"I believe that this is the true Church on the face of the earth today and that the gospel has been restored to this earth in this dispensation. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only true church. I know that Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God and that there is a prophet on the earth guiding the saints today. I know that Jesus Christ is the Savior and that He forgives my sins. I am thankful that I can hold callings in the church and I have the golden opportunity to attend the house of the Lord. I know that the Book of Mormon is true."
This is a typical type of Mormon testimony, that I was taught to say in my youth, that is ritualistic in every 'Fast and Testimony' meeting on the first Sunday of every month. That is the day when there is no written speech(s) given so the members of the ward can stand and give their own so called "personal" testimony. It is the day where the first two meals of the day are not eaten and the money that is saved from those two meals is gathered by the Aaronic Priesthood holders during that Sunday. (They come to the home between services.) The money is supposed to be put into the 'fast offering' for the bishop's storehouse. (It is always good to give a little extra money to the missionary fund on this day, and it keeps temple goers current on their recommends.)
When the prayer, hymn, and sacrament are done at the beginning of the meeting, the bishop or his counselors stand and encourage all to stand and bear a testimony of their belief, faith, and loyalty to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In my years of experience in these kinds of meetings, the ritualistic testimony is basically the same out of every mouth, no matter if you're male or female. There is always the side stories of family, missions, or illness, etc.
I've never felt comfortable in these meetings, because they never came from a 'personal' perspective, nothing from the heart. Through all of the tears and balled-up voices, the message is still the same. The testimony is a taught, or programed, mini speech designed to puff up the church. Even though I bore my testimony on several occasions, through them all, I always felt that it was no where near what it should be.
A testimony should come from the heart. It should be about what Jesus Christ has done personally for the believer, not a ritualistic chant that is expected to come out of the mouth of every "good upstanding member."
Testimony
Mormon Temple Rituals
These rituals bring back many memories. I did all of these and more.
You need to know that this is the way it is.
If Mormonism Prevails?
"But you will generally be informed, that "Mormonism" is a new religion, that it is something new under the sun, and of course is an innovation-a kind of trespass on Christianity, on the Bible, or on the good old way. "O" say some of the editors that ought to be the most enlightened, and that profess to be, "if Mormonism prevails, Christianity will come down."
"If we have no one new principle in our religion, why are we considered innovators and opposed to Christianity? And why is Christianity in the world in danger if "Mormonism" prevails? It is because that floating Christianity, called so by the world, is a spurious one; they have departed from the doctrines of the Apostles. Then, I ask again, why say, "If Mormonism prevails Christianity is in danger?" for if it falls the better." (Journal of Discourses, "Mormonism", A Discourse delivered by Parley P. Pratt**, in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, July 10, 1853)
**Note: Parley P. Pratt, great-great grandfather of Mitt Romney!!!
Pentagram, A Mormon Work of Art
"The inverted pentagram is the consummate symbol of Satan. It is the official symbol of the church of Satan. Universally known for its sinister and evil influence, it is also known as the "Goat of Mendez." In witchcraft, the inverted pentacle depicts the Devil's Goat and the Witches Foot. It is ultimately the symbol of the star Sirius (from the Greek word"scorching") or "dog star." It is known by the Egyptians as Set, or Satan. Identified by the Masonic Lodge as the "Blazing Star," it is found at the center of every Masonic Lodge and is the official emblem of the Order of the Eastern Star. The inverted pentagram is the second most common symbol used in Mormon architecture, being extensively used in exterior keystones." (Sword of the Spirit Apologetics, www.luciferlink.org/photos.htm)
I bring this up because I saw a photo of a family member, who is Mormon, wearing the pentagram on a piece of clothing. The matter of this symbol has been hashed and rehashed over in many books and internet web sites in recent years. I could go into great lengths as to why this symbol is linked to Satan and witchcraft, and the like, but Google the words "Mormonism and Pentagram", it will bring up a world of information on the subject.
My experiences with symbols, while I was a Mormon, had always been distant. I don't ever remember talking about the symbols in my Mormon classes. The church does not expound on the different aspects of all the symbols they use, nor will they ever willfully expose the information. The only Mormons that really know about this kind of usage of Satan-type symbols are the Mormons who spend a lot of time studying the faith and accepting the literature as truth.
Brothers?
"How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! Art thou cut down to the ground, which did weaken the nations! (2 Nephi 24: 12)
"And was called Perdition, for the heavens wept over him-he was Lucifer, a son of the morning" (Doctrine and Covenants 76:26)
First of all, Lucifer is a Latin name not a Hebrew name. The name 'Lucifer' is a name that is associated with light, stars, morning, bright and the like. The name is a miss translated metaphor that stayed with the early Christians and the name 'Lucifer' has stayed with the Christians since.
The two Mormon scriptures above are in error when they use this name. Joseph Smith wrote the Book of Mormon, not translated it, and supposedly the manuscript was penned in 600 b.c. using Isaiah's own words. The name 'Lucifer' was not used in 600 b.c. Thus, JS used the 'King James Version' of the Bible to complete his fictional writing.
Are Jesus and the devil brothers? NO and NO! Jesus is GOD and the one that fell from heaven was an angel whom GOD created!
Son of the Morning
Another name for 'Lucifer' (Latin: literally meaning 'light bearing') has not always been associated with the fallen angel, Satan. Originally, it was simply the Roman name of the planet Venus, the 'morning star' that rose just before the sun. ...In Isaiah 14:12, we find the Hebrew phrase, "HeYLeL BeN-ShaChaR", meaning 'bright son of the morning/dawn (i.e. 'bright/glowing morning star') In the Greek version of the Old Testament (the Septuagint), this was translated as 'Phosphorus' (the Greek name of the morning star), and thense translated 'Lucifer' in the Latin Vulgate bible." (www.urbandictionary.com)
This quote is in part and is a good definition of 'Son of the Morning'. The rest of the quote that I left out is but just an opinion of the writer. To read the quote in its entirety, please visit the website named above.
I have concluded that 'Son of the Morning' is a title or a name that is given to something or someone who reflects the qualities defined above. Lucifer reflected those qualities before the earth was, however, Lucifer let go of those qualities and put in his grasp the qualities of pure sin causing our God to experience great sorrow. Thus God had no choice but to cast this beautiful angel out of the heavens and give him a new title that he carries to this day. The name is, 'Satan'.
Romney's 'Faith in America' Address
"Let me assure you that no authorities of my church, or of any other church for that matter, will ever exert influence on presidential decisions. Their authority is theirs, within the province of church affairs, and it ends where the affairs of the nation begin." (1)
"I will put no doctrine of any church above the plain duties of the office and the sovereign authority of the law." (2)
"If I am fortunate to become your President, I will serve no one religion, no one group, no one cause, and no one interest." (3) (Published December 6, 2007 New York Times)
"Parley P. Pratt**, [Joseph Smith's right hand man], warned in 1838 that the Book of Mormon had "set the time for the over throw of our government and all other Gentile governments on the American continent. (History of the Church, vol. 4, 80.) Pratt made another bold announcement that same year:'" I will state as a prophesy, that there will not be an unbelieving Gentile upon this continent 50 years hence; and if they are not greatly scourged and in a great measure over thrown, within five or ten years from this date [i.e., 1888], then the Book of Mormon will have proved itself false. "' (One Nation Under Gods, Richard Abanes, pg 184-185)
*The first three quotes from Romney's 'Faith in America' address states that Romney will not be influenced by the Mormon faith nor its leaders. He is wrong when he makes such a bold statement. The quote from Parley P. Pratt is just one of many statements made by other church authorities.
