Protestant Reformation Discussion – What Would You Say?

[Anonymous]

AmyJ wrote:

I am working through Bushman’s “Rough Stone Rolling” – and while there is a lot to digest, a main theme is “religious-wise EVERYTHING regarding Joseph Smith and the restoration process is more complicated then it seems to be – and that part of the restoration process included “borrowing” already established religious principles, concepts, and adapting them to the church that Joseph Smith was founding.”

Great book. I like Bushman’s treatment of JS’s environment and how he was influenced. Shows that prophecy is not a clear conduit, it is filtered through an imperfect individual, ‘a glass darkly’.

Quote:

Question:

Is the glory of the restoration diminished if Joseph Smith took already existing revelation and incorporated it into the theology?

Totally depends.on who you ask and when. 20 years ago I would have said yes, it was a full and complete retoration as everything else was corrupt (Which implies without stating it that the church is perfect). The gospel is perfect, the church is not. Just as prophecy is filtered through an individual who is imperfect, and takes on a ‘flavor’ from that individual, the church as a whole takes on flavors from the body and leadership that make it up.

The today me says it would be ignorant to conclude that JS restored a church devoid of influence from all around him, and centuries of culture and upbringing.

I think you’re on the right track with your DH, but may be splitting hairs. Unlike arguing over dogmatic issues, which doesn’t lead anywhere, you choose to find some common ground. I like thought provoking questions but it may be hard to digest if he’s not willing to think deeply about it. Try in subtle ways and then like you did, go back to common ground.

I think the way you posed your question above is a great and open way to get a discussion going.

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