I AM AN EX MORMON

Throughout my journey, I have come to know four different groups of Mormons.

1. Those who know the truth but do not care.
2. Those who know the truth but cannot leave due to rejection of family members.
3. Those who do not care to know the truth.
4. Those who do not know there is an option to find out the truth.

My heart breaks for anyone who falls into one of these four categories.

I can relate to every single one of these stories on iamanexmormon.com. I recommend taking some time to listen to a few of them.

I know the LDS church is not a true church. When I first found out the truth about Mormonism and left the LDS church, I was extremely angry. Those feelings are finally beginning to subside. My name is Becky; I am a Christian, a wife, and a mother. I am an Ex Mormon who is finally and completely happy with myself! I am truly blessed to be a stronger Christian now than ever before!

Thank you for reading my life story. I am now closing this chapter of my life!

TODAY

Reason 40

Christian Statement of Faith
"1. We believe in the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative Word of God.
 2. We believe there is one God, eternally existent in three persons; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (The Trinity)
 3. We believe in the Deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father and in His personal return in power and glory.
 4. We believe for the salvation of lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential.
 5. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life.
 6. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation.
 7. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in Christ.
 8. We believe we are saved by Grace alone."
It is of interest to note that I now find more unity in theology among members of ALL the Christian denominations than I have found among the Mormons themselves, within their own Church! ~ Suzanne Bishop, "Let the Scriptures Speak," p. 188

carm.org has a really strong Christian Statement of Faith as well.
carm.org/statement-faith

There are plenty more Christian SoF's on the internet. All you have to do is Google it!
I believe in the Christian Statement of Faith, however the LDS church disagrees with several Christian beliefs.

     Approaching Mormons in Love, p. 101
Mormons love to declare that there are 900 (sometimes as many as 1,200) Christian denominations, all of which claim to be the only true church. They say the many groups teach conflicting doctrines, yet base those doctrines on the Bible. The Mormon will ask you, "How can all these denominations be right?" The usual Christian response is to point out: (1) there are not that many groups, and (2) the doctrinal differences among true Christian groups are not diverse as the Mormons think. This, however, is not an adequate answer. The elders will not be paying attention to your explanation. Nor will they "buy" it. To get their attention, say, "900 denominations are a lot, aren't they?"
     Mormon: Yes, they certainly are.
     Christian: Let's see. Christianity is 2,000 years old and in that time 900 denominations have developed, according to you. Mormonism is only 170 years old, but there are 83 different groups that point to Joseph Smith as their founder. It seems to me that Mormonism is divided worse than Christianity. (Of these 83 groups, the next six largest are: Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (which has recently changed its name to "Community of Christ"), Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Strangite), Church of Jesus Christ (Cutlerite), Church of Christ (Temple Lot), The Church of Jesus Christ (Bickerton), and the Fundamentalists.)
* other sources show over 100 groups that point to Joseph Smith as their founder *

I am so very blessed God chose me to hear the truth over so many other deserving LDS members. I very often wonder what made HIM choose me and what I did to deserve being chosen. I have learned more about Christ and the Bible in my journey out of Mormonism than I ever learned as a Mormon. I know there is an amazing reason I was a member for seven years. I may never know the reason, but I do know HE has a reason for choosing me. And for this, I am genuinely grateful!

Please do not say you are sad for me or my decision. If it is not clear why the LDS church is not the one true church, then I will be praying for Christ to save you just as He saved me.

Please respect my decisions even if you disagree with me. Please do not treat me or my family any differently because of my choices. I pray we can continue to love one another despite our disagreements.

I pray you have learned how absolutely wonderful it is for me to be out of the LDS church. I am in a much better place now, a place I never could have reached as a Mormon.

These 40 reasons are my reasons for resigning from the LDS church. If believing in and living these non-Biblical Christianity teachings are worth your happiness in the LDS church, then I am truly happy for you. You are in the right place if you can live your life with these doctrines and not have questions or doubts. If these 40 reasons I have shared with you are your reasons for believing it truly is the one true church with the fullness of the gospel and you choose to stay, then it is clear to me you are indeed a Mormon. If you are as happy in the church as I am out of the church, then I truly am happy for you and I will respect your opinions. Just know, I will continue to pray for you to know the Biblical Christ, and I hope to see you in heaven when our mission on earth is complete.

I have never considered myself to be an eloquent writer, nor do I consider myself a Biblical Expert. So if you would like to learn more about the LDS church, see links
lds.org
mormon.org
carm.org/teachings-of-mormonism

As a Mormon, I always thought this was the most difficult way to live. I had to give up so many things I enjoyed: wearing my crosses, having crosses all over my home, coffee, wine, meat, tank tops, dancing, etc. To me this meant I was living a "difficult" life. However, now that I am a Christian, living this life is so much more difficult than my Mormon life. For one thing, I have lost the majority of my LDS "friends" because we do not agree about the church. Two, Satan has been after me since the day I left the church. This strengthens my Faith in Christ and confirms I am doing exactly what I need to do!

     2 Timothy 4:1-5
"I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry."

The Bible commands us to question our religion, and I am so very grateful I followed through with this commandment found in Jude 3. "...contend earnestly for the faith..."

When you want to learn the difference between a car and a truck, who do you ask? The person who has owned only a car or the person who has owned only a truck? Nope, you will speak with one who has owned both a car and a truck. Well, the same holds true for Mormonism and Christianity. If you speak with just a Mormon, they'll give you the LDS side. If you speak with just a Christian, they'll give you the Christian side. If you speak with one who has been a Mormon and now a Christian, they'll give you both sides!

