Post by rev2212 on Sept 20, 2006 4:33:43 GMT -5
HONEST QUESTIONS FOR HONEST-HEARTED LATTER-DAY SAINTS
HOW OFTEN DO YOU REALLY THINK FOR YOURSELF? Brigham Young laid down this challenge: "I say to the whole world, receive the truth, NO MATTER WHO PRESENTS IT TO YOU. Take up the Bible, compare the religion of the Latter-day Saints with it, and see if it will stand the test." (JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES, Vol.16, p.46). Please do that now. All quotes from L.D.S. sources may be checked in context, in the Historical Department, L.D.S. Office Building, Salt Lake City. Test your Religion with the Bible (Acts 17:11, 2 Timothy 3:16, John 17:17). Prove the Right: Ephesians 5:10, 1Thesssalonians 5:21, 1Timothy 2:3-4
1. WHY IS THE L.D.S. CHURCH AGAINST TEA AND COFFEE? Brigham Young declared in 1857 (as recorded in the JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES, Vol. 5, p.98): "Should not I take MY TEA AND COFFEE, my beef and pork, and every other GOOD THING, and put it into the hands of the men who sweat over the rock for the Temple, instead of feeding men, women, and children, who do not strive to do all they are capable of doing?" (emphasis in this and other quotes, is this writer's). NOTE: The "Word of Wisdom" came out BEFORE this sermon--(cf. Matt. 15:16-20, Col. 2:16).
2. WHY DID JOSEPH SMITH BOAST THAT HE DID MORE THAN JESUS CHRIST? "I have more to BOAST of than ever any man had. I am the ONLY man that has EVER BEEN ABLE to keep a whole church together since the days of Adam. A large majority of the whole have stood by me. Neither Paul, John, Peter, NOR JESUS EVER DID IT. I BOAST THAT NO MAN EVER DID SUCH A WORK AS I." (HISTORY OF THE CHURCH, Vol. 6, pp. 408,409). However, in the latter days, SOME, not all, will depart from the faith (1 Timothy 4:1, cf. Matthew 16:18). Joseph Smith made this boast on May 26, 1844, and was murdered on June 27, 1844. According to Proverbs 16:18, what does pride precede?
3. THE DESERET NEWS, JUNE 18, 1873, HAS A REVEALING SERMON OF BRIGHAM YOUNG'S. IT READS IN PART: How much unbelief exists in the minds of the Latter-day Saints in regard to one particular DOCTRINE which I revealed to them, and which GOD REVEALED TO ME--namely that ADAM IS OUR FATHER AND GOD--I do not know, I do not inquire, I care nothing about it. Our FATHER ADAM helped to make this earth, it was created expressly for him, and after it was made he and his companions came here. He brought one of his wives with him, and she was called Eve, because she was the first woman upon the earth. Our FATHER ADAM is the man who stands at the gate and holds the keys of everlasting life and salvation TO ALL HIS CHILDREN WHO HAVE OR WHO EVER WILL COME UPON THE EARTH..."Well," says one, "Why was Adam called Adam?" He was the first man on the earth, and its framer and maker. He, with the help of his brethren, brought it into existence. Then he said, "I WANT MY CHILDREN WHO ARE IN THE SPIRIT WORLD TO COME AND LIVE HERE. I ONCE DWELT UPON AN EARTH SOMETHING LIKE THIS, IN A MORTAL STATE, I WAS FAITHFUL, I RECEIVED MY CROWN AND EXALTATION. I have the privilege of extending my work, and to its increase there will be no end. I WANT MY CHILDREN THAT WERE BORN TO ME IN THE SPIRIT WOULD TO COME HERE AND TAKE TABERNACLES OF FLESH, THAT THEIR SPIRITS MAY HAVE A HOUSE, A TABERNACLE OR A DWELLING PLACE..." But if Brigham taught that Adam is THE FATHER OF OUR SPIRITS (also see No. 14, this paper), THEN BRIGHAM'S "ADAM", IS THE SAME ONE THAT THE L.D.S. CHURCH TODAY CALLS "ELOHIM," that is, OUR HEAVENLY FATHER (see Articles of Faith, Talmage, pp. 472,473). Isn't the L.D.S. Church trying to cling to Brigham as a TRUE PROPHET, while REJECTING THE VERY DOCTRINE THAT HE TAUGHT? It should be obvious that Brigham was a FALSE prophet (see Deuteronomy 13:2-5, Isaiah 8:20). ADAM IS NOT OUR GOD, AND HE NEVER WILL BE!! (Isaiah 43:10). (SKEPTICAL? WRITE TO US FREE TRACT WITH "PHOTO-REPRINTS" OF ADAM-GOD MATERIAL.)