** Parley P. Pratt is the great-great grandfather of Mitt Romney!
"I believe in my Mormon faith and I endeavor to live by it. My faith is the faith of my fathers-I will be true to them and to my beliefs." (4)
*The 'faith of my fathers' is referred to the documentation of church history that is designed to produce 'faith' in all those who read the history in this day. Although the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has sought to leave an accurate and complete record of its history, the official 'history' is a conglomerate of well written and designed stories so that by reading them, one would feel uplifted and satisfied with the subject read.
"There is one fundamental question about which I often am asked. What do I believe about Jesus Christ? I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of mankind. My church's beliefs about Christ may not all be the same as those of other faiths. Each religion has its own unique doctrines and history. These are not bases for criticism but rather a test of our tolerance. Religious tolerance would be a shallow principle indeed if it were reserved only for faiths with which we agree." (5)
*The prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley himself states that the Mormons do not believe the same Jesus as other Christian churches do.
"John Adams put it that we are 'thrown into the world all equal and alike.'" (6)
*Here's a few quotes from Mormon leaders from the past.
"Had I anything to do with the Negro, I would confine them by strict law to their own species..." (Joseph Smith, Jr. 1843)
"If that Negro is faithful all his days, he can enter the celestial kingdom. He will go there as a servant." (Mark E. Peterson, 1954)
"When God allows a spirit to take on a Negroid body, do you suppose He is unaware of the fact that he will suffer a social stigma? Therefore, if you say this Church is unjust in not allowing the Negro to bear the Priesthood, you must, to be consistent, likewise say that God is even more unjust in giving him a black skin." (The Glory of Mormonism, 1963)
Shall I tell you the law of God in regard to the African race? If the white man who belongs to the chosen seed mixes his blood with the seed of Cain, the penalty, under the law of God, is death on the spot. This will always be so." (Brigham Young)
Note: In reference to quote 6, Romney did not use his own words in this part of his address!
A Savior of the Constitution?
On the official website for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints it states: "While the Church may communicate its views to them [politicians], as it may to any other elected official, it recognizes that these officials still must make their own choices based on their best judgment and with consideration of the constituencies whom they were elected to represent". (LDS Newsroom, December 6, 2007)
Although the statement above is true, one who is a member of the Mormon church, and who holds the Melchizedek Priesthood and a temple recommend, must bear in mind that his membership in the church and exaltation into the celestial kingdom for Godhood are at stake here. I know that no Mormon man who believes in obeying his prophet[s], or the 'Faith of my fathers', would disobey the words spoken that are considered to be holy and set in stone. The blood oath that is taken in the Mormon temples will keep any "Good Upstanding Mormon" in line. This includes any priesthood holder, even one who is president of the United States.
The statements that are in post below are a stark reminder that the Mormon church views itself as the 'Savior of the Constitution of the United States'. I don't know of any greater control than that of the aspiring ambitions of "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints".
America's Mormon Destiny
"Will The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ever succeed in taking over America, and eventually the world, as Joseph Smith prophesied? Brigham Young thought so, along with every other nineteenth century Mormon, especially the church's leadership. Throughout the twentieth century, and now into this twenty-first century, the belief has continued to be an integral part of Mormon teachings:
1912: 'Joseph Smith...predicted that the time would come, 'when the Constitution of our country would hang as it were by a thread, and that the Latter-day Saints above all other people in the world would come to the rescue' ' (LDS president, Joseph F Smith). Conference Report, October 1912
1928: 'The Prophet Joseph told us that he saw the day when even the Constitution of the United States would be torn and hang as by a thread... He saw the day when this people would be a balance of power to come to its defense' ' (LDS apostle,Melvin J. Ballard). Conference Report, October 1928. Ballard also stated: "I believe that it is the destiny of the Latter-day Saints to support the Constitution of the United States. The Prophet Joseph Smith is alleged to have said-and I believe he did say it-that the day would come when the Constitution would hang as by a thread. But he saw that the thread did not break, thank the Lord, and that the Latter-day Saints would become a balance of power, with others, to preserve that Constitution. If there is-and there is one part of the Constitution hanging as by a thread today-where do the Latter-day Saints belong? Their place is to rally to the support of that Constitution, and maintain it and defend it and support it by their lives and by their vote. Let us not disappoint God nor his prophet. Our place is fixed (Conference Report, April 1933)
1946: '[Joseph Smith] said if the Constitution of the United States were saved at all it must be done by this people. It will not be many years before these words come to pass. When the Constitution of the United States hangs, as it were, upon a single thread, they will have to call for the 'Mormon Elders to save it from utter destruction; and they will step forth and do it' '(Mark E. Peterson, LDS apostle). Conference Report, April 1946
1950: '[The Prophet] said the time would come when this Constitution would hang as by a thread, and this is true...'Now I tell you it is time the people of the United States were waking up with the understanding that if they don't save the Constitution from the dangers that threaten it, we will have a change of government' (Joseph Fielding Smith, president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and future Mormon president). Conference Report, April 1950
1952: 'Joseph Smith...[said] the time would come when the Constitution would hang as by a thread and at that time when it was thus in jeopardy, the elders of this Church would step forth and save it from destruction. Why the elders of this Church?...'We alone know by revelation as to how the Constitution came into being, and we, alone, know by revelation the destiny of this nation' ' (Harold B. Lee, LDS apostle and future Mormon president). Conference Report, October 1952
1961: '[I]f I were to guess as to how the Constitution may 'hang by a thread' it would be because of the immense powers given to the President and his opportunity for their abuse. Let us...resolve that we will do all in our power to preserve these principles for our posterity. This is our duty as citizens of the United States, and pre-eminently our duty as Latter-day Saints' (Senator Wallace F. Bennett, R-Utah). BYU Speeches, February 15, 1961
1966: ' I gave the language and sources of the prophetic utterance made by the Prophet Joseph that the Constitution of the United States would hang by a single thread, but be saved by the elders of Israel. I hope you will read those sources so you will be will-informed as to this prophecy and be prepared to do your part in its fulfillment' (Ernest L Wilkinson, BYU president [1951-1971]. BYU Speeches, April 21, 1966
1975: 'Thank God for the Constitution. And may God bless the elders of Israel that when, as President John Taylor said, 'the people shall have torn to shreds the Constitution of the United States, the Elders of Israel will be found holding it up to the nations of earth and proclaiming liberty' ' (Ezra Taft Benson, president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and future Mormon president). Jesus Christ-Gifts and Expectations, New Era, May 1975
1988: 'Joseph Smith predicted that the time would come when the Constitution would hang, as it were, by a thread, and at that time 'this people will step forth and save it from the threatened destruction'(Ezra Taft Benson, LDS president). Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1988), 619. Benson quoted the White Horse prophecy in numerous lectures and publications.
1995: 'LDS attachment to the Constitution has been further encouraged by an important oral tradition deriving from a statement attributed to Joseph Smith, according to which the Constitution would 'hang by a thread' and be rescued, if at all, only with the help of the Saints. Church President John Taylor seemed to go further when he prophesied, 'When the people shall have torn to shreds the Constitution of the United States the Elders of Israel will be found holding it up to the nations of the earth.' ' Daniel H. Ludlow, ed., Selections from Encyclopedia of Mormonism (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Company, 1995, "The Church and Society," 122.
2000: '[LDS TV weatherman Thom Spencer] at a Republican rally...broke with tradition that a journalist should remain objective and spoke out at the rally because of a prophecy by Joseph Smith, who founded the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints more than 150 years ago. Smith predicted that the time would come 'when the Constitution and government would hang by a brittle thread and be ready to fall into other hands, but this people, the latter-day saints, will step forth and save it' ' (Seattle Times, November 24, 2000)
But what would such a scenario mean for America? Continued freedom? Greater liberty and prosperity? Widespread pluralism? That is doubtful. The history of Mormonism is rife with nefarious deeds, corruption, vice, and intolerance. So far the fruits of Mormonism have included lust, greed, theft, fraud, violence, murder, religious fanaticism, bribery, and racism. Will Mormonism's future harvest be any different? That question, of course, will have to be answered in years to come.
