Book of Mormon Review Continued

Shawn McCraney teaches Christianity should avoid politics, critiques Mormonism's influence, emphasizes Jesus' divinity, questions the Trinity, and challenges the Book of Mormon.
Published: November 20, 2012
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Episode Description:

Shawn McCraney's teaching emphasizes that Christianity should remain separate from politics, as political involvement can divide believers rather than unite them. He urges individuals to focus on following Jesus and not rely on human leaders, highlighting his belief that personal failures should not detract from one's faith and calling for transparency and reliance on God rather than human institutions or figures.

Shawn emphasizes that the Mormon religion has historically aspired for broader influence through figures like Glenn Beck and Mitt Romney, highlighting a tendency for the Evangelical church to uncritically support such candidates. He points out past and current temple practices in Mormonism, urging individuals to scrutinize these practices against the fundamental teachings of Christianity, particularly the simplicity of salvation as depicted in Romans 10:9.

Shawn emphasizes the Christian perspective on Jesus as God in the flesh, requesting the Father to glorify Him as He did before the creation of the world, with support from biblical scripture like John 1:1-14 and Philippians 2:5-8, indicating the preexistence and divinity of Christ. He critiques the traditional view of the Trinity as "three in one," suggesting instead the concept of "three from one" to better illustrate God manifesting as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each fully God yet distinct in persona like masks in a play.

Shawn critiques the Book of Mormon, comparing its experience unfavorably to the Bible and highlighting unresolved historical and scientific discrepancies, notably concerning the ancestry of Native Americans, as contrasted with LDS teachings that have evolved over time. He recommends several resources, such as Simon Southernton's examinations of DNA evidence, the Tanners' documentation of numerous textual changes, and works by authors like Dan Vogel and Grant Palmer, to further study the disputed origins and claims of the Book of Mormon.

Shawn highlights that just as followers of various religions are often firmly convinced of the truth of their sacred texts, many choose to ignore contradictions or truths that challenge their beliefs, likening it to willfully ignoring reality. To address this, Shawn encourages praying for these individuals, sharing biblical teachings with them, and hoping for a revelation that guides them away from deception.