4. HOW MUCH DOES IT TAKE TO SHAKE YOU? Brigham Young declared on August 13, 1871: "Well now, examine the character of the Saviour, and examine the characters of those who have written the Old and New Testaments; and then compare them with the character of Joseph Smith, the founder of this work--the man whom God called and to whom he gave the keys of Priesthood, and through whom he has established his Church and kingdom for the last time, and you will find that his character stands as fair as that of any man's mentioned in the Bible. (JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES, Vol. 14, p. 203--Do you REALLY think that Joseph's character was "as fair as" that of JESUS, THE SINLESS SON OF GOD? SEE JOHN 8:46, NUMBERS 23:19).
5. WHY DID JOSEPH DENY PARTS OF THE BOOK OF MORMON? For example: 2 Nephi 31:21, and Alma 11:44, declare THE FATHER, SON, AND HOLY GHOST, TO BE ONE GOD. (it doesn't say one in purpose) But Joseph said: "I HAVE ALWAYS DECLARED GOD TO BE A DISTINCT PERSONAGE, JESUS CHRIST A SEPARATE AND DISTINCT PERSONAGE FROM GOD THE FATHER, AND THAT THE HOLY GHOST... THESE THREE CONSTITUTE THREE DISTINCT PERSONAGES AND THREE GODS." (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 370). Moroni 8:18 says "FOR I KNOW THAT GOD IS NOT A PARTIAL GOD, NEITHER A CHANGEABLE BEING; BUT HE IS UNCHANGEABLE FROM ALL ETERNITY TO ALL ETERNITY." But in April of 1844, Joseph said: "WE HAVE IMAGINED AND SUPPOSED THAT GOD WAS GOD FROM ALL ETERNITY. I WILL REFUTE THAT IDEA, AND..." (ibid., p. 345). He just REFUTED Moroni 8:18 if plain English means something!! Why did he do this? Whatever the reason(s), Joseph was an evolutionary "prophet" who changed his ideas about God as time went on.
6. ARE YOU AN ELDER OF THE L.D.S. CHURCH? IF you are, are you regarded as a KING ON YOUR THRONE, by either the people inside your church, or outside of it? In 1856, Brigham Young predicted, "In the days of Joseph, it was considered a great privilege to be permitted to speak to a member of Congress, BUT TWENTY-SIX YEARS WILL NOT PASS AWAY BEFORE THE ELDERS OF THIS CHURCH WILL BE MUCH THOUGHT OF AS THE KINGS ON THEIR THRONES." (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 4, p. 40). The 26 years was up on August 31, 1882, but on March 22, 1882, the Edmunds Act was passed AGAINST polygamy in the territories. Obviously the L.D.S. Church wasn't too popular at this time. DO YOU REALLY THINK THIS PROPHECY WAS FULFILLED? (It only takes ONE FALSE PROPHECY, to make a FALSE PROPHET...see Deuteronomy 18:20-22).
7. JUST HOW RELIABLE IS THE BOOK OF ABRAHAM? Concerning the facsimiles shown in this book; the late Dr. John Wilson, professor of Egyptology at the University of Chicago, wrote:"...From the standpoint of the Egyptologist the explanations given with these illustrations are INCORRECT." (Mar 16 1966)
8. THE BOOK OF MORMON IS SUPPOSED TO CONTAIN THE FULLNESS OF THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL (D.&C. 27:5, 135:3) According to Doctrines of Salvation, Vol. 1, p. 160: "By fullness of the gospel is meant all the ordinances and principles that pertain to the exaltation in the celestial kingdom..." Celestial marriage is an essential requirement to gain this exaltation, but where does the Book of Mormon mention CELESTIAL MARRIAGE? Or where for that matter, does it mention the Word of Wisdom, men can become Gods, baptism for the dead, etc.??
9. How can Jesus be a SPIRIT-BROTHER OF LUCIFER? like the L.D.S. Church teaches (cf. Gospel Through The Ages, Milton Hunter, p. 15), when "For by him (that is, Jesus) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones,... or principalities, or powers:..." (Colossians 1:16, cf. Eph. 6:12)? Jesus created all the angels, including Lucifer, before he fell (cf. Ezekiel 28:13-15). How can the creator (namely Jesus), possibly be the Spirit-brother of his own creation? Impossible!!