Until then, all of us might to do well to simply be watchful, and heed the words of Jesus Christ, whom the Mormons claim to follow. "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves," Jesus warned. "Ye shall know them by their fruits...[E]very good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit...Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them"(Matt. 7:1-20)'" (One Nations Under Gods, A History of the Mormon Church, Richard Abanes, Four Walls Eight Windows, 434-436, including footnotes.)
This whole article came from a very reliable and good book. It has great objective history that speaks for itself!
PATRIARCH
....or is it dad? The head of the household is the patriarch of the home. What does this mean to a child that grows up in a Mormon [LDS] house? When a child grows up with these terms; head of the house, patriarch, priesthood authority, it only means one person and that is dad. He has the final say, the upper hand and sometimes the iron hand. I'm not sure if I gained more respect, or more fear of his position. I learned real early that his position was not to be toyed with, nor was it to be challenged. I remember as a small child that when my dad got dressed up in his Sunday suit, I was seeing the 'Mormon Authority' walk through the house. After this he would then leave with my brothers to the Mormon church house on Sunday mornings.
When I got to the church building on those mornings with my mom and sisters, there were many, many authoritative suits with armor [Mormon scriptures] in hand and a lordosis, head in the clouds, proud walk. I wasn't sure where I was, between the ages of three and twelve, when I was around the men with their suits on. I finally found myself more relaxed and at ease once I went down stairs to primary class at church.
At home when the 'suit' was put away and the jeans are on, the patriarch continues with his position while undercover of blue cotton and dirty work shoes. I didn't dare to get out of step of his instruction. The consequences were rough.
When I got older I learned that this same patriarch believed that he had the authority to decide the future of his offspring. I don't know how other Mormon priesthood holders believe, but I know that my patriarch believes this. I learned the light of this after a lot of heartache through many, many situations and relationships that did not have the best end results. Fear dominated my youth and I didn't know which way to turn. I wasn't taught in my growing up years how to support myself, so I didn't know what to do to get out from underneath this all powerful authority.
I learned how to be pleasing to everyone around me. I also learned how to do everything I was told. It didn't matter what the task was, as long as I did my handmaiden duty with a smile on my face and quickness in my step. That way I stayed away from the iron hand. The authority from the position that my dad holds in the Mormon church, created in me effusive, or extreme emotional behaviors that I'm learning to overcome. I still experience intimidation from time to time when he and I relate to each other. My reaction to any negatives from anyone, has always caused in me an inappropriate, overwhelming sense of guilt, which I'm learning to overcome as well. I have a very understanding and loving husband in Christian who is always there to uplift my soul with prayer and the Word.
In the recent events that have occurred in my life, I've become very aware of how much my fears and behaviors are a result of this priesthood authority, this patriarchal position stemming from my early relationship with my dad. The boundaries that I should have been able to set for myself in my early years that were designed to instill a healthy life with my mind, body, and spirit, I'm now getting to know. It's never too late to know the boundaries that will insure a wholesome, peaceful life with Jesus Christ by my side.
Here are a couple of references that the Mormon men use to verify their Authority. D&C 107. ( A not worthy verse is 107:64 which reads; "Then comes the "High Priesthood, which is the greatest of all."
"One cannot consider this matter without being impressed that the churches of the world today are missing much by not having this authority and information, nor can they get it from reading the Bible." ( A Marverlous Work and a Wonder, pg 160, Legrand Richards)
My Precious Little Book
She lives in a spiritual home where harmony, love, and beauty dwell. It is a gracious, welcoming place for those who live there and for those who visit. The handmaiden is one who helps make it so. Her heart is happy; her hands are busy as she learns to use the HOMEMAKING ARTS. (Through wisdom is an house built; and by understanding it is established: And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches. Proverbs 24:3,4)
To love is to serve. To serve is to love. The handmaiden of the Lord is blessed with special gifts of tenderness and concern for others. SERVICE and COMPASSION are part of her everyday existence. She is loved for the loving service she gives. (When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God. Mosiah 2:17)
The window of her soul are open wide as the handmaiden of the Lord rejoices in being alive and part of a world filled with wonder and beauty. She finds RECREATION for her soul-spirit and body-as she lives close to the WORLD of NATURE God has created for her. (Yea, all things which come of the earth...are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the eye and to gladden the heart; ...to strengthen the body and to enliven the soul. D&C 59:18, 19)
The handmaiden of the Lord is a product of her culture, heritage, talents, and the way she uses them. She seeks for beauty and understanding wherever it is found...in life...in books...in a song...or in prayer. CULTURAL ARTS and EDUCATION become stepping stones to the enrichment and fulfillment of her roles in life. (Whatsoever things are true,...honest,...just,...pure,...lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8)
Each handmaiden has gifts from God that are hers alone. She looks for ways of PERSONAL and SOCIAL REFINEMENT to enhance these gifts. As she meets her individual challenges in her preparation to meet the Savior, she is strong and gentle, steadfast and gracious, courageous and humble. She likes herself and accepts herself for what she is--a daughter of God. (For verily I say unto you, all those who receive my gospel are sons and daughters in my kingdom. D&C 25:1)" BEHOLD THY HANDMAIDEN, Published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 1974
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As I look back into this little book and read what is written above, I reflect back on the most impressionable years of my life. I have fond memories of how I strived for perfection and acceptance by adhering to the laws and boundaries that were set before me by the Mormon church. The flowery wording and the 'feel good' promises that the church gave did nothing for me in the long run. The words above are so wonderful, they are too good to be real. I spent so much time doing what I thought I should do for salvation, that my mind was totally programed to think nothing else. I grew up with hardly any ability to make any decisions for myself and I am still learning how to cope with the harsh realities of life. When I was taught how to gain comfort from God, I was never told what I really needed to be comforted from.
HANDMAIDEN 1. A woman or girl servant or attendant. 2. that which accompanies in a useful but subordinate capacity.
My heart yearned to be all that I could be and do all that I could do, so I could make it to heaven. I was never taught how to create the proper 'boundaries' I needed for my own survival. I got lost in the process of 'when you are in the service of your fellow beings', I could not see that I was getting destroyed in the whole mess. Now that I have broken away from all of the "laws" that I was required to do, I am in a hole, and I have extreme difficulty dealing with all of those years of having my head screwed on backwards.
It's not easy to pull out of the brain washing that Mormonism did to me. I pray that none of you have to go through what I went through, and still go through. I understand that time heals all wounds. I know that it's going to take a lot of time for me to heal.
BEING SAVED
"But do Latter-day Saints believe in "being saved?" If I ask my classes on campus that question with just the right Southern drawl in my voice, I can usually get about a third of them to shake their heads and say, "No, We don't believe in 'being saved.' That's those other guys, the ones of TV." What a tragedy! Of course the Latter-day Saints believe in being saved. They do now, and they always have. How can Jesus be called the Savior if he never saves anybody?" (Believing Christ, Stephen E. Robinson, 1992, page 18)
"We believe that man will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression." (The Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith, Article 2)
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"Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned-for before the law was given, sin was in the world. But sin is not taken into account when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who was a pattern of the one to come. But the gift is not like the trespass of the one man, how much more did God's grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! Again, the gift of God is not like the result of the one man's sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. Consequently, just as the result of one trespass condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:12-21)
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"Traditional Christianity teaches that, rather than being appreciative of what God had done for them, our first parents openly defied their Creator when they ate forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil because they wanted the knowledge that God had. For this reason most Christians view our first parents as being selfish, greedy, arrogant, and proud.