Bible: As a born-again Christian, we are part of God's Church; not an organization.

     1 Corinthians 12:12-14
For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body - whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free - and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many.

     Matthew 18:19-20
Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.

     Matthew 16:18
And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.

LDS: Only the LDS church is the true church. The true church was taken from the earth until Joseph Smith restored it.

     D&C 1:30
And also those to whom these commandments were given, might have power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually - 

     D&C 115:3-4
And also unto my faithful servants who are of the high council of my church in Zion, for thus it shall be called, and unto all the elders and people of my Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, scattered abroad in all the world; For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

My unanswered question was:

Why did I spend seven years in a false religion?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that this was God's plan for me, yet overjoyed to find the truth that God has His reasons for everything! He knew I needed to be a Mormon for seven years to be able to come to Christ! He knew I was ready to hear the truth from Him when I did! He knew I would be able to witness the truth to others once I removed myself from the LDS church! He knew exactly what He was doing and I will be eternally grateful for everything He has done for me! Every bit of this journey has been completely worth everything I've been through - the good as well as the bad. Every bit of bad has been worth the pain because I have been able to help SO many people with their journey! Thank you to those who have shared your stories with me! This includes Catholics, Jehovah's Witnesses, Non-Practicing Mormons, Lost Souls, Atheists, and Agnostics. Those who have chosen to judge me for resigning from the LDS church and those who have chosen to judge me for publicly sharing my story, I still love each and every one of you! This story is not about you; it's about me and my relationship with Christ!

TRUE or FALSE

Reason 39

Truth is Truth even if no one believes it - and conversely, a Lie is a Lie even if everyone believes it.

The LDS church is either true or it is false. It cannot possibly be both. It cannot be true for one person and false for another.

Do I want to be right, or do I want the truth? Definitely the TRUTH!

     Chris Johnson - iamanexmormon.com
iamanexmormon.com/2011/05/this-is-how-i-discovered-truth-my-name-is-chris-and-im-an-ex-mormon

     carm.org
What is the truth?
Truth is not a feeling. Truth is not an idea. The truth is found in the Bible. The cults are wrong because they do not have the truth. That is, they have a false understanding of God the Father, of God the Son, of the Holy Spirit, and the work of Christ on the Cross. Because they are in error in these things, they are in error concerning the doctrine of salvation.


Sincerity and good works do not bridge the gap of sin between God and man. Only the blood of Jesus can cleanse a person (Hebrews 9:22; John 14:6). Sincerity and good works are merely the reliance upon what is in the individual to merit favor with God. Sincerity is a form of pride when it is appealed to as a justification for being accepted by God: "But God, look at my heart. See how sincere I was? I deserve to be in heaven."


No. If sincerity and good works were good enough to satisfy God, then He wouldn't have given us the Bible to correct our sincerely wrong ideas, and He wouldn't have sent His Son to do what our good works cannot.


Truth is what God says is true.

Truth is not what Joseph Smith says is true. Is the church true or is it false? Definitely false. And if you cannot see it, I will continue to pray for Christ to open up your heart, mind, eyes, and soul just as He did mine.

See reasons 1-38

At first I felt I needed to find out for myself that the church was false since I clearly received my answer to that question from Christ. Well, this journey has become so much more than that. I have not been reading material against the church. I have been reading facts about it along with its history. I began diving into the Bible, the one true book that has stood strong from the beginning of time, and this is what ultimately confirmed my decision to leave the church. I am now a spiritual sponge. I have never felt this way before and I absolutely love it! I wanted to educate myself and become closer to Christ. The Bible is all I need. I do not disagree with its teachings; however, I do disagree with many LDS teachings and felt I could not leave my name attached to something I completely disagree with even if it hurts others. My family will know that we will all be together in Heaven (not as a family but as brothers and sisters) as long as we all accept Christ as our Savior. That is ALL it takes, Faith and Love.

In the world today there are many false prophets, false teachings or interpretations, modern revelations, who's right and who's wrong, etc. This is a big reason why I left the LDS church. Confusion, fear, frustration, deceit, contention, etc. are all of Satan. There was more contention within the LDS church itself than I have ever experienced in any other church. I do not know of another church that rips families apart the way this church does. I know there are lots of things I am not right about, but this makes me human. I can only strive to be better and better every day to please Him. The LDS church did not give me what I needed to become closer to Christ. I will not deny there are many wonderful things going on in the LDS church. However, there is just too much confusion, fear, frustration, deceit, and contention for me to continue to be a part of it. My life was centered on the church instead of Christ. I was so busy trying to please church leaders when I should have been trying to please Christ. I was trying so hard to be somebody I am not. I'm just not a holier than thou Molly Mormon. Christ is about love, joy, peace, happiness, freedom, etc. And the bottom line is, I was not getting those things out of the LDS church! Since I have not attended the LDS church the past two years, I have felt more like my true self than I ever did while I was a member. This is the only confirmation I need that I am doing the right thing for me and my salvation.

I am sad LDS believe their teachings are closer to the Bible than any other Religion. The many churches I have attended in the past two years teach solely from the Bible and no other book, so I still do not understand how LDS feel they are following the Bible more closely than any other religion. LDS use so many other books and even some of those books contradict each other. It was just so confusing. I tried to understand this for seven years, and I suppose this will never make sense to me.

Words by Kirk Cameron, Way of the Master Ministry:
LDS teaching:
If LDS are right and Christians are wrong, then LDS will go to the highest heaven. However, Christians will only make it to the middle heaven.


The Biblical Christianity teaching:
If Christians are right and LDS are wrong, then Christians will go to heaven. However, the LDS will go to hell for following a false Jesus.