10. What does the word GOSPEL mean? You've probably heard the word "Gospel", used many times, but DO YOU KNOW WHAT THE TRUE GOSPEL IS, BY WHICH MEN MAY BE SAVED TODAY? (The Apostle Paul pronounced a curse on those who preach a different gospel see Galatians 1:8,9). Paul wrote: "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel.. By which also ye are saved,... For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures; And that He was seen of Ce-phas,..." (1 Corinthians 15:1-5). The L.D.S. Third Article of Faith says: "We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel." But "Paul's" Gospel doesn't have a single law in it, anywhere! If you put laws into the Gospel (Good News), you've just made it bad news. For instance, NO ONE ever got saved by the Law of Moses (See Romans 3:20, cf. Galatians 3:10, 24, James 2:10). If baptism is part of the Gospel why did paul say in 1Corinthians 1:17 "I came not to baptize but to preach the Gospel"
11. The Department of Anthropology of the Smithsonian Institution (Washington D.C. 20560), has a written statement concerning the Book of Mormon (Feb. 1978). It reads in part: 1. The Smithsonian Institution has never used the Book of Mormon in any way as a scientific guide. Smithsonian archaeologists see no direct connection between the archaeology of the New World and the subject matter of the book... 5. ...steel, glass, and silk were not used in the New World before 1492... 8. ...findings of ancient Egyptian,... None of these claims has stood up... Isn't it worth noting, on the other hand, that the Bible has a wealth of archaeological data to back it up?
12. Mormon Church claims that the Garden of Eden was in Missouri (The Articles Of Faith, Talmage, p. 474). But how can this be, when Genesis 2:10 tells of a river there, that became four heads (or rivers); one of which is called the Euphrates (V. 14)? Do you really think that the Euphrates might be the Mississippi River?
13. Aren't these contradictions significant? Brigham Young declared: "Adam was made from the dust of an earth, but not from the dust of this earth." (J.O.D., Vol. 3, p. 319). Joseph Fielding Smith said that Adam was created from the dust of this earth (Doctrines of Salvation, Vol. 1, p. 90). "Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith," (p. 170), tells us that Enoch was 365 years old when he was translated, but D&C. 107:49 and Moses 8:1, says it was 430 years. Jacob 2:24 has the Lord saying that it was abominable for David and Solomon to have many wives and concubines, but D&C. 132:1, has him saying just the opposite!!
14. Brigham Young declared: "Adam and Eve are the parents of all pertaining to the flesh, and I would not say that they are not also the parents of our spirits." (J.O.D., Vol. 7, p. 290) Note: The double negative cancels. The two "nots" eliminate one another! Do you need more proof concerning Adam-God doctrine? Read J.O.D., Vol. 1, pp. 331,332; Vol. 6, p. 275, Vol. 8, p. 208. If you feel that Brigham may not have been speaking as a prophet in all these sermons, or that somehow he may have been misrecorded, consider this: A. Brigham declared, "I have never yet preached a sermon and sent it out to the children of men, that they may not call Scripture. Let me have the privilege of correcting a sermon, and it is as good Scripture as they deserve." (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 13, p. 95, cf. p. 264). B. "This book was made possible because Brigham Young secured stenographic reports of his addresses... All that he said was recorded... The public utterances of few great historical figures have been so faithfully and fully preserved... The corrections for the printer, as shown by existing manuscripts, were few and of minor consequence." (From preface to Discourses of Brigham Young, compiled by John A. Widtsoe.)
15. Do you believe in a God (or Gods), that is ALL-KNOWING? Psalm 147:5 says that the Lord's "...understanding is infinite." (Even see Moses 1:6 in P. of G.P.) God says: "Is there a God beside me? ...I KNOW NOT ANY." (Isaiah 44:8). The God Who says, "...Do not I fill heaven and earth?" (Jeremiah 23:24), doesn't even know of any other Gods out there. But Joseph taught there ARE other Gods. Why? (See Isaiah 8:20). Did he know more than God?
16. Do you have a TESTIMONY that the L.D.S. Church is the one true church? If you do, here are two questions. According to your testimony: (a) Did Joseph Smith see the Father and the Son (1st vision)? (b) Was Brigham Young a true prophet? If you answered "Yes", consider this sermon by Brigham: "The Lord did not come... But He did send His angel to this same obscure person, Joseph Smith jun., who afterwards became a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator, and informed him that he should not join any of the religious sects of the day, for they were all wrong;..." (J.O.D., Vol. 2, p. 171). The historical context here is the so-called "First Vision." Brigham taught here that Joseph saw an angel, not the Lord, in the 1st vision. What you have is a contradictory testimony! Do you think someone would be wise to stake their eternal destiny on a testimony as shaky as that? (Also see: J.O.D., Vol. 18, p. 239, and sermons by George Albert Smith, Vol. 12, p. 334, Vol. 13, pp. 78, 294). Some other problems: According to D&C 84:21,22, Joseph should've been struck dead in the 1st vision, because he hadn't received"...the authority of the priesthood,..." until after the first vision! (see preface to D&C 13). More importantly, we have the testimony of the Bible, that Joseph NEVER saw the Father (See 1 Timothy 6:16, cf. John 1:18, 5:37). The Holy Ghost doesn't contradict the Holy Ghost or the Word John 7 "testifies truth" John 17:17 "thy word is truth". He inspired these scriptures.