And it is because of this defiance that most Christian churches teach that God cursed not only Adam and Eve but also their offspring whereby, from the very moment of our conception, each person is born with the same tendency to be selfish, greedy, proud, ungrateful, and rebellious, just as our original parents were. That is why when Protestants read the Bible they believe it teaches that not one person is capable of pleasing God ("And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Hebrews 11:6), because God considers all people sinners who have fallen short of His glory ("for all have sinned and fall short to the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Romans 3:23[-24]), and that God considers even our best efforts to do good as filthy rags ("All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags." Isaiah 64:6) * This verse is part of a praise and prayer to the Lord for divine deliverance, not how God considers our best efforts. . Most Christians believe there is not one person who does good ("All have turned away, they have together worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one." Romans 3:12) *This verse is a quote from Psalm 14:1-3. Paul charges that both Jews and Gentiles alike are under the power of sin. Old Testament quotations were effective tools for teaching during the time of Paul. Jesus Christ is the only one good enough for God. because all of our thoughts are continually evil ("The Lord saw how great man's wickedness on the earth had become and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time." Genesis 6:5 *This is part of the story of the flood. 'This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny over takes all. The hearts of men, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead.' *Under the heading, A Common Destiny for All. 'The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?'" Jeremiah 17:9) *The prophet makes an observation, then asks a rhetorical question. The heart, the wellspring of life, in which wickedness must not be allowed to take root.
Christians teach that the reason why all of this is true is because of what they call "original sin," which is defined, not as any action on our part, but rather as a state of being we inherited. It is an ethical deformity in our genes that prevents us from doing anything morally good. Therefore, to believe in the doctrine of original sin is to believe that mankind doesn't have the ability to obey God's commandments. And if that is true then we are forced to conclude that all of us are being punished for Adam's sin." ( Accent on Mormon Beliefs, Original Sin, http:www. 14lds.com/sin.htm) *I added the full scripture so you can read what the writer is meaning.)
To be saved is to know that Adam and Eve fell in the Garden of Eden. They disobeyed God's command. As a result of this disobedience, sin entered the world. It was not part of God's plan to have Adam sin. God cannot look upon sin, so it does not stand to reason that God the Father intended Adam to sin. It isn't in the nature of the Father to consider the fall. Satan, on the other hand, loves to do whatever he can to cause Adam and Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. Forbidden is forbidden according to God. Something does not change, or become acceptable just because Satan comes around. We must all know that through the one man comes sin and death, and through the other man comes life and salvation.
God is a merciful God, He had to give mortal man someone to ransom in order for Himself to be satisfied. Jesus Christ was the ransom. He payed a price that none other could pay. It is only through Jesus Christ that we can ever be in the presence of the Father. Jesus Christ covered the sin of the one man who brought sin into the world. Only after we believe and confess to God that we are sinners and repent, can God come into our hearts. Then we can be justified for heaven.
A plan for salvation was set forth ever since a burnt offering to the Father was necessary in order for the Father to be satisfied. Jesus Christ was that offering who payed the ultimate price.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes that Jesus Christ saves them from some of their own sins only. The official web site for the LDS has a post that defines the churches stand on the plan of salvation.
The grace of Jesus is not enough for eternal salvation for the LDS. The Christians who know that those who believe through faith we will be saved and gain eternal life. When there is love in the heart of a Christian, the things that person does should reflect the love that was given to them from God. Gods love is given to us freely by grace, or in other words, you don't have to work for it, to those who continue to have faith day by day.
Traditional Jesus
The definition of "Traditional Jesus" is referring to the Jesus of Biblical history. The Synoptic Gospels are a group of writings that give an account of the traditional Jesus. Some like to refer to this as the "Historical Jesus."
The gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke focus mainly on the parables, miracles, discourses, and the passion, along with many other historical events surrounding Jesus. The gospel of John focuses more on the person of Jesus. Jesus' relationships with individuals is also stressed in John more than His general contact with the public. The rest of the new testament focuses on traditional Christians and the teachings of how a Christian should live, by faith, through the traditional Jesus. (New Testament Survey pg. 131)
Mormonism itself states that they believe in a different Jesus. Bruce R. McConkie, a past apostle, states that "virtually all the millions of apostate Christendom have abased themselves before the mythical throne of a mythical Christ whom they vainly suppose to be a spirit essence who is incorporeal, uncreated, immaterial, and three-in-one with the Father and Holy Spirit." (Mormon Doctrine, pg. 269)
The statement from McConkie is further confirmed by their modern-day prophet while speaking to a group of Mormons in France. "In bearing testimony of Jesus Christ, President Hinckley spoke of those outside the Church who say Latter-day Saints 'do not believe in the traditional Christ. 'No, I don't. The traditional Christ of whom they speak is not the Christ of whom I speak. For the Christ of whom I speak has been revealed in this the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times.'" (June 20, 1998)
The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times
Christianity: A world order or administration in which the heavens and the earth are under the political and/or spiritual government of Jesus.
Mormonism: The era after which the Church of Christ is thought to have been restored to the earth by the religious founder Joseph Smith, Jr beginning in the 1820's. In this sense, the "dispensation" refers to the administration of truth and/or priesthood by the church and its leaders, guided by revelation.
The prophet Joseph Smith wrote, "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 fullness of times" (D&C 128:18)
David W. Patten, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said in 1838: "The dispensation of the fullness of times is made up of all the dispensations that ever have been since the world began, until this time.... All [the prophets] received in their time a dispensation by revelation from God, to accomplish the great scheme of restoration,... the end of which is the dispensation of the fullness of times, in which all [the] things shall be fulfilled that have been spoken of since the earth was made." (HC 3:51) (www.lightplanet.com/mormons/basic/gospel/last_days/dispensation_fullness_eom.htm)
"Mormonism teaches that there are several problems with the Bible. First, many of its books are missing, so it is only an incomplete compilation at best. Second, we are told that many plain and precious things were taken away from the Bible by that "great and abominable church," as recorded in 1Nephi 13:25-28 in the Book of Mormon. The very document requiring biblical testing discredits its only credible witness!
The final severance from biblical accountability is the continued LDS teaching that what was left of the scriptures has been so often and badly translated that our Bible is of almost no "stand alone" value. Apostle Orson Pratt summed up the LDS position when he stated, "... and who, in his right mind could for one moment, suppose the Bible in its present form to be a perfect guide? Who knows that even one verse of the whole Bible has escaped pollution, so as to convey the same sense now that it did in the original?" (Orson Pratt, The Bible Alone An Insufficient Guide, Early LDS Pamphlet, pages 44-47.)
Joseph Smith taught, "I believe the Bible as it read when it came from the pen of the original writers. Ignorant translators, careless transcribers, or designing and corrupt priests have committed many errors." (Joseph F. Smith, The Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 1938, page 327)" (www.saintsalive.com/mormonism/scripturemess.htm)
The traditional Jesus is the "only" Jesus that is taught in all Christian religions. The traditional Jesus is clearly not the Jesus that the Mormons believe. All Mormons who think that they worship the same Jesus need to take a deeper look into their core beliefs. The Mormons do not have the same blessings that comes from believing in Him, the real Jesus. I pray that the light will be shown to those who yearn to know the true Jesus.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16 THE BIBLE, NIV)
Christian Sect?
This short article says it a lot better than I could ever say it myself. First of all, Mormonism is a cult. The thing that makes it a cult is the fact that they do not worship the bible Jesus. One of the biggest deceptions that the Mormons do is pray in Jesus' name. They want everyone to believe that their Jesus is the bible Jesus, when it is not in fact the bible Jesus. The source of their guidance and direction comes from the teachings of Joseph Smith which run contrary to the teachings of the Jesus of Nazareth. They grossly malign the name of Jesus like several other false religions to selfishly propagate a man made system of beliefs.
