Comments on: Joseph Smith and Authority

By: Bus Gillespie

Bus Gillespie — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:49:05 +0000

“What kind of God…” this is a typical refrain when arguing against the frailties of man. But to understand “what kind of God” would allow, would do, or would accept, a person really does need to delve into the nature of God and God’s purpose and plan. Saying that God is all powerful is an easy assumption to make and it puts all the responsibility on God. I’m not saying that God is not all powerful, however his plan and his purpose has limited his actions on the earth so as not to take away the agency of mankind and the opportunity to learn and progress in this realm. Therefore the apostacy was instigated by mankinds lack of faith and intolerance to the truth and God had to wait, guiding as best he could, until the proper mentality emerged that would accept and embrace a restoration of all things. Even then it was a battle against the non-believing elements, but God did restore his gospel as soon as it was feasible for the benefit of humankind in advancing their progress.

By: Ben

Ben — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:13:08 +0000

Dear Vince,

I understand that you think and believe differently than we, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints do. Revelation and authority to act in God’s name allow for a complete restitution of all things.

I don’t see any evidence from the Bible, wherein God or Christ say that there will never be prophets or revelation again. I do however see evidence that says that in order for a man to speak in God’s name and perform ordinances in his name this man must have received this authority by God or Christ himself, or through one who has received that authority from God.

Second, I see that it is prophesied that there will be a restitution of of “all” things, not just part of it. The Protestant reformation, undoubtedly, was inspired by God, but it was not a complete restoration. It set in motion events that ultimately led to a complete restoration which began with Joseph Smith.

I hope that you will take time to learn about Mormonism. Thanks for your comment.

By: Vince

Vince — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:41:28 +0000

I think when Peter taught at some future time there was going to be a restoration or “restitution of all things” he was referring to the Protestant Reformation, not Joseph Smith!

By: Nils Bergeson

Nils Bergeson — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 08:44:00 +0000

It is great to see a well researched post answering a serious inquiry. I have always liked the Mormon concept of authority, because it really stresses a two-fold nature. One – God’s authority, His wisdom, and His work. Two – our own efforts, our common sense, and our continual learning. Finding the link between these two necessary aspects of the world, and aligning our own efforts to coincide with God, that is the great challenge but also the key to the greatest reward.

Keep up the good work!

By: LizMcG

LizMcG — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 18:56:00 +0000

I just stumbled upon your blog and I wanted to compliment you on it. As a member of the LDS church I get frustrated, like many, with how misunderstood the church. But I am equally frustrated with the way that the arguments develope from there. I enjoy your blog becuase it is thoughtful, thorough, and especially I appriciate that it is non-defensive. Thanks again and keep up the good work.

By: Hosander

Hosander — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:09:00 +0000

that was a great post Ben, very thorough

By: dave

dave — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 03:40:00 +0000

Fantastic post, Ben. To me, that was the clearest way possible to convey the point of the apostasy.

By: Jancisco

Jancisco — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:56:00 +0000

This is a very thorough post. You are very smart–your wife is a lucky woman.