17. Do you have a TESTIMONY that the L.D.S. Church is true? If it is, why does it misrepresent at least some of Joseph Smith's "revelations?" For instance, in the preface to Section 5 of Doctrine and Covenants, we read: "Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, March, 1829.--..." But this isn't the same "revelation" given to him in 1829!! It has been radically changed, from the way it first appears in the 1833 Book of Commandments, Chapter 4. Verses 17, and 19 have been added, including large portions of 4, most or all of 6, and most of 11, 12, 14, and 18. Some 145 words (at least), were dropped out! more examples on request.
18. Is this ethical? From "History of Joseph Smith," as recorded in the Millennial Star (Vol. 23, p. 720), we have: "Saturday, June 1. At home. ...Then went to John P. Greene's, and paid him and another brother $200. Drank a glass of beer at Moessers. Called at William Clayton's,..." (1844). Now look at History of the Church, Vol. 6, p. 424: "Drank a glass of beer at Moessers." has been dropped out, without comment!
19. Why not let God interpret the meaning of the two sticks of Ezekiel 37:16-18? Instead of referring to the Bible and the Book of Mormon, the whole point is, when these sticks are joined together, they symbolize God taking the children of Israel and making them "...one nation in the land upon the mountains of Israel;..." (vs. 22). They'll never be two nations again! Revelation 14:6 is also badly taken out of context by the L.D.S. Church (hasn't happened yet).
20. How important is the NAME of your church? 3 Nephi 27:8 says: "And how be it my church save it be called in my name?..." On May 3, 1834, the Mormon Church was called "The Church of the Latter-day Saints." (History of the Church, Vol. 2, p. 63, and also see title page to the 1835 "Doctrine and Covenants.")
21. Lucy Smith wrote about her son, Joseph (when age 18): "During our evening conversations, Joseph would occasionally give us some of the most amusing recitals that could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress,... their cities, their buildings, with every particular, their mode of warfare; and also their religious worship." (Biographical Sketches of Joseph Smith.... p. 85). Imaginative, wasn't he?
22. Have you rested in the finished work of Christ or are you doing your own work? Romans 10:2-3 "For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." Have you submitted to God's righteousness, the finished work of Christ? Your works and righteousness is as FILTHY RAGS (Isaiah 64:6) to God. Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" You are a sinner; Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned." Christ came to save sinners and to call them to repentance 1Timothy 1:15, Matthew 9:13 He offered that finished work ONCE. Hebrews 10:10-14 "By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once [for all]. And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; ... For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified." We can be perfected forever by that ONE sacrifice! It paid for ALL sins!1John 1:7 "the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." Dont stick with your Filthy Rags, you can't improve on Gods work. Romans 4:3-8 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, [Saying], Blessed [are] they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed [is] the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Are your iniquities forgiven? Luke 15:7 I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Who would need no repentance? Answer: that Blessed man described in Romans 4. Call on Jesus today and be a Blessed man. Romans 10:9 If you were to die tonight, and God said, Give me one good reason why I should let you into my presence," WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO HIM? "I've tried my best.... (2 Nephi 25:23)?" But you're not "Saved by grace, AFTER all you have done" (You haven't done ALL you could, anyway. can you honestly say you have?). Trust in, and rely upon Christ alone for forgiveness; you can't earn a gift (Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:8,9). Faith without works is dead, but you're still saved by grace, through a saving faith alone. Works should result from a living faith (Titus 3:5, then 3:8). RECEIVE THE REAL JESUS TODAY (John 1:12), to be born again (John 3:3). "Ye MUST be born again" (John 3:7)
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www.frontiernet.net/~avtruth/q4lds.html
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NOTE: I can give you a 100% guarantee that you will be dead a whole lot longer than you will be alive! Where will you be in 200 years? Keeping that in mind, if you died today are you 100% sure you would go to Heaven? Eternity is a very long time - it would be smart to make sure you have the right answers! Please answer from an honest heart: Have you ever lied (even once), or stolen (the value is irrelevant)? Then you're a lying thief. Bad news, huh? There's more. Have you had sex out of marriage? If so, you're a fornicator. Jesus said, "That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." (Matt 5:28) If you have hated someone, the Bible says you're a murderer. What's more, you have a conscience (con-science means "with knowledge"), so when you sin, you do it with knowledge that it's wrong. Bearing in mind that God is perfect, and that He has seen your thought life, when you stand before Him on Judgment Day will you be innocent or guilty? You know you will be guilty, and end up in Hell (Rev 21:8). Perhaps you don't believe that. That means there's more bad news for you, because it will happen anyway no matter what you believe. That brings us to the good news: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Rom 5:8) Jesus Christ took your punishment, then He rose from the dead and defeated the grave. That's good news because, if you repent and trust Him, God will forgive you and grant you everlasting life. What better news could there be! So, Repent (turn from your sins) today. Give your whole Life to Jesus, and follow Him the rest of your life. Read the King James Bible daily, obey what you read, and God will never let you down. (See John 14:21)"
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HOW OFTEN DO YOU REALLY THINK FOR YOURSELF? Brigham Young laid down this challenge: "I say to the whole world, receive the truth, NO MATTER WHO PRESENTS IT TO YOU. Take up the Bible, compare the religion of the Latter-day Saints with it, and see if it will stand the test." (JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES, Vol.16, p.46). Please do that now. All quotes from L.D.S. sources may be checked in context, in the Historical Department, L.D.S. Office Building, Salt Lake City. Test your Religion with the Bible (Acts 17:11, 2 Timothy 3:16, John 17:17). Prove the Right: Ephesians 5:10, 1Thesssalonians 5:21, 1Timothy 2:3-4
1. WHY IS THE L.D.S. CHURCH AGAINST TEA AND COFFEE? Brigham Young declared in 1857 (as recorded in the JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES, Vol. 5, p.98): "Should not I take MY TEA AND COFFEE, my beef and pork, and every other GOOD THING, and put it into the hands of the men who sweat over the rock for the Temple, instead of feeding men, women, and children, who do not strive to do all they are capable of doing?" (emphasis in this and other quotes, is this writer's). NOTE: The "Word of Wisdom" came out BEFORE this sermon--(cf. Matt. 15:16-20, Col. 2:16).