The point is not that I agree with Kirk Cameron, but I would rather not find out for myself, just as I would rather my friends and loved ones not find out for themselves.

carm.org/if-mormons-are-christians

In Mormonism, MAN BECAME GOD...
In Christianity, GOD BECAME MAN...

Only one of these can be correct. Which is it?

My unanswered question was:

If Joseph Smith is a true prophet, then I will end up in the Terrestrial (middle) heaven since I believe in Christ. However, if Joseph Smith is a false prophet, then I will end up in Hell for believing in and following a false Prophet. Why would I take that chance?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that I do not want to take this chance, yet overjoyed to find the truth that I am much safer without the LDS church in my life! Everyone has the right to chose this for themselves just as I did.

CREATION

Reason 38

Creation:  The actions of God through which He brought man and the physical world into existence. God existed before the world, and He produced the universe from nothing (Genesis 1:1-2). As the sovereign, self-existing God, He also rules over His creation (Psalm 47:7-9). The Illustrated Bible Dictionary, George W. Knight, p81

     Psalm 90:2
Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever You had formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.

The LDS church teaches that God created this world out of existing matter. This is not a Christian teaching. God formed the World out of nothing. Any teaching different than this is certainly not giving God the credit He deserves and is lowering His Sovereignty. He did not take matter and form the world as LDS doctrine and the temple ceremony teach.

     D&C 93:29
Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be.

     Pearl of Great Price, Abraham 3:21-22
I dwell in the midst of them all; I now, therefore, have come down unto thee to declare unto thee the works which my hands have made, wherein my wisdom excelleth them all, for I rule in the heavens above, and in the earth beneath, in all wisdom and prudence, over all the intelligences thine eyes have seen from the beginning; I came down in the beginning in the midst of all the intelligences thou hast seen. Now the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones;

     Approaching Mormons in Love, p 35-39
Creation. Mormons do not believe in an original creation as found in the Bible. They teach that matter is "eternal." They do not believe that God created the world but teach that it was just organized out of existing matter. They say God called together the gods and sat in grand council to bring forth the world and that it was "organized" into being. They believe that Christ, who was the first-born spirit child of God, had the main responsibility for organizing the world but was aided by Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Peter, James, John, Joseph Smith, and many other "noble and great" ones while in the spirit world.


Intelligence.  The LDS Church teaches that everything first existed as spirit elements (including man) which they call "intelligence." They teach that this "spirit element" is eternal, and therefore never had a beginning. As a spirit element, man had a conscious existence where he knew the laws, good and evil, love and hate, truth and error. They do not say how long man existed in this state, but they believe it was a long time. The Church says that all knowledge of this first existence was wiped away when this "spirit element" entered the second stage knows as the "spirit world," so this is the reason no one remembers being in that state. (I don't understand how they know about this "intelligence" since no one remembers it - and no hint of such a condition is found in the Bible or The Book of Mormon.)


The Spirit World.....It is interesting to note that Mormons teach that in the spirit world, man and Jesus were of the same order of being, of the same race, nature and essence. They say that Jesus was the firstborn spirit child of the God of this universe and that every man or woman is as much deity as Jesus Christ, because all are spirit-born children of God. They also teach that Satan was one of the spirit-born children of God, thus making Jesus and Satan spiritual brothers.


Man Reaps on Earth what he Sowed in the Preexistence. Mormons teach that while man was in the spirit world, he went through a time of testing. If a person was obedient and valiant in the spirit world, he was assured of being born into a good family who lived in a powerful nation. If he was very good, he would be born into a white Mormon family. If he was less valiant, he would be born with darker skin, and the least valiant would be born with black skin.....(Moses 5:16-41; 7:8, 12, 22; Abraham 1:20-27).  lds.org/scriptures/pgp

My unanswered question was:

Since the Bible clearly states God formed the world out of nothing, then why does the LDS church insist He created the world from existing matter?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that I cannot believe in LDS teachings that contradict the Bible, yet overjoyed to find the truth that I am putting all my faith in the Bible and the Bible alone! No other book even comes close to earning my Faith!!!

CHILD OF GOD

Reason 37

Christianity = Everyone has an opportunity to be a child of God, but everyone will not take that opportunity. Jesus died for all, but not everyone accepts His gift. (Angelina Rayno)
LDS = Everyone is a child of God.

In the Bible...
     John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

     Romans 6:10
For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.

     Hebrews 10:12
But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God,

     Romans 8:14-17
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are children of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, "Abba, Father." The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. 


The children of God, are those led by the Spirit (v. 14). To be led by the Spirit, you must receive the Spirit (v. 15). After receiving the Spirit, which is the Holy Spirit, He will testify we are God's children (v. 16). How do we receive the Holy Spirit to know we are God's children?" It's simple. We must be spiritually born again, we must be born of God and then we will receive the Holy Spirit. To be born again means to understand you are a sinner (Romans 3:10 "There is none righteous, no, not one;), recognize the consequences for sin is death in hell (Genesis 2:17 and Romans 6:23), Jesus died on the cross for your sins to give you eternal life (John 3:16, Romans 6:23), accepting the gift of eternal life by making Jesus LORD and Saviour (Romans 10:9). Angelina Rayno

     John 1:12-13
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

     John 3:3-5
Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old"? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

     John 7:37-39
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

     Luke 11:13
If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?!"
          This is one of my favorite verses!!!

