Dr. Shades wrote: ↑Tue Apr 29, 2025 5:36 am
MG 2.0 wrote: ↑Tue Apr 29, 2025 5:34 am
That is true.
Regular,
MG
Thus disproving your assertion that "the core doctrines have withstood the test of time." You forgot that part.
I don't see a contradiction when looked at in the whole. Jesus is the Christ. The CofJCofLDS teaches and maintains those doctrines and practices/ordinances necessary for salvation. Prophets receive revelation. God is our Father.
Core doctrines have remained the same while there have been alterations/adjustments in the understanding of the nuts and bolts of the doctrines/ordinances/practices.
And there could be further adjustments that might be necessary in an ongoing restoration.
Granted, critics have a difficult time with that. I mentioned David Whitmer. He was, along with others, unable to adapt/bend with the ongoing restoration because it conflicted with his own entrenched beliefs in what Christianity was 'supposed to be'.
Today, there are other factors involved in some folks maintaining faith when there are changes and adjustments to the church's operations/teachings. I've found that if one is able to keep an open mind and flexible view towards the larger world and the church's place in it that it isn't as difficult to 'roll with the punches', so to speak.
I would suggest this book for those that have an open mind to looking at the place of the LDS church in the modern world:
https://www.amazon.com/Restoration-Gods ... 1953677045
This book further elaborates on some of the things I've barely touched on in this post.
One of the things Mason proposes is that the larger group of humanity outside of the small population which comprises the LDS church is also part of the 'body of Christ' and that all people have their own part to play in the human story/drama. And in this sense the eye cannot say to the heart, I have no need of thee...and so on.
Regards,
MG