I grew up with the belief that a Mormon is a Mormon, and all other religions were wrong. I was taught that Mormons were the elect above all other religions. A Mormon is not a Christian, never has been, never will be. As far as Mormons saying that they are a Christian sect, that is a huge lie. Who ever thought that up was clever.
The Bible and The Book of Mormon - A genealogy
Part III
Laman 1Nephi 2:5
"And he [Lehi] came down by the borders near the shore of the Red Sea; and he traveled in the wilderness in the borders which are nearer the Red Sea; and he did travel in the wilderness with his family, which consisted of my mother, Sariah, and my elder brothers, who were Laman, Lemuel, and Sam." BOM
Lamanites Jacob 1:13
"Now the people which were not Lamanites were Nephites; nevertheless, they were called Nephites, Jacobites, Josephites, Zormites, Lamanites, Lemuelites, and Ishmaelites."BOM
Native Americans 1Nephi 13:14
"And it came to pass that I beheld many multitudes of the Gentiles upon the land of promise; and I beheld the wrath of God, that it was upon the seed of my brethren; and they were scattered before the Gentiles and were smitten."BOM
The alleged people of the Book of Mormon who are directly linked to Israelites and Judaism, has been one of the most widely debated subjects lately. There are numerous web sites that go into great detail on the matter. Instead of me taking a lot of space talking about this; I'm giving you a list of web sites that discuss this.
1. www.religioustolerance.org/lds_migr.htm
2. http:atheism.about.com/od/bookreviews/fr/LosingLostTribe.htm
3. www.sweenytod.com/mo/modules.php?name=News&file=
article&sid=1476
4. www.lds-mormon.com/lam-ind.shtml
5. www.lhvm.org/vid_dna_med.htm
6. www.rickross.com/reference/mormon/mormon34.html
7. www.exmormon.org/mormon/mormon/440.htm
8. www.baptiststandard.com/2003/1_20?pages/mormon.html
There are many, many web sites. More than I can list. Google the subject yourself and you will see that there are thousands of web sites about the subject. Included in these sites are some Mormon web sites that say a totally different story. Research for yourself. I have concluded that there is a lot of time devoted to the subject and within it, the basics can get easily lost. The bottom line is, that the Mormons are trying their best to show themselves as a "true" connection to the bible where in fact, they are not. The bible would have "hints" of Mormon people in it if it were true, but it doesn't. The Book of Mormon is totally one sided and the people who believe their leaders on the authenticity of the BOM need to do a full research outside the bubble of Mormonism.
I grew up to believe that the only "true" writings and spoken word came from someone with the "proper authority". This meant that I used to only believe what the Mormon church and all of those who had authority over me said. I never questioned anything that would "stir the pot."
Now, I stir and stir and stir and stir!
The Bible and The Book of Mormon - A genealogy
Part II
Manasseh Genesis 48:1
" Some time later Joseph was told, "Your father is ill." So he took his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim along with him." NIV
Lehi Alma 10:3
"And Aminadi was a descendant of Nephi, who was the son of Lehi, who came out of the land of Jerusalem, who was a descendant of Manasseh, who was the son of Joseph who was sold into Egypt by the hands of his brethren."
I did research in various bible verses and read what the "Bible Dictionary, by Miller" said about Manasseh. Also, I did the Google thing again about the 'Sons of Manasseh' plus 'Lehi and Manasseh'. I found quite a few Mormon related web sites that are debating the theory of Lehi being a literal son of Manasseh. The Christian community uses the bible for a point of reference. I found that Manasseh had two sons. The Jewish community will agree with this also through the "Jewish Publication Society Tanakh." With all of my studies, there is no Bible/Book of Mormon connection regarding Lehi being a son of Manasseh that is made outside of Mormon documents.
The Two Sons of Manasseh 1Chronicles 7:14
"The sons of Manasseh; Ashriel whom she bare: (but his concubine the Anamitess bare Machir the father of Gilead:"
Joseph Smith carefully chose to insert his Lehi into the Tribes of Manasseh. I have concluded that due to the fact that Manasseh had so many descendants and had such a large chunk of land on both sides of the Jordon, that the subject of Lehi's origin would be long debated over and not concluded until many people became believers of the lies JS wrote.
The Bible and The Book of Mormon - A genealogy
PART I
No reference to a Bible connection is in the 6th chapter heading in the Book of Mormon. Helaman 6:10
"Now the land south was called Lehi, and the land north was called Mulek, which was after the son on Zedekiah: for the Lord did bring Mulek into the land north and Lehi into the land south."
The only place that the sons of Zedekiah are mentioned is in 2 Kings 25:7. This is the account of their deaths.
2 Chronicles 36:10-12
"In the spring, King Nebuchadnezzar sent for him and brought him to Babylon, together with articles of value from the temple of the Lord, and he made Jehoiachin's uncle, Zedekiah, king over Judah and Jerusalem. Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord his God and did not humble himself before Jeremiah the prophet, who spoke the word of the Lord."
Just a small foot note about Zedekiah and his sons:
2 Kings 25:7
"They killed the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes. Then they put out his eyes, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon."
The Old testament states that Zedekiah's sons died before his eyes. It in no way states that "some" of his sons were killed, but rather "the sons", meaning all of his sons were killed. Mulek can not be the son of Zedekiah due to this fact alone.
I did a google search on "Sons of Zedekiah" and Mulek". The Sons of Zedekiah brought up only verses in 2 Kings and what the Book of Mormon says. As far as this "Mulek" person is concerned, the only place that he is mentioned in any literary source that I can find is in the Book of Mormon.
Zedekiah reigned for eleven years as king over Judah and Jerusalem from 597-586 B.C. The Book of Mormon states Mulek-Son of Jewish King Zedekiah [c.589 B.C.] Now if that is proof of Mulek, then it's real poor proof. Like I said, the sons of Zedekiah were killed before his eyes, and then his own eyes were put out.
Testing the Book of Mormon
Here is a copy of a pamphlet I received in the mail the other day. I thought I would share it with everyone. You can get your own and other reading material through Utah Lighthouse Ministry. Their information is on this pamphlet.
Parable of the Sower
This beautiful parable that is spoken of by our Savior in Matthew 13:3-23 had been broken down by Mormon Apostles who took the meaning completely out of text. I couldn't believe that such a simple message of the different degrees of faith had been twisted so much as to totally change the meaning completely.
The following is what I found out about this parable just recently. I never knew that this is the Mormon church's stand on the subject.
This is from a Lesson (11) shown in "The Gospel Doctrine Class" segment in a web site called beardall2000.com. I will cover only the subject on the parable of the Sower here on this post.
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The lesson states that in this parable the Lord is talking about the condition of the soil, not the sower or the seed. Everything below is taken from a Mormon Lesson. The lesson here is not from a Christian lesson book. My comments are in red.
* There are four kinds of soil.
1. The soil by the wayside.
2. The soil in stony places.
3. The soil where thorns grow.
4. The good soil.
The Soil by the Wayside
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. Matt 13:18-19
*Who are these people?
*Those who are hardened by false doctrines and evil deeds.
*Elder Bruce P. McConkie: "They are the religionists in our day who close their ears to new revelation and choose to believe such doctrines as that men are saved by grace alone, without more, thus leaving them free to walk in worldliness and still, as they suppose, gain salvation." (Mortal Messiah, 2:250)
The scripture is speaking of a person rejecting the word of God even though he hears the Word. The scripture in no way is speaking of false doctrines or religionists. It is talking about not understanding the word and getting caught up in the wickedness of his heart.