     1 Peter 1:23
Having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever,

     1 John 3
biblegateway.com/passage/1john3NKJV

Being spiritually born again is a decision of the heart that each individual must make. It's a free gift one must accept, and it has nothing to do with works or tradition, like baptism; it's all about grace from God. Also, a mother cannot make this decision for her child or a wife for her husband. All individuals must make this decision apart from another. This is the message Jesus came to give, and HE loves us all so much. He came to save the world because He loves us all!!! Angelina Rayno


The Bible clearly states we become a child of God at spiritual conversion, not at birth. This is also not about what church you are a member of; denominations are irrelevant.

     Galatians 3:26
For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

The Bible very clearly says not everyone will be a child of God. Let's compare this Biblical teaching to the LDS teaching that every faithful member of the LDS church is automatically born a Child of God.

     Hymn 301, I Am a Child of God
I am a child of God, and he has sent me here,
Has given me an earthly home with parents kind and dear.


Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do to live with him someday.


I am a child of God, and so my needs are great;
Help me to understand his words before it grows too late.


Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do to live with him someday.


I am a child of God. Rich blessings are in store;
If I but learn to do his will I'll live with him once more.


Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do to live with him someday.

     Mosiah 4:15
But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another.

     D&C 14:7
And, if you keep my commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God.

We were all born in heaven, prior to earth, as literal spirit children of God and his wife. Jesus and Lucifer are our older brothers, Mormon Doctrine, p 589-590

It is clear the LDS church does not teach Faith and Grace alone. There was so much I had to do to live with Him someday. As a born sinner, there was no way I would ever be able to reach this impossible goal as long as I remained a faithful member of the LDS church. However, as a Christian, I am finally on my way, and it feels so wonderful!

My unanswered question was:

What would be the point of being a human on earth if we are all automatically born a child of God?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that not everyone will be a child of God, yet overjoyed to find the truth that by Jesus dying on the cross to save me from my sins, He has given me the opportunity to accept His free gift of grace! Since leaving the LDS church, I have now become a child of God. Thank you, Jesus, for saving me!

11th ARTICLE OF FAITH

Reason 36

     Book of Mormon, 11th Article of Faith
"We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may."

This means we worship how we want, where we want, or what we want. Yet Mormons stand up in front of the church and bear their testimony of belonging to the one true church with the fullness of the gospel.... meaning all other churches are not true and do not have the fullness of the gospel. I am not sure I would agree that all LDS believe in the 11th Article of Faith themselves.

It seems Joseph Smith didn't even believe in the 11th Article of Faith as he had Mormon dissenters executed for leaving the LDS church. "The Blood Atonement Doctrine;" No, it's not practiced now, but it was practiced by the church's founding prophet.

Christians did not begin this debate. It was Joseph Smith, Jr. when he declared (in Pearl of Great Price, Joseph Smith - History v. 19), "I was answered that I must join none of them [all the sects], for they [all the sects] were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their [all the sects] creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt."


Joseph Smith has eliminated all the churches, all the creeds, and all of the people who profess a belief in them. That verse is in the LDS standard works to this day. Even if it were removed, it would not change the fact that Joseph Smith, Jr. taught this heresy, and he was the church's founding prophet. ~ Suzanne Bishop

Now as a post Mormon, I continue to wonder if LDS members have any idea how it makes non-Mormons feel that LDS continue to believe they are members of the only true church with a fullness of the gospel. Or do they even think of it this way? I certainly never did when I was a devout member of the LDS church. I only cared about what I was doing, and making sure I was doing the right thing all the time. In my opinion, everyone else who was  not a member was wrong and would be disappointed to live eternity in the 2nd heaven.

Since I began my story, it became clear to me that many Mormons do not live the 11th Article of Faith. Most of them claim to believe in the 11th Article of Faith, but several of them do not live it. The way some of my "friends" have chosen to act towards me after reading my life story, has made me realize not all Mormons truly believe in the 11th Article of Faith.

There is no question that who you worship is more important than how, when, or where you worship. If you worship the wrong God, then everything else is automatically wrong, no matter how right it seems to be. 

My unanswered question was:

Why do so many Mormons claim to believe in the 11th Article of Faith when it is clear they only believe this to be true if you, too, are a Mormon?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that many Mormons believe in the 11th Article of Faith until someone begins challenging their faith, yet overjoyed to find the truth that I do not need the Articles of Faith to be saved! Jesus loves me whether I believe in the 13 Articles of Faith or not.

QUESTIONS

Reason 35

The Bible commands us to question our Religion, so this is exactly what I did. I began questioning the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and found answers I did not like. In fact, I was completely shocked with what I found when I began searching for answers to my questions!

     Approaching Mormons in Love, p. 145
We are to search the scriptures to determine truth. Mormons will tell you to pray about what they are telling you and then you are to receive a warm feeling about what they are telling you, which is to prove it is true. The Book of Mormon teaches something different.
     Jacob 7:23, page 135. "And it came to pass that peace and the love of God was restored again among the people; and they searched the scriptures, and hearkened no more to the words of this wicked man."
     Is Prayer the Way to Test a Religion?, p 191
James 1:5- "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." Mormons use this verse to support their view that you can ascertain whether a religion is true or not simply by praying about it. It has become their favorite tool. They know if you investigate Scripture, you will never join the LDS Church. Some of the many verses which deal with testing prophets and religions are: 1 John 4:1-3; Matthew 7:15; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 Timothy 4:1-2; 1 Timothy 4:3-4; 1 Peter 2:1-19; Jude 4, 16; Revelation 2:2; Deuteronomy 13; and Jeremiah 23:9-40. The way to identify a true religion is not simply by praying, but by testing its claims according to the clear teachings of God's Word.

