By Their Fruits, Part 4 – Blood Atonement

Shawn McCraney critiques Mormonism's practice of elevating Joseph Smith above Christ, arguing that this contradicts Christian principles, exemplified by an observation at an LDS service where Smith's name was frequently mentioned while Christ's was not. He invites individuals seeking biblical understanding to join CAMPU*S meetings for comprehensive verse-by-verse scripture study while offering resources like UTLM.org for reliable information on Mormonism.

Shawn critiques Mormonism by emphasizing its divergence from traditional Christian teachings, particularly focusing on its roots in the teachings of Joseph Smith, which he argues fostered a culture of violence and exclusivity rather than embracing Christ’s message of forgiveness and peace. He suggests that leaders like Brigham Young perpetuated this divergence, maintaining the movement's emphasis on old testament retribution and the controversial concept of blood atonement, thereby cultivating a Mormon culture he deems antithetical to the teachings of Christianity.

The teaching by Shawn highlights that Brigham Young added an "Oath of Vengeance" to Joseph Smith's temple ceremony, urging adherents to pray for the avenging of prophets' blood on the nation and to pass this covenant through generations. This practice, coupled with Young's reinforcement of the blood atonement doctrine, encouraged members to carry out acts of violence under the guise of religious duty, significantly deviating from Christian teachings of forgiveness and placing spiritual power in the hands of men instead of relying on the redemptive blood of Jesus.

Shawn highlights the historical and ongoing influence of violent roots within Mormonism, contrasting it with the teachings of Jesus who never encouraged violence for atonement. He suggests that although such violent tendencies are currently dormant, they persist within the culture and could resurface if Mormonism gains enough societal control.