The Soil in Stony Places
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon (at once) with joy receiveth it: Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. Matt 13:20-21
*Who are these people?
*They who believe the word
*They know the Book of Mormon is true
*They have a testimony of Joseph Smith
*They have the testimony of Jesus in their souls
*They do not press forward with a steadfastness in Christ
*They do not continue to learn the doctrines of salvation
*They do not pay tithes and offerings or serve the church
*Do not endure to the end
*When persecution, trials or temptation arises they are unable to bear them
*The new plant whithers in the bright sun of gospel light
This part of the parable is speaking of hearing the word of God and rejoicing in it, yet the person does not stand on solid ground in the truth in which the scriptures speaks. This results in a person with shallow faith and can be swayed to go towards wickedness. This word does not speak of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith, tithes and offerings, or service in the church (Mormon church).
The soil Where Thorns Grow
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. Matt 13:22
*Who are these people?
*The seed is good and the soil is good
*They choose to let the thorns and thistles grow along with the seeds of righteousness
*They seek to serve God and mammon (money) at the same time
*The cares of the world lead them astray
*The lusts of the flesh lead believing men astray
*The Lord is not seeking part time saints
This part of the parable is defined well. The 'part time saints' thing could be up for debate.
The Good Soil
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it, which beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Matt 13:23
*Who are these people?
*They that hear, understand, endure, bring forth fruit, receive the word in an honest and good heart, keep the commandments, and bring forth fruit with patience
*They will be judged and rewarded according to their works
*Those who keep the whole gospel law shall bring forth an hundred fold and inherit the fullness of the Father's kingdom
*Others shall gain lesser rewards in the mansions which are prepared
*Joseph Smith: "This parable was spoken to demonstrate the effects that are produced by the preaching of the word. And we believe that it has an allusion directly to the commencement, or the setting up, of the kingdom of that age." (TPJS, p97)
This part of the parable demonstrates what will happen to a person who hears and understands the word of God as it is written in the bible. It doesn't say anything about being judged and rewarded by works alone. 'Gospel law' could be up for interpretation, and 'lesser rewards in the mansions' is absurd. JS speaks of effects of preaching---not so---the parable is speaking of the different effects of hearing and understanding the word of God.
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Mormon theology, and those who made it up, twisted a simple truth about hearing and understanding the word of God. Jesus was plain and clear in His explanation of the sower.
Mormonsim Attacks all other Churches
"I was answered that I must join non of them, for they [all churches] were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt...." (Pearl of Great Price, Joseph Smith 2:19)
"... all other churches are entirely destitute of all authority from God; ...the most corrupt of all people. Both Catholics and Protestants are nothing less than the "whore of Babylon" whom the Lord denounces...." (Seer, p. 255)
"We talk about Christianity, but it is a perfect pack of nonsense.... The Devil could not invent a better engine to spread his work than the Christianity of the nineteenth century."
(Journal of Discourses, vol. 6, p.167)
"There is no salvation outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." (Mormon Doctrine, 1979 edition, p. 670)
I read these quotes from another web site. Challenge Ministries. A wonderful web site that will give you more in depth insight on the truth about Mormonism. Go ahead, go to their web and find out for yourself. (www.challengemin.org)
Mormon Truth!!: Lyndon Lamborn, "Mormon Apostate", Excommunicated By Stake President R. James Molina, For Simply Discussing "THE TRUTH" About Mormon H
Get Ready to Work Miracles
"Give me a young woman who loves home and family, who reads and ponders the scriptures daily, who has a burning testimony of the Book of Mormon. Give me a young woman who faithfully attends her church meetings, who is a seminary graduate, who has earned her Young Woman Recognition award and wears it with pride! Give me a young woman who is virtuous and who has maintained her personal purity, who will not settle for less than a temple marriage, and I will give you a young woman who will perform miracles for the Lord now and throughout eternity." President Ezra Taft Benson
I did exactly as President Benson instructed above. Basically, his counsel was largely responsible for the confusion and lack of understanding in my youth. The words are very attractive to any naive Mormon girl who is trying to figure out life, herself, and placement within the Mormon church. The problem is, is that the whole concept that is presented, is all part of the mental conditioning the church does to get all young women to do what the church says. The typical Mormon girl is more than willing to do this, no matter what the cost is to herself. The flowery words are mere brain washing and should be viewed as such.
THE LORD'S PRAYER
Matthew 6:9-13
The Lord's prayer is a commonly known prayer. I've been doing some studying, and I think it's important for everyone to know that the Book of Mormon changes our Lord's Prayer. The Mormon prayer is below and it shows how some of the words were changed and where some of the words were completely left out. I have added the corrections in small black words.
Our Father who(which) art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
(Thy kingdom come. )
Thy will be done on(in) earth as it is in heaven.
(Give us this day our daily bread.)
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.(:)
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.(for ever)
Amen.
3 Nephi 13:9-13
Take a minute and read both prayers. The difference, to me, is very obvious. Shame on Joseph Smith. He changed the very words that came out of the mouth of Jesus our Lord.
Note: Notice how the verses in the Book of Mormon are depicted as the same as those in the Bible.
"FRET NOT"
I sometimes feel very sad and troubled about the end result, or consequences, of some of the past events in my life. It's hard to deal with the fact that Convert destroyed a family, my family, and those in my family will never be the same again. I spend a lot of time pondering about what each of my children had to go through over the years. I pray everyday and trust in God that He has everything under control.
I often wonder if there are other families out there with similar problems. I listen to the news and I watch tv shows that tell tales of domestic violence where the parent(s) are the problem and the children suffer. My heart sinks every time. I think of how stupid I was when I was trying to be a wife and a mother in a relationship that was doomed from the beginning. How was I supposed to know? Who really knew, save God? I had such high hopes for my children ever since I can remember. I knew how to take care of many, many things. The most important thing I didn't know how to take care of was me. I was never taught by my Mormon parents how to discern common stuff, like how to say "no", or how to confront negative situations, or stand up to my core beliefs that were tucked away in my heart and mind. These are but a few of the things that I never learned how to take care of , mostly due to the fact that my upbringing was so structured and controlled. The Mormon church really knows how to gain quick control over females like me. I was so full of fear of my parents and the church that I didn't dare go against anything they said. Sometimes when my dad speaks, I get intimidated still to this day. I was afraid to go against Convert as well, but was a very committed wife.
I now keep thinking of how I could have done better back then if I had known that I was not living a so-called 'normal' life. The Mormons appear normal to most people, but they are not! The sadness I experience from thinking about it all easily turns into anger. There are difficult days when I question my self-worth, and my self-esteem goes to record lows. I turn to God often. I pray, weep, tremble, and become totally helpless. The help of my Father above usually comes just in time when all hope seems totally gone. He lifts me up out of the darkness and holds me until I can see that He was always there. He is always there. The God of the true bible has always been there.
I listened to a sermon from Dr. Eugene Scott the other night, and he was teaching from Psalms 37. I swear that the sermon was made just for me. Sit down and read the Bible message sometime. It is a powerful passage of scripture that speaks a strong message of fretting. It says that if I would cast 'my way', or what I carry around and worry about upon Him, He will take care of my worries.
I need to tell myself to let God do His work for my family every day. Each one of my children are being taken care of by God. I need to get myself out of the way and trust God fully, then He will be able to be free enough to bring about righteousness and judgment.
Danites?
Well, first of all, what are they? Who are they? Did I know about them when I was growing up? Why are they important in this day and age?
What are they? A fraternal organization founded by the Latter-day Saints in June of 1838 in Far West, Missouri.
Who are they?