2. WHY DID JOSEPH SMITH BOAST THAT HE DID MORE THAN JESUS CHRIST? "I have more to BOAST of than ever any man had. I am the ONLY man that has EVER BEEN ABLE to keep a whole church together since the days of Adam. A large majority of the whole have stood by me. Neither Paul, John, Peter, NOR JESUS EVER DID IT. I BOAST THAT NO MAN EVER DID SUCH A WORK AS I." (HISTORY OF THE CHURCH, Vol. 6, pp. 408,409). However, in the latter days, SOME, not all, will depart from the faith (1 Timothy 4:1, cf. Matthew 16:18). Joseph Smith made this boast on May 26, 1844, and was murdered on June 27, 1844. According to Proverbs 16:18, what does pride precede?
3. THE DESERET NEWS, JUNE 18, 1873, HAS A REVEALING SERMON OF BRIGHAM YOUNG'S. IT READS IN PART: How much unbelief exists in the minds of the Latter-day Saints in regard to one particular DOCTRINE which I revealed to them, and which GOD REVEALED TO ME--namely that ADAM IS OUR FATHER AND GOD--I do not know, I do not inquire, I care nothing about it. Our FATHER ADAM helped to make this earth, it was created expressly for him, and after it was made he and his companions came here. He brought one of his wives with him, and she was called Eve, because she was the first woman upon the earth. Our FATHER ADAM is the man who stands at the gate and holds the keys of everlasting life and salvation TO ALL HIS CHILDREN WHO HAVE OR WHO EVER WILL COME UPON THE EARTH..."Well," says one, "Why was Adam called Adam?" He was the first man on the earth, and its framer and maker. He, with the help of his brethren, brought it into existence. Then he said, "I WANT MY CHILDREN WHO ARE IN THE SPIRIT WORLD TO COME AND LIVE HERE. I ONCE DWELT UPON AN EARTH SOMETHING LIKE THIS, IN A MORTAL STATE, I WAS FAITHFUL, I RECEIVED MY CROWN AND EXALTATION. I have the privilege of extending my work, and to its increase there will be no end. I WANT MY CHILDREN THAT WERE BORN TO ME IN THE SPIRIT WOULD TO COME HERE AND TAKE TABERNACLES OF FLESH, THAT THEIR SPIRITS MAY HAVE A HOUSE, A TABERNACLE OR A DWELLING PLACE..." But if Brigham taught that Adam is THE FATHER OF OUR SPIRITS (also see No. 14, this paper), THEN BRIGHAM'S "ADAM", IS THE SAME ONE THAT THE L.D.S. CHURCH TODAY CALLS "ELOHIM," that is, OUR HEAVENLY FATHER (see Articles of Faith, Talmage, pp. 472,473). Isn't the L.D.S. Church trying to cling to Brigham as a TRUE PROPHET, while REJECTING THE VERY DOCTRINE THAT HE TAUGHT? It should be obvious that Brigham was a FALSE prophet (see Deuteronomy 13:2-5, Isaiah 8:20). ADAM IS NOT OUR GOD, AND HE NEVER WILL BE!! (Isaiah 43:10). (SKEPTICAL? WRITE TO US FREE TRACT WITH "PHOTO-REPRINTS" OF ADAM-GOD MATERIAL.)
