Prosperity Teachings, Part 2

Shawn McCraney discusses a communication from Grant Palmer, revealing that some upper echelon LDS leaders, including a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy, privately doubt the truth of the LDS Church's foundational claims after reading Palmer's book "An Insider’s View of Mormon Origins." Despite these doubts, these leaders reportedly continue their roles due to a belief that the church serves the people well, with incentives such as financial support for new apostles and a culture promoting obedience.

The teaching by Shawn suggests that the LDS church leaders are entwined with its foundational claims to the extent that they might suppress contradictory truths, leading to potential disillusionment among members when these truths surface. It emphasizes that reaching influential leaders within Mormonism may require insiders like Grant Palmer, as external Christian efforts to engage with LDS leadership are often ineffective due to perceived bias and manipulation.

Mormonism is portrayed as an institution sustained by a cycle that emphasizes self-improvement through church service, with adherents progressively rising through ranks based on dedication, devotion, and financial contributions. The teaching criticizes the focus of Mormon leadership on intellectualism and suggests that when doubts arise about church doctrines (referred to as the "dam breaking"), individuals need genuine Christian guidance to understand true Christian beliefs and the essence of Jesus.

Success within Mormon Church leadership relies heavily on unwavering devotion, adherence to demands of church leaders, and eventually, success in the secular world, which can elevate an individual from local leadership to higher positions like the Quorum of the Seventy and twelve apostles. This structured hierarchy and devotion often entrap individuals making significant personal sacrifices, and despite knowing truth later, many remain too invested to change, thereby perpetuating the system highlighted by a critique of its regime.

Faith involves trusting in a higher power's timing and actions, acknowledging that blessings and challenges come from a divine source, and accepting outcomes as part of a greater plan. Prosperity teachings, which suggest human empowerment and the divine nature within individuals leading to wealth and health, are contrasted with the biblical message of faith, where believers are called to walk in trust and accept suffering as a part of spiritual growth.

Faithful Christians are promised to experience suffering and tribulation as a part of their spiritual journey, as these hardships cultivate patience, experience, and hope that align believers more closely with Christ. Contrary to prosperity gospel teachings, scripture emphasizes enduring suffering and taking up one's own cross rather than seeking worldly wealth and comfort, highlighting examples like the Apostle Paul who endured significant hardships despite his strong faith.

Shawn advocates for using a variety of methods to reach and engage with people leaving Mormonism, challenging traditional perspectives by emphasizing urgency, honesty, and the transformative power of truth. While Shawn acknowledges differing approaches like those championed by Philip Yancey, he highlights the need for direct engagement, citing biblical examples and personal experience as support for his methods.

Facing persistent hardships despite living righteously, one might feel justified in resenting God; however, teachings from John 15 and Hebrews 12 suggest embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and understanding. While perceived injustice may fuel bitterness, these scriptures encourage fostering resilience and spiritual maturity through trust and perseverance.