The Danites were a vigilante group of men that were extremely zealous Mormons who swore oaths to support the heads of the church in all the things that they say or do, whether right or wrong. The focus of the Danites was to prey upon those who were considered to be a threat to the church and its saints, who are called, "Dissenters." They are those who leave the Mormon church and those who go against the Mormon church.
The "Danite Manifesto" openly warns any dissenter who dares to cross their path.
"We have solemnly warned you, that in the most determined manner, that if you do not
cease that course of wanton abuse of the citizens of this country, that vengeance would
overtake you sooner or later, and that when it did come it would be as furious as the
mountain torrent, and as terrible as the beating tempest; but you have affected to
dispise our warnings, and pass them off with a sneer, or a grin, or a threat, and pursued
your former course; and vengeance sleepeth not, neither does it slumber; and unless you
heed us this time, and attend to our request, it will overtake you at an hour you do not
expect, and at a day when you do not look for it; and for you there be no escape; for there
is but one decree for you, which is depart, depart, or a more fatal calamity shall befall
you" (Document, pp. 103-106).
This letter has 83 signatures of Mormons, including Joseph Smith's brother Hyrum.
The Danites were the enforcers of the Law of Consecration. That is, all the saints are to give all they have to the church and in turn, the church would lease back to the saints all their needs.
The Danites were to watch over all elections of the time in the Mormon community. This was to prevent an unfair election.
The Danites were in a sense the law of the land for the Mormons. They were to protect the saints against all mobs that dare to invade their territory.
The Danites were the military for Joseph Smith and the Mormon church.
History shows that the Danites' reign ended in Missouri, yet many former Danites continued to maintain prominent positions in the church and in the militia out West. They held power and influence over all the saints. After the Mormons had been driven out of Missouri and had moved out West, a new band of zealous Mormons came about. These were Brigham Youngs' "Avenging Angels". The number of these Mormons that were former Danites are not known, however, their purpose was still the same. John D. Lee that lead the Mountain Meadows Massacre, was a former Danite.
The Blood Atonement was rumored to be in effect, or put into practice during the time of Brigham Young. It was said that the those "Angels" enforced the Blood Atonement. These blood oaths are practiced by every 'worthy' member of the church that attends the temple to this day. The oaths and hand signs of bloodshed are practiced and memorized by all temple worthy Mormons who attend any temple around the world. These oaths and covenants that Mormons are sworn to uphold, promise to have their own blood spilt in order to have their own sins forgiven if they go against the church and the oaths they had taken.
When I was growing up, the whole subject of the Danites, blood oaths, and the like were not a part of Mormon schooling. It isn't until a Mormon member gets older that you learn that Jesus doesn't have the ability to forgive all sins. It isn't until a person goes to the temple that you gain knowledge of the blood oaths and the accompanying penalties. Those who go against these oaths will in someway be accounted for and the penalties will be carried out.
In the back of my head I keep wondering when will it be my turn to have my blood spilled because I am no longer a Mormon. I went through the temple. I took those oaths. I know for a fact that the Mormons do not make people take blood oaths for nothing. I do not have proof that the Mormon Militia still exists, but I know in my heart and mind that the Mormon church does not leave loose ends.
SEPTEMBER DAWN - MY REVIEW
My husband and I went to the movie theater this past Saturday and watched September Dawn. WOW! What a movie. If you haven't seen this film yet, I highly recommend it. There is a story line about young love that is added as an extra, but the substance about Mormon beliefs are very correct.
The topic of the 'Danites' and blood atonement are very strong throughout the movie. It clearly shows the difference between God fearing Christians and the Mormons. The movie also shows the blind loyalty (Brain washing that makes you crazy!) that the followers of Joseph Smith have towards the leaders of the Mormon church. The teachings of Jesus are clearly not important to the Mormons, especially the ones who committed the crimes against those people that were murdered on that September day.
The more I watched the movie the more angry I became. The cold hearted killings are brutal. The rituals in the temples are correct, yet they are at a minimum. The hand movements that go with the blood oaths were not displayed. If you don't know anything about the Danites or about the 'blood oaths', I plan on explaining them in greater detail in another post.
The movie shows that there is a direct link between Brigham Young and the killings. It also shows how the leaders will do all that they can to make sure that all followers do what is expected of them.
Get A Grip!
Now there is a title that might be a little confusing. Get a grip... Truth is, I lose my grip sometimes. I'm not talking about the grip of a hand, rather the grip of self control. I used to spend a lot of time crying and feeling bad about the things that I couldn't change. I had the feeling of being trapped and I couldn't see my way out. I would have good moments, but the bad experiences would over shadow the good experiences. The Mormon church had put such high expectations on me as a woman that I was stressed out all of the time. I thought that the feeling of being overwhelmed was just me. I used to think that I was slowly going nuts. It was a combination of values and expectations that both family and church put on me that made me feel as though I was going to burst at the seams.
Now that I'm out of the Mormon church, I still have difficulty with getting a grip (self control). I get too upset over things that I cannot change and the things that I think I need to do in my life. When it comes to my children, I get overly upset when I need to back off or refuse to help them out at times. My children are adults now and I'm a mother watching them grow on their own. (Hard reality check)
Sometimes the feeling of injustice gets the best of me. The control that my dad, Convert, the Mormon church, brain washing, my own stupidity, and circumstances beyond my control had on me, still haunt me to this day. I do lean on the Lord, but I don't lean on Him enough. I have moments when I feel as though God has abandoned me, yet that is far from the truth.
In 2 Corinthians 1:3 the apostle Paul tells us that our Lord Jesus Christ is the father of compassion and the God of all comfort. Paul goes on and says that Jesus comforts us in all our troubles. I know that Jesus Christ is always there for me and I know that He is the only one who can make my worries and troubled past just memories. He is also the only one that can help me through whatever it is I have to go through now.
It is my prayer that through God's love and wisdom, I will be able to look upon my hurtful memories and maintain my grip in the comfort of Jesus Christ. I also pray that I will someday be able to help others in similar situations lean on the true Jesus through the promises that Paul spoke of to the people of Corinth.
On The Outside Looking In
I am the oldest girl of three and I have four brothers. My mom had two miscarriages and one infant death. We, as children, grew up in a very tight nit family. All of us kids are still alive and we all have families of our own. Once in a while, I get an update of how everyone is doing, and sometimes I get a call from a sister or two. My mom will elaborate on how everyone is getting along. I think of my brothers and sister a lot, especially now that I'm older and have more time on my hands.
One time, about eleven years ago, when I just moved up north from Georgia, I had a longing to see one of my brothers who lived in New Mexico. I didn't have any money and I had no idea how to get there. Christian (my husband) and I went on a venture to see my brother with Christians money and he hardly had any. The trip was so tight financially that we hitched rides, slept under the stars, and ate only canned beans for breakfast. The love that I have for my brother is unconditional and I (we) went to great lengths to just give him an embrace and see his face.
I don't hear from my siblings much. I don't get calls of "HI", or "HOW ARE YOU?" I sometimes get lonely for them and I will call them just to hear their voice. The conversations with them are short and superficial. I am on the outside of the sibling circle looking in because I am no longer a part of the Mormon church. I have refused Mormon literature from a brother, and eating dinner with Mormon missionaries at a sisters house. I do have a huge desire to be with my brothers and sisters, but when I am around them they, when ever they get a chance, try to insert their Mormon beliefs on me.
I still get hung up about this situation. My family is so engrained in Mormon teachings and beliefs that it is extremely difficult for me to tell them of a better life. They don't want anything to do with Christianity and they are not afraid to say so. My heart is heavy about this matter, but I know that one day I will have to confront them with the truth about Mormonism. I spend a lot of time, meditating and praying to prepare myself for the day when I will be completely cut off from my family because I do not conform to the Mormon standards. There might not be enough time for preparation...