4. HOW MUCH DOES IT TAKE TO SHAKE YOU? Brigham Young declared on August 13, 1871: "Well now, examine the character of the Saviour, and examine the characters of those who have written the Old and New Testaments; and then compare them with the character of Joseph Smith, the founder of this work--the man whom God called and to whom he gave the keys of Priesthood, and through whom he has established his Church and kingdom for the last time, and you will find that his character stands as fair as that of any man's mentioned in the Bible. (JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES, Vol. 14, p. 203--Do you REALLY think that Joseph's character was "as fair as" that of JESUS, THE SINLESS SON OF GOD? SEE JOHN 8:46, NUMBERS 23:19).
5. WHY DID JOSEPH DENY PARTS OF THE BOOK OF MORMON? For example: 2 Nephi 31:21, and Alma 11:44, declare THE FATHER, SON, AND HOLY GHOST, TO BE ONE GOD. (it doesn't say one in purpose) But Joseph said: "I HAVE ALWAYS DECLARED GOD TO BE A DISTINCT PERSONAGE, JESUS CHRIST A SEPARATE AND DISTINCT PERSONAGE FROM GOD THE FATHER, AND THAT THE HOLY GHOST... THESE THREE CONSTITUTE THREE DISTINCT PERSONAGES AND THREE GODS." (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 370). Moroni 8:18 says "FOR I KNOW THAT GOD IS NOT A PARTIAL GOD, NEITHER A CHANGEABLE BEING; BUT HE IS UNCHANGEABLE FROM ALL ETERNITY TO ALL ETERNITY." But in April of 1844, Joseph said: "WE HAVE IMAGINED AND SUPPOSED THAT GOD WAS GOD FROM ALL ETERNITY. I WILL REFUTE THAT IDEA, AND..." (ibid., p. 345). He just REFUTED Moroni 8:18 if plain English means something!! Why did he do this? Whatever the reason(s), Joseph was an evolutionary "prophet" who changed his ideas about God as time went on.
6. ARE YOU AN ELDER OF THE L.D.S. CHURCH? IF you are, are you regarded as a KING ON YOUR THRONE, by either the people inside your church, or outside of it? In 1856, Brigham Young predicted, "In the days of Joseph, it was considered a great privilege to be permitted to speak to a member of Congress, BUT TWENTY-SIX YEARS WILL NOT PASS AWAY BEFORE THE ELDERS OF THIS CHURCH WILL BE MUCH THOUGHT OF AS THE KINGS ON THEIR THRONES." (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 4, p. 40). The 26 years was up on August 31, 1882, but on March 22, 1882, the Edmunds Act was passed AGAINST polygamy in the territories. Obviously the L.D.S. Church wasn't too popular at this time. DO YOU REALLY THINK THIS PROPHECY WAS FULFILLED? (It only takes ONE FALSE PROPHECY, to make a FALSE PROPHET...see Deuteronomy 18:20-22).
7. JUST HOW RELIABLE IS THE BOOK OF ABRAHAM? Concerning the facsimiles shown in this book; the late Dr. John Wilson, professor of Egyptology at the University of Chicago, wrote:"...From the standpoint of the Egyptologist the explanations given with these illustrations are INCORRECT." (Mar 16 1966)
8. THE BOOK OF MORMON IS SUPPOSED TO CONTAIN THE FULLNESS OF THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL (D.&C. 27:5, 135:3) According to Doctrines of Salvation, Vol. 1, p. 160: "By fullness of the gospel is meant all the ordinances and principles that pertain to the exaltation in the celestial kingdom..." Celestial marriage is an essential requirement to gain this exaltation, but where does the Book of Mormon mention CELESTIAL MARRIAGE? Or where for that matter, does it mention the Word of Wisdom, men can become Gods, baptism for the dead, etc.??
9. How can Jesus be a SPIRIT-BROTHER OF LUCIFER? like the L.D.S. Church teaches (cf. Gospel Through The Ages, Milton Hunter, p. 15), when "For by him (that is, Jesus) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones,... or principalities, or powers:..." (Colossians 1:16, cf. Eph. 6:12)? Jesus created all the angels, including Lucifer, before he fell (cf. Ezekiel 28:13-15). How can the creator (namely Jesus), possibly be the Spirit-brother of his own creation? Impossible!!
