Interpretations of "One True Church"

[Anonymous]

Old-Timer wrote:

Quote:

Hearing that none of the blessings, baptisms, or confirmations that he’d done were recognized by God made it very personal.

Not believing that makes it easier for me to handle – and explain.

(and I remember our conversation when you first shared that experience, GB. I think it was on Mormon Matters, if I recall correctly.)

I remember the exchange many moons ago, I just can’t remember what was said. Oh well, such is aging 😳

[Anonymous]

On this note, there are times when I wonder about the efficacy of priesthood blessings. So many times, the people bless you with don’t come to pass…and I was astounded with the number of times I would ask certain people for blessings and they responded with attitudes that made me believe it wouldn’t help.

However, Brian mentioned that priesthood blessings comfort people — and for me, that is their value. I would argue that receiving ordinances also provides people with the feeling of a fresh start, help them improve, etcetera, so even if other Church’s ordinances are not recognized by God, the impact they have on the clean living of the people who receive them is a testament to their value.

[Anonymous]

Orson wrote:

…I realize the other argument has to do with universal truths – that God has dictated one authority under which all lines must flow, but this idea when I carry it out far enough always seems to come back to the subject of revelation for me. I just can’t imagine holding a position where I say all men must come under the LDS tent to find salvation. I feel like I limit God if I say such a thing…

Orson, (Is your forum name from “Mork & Mindy”? 🙂 )

Some have explained that the LDS church has a lot in common with other religions – specifically Islam, Judaism, Native American beliefs & Hinduism.

Consider universal truths we share with other religions, especially revelation…

Muslims, like LDS, believe their prophet received revelation from God.

Judaism’s Torah teaches to have a personal relationship with diety & to receive personal revelation.

Many Native American religious beliefs incorporate the importance of personal spirituality.

Hinduism teaches that everyone is entitled to personal revelation according to their stewardship.

Buddhism teaches one to hold to one’s childhood religion, because usually that is how one resonates (feels the spirit) best.

So, I agree, Orin – Saying all must be LDS, places limits on sources of spiritual resonation (personal revelation)… limiting God.

Yet, one could say that certain universal truths taught in the LDS church (& other religions) are universally applicable… like receiving personal revelation… because “the kingdom of God is within you” & “As a man thinketh (& consequent feelings & behavior) so is he” – no matter what religious beliefs.

[Anonymous]

Featherina wrote:

Orson, (Is your forum name from “Mork & Mindy”? 🙂 )

Ha ha, I almost wish I could claim that! I had never thought of Mork and Mindy. Truth is I was inspired by Orson Pratt, his fearlessness in always saying what he thought – even when he disagreed with Brigham Young. Yet he never saw himself outside of the church. His attitude was more of “truth is gospel and this is how it looks to me…” I would love to see differences of opinion as the norm in our church culture.

[Anonymous]

Orson wrote:

Ha ha, I almost wish I could claim that! I had never thought of Mork and Mindy. Truth is I was inspired by Orson Pratt, his fearlessness in always saying what he thought – even when he disagreed with Brigham Young. Yet he never saw himself outside of the church. His attitude was more of “truth is gospel and this is how it looks to me…” I would love to see differences of opinion as the norm in our church culture.

Hmm… Despite years of church history lessons, I don’t remember much about Orson, maybe because he was so opinionated. ha ha

Yet, what you mentioned makes me want to learn more! And I also would love to see everyone express their own thoughts (rather than regurgitated ones) in church.

Then, one wonders what would be the unifying force?

[Author]

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