My brothers, sisters, and parents are dear to my heart and I wish only the best for them. I know that the best thing they need is to know the true Jesus Christ, and I know that I am the one to tell them of the only one true Savior.
After I've done all I can DO!
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a belief based on the theology that a sure way to heaven, and to achieve Godhead is to "do all you can do!" My dad loves to re-site a verse of Mormon scripture that says, 'When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are in the service of your God!' The church changed a children's Primary song entitled, "I am a Child of God." In one particular refrain, they changed a word from 'teach me all that I must KNOW', to 'teach me all that I must DO!'
From the beginning of my life experiences, whether it be in church, at home, or at play, I was taught that 'doing' (whatever that consisted of) was how I was going to be fulfilled, on earth and in heaven. Plus, by doing, is where my self worth was supposed to come from. Therefore, the more I did for people the more I felt as though I was getting closer to God and stepping my way up to Godhood.
There is nothing wrong in helping others. We, as Christians, should have a desire to help those around us. As for me, coming out of Mormonism, to do for others all of the time has been extremely hurtful and down right exhausting. I still, to this day, have great difficulty with changing my thinking on this whole subject. Sometimes it is better not to help those around you in order for them to help themselves. My tendency is to help others around me, even if it will not benefit myself and/or others. My need to 'do' for others has become a huge source of stress for me. I still have a tendency to fall back into the thinking that the only way I'm going to be accepted by my family, children and those around me, is to always do for them. I sometimes get a little lost if I'm not doing for at least for my kids. Me helping them isn't always what is best for them. I get to feeling left out when I'm not doing things for at least them.
The way to heaven is not in the physical activity of "doing", rather the way to eternal life is through faith, long suffering, love, patience, joy. In other words, the Fruit of the Spirit. I shed many tears over this in order to correct my thinking. I put my husband through long suffering because he is the only one I have to talk with. God gets an earful of prayer and sometimes He makes me practice faith, patience, and long suffering. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has instilled in me incorrect values that have done more harm than good. The concept of 'doing all you can do' sounds real good and noble on the surface. The truth is...It is incorrect and wrong to DO all of the time. God expects his children to learn and grow in grace which is freely given to all those who believe through faith, not by doing, or by good works.
A Mormon Young Woman
It's come to my attention lately that two of my nieces (ages 18 and 21), who still live at home are being subject to the same rules that I had to obey when I lived at home at that age. I understand that parents in general have set rules for their children to go by. Understand that Mormon rules are much more stringent than the average house rules that are given by non-Mormon parents.
A flood of memories came rushing in when I found out that they are in a very similar situation that I was in. Memories of isolation, rejection, non-importance, neglect, and many other bad memories came back to my mind was though it were yesterday.
Mormon young women are discouraged and purposely kept away from seeking independance from their parents. A young Mormon woman is drilled from day one that her purpose on earth (goals) are to marry in the temple, marry a returned missionary, have many, many children, and be the perfect mother, wife, and member of the Mormon church. This places huge pressure on a young woman whose desire is to please, not only the Mormon church, but her parents as well.
These goals are extremely important to her and are obviously unrealistic, but because the teachings within the church and family home are so demanding, the real potential for human development and purpose for any young woman within the church are blocked out.
A young woman in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not taught how to move away from home and learn how to be an independant thinker and decision maker. Her whole being is conditioned to be dependent on a husband. Then, and only then can she persue any type of career and/or schooling. This is contingent on the husband and his wishes.
What a waste of young lives. Shame on the Mormon church for causing this type of problem that goes unrecognized and ultimately destroys these women that deserve to know the truth about how to live in this world.
Christianity vs. Mormonism
This a a very simple comparative study that I did several years ago when I didn't know that there was other studies done on the same subject. I didn't have the internet or any other resources to go by, but the bible and my own experiences. Please click on the image for a clear reading.
What's in the Meaning of Family?
I've had a lot of time to reflect and think about what it means to be a part of a family and to have a family of my own. I seem to come up with many questions. Here are a few of them.
Why do we become a part of a family anyway?
Is the family unit on earth a temporary thing?
If family is forever, why do the kids go away to be on their own?
(Doesn't that leave the parents alone?)
Mormons believe that the family will be together for all time and all eternity. I don't think that that belief makes any sense. A man and a woman (Mormon) are to become one, get sealed in the Mormon temple and then have many kids. In that whole process, the parents are leaning on the belief that they will have their children forever. How can that be at all possible if their children want to go on their own and fulfill the same dream of godhood? It isn't at all possible. Think about it. If you are Mormon and you believe that you will go to the celestial kingdom and receive your glory of becoming a god to have your own world and have an endless number of spiritual children, where does that leave your earthly children? The earthly children are off doing their own thing. They don't want to stay at home with mom and dad. They want the dream of godhood too (If they believe). Therefore, the whole thought of 'families are forever' is a joke.
God put humans in a family unit for stability and learning. Parents are to teach their children how to be adults and continue the same cycle that has gone on for centuries. I know that children are not to stay at home with their parents forever. That just doesn't go with what God intended for us in the first place. Maturing and growing is part of what God wants for all of us. Even Jesus himself said that man is to leave his father and mother and be united to his wife (Matthew 19:5).
A good portion of my life was spent in the belief that I was going to be a part of my family forever. I believed that I would never be without my brothers and sisters, my parents and grandparents, my children and grandchildren, and so on and so forth. I believed that I was going to be with my family of generations past, present, and future. The list was endless. I think of my family tree and it is huge, who's isn't?
I have my children in my heart. I don't have them physically. No one does. Children want to grow up. They want to be themselves, not what I want them to be. When they find God and turn their life over to God then they belong to God. God is the only one that has them. He always did. Their lives are in His hands. I can't do what He does and I can't possibly know what the situation in Heaven will be. Nobody knows.
The whole bottom line of all this is; teach your children well in the ways of the Lord. Show them what they need for their future. Allow them to mature and grow to become the adults they need to be. Families are a group of people that are there for that process. As far as forever is concerned - Let God do His work and forever will fall into place. All those that believe in the Lord belong to the greatest family of all...
Church News
I saved some unopened Mormon "Church News" papers that my grandmother sent me several years back. I broke open the plastic cover of one of them, pulled the paper out and unfolded it. I sat at my desk for awhile and read it from cover to cover. I put question marks in some spots and underlined others. I wrote comments all over the back page.
As I looked through the many different articles, stories and pictures, I noticed that there was only three quoted scriptures from the Bible(KJV). Each one of these bible verses were on the back page of the one newspaper I had read. I then, took the plastic off of all the other newspapers and took a look through all of them. Here is a list of several topics that are contained in each of the newspapers:
Church History
Music
Plays
Pageants
Sports
Parades
Games
Church Growth in other Countries
Work
Education
Geneologies
Church Leaders
Church Conference
Temples
Church Buildings
I'm sure that I missed a few other topics.
After reading all of the papers that I had, I sat and pondered about what I had just read, or didn't read. These writings were not all what I was taught that they were. For a paper that was to be kept always on hand and never to be mistreated in anyway, the context of the newspapers do not have anything for growth in the spirit. These papers do not put any importance on our Lord and Savior, nor do they give any substance or guidance toward a spirit-filled life.
I was always told that good upstanding Mormons will keep their subscription going year after year and consider the papers to be part of God's word. (To obtain and keep a temple recommend, a worthy Mormon must have these in their home.) I remember being taught out of several of these papers when I was a kid. I always read them and looked forward to their arrival in the mail.
These Mormon newspapers merely boast about the Mormon lifestyle with emphasis on member growth rather than substance for the heart.