10. What does the word GOSPEL mean? You've probably heard the word "Gospel", used many times, but DO YOU KNOW WHAT THE TRUE GOSPEL IS, BY WHICH MEN MAY BE SAVED TODAY? (The Apostle Paul pronounced a curse on those who preach a different gospel see Galatians 1:8,9). Paul wrote: "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel.. By which also ye are saved,... For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures; And that He was seen of Ce-phas,..." (1 Corinthians 15:1-5). The L.D.S. Third Article of Faith says: "We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel." But "Paul's" Gospel doesn't have a single law in it, anywhere! If you put laws into the Gospel (Good News), you've just made it bad news. For instance, NO ONE ever got saved by the Law of Moses (See Romans 3:20, cf. Galatians 3:10, 24, James 2:10). If baptism is part of the Gospel why did paul say in 1Corinthians 1:17 "I came not to baptize but to preach the Gospel"
11. The Department of Anthropology of the Smithsonian Institution (Washington D.C. 20560), has a written statement concerning the Book of Mormon (Feb. 1978). It reads in part: 1. The Smithsonian Institution has never used the Book of Mormon in any way as a scientific guide. Smithsonian archaeologists see no direct connection between the archaeology of the New World and the subject matter of the book... 5. ...steel, glass, and silk were not used in the New World before 1492... 8. ...findings of ancient Egyptian,... None of these claims has stood up... Isn't it worth noting, on the other hand, that the Bible has a wealth of archaeological data to back it up?
12. Mormon Church claims that the Garden of Eden was in Missouri (The Articles Of Faith, Talmage, p. 474). But how can this be, when Genesis 2:10 tells of a river there, that became four heads (or rivers); one of which is called the Euphrates (V. 14)? Do you really think that the Euphrates might be the Mississippi River?
13. Aren't these contradictions significant? Brigham Young declared: "Adam was made from the dust of an earth, but not from the dust of this earth." (J.O.D., Vol. 3, p. 319). Joseph Fielding Smith said that Adam was created from the dust of this earth (Doctrines of Salvation, Vol. 1, p. 90). "Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith," (p. 170), tells us that Enoch was 365 years old when he was translated, but D&C. 107:49 and Moses 8:1, says it was 430 years. Jacob 2:24 has the Lord saying that it was abominable for David and Solomon to have many wives and concubines, but D&C. 132:1, has him saying just the opposite!!
14. Brigham Young declared: "Adam and Eve are the parents of all pertaining to the flesh, and I would not say that they are not also the parents of our spirits." (J.O.D., Vol. 7, p. 290) Note: The double negative cancels. The two "nots" eliminate one another! Do you need more proof concerning Adam-God doctrine? Read J.O.D., Vol. 1, pp. 331,332; Vol. 6, p. 275, Vol. 8, p. 208. If you feel that Brigham may not have been speaking as a prophet in all these sermons, or that somehow he may have been misrecorded, consider this: A. Brigham declared, "I have never yet preached a sermon and sent it out to the children of men, that they may not call Scripture. Let me have the privilege of correcting a sermon, and it is as good Scripture as they deserve." (Journal of Discourses, Vol. 13, p. 95, cf. p. 264). B. "This book was made possible because Brigham Young secured stenographic reports of his addresses... All that he said was recorded... The public utterances of few great historical figures have been so faithfully and fully preserved... The corrections for the printer, as shown by existing manuscripts, were few and of minor consequence." (From preface to Discourses of Brigham Young, compiled by John A. Widtsoe.)
15. Do you believe in a God (or Gods), that is ALL-KNOWING? Psalm 147:5 says that the Lord's "...understanding is infinite." (Even see Moses 1:6 in P. of G.P.) God says: "Is there a God beside me? ...I KNOW NOT ANY." (Isaiah 44:8). The God Who says, "...Do not I fill heaven and earth?" (Jeremiah 23:24), doesn't even know of any other Gods out there. But Joseph taught there ARE other Gods. Why? (See Isaiah 8:20). Did he know more than God?
16. Do you have a TESTIMONY that the L.D.S. Church is the one true church? If you do, here are two questions. According to your testimony: (a) Did Joseph Smith see the Father and the Son (1st vision)? (b) Was Brigham Young a true prophet? If you answered "Yes", consider this sermon by Brigham: "The Lord did not come... But He did send His angel to this same obscure person, Joseph Smith jun., who afterwards became a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator, and informed him that he should not join any of the religious sects of the day, for they were all wrong;..." (J.O.D., Vol. 2, p. 171). The historical context here is the so-called "First Vision." Brigham taught here that Joseph saw an angel, not the Lord, in the 1st vision. What you have is a contradictory testimony! Do you think someone would be wise to stake their eternal destiny on a testimony as shaky as that? (Also see: J.O.D., Vol. 18, p. 239, and sermons by George Albert Smith, Vol. 12, p. 334, Vol. 13, pp. 78, 294). Some other problems: According to D&C 84:21,22, Joseph should've been struck dead in the 1st vision, because he hadn't received"...the authority of the priesthood,..." until after the first vision! (see preface to D&C 13). More importantly, we have the testimony of the Bible, that Joseph NEVER saw the Father (See 1 Timothy 6:16, cf. John 1:18, 5:37). The Holy Ghost doesn't contradict the Holy Ghost or the Word John 7 "testifies truth" John 17:17 "thy word is truth". He inspired these scriptures.