It's hard to believe I am on my 35th reason for leaving the LDS church. There are several things the LDS church was not teaching me or my children that I desperately needed and wanted. Along with my 40 reasons for leaving, there are many teachings I was not getting from the church that I had a huge desire to receive.

• Faith in Christ is ALL we need.
• Our God is an Awesome God!
• We do not need a religion, a denomination, a ritual, a membership, a temple recommend, good works or anything else to live with Him. We only need Faith.
• Being "religious" does not make you Christian. Believing in Christ does.
• We are not saved by obedience.
• Christ + "nothing" = Salvation.

The truth is the LDS church does not teach these things. Some of these things may be understood, and to anyone with Faith in Christ, these things are understood. I cannot think of one time during my seven years of membership I heard even one of those statements at Sacrament meeting, Relief Society, Primary, Young Women, Visiting Teaching, Home Teaching, etc. In no way am I putting the LDS church down; I am not "anti-Mormon." I am simply stating the truth and what I was not taught as a member.

Other reasons I began questioning the church were:

• The church has no weekly Bible study classes.
• Their claim of being "the only true church." This is judgmental to non members.
• You are not a good Mormon if you do not follow all of the rules.
• You are expected to accept all callings whether you have a true desire or not.

LDS does not ask us to search for the truth as the Bible commands us.

     Galatians 3:10-12

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them." But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for "the just shall live by faith." Yet the law is not of faith, but "the man who does them shall live by them."

     Galatians 3:22-26

But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.

     Galatians 5:1

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

I did not write the Bible. I am only sharing because you ARE in danger. ~Mark Driscol

My unanswered question was:

When I did question the LDS church and their doctrines, why was I told to put everything on the shelf; why was I told I would understand someday when I was ready?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that the LDS church is hiding many doctrines, yet overjoyed to find the truth that my shelf finally got so full it fell off the wall! I was so done covering things up that I had to find out the truth. And the old saying is true....the truth hurts.

BAPTISM

Reason 34

Definition:  A rite signifying a believer's cleansing from sin through Christ's atoning death. The Illustrated Bible Dictionary, George W. Knight, p. 42.

Baptism is a cleansing practice; and more importantly, is not required for Salvation according to the Bible.

     Psalm 49:7
None of them can by any means redeem his brother,
     John 6:28-29
Then they said to Him, "What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent."

carm.org/is-baptism-necessary-salvation

     Ephesians 4:4-6
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Interestingly, the Book of Mormon agrees with the Bible, yet the Doctrine and Covenants disagrees with the Bible and the BoM.

     Moroni 8:22-23 - agrees
For behold that all little children are alive in Christ, and also all they that are without the law. For the power of redemption cometh on all them that have no law; wherefore, he that is not condemned, or he that is under no condemnation, cannot repent; and unto such baptism availeth nothing - But it is mockery before God, denying the mercies of Christ, and the power of his Holy Spirit, and putting trust in dead works.

     D&C 128:5 - disagrees
You may think this order of things to be very particular; but let me tell you that it is only to answer the will of God, by conforming to the ordinance and preparation that the Lord ordained and prepared before the foundation of the world, for the salvation of the dead who should die without a knowledge of the gospel.
     D&C 128:17-18 - disagrees
And again, in connection with this quotation I will give you a quotation from one of the prophets, who had his eye fixed on the restoration of the priesthood, the glories to be revealed in the last days, and in an especial manner this most glorious of all subjects belonging to the everlasting gospel, namely, the baptism for the dead; for Malachi says, last chapter, verses 5th and 6th:  Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord:  And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. I might have rendered a plainer translation to this, but it is sufficiently plain to suit my purpose as it stands. It is sufficient to know, in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse unless there is a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the children, upon some subject or other - and behold what is that subject? It is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect. Neither can they nor we be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also; for it is necessary in the ushering in of the dispensation of the fulness of times, which dispensation is now beginning to usher in, that a whole and complete and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, and keys, and powers, and glories should take place, and be revealed from the days of Adam even to the present time. And not only this, but those things which never have been revealed from the foundation of the world, but have been kept hid from the wise and prudent, shall be revealed unto babes and sucklings in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times. 
     D&C 84:74 - disagrees
Verily, verily, I say unto you, they who believe not on your words, and are not baptized in water in my name, for the remission of their sins, that they may receive the Holy Ghost, shall be damned, and shall not come into my Father's kingdom where my Father and I am.

In contrast to what the Bible teaches, the LDS church teaches us that baptism is one of the many requirements for entering heaven and the temple.

     4th Article of Faith
We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are:  first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.

In the LDS church, children make the baptismal commitment at age eight. I never thought anything odd of this until a friend helped me realize there is no way an eight year old child could make the type of commitment the LDS church requires at baptism. He recalled when he reached the age of confirmation. He had no idea what this was all about. He was so grateful he did not follow the seven sacraments as Catholics should do. If he did not get it at age twelve, and I didn't get it until I was 34, then how is an eight year old child expected to get it?

BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD, from mormoninfo.org
LDS church:  Baptism for the dead is required.
Baptism in place of the dead is an essential ordinance done in LDS temples on behalf of those who died not receiving the benefit of LDS baptism (Gospel Principles, 255-62 [1997 edition]). Joseph Smith said, "The greatest responsibility in this world that God has laid upon us is to seek after our dead" (Fielding Smith, The Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 356 [pre-2002 edition]).

