... beat 'em!"
Instead of promoting, teaching, evangelizing and living the doctrines of one's own faith, the focus turns on tearing down another's faith under the guise of protecting the innocent flock of God.
Many will defend the Bible as the only true word of God by using the scripture found in Revelation 22:18-19.
"...If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written...: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life..."
That would be solid proof...
if the Bible had even existed when John wrote this Revelation.
And if they hold true to this scripture's application, then you'll have to throw out everything after Deuteronomy.
if the Bible had even existed when John wrote this Revelation.
And if they hold true to this scripture's application, then you'll have to throw out everything after Deuteronomy.
"Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you." (Deut. 4:2)
But as I have shown, things have already been added to and taken from the Bible by both the innocent and nefarious.
John was exiled, and wasn't knowingly writing the "end" of the Bible when he recorded the book of Revelation. When the Bible we have today was organized, they actually put the book of Revelation at the back thinking no one would read it. But if the books were organized in the order in which they were actually written, many Biblical scholars believe the Book of John would be last. And if that were the case, then this would be the last scripture in the Bible:
John was exiled, and wasn't knowingly writing the "end" of the Bible when he recorded the book of Revelation. When the Bible we have today was organized, they actually put the book of Revelation at the back thinking no one would read it. But if the books were organized in the order in which they were actually written, many Biblical scholars believe the Book of John would be last. And if that were the case, then this would be the last scripture in the Bible:
"And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen."
The Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ, is just that: another witness to establish the truth of the first, not to replace it. Just as the Bible is a history book of God's dealings with His people in the Old World, The Book of Mormon is a history book of God's dealings with His people in the New World.
And just like the Bible, you must sincerely read, pray and find out for yourself if it is true; that you may be confident in knowing that God has not left you alone and confused.
So why would God preserve another record to come forth in our time? Remember how many lines we drew through our one dot?
How many lines can you draw through two dots?
And just like the Bible, you must sincerely read, pray and find out for yourself if it is true; that you may be confident in knowing that God has not left you alone and confused.
So why would God preserve another record to come forth in our time? Remember how many lines we drew through our one dot?
How many lines can you draw through two dots?
And remember our 2 X 4? What would happen if you hammered another second nail on the other end? Could you still twist and turn it?
Not a chance. (2 Cor. 13:1)
Written by J
Get your free copy of The Book of Mormon here.
Learn more about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints here.
Not a chance. (2 Cor. 13:1)
Written by J
Get your free copy of The Book of Mormon here.
Learn more about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints here.
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