17. Do you have a TESTIMONY that the L.D.S. Church is true? If it is, why does it misrepresent at least some of Joseph Smith's "revelations?" For instance, in the preface to Section 5 of Doctrine and Covenants, we read: "Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, March, 1829.--..." But this isn't the same "revelation" given to him in 1829!! It has been radically changed, from the way it first appears in the 1833 Book of Commandments, Chapter 4. Verses 17, and 19 have been added, including large portions of 4, most or all of 6, and most of 11, 12, 14, and 18. Some 145 words (at least), were dropped out! more examples on request.
18. Is this ethical? From "History of Joseph Smith," as recorded in the Millennial Star (Vol. 23, p. 720), we have: "Saturday, June 1. At home. ...Then went to John P. Greene's, and paid him and another brother $200. Drank a glass of beer at Moessers. Called at William Clayton's,..." (1844). Now look at History of the Church, Vol. 6, p. 424: "Drank a glass of beer at Moessers." has been dropped out, without comment!
19. Why not let God interpret the meaning of the two sticks of Ezekiel 37:16-18? Instead of referring to the Bible and the Book of Mormon, the whole point is, when these sticks are joined together, they symbolize God taking the children of Israel and making them "...one nation in the land upon the mountains of Israel;..." (vs. 22). They'll never be two nations again! Revelation 14:6 is also badly taken out of context by the L.D.S. Church (hasn't happened yet).
20. How important is the NAME of your church? 3 Nephi 27:8 says: "And how be it my church save it be called in my name?..." On May 3, 1834, the Mormon Church was called "The Church of the Latter-day Saints." (History of the Church, Vol. 2, p. 63, and also see title page to the 1835 "Doctrine and Covenants.")
21. Lucy Smith wrote about her son, Joseph (when age 18): "During our evening conversations, Joseph would occasionally give us some of the most amusing recitals that could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress,... their cities, their buildings, with every particular, their mode of warfare; and also their religious worship." (Biographical Sketches of Joseph Smith.... p. 85). Imaginative, wasn't he?
22. Have you rested in the finished work of Christ or are you doing your own work? Romans 10:2-3 "For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." Have you submitted to God's righteousness, the finished work of Christ? Your works and righteousness is as FILTHY RAGS (Isaiah 64:6) to God. Luke 6:46 "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" You are a sinner; Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned." Christ came to save sinners and to call them to repentance 1Timothy 1:15, Matthew 9:13 He offered that finished work ONCE. Hebrews 10:10-14 "By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once [for all]. And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; ... For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified." We can be perfected forever by that ONE sacrifice! It paid for ALL sins!1John 1:7 "the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." Dont stick with your Filthy Rags, you can't improve on Gods work. Romans 4:3-8 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, [Saying], Blessed [are] they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed [is] the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Are your iniquities forgiven? Luke 15:7 I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Who would need no repentance? Answer: that Blessed man described in Romans 4. Call on Jesus today and be a Blessed man. Romans 10:9 If you were to die tonight, and God said, Give me one good reason why I should let you into my presence," WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO HIM? "I've tried my best.... (2 Nephi 25:23)?" But you're not "Saved by grace, AFTER all you have done" (You haven't done ALL you could, anyway. can you honestly say you have?). Trust in, and rely upon Christ alone for forgiveness; you can't earn a gift (Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:8,9). Faith without works is dead, but you're still saved by grace, through a saving faith alone. Works should result from a living faith (Titus 3:5, then 3:8). RECEIVE THE REAL JESUS TODAY (John 1:12), to be born again (John 3:3). "Ye MUST be born again" (John 3:7)
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NOTE: I can give you a 100% guarantee that you will be dead a whole lot longer than you will be alive! Where will you be in 200 years? Keeping that in mind, if you died today are you 100% sure you would go to Heaven? Eternity is a very long time - it would be smart to make sure you have the right answers! Please answer from an honest heart: Have you ever lied (even once), or stolen (the value is irrelevant)? Then you're a lying thief. Bad news, huh? There's more. Have you had sex out of marriage? If so, you're a fornicator. Jesus said, "That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." (Matt 5:28) If you have hated someone, the Bible says you're a murderer. What's more, you have a conscience (con-science means "with knowledge"), so when you sin, you do it with knowledge that it's wrong. Bearing in mind that God is perfect, and that He has seen your thought life, when you stand before Him on Judgment Day will you be innocent or guilty? You know you will be guilty, and end up in Hell (Rev 21:8). Perhaps you don't believe that. That means there's more bad news for you, because it will happen anyway no matter what you believe. That brings us to the good news: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Rom 5:8) Jesus Christ took your punishment, then He rose from the dead and defeated the grave. That's good news because, if you repent and trust Him, God will forgive you and grant you everlasting life. What better news could there be! So, Repent (turn from your sins) today. Give your whole Life to Jesus, and follow Him the rest of your life. Read the King James Bible daily, obey what you read, and God will never let you down. (See John 14:21)"
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