Christianity:  Baptism for the dead is not required.
The only biblical passage that mentions baptism for the dead was most likely done by those outside of Christianity, since the Apostle Paul made a contrast between what "they" do and what "we" do. Paul said that even those who do baptism for the dead believe in the resurrection. How much more should we, who do not baptize for the dead and are led by apostles who were eyewitnesses of Christ's resurrection, believe in the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:29-30). Even if some of the Corinthians were performing baptisms for the dead, there is no reason to think the practice was understood to be a means of salvation. Further, even though baptism is normal and a believer should be baptized, it is not essential for salvation (e.g., Acts 10:44-48). Finally, there is no second chance for salvation to those who reject it in this life (Luke 16:19-31; and Hebrews 9:27).

My unanswered question was:

If baptism is required for salvation, then why did Christ never baptize anyone?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that baptism is not required for salvation, yet overjoyed to find the truth that Christ has saved me from my sins by dying on the Cross for me! All I have to do to be saved is believe in the Lord Jesus Christ!

BOOK OF MORMON

Reason 33

     Doctrine & Covenants 42:12
And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel.

     carm.org
Joseph Smith said "that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book," (History of the Church, vol. 4, p. 461). Allegedly it was translated by the power of God. Nevertheless, it has some 4,000 changes in it. Some are mere spelling corrections, but others are significant changes. Why is this so if the book of Mormon was translated accurately by the hand of God? Why would the Mormon church continue to change the work even after Joseph Smith's death?

I believe God gets everything correct the very first time. Looking back on my Mormon days, I had many doubts about Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. I trusted it was true because I wanted it to be true. All my LDS friends had no doubts, so why should I?

The Bible tells us to test the Scriptures for truth; don't trust feelings.
     Deuteronomy 13:14
then you shall inquire, search out, and ask diligently. And if it is indeed true and certain that such an abomination was committed among you,

     Acts 17:11
These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.

     1 John 4:1
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God;

The LDS missionaries tell those investigating the church to trust feelings to know if the Book of Mormon is true. Now that I am an ex-mormon, I trust the facts to know what is true. The following facts are from godandscience.org, Truth in Love Ministries - Jeff Smith, utlm.org, The Bible, and the Book of Mormon.

Most cities referenced in the Bible have been located.
No Mormon cities have been located.

Archaeologists at the Smithsonian Institution see no archaeological support for the Book of Mormon.
A Mormon scholar at Brigham Young University, Dr. Ray Matheny, said there is a great lack of archaeological evidence for historical accounts in the Book of Mormon. Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Mormons, by Ron Rhodes & Marian Bodine, p. 128.

Many Biblical names have been found in inscriptions.
No Mormon names have been found in inscriptions. 

Archaeologists have successfully used the Bible as a guide in locating ancient ruins, and they still do.
Archaeologists have never successfully used the Book of Mormon as a guide in locating ancient ruins.

The Bible was translated from Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. These languages are taught in today's universities.
The Book of Mormon was translated from "reformed Egyptian." Nothing on the western hemisphere has been found that even remotely resembles Egyptian. Officially "reformed Egyptian" does not exist.

The English Bible is supported by thousands of Greek and Hebrew manuscripts along with at least two complete copies of the Bible from 300 A.D. All manuscripts are available to the public at any time.
There are no manuscripts or "reformed Egyptian" writings available. None of the "gold Nephite plates" exist to examine and compare the English translation of the Book of Mormon.

The Book of Mormon does not contain current Mormon Doctrine such as:

• Mormon church organization
• The Aaronic priesthood
• Plurality of Gods
• God is an exalted man
• Men may become gods
• Three degrees of glory, or three kingdoms
• Plurality of wives
• Celestial marriage
• Temple ceremonies, endowments, and oaths
• Baptism for the dead
• Word of wisdom
• Preexistence
• Eternal progression
• Genealogy

Feelings can easily deceive a person. Religion should not be based on feelings. Approaching Mormons in Love, Wilbur Lingle, p. 165.

     ldsvideo.org

#7 ldsvideo.org/2011/03/what-is-book-of-mormon-about

#8 ldsvideo.org/2011/03/book-of-mormon-anachronisms

#9 ldsvideo.org/2011/03/book-of-mormon-sources

#10 ldsvideo.org/2011/03/praying-about-book-of-mormon

carm.org/quick-look-at-book-of-mormon

mormonhandbook.com/home/book-of-mormon

In the future, instead of listening to my heart and feelings about religion, I will listen to facts and reason such as:

No evidence

No maps

Not Revelation from God

My unanswered question was:

How could the Book of Mormon be the fullness of the gospel and the most correct of any book on earth when most of their teachings are not even in the BoM?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that the Book of Mormon is not revelation from God nor the most correct book on earth nor the fullness of the gospel, yet overjoyed to find the truth that the only book I will ever need is The Bible!

HEART

Reason 32

"The heart is deceitful above all things." Jeremiah 17:9

When I joined the LDS church, I was in a temporary state of happiness. I wanted the Book of Mormon to be true, so as I was reading it, my heart told me it was true. I thought the church would give me what I thought I was missing in my life. Now I know I was wrong. My heart did deceive me. Since I have removed the veil, Christ is finally within my reach.

I never had a reason to pray to know if George Washington was really the first President of the United States. If that can be proven from 1789, then I know everything after 1789 can be proven. There is absolutely no need to pray about it to know if it is true. I'm looking at evidence and reason, not prayer.
LDS missionaries will continue to instruct investigators to pray to know if the church is true.

     Galatians 1:8
"But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed."

     2 Corinthians 11:14
And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light."

In Joseph Smith's first vision, he saw an angel of light.
I will include a Book of Mormon scripture in which the devil is referred to as an angel of light.
     2 Nehpi 9:9
And our spirits must have become like unto him, and we become devils, angels to a devil, to be shut out from the presence of our God, and to remain with the father of lies, in misery, like unto himself; yea, to that being who beguiled our first parents, who transformeth himself nigh unto an angel of light, and stirreth up the children of men unto secret combinations of murder and all manner of secret works of darkness.

Today I believe in loving with all my heart, just as God loves me. As a member, my heart was full of insincere love. I did not follow the most important Commandment, and it took me resigning from the LDS church to realize this about myself. Unfortunately, this is a part of the Mormon me I will never forget. I gave nothing unconditionally. Everything I did was for the church. I did nothing for myself or for God. I certainly did not love as God loves.

     Matthew 7:21-23
I Never Knew You
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'

     Luke 17:10
So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.'"

     John 14:15
Jesus Promises Another Helper
"If you love Me, keep My commandments.

     Romans 13:8
Love Your Neighbor
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.

     1 John 1:6
If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.

     1 John 2:4-6
He who says, "I know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

     1 John 4:20-21
Obedience by Faith
If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

     Romans 10:9-10
"that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

     1 Timothy 1:16
"However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life."

What do these verses mean? Do as you believe; love God and love each other! Those that love have fulfilled the law. These are the good works we need to do and that's all we need to do. Being rewarded by our works means are we loving others as He loves; even our enemies? As a member, I certainly did not obey this commandment.

I absolutely know how important the Commandments are, but the most important Commandment is Matthew 22:37-40. I believe this is what should be taught in church. For the seven years I was a member, these Commandments were not emphasized at all. My children need to be taught these things and that's exactly what we all need to hear over and over!

My unanswered question was:

Why did I follow a feeling from reading the Book of Mormon when I should have followed evidence, facts, and reason?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that my heart is deceitful no matter how much I pray about something, yet overjoyed to find the truth that I can trust in God completely with the answer He has given me about the LDS church! I am so grateful I can finally offer genuine, unconditional love to all; especially my enemies!

WORD OF WISDOM

Reason 31

The LDS church teaches the following about the word of wisdom. One must obey the word of wisdom in order to not only enter the temple but also to obtain the highest degree of glory, the Celestial kingdom.
     D&C 89
lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/89

Although the word of wisdom contains more rules than these, I will be referring to the use of coffee, wine, and meat only.

According to Spencer W. Kimball, "For observing the Word of Wisdom the reward is life, not only prolonged mortal life but life eternal."

I LOVE COFFEE! I love wine! I love meat!

     Matthew 15:11
Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.

Wine = the juice of grapes, fermented to produce a strong beverage that was very popular among the Jews. (Genesis 40:11)

     1 Timothy 3:8
Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money.

     1 Timothy 5:23
No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your frequent infirmities.

According to Christian belief, wine was the drink of the Last Supper.
     artbible.info/art/last-supper

Also according to Christian belief, Jesus turns water into wine at the wedding.
     http://bible.org/seriespage/first-sign-jesus-turns-water-wine-john-21-11

     1 Timothy 4:1-5
Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

Is wine good for you?
     today.msnbc.msn.com/id/ns/today-today_health/t/wine-good-you

According to the way of eating, "Eat Right For You Type," meat is one of the best foods for me.

The Bible instructs us to not eat raw meat or blood.
     Leviticus 19:26
'You shall not eat anything with the blood, nor shall you practice divination or soothsaying.
     Deuteronomy 12:16
Only you shall not eat the blood; you shall pour it on the earth like water.

The Book of Mormon instructs us to eat raw meat.
     1 Nephi 17:2
And so great were the blessings of the Lord upon us, that while we did live upon raw meat in the wilderness, our women did give plenty of suck for their children, and were strong, yea, even like unto the men; and they began their journeyings without murmurings.

Moderation = Christians are taught to be moderate in all things. (1 Corinthians 9:25)
     Mormons are taught to be abstinent in all these things.

     Mark 7:18-23
So He said to them, "Are you thus without understanding also? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him, because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purifying all foods?" And He said, "What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man."

     Colossians 2:16
So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths,
     Colossians 2:14
having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.

My unanswered questions were:

Why are Mormons not allowed to enter the LDS temple for drinking coffee or tea, but are allowed to drink all the caffeine they want?
Why would God shun anyone from heaven for drinking coffee or wine or eating meat?

I was initially devastated when I received these answers that turning away people from heaven is not a characteristic of God, yet overjoyed to find the truth that I will not be loved any less for consuming any of these products!

What goes into the mouth is not what corrupts man. What comes out of the mouth is where our focus should be. Coffee, tea, soda, and caffeine of any kind are all equal and addictive. One is not any safer or better than the other. Therefore, they should all be treated equally.

CHURCH

Reason 30

The "church" to Christians means the entire body of believers, not a particular denomination, church, group, building, or religion.

From the Illustrated Bible Dictionary, by George W. Knight:
     Definition of Church: a local body of believers assembled for Christian worship (Acts 15:4; 1 Corinthians 1:22) as well as all the redeemed of the ages who belong to Christ (Galatians 1:13; Ephesians 5:27). The word church is a translation of a Greek term that means "an assembly."
     Christ is the head of His body, the Church, and His will is to be preeminent (Colossians 1:18) by virtue of His redeeming work and lordship (Colossians 1:14; 3:15-17). The Church's mission is to win the lost (Luke 4:18) and minister to others in the world.

From Mormon.org... on "What is the Church?"
     According to Christianity:
The Church is a body of various believers and groups of believers.
The one true Church is the invisible, spiritual, and universal Body of Christ in heaven and on earth made up of all those true believers from various local denominations or visible churches. The body is an organism, not an external organization. Unity in this body does not demand complete uniformity in its various manifestations. God loves diversity. Yet the Church's unity is in Christ, who is the vine. People in various denominations who are committed to the Vine are the branches; no one particular manifestation of the Church is the vine (Matthew 16:18; 15:5; Acts 15:35-41; 20:28; 1 Corinthians 11:19; 12:13ff; and Ephesians 4:1-13).

     Matthew 18:17
And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.

     Acts 2:47
praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

     Acts 5:11
So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

     Romans 16:16
Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you.

     1 Corinthians 14:4
He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

     2 Corinthians 11:28
besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.

     Ephesians 3:21
to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

     Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her,

     Colossians 1:18
And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.

From Mormoninfo.org...on "What is the Church?"
     According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints"
The LDS Church is the only true church.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only true church (Doctrine and Covenants [D&C] 1:30); all other churches (Presbyterians, Baptists, and Methodists are specifically mentioned in Joseph Smith, History 1:9, Pearl of Great Price) are "wrong," "all their creeds were an abomination," and "those professors were all corrupt" (Joseph Smith, History 1:19). Those of creedal or traditional Christianity have adopted "pagan beliefs" and are part of "false Christianity" (Gospel Principles, 100 [1979 edition]). One either belongs to "the church of the Lamb of God" or to "the church of the devil" (1 Nephi 14:10). Joseph Smith taught that everybody but faithful Mormons will be damned (History of the Church 3:28). "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is absolutely indispensable to our salvation. No supposed personal relationship with Jesus, no commitment to the gospel, no high level of Christian conduct in society can compensate for what is to be found in the Church" (Robert Millet, Alive in Christ: The Miracle of Spiritual Rebirth [Salt Lake City: Deseret, 1997], 140).


     Mormons emphasize that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only true and living church upon the face of the earth. They claim it is the only organization authorized to preach the gospel and administer the ordinances of salvation - which is a long process. It claims it is the only church which has the power to save and exalt men in the hereafter. They say, "Membership in this divine institution is a pearl of great price." (Approaching Mormons in Love, p. 72, Wilbur Lingle)

     ldsvideo.org #28
ldsvideo.org/2011/07/is-mormonism-true-church

My unanswered question was:

If Christianity teaches "the church" means the entire body of believers, then how can the LDS church be the one and only true church on the face of the earth?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that the LDS church cannot possibly be the one true church, yet overjoyed to find the truth that anyone who believes Christ died for their sins is the church! I am so grateful to be a part of a body of believers rather than a denomination.

GENEALOGIES

Reason 29

Mormons do genealogical research to find their ancestors for the purpose of baptizing for the dead. The Bible says this is useless. (Let the Scriptures Speak, p. 65, Suzanne Bishop)

     Titus 3:9
But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.

     1 Timothy 1:4
nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith.

Early genealogies were to prove that Jesus is the Messiah. The records of all genealogies were kept in the temple. After God recorded the lineage of Jesus (Luke 3 and Matthew 1), the temple was destroyed by Titus in 70 AD. Not only can you not trace your genealogy prior to this time, but God is letting us know by this that it is now complete. There is no further genealogical work to be done! (Let the Scriptures Speak, p. 65, Suzanne Bishop)

My unanswered question was:

Since the Bible obviously instructs us to avoid genealogies, why do LDS justify the time and energy spent, which is a fair amount, on genealogical research?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that doing temple work for our dead ancestors is not something God intended us to do, yet overjoyed to find the truth that the Bible tells us our genealogy work is complete and to not waste our time on genealogies. We need to learn to have faith. Genealogies cause disputes and are unprofitable and useless! I did not, and still do not, gain faith by disputing unprofitable or useless topics. I have faith that my ancestors are already enjoying heaven with God. There is no need for me to baptize them by proxy. They are in such a better place where they are now. God is completely sovereign and can do SO much more than I can. I do not believe HE needs my earthly help with this.

SECRETS

Reason 28

The Bible says nothing is secret and it is shameful to speak of things done in secret.

     Luke 8:17
For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.
     John 18:20
Jesus answered him, "I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing.
     Acts 17:24
God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands.
     Ephesians 5:11-12
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret.

A few rituals which LDS consider sacred are

• Baptisms for the dead
• Celestial Marriage
• Endowments
• Exaltations
• Ordinances
• Sealings

I consider these rituals to be secret rituals because only faithful LDS members are allowed to know about them. Non members are not even allowed in the temple once it is dedicated. During the temple ceremony, members are told to not reveal the signs and tokens that have been given to them inside the temple. A covenant is made between "God, angels, and witnesses" that what we learn in the temple will never be revealed.

This part of the temple ceremony was always unsettling to me: Satan is asked what his apron is. His answer is: it is a sign of his power and priesthood. He then commands Adam and Eve to put on aprons. Adam and Eve do as Satan commands them, as do all members in the temple. I did not like how we let Satan tell us what to do in the temple. I did not like wearing something that represented Satan's power and priesthood. I did not like sustaining Satan's power and priesthood. This entire section of the temple ceremony disturbs me to this day. Many will be offended by this post, and all I can say is, I'm sorry! This is my story, and I know of no other way to heal.

My unanswered question was:

If Jesus does nothing in secret, and LDS are trying to be perfect like Jesus, then why do they do things in secret?

I was initially devastated when I received this answer that the entire temple ceremony is secret and not of God, yet overjoyed to find the truth that I will never have to attend a temple again! I will receive blessings and my prayers will be answered without the use of a temple. I never have to wear the clothing or perform the rituals again!