Mormonism and Five Point Calvinism, Part 5

Shawn McCraney discusses the influence of Emanuel Swedenborg's writings on Joseph Smith, particularly regarding concepts like pre-mortal existence, different levels of heaven, and the importance of heavenly marriage, noting that while Smith's ideas have similarities with Swedenborg's, the latter’s insights were not necessarily meant to promote such doctrines. Swedenborg's visions included a division of heavens into celestial, spiritual, and natural realms, robes in heavenly marriage ceremonies, and a preparation place akin to the LDS spirit world, which suggests a potential source of inspiration for Smith's work in Mormon theology.

Shawn's teaching examines the similarities between the teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg and Joseph Smith, suggesting that Smith may have been influenced by Swedenborg's ideas, such as the establishment of a New Church, free will, and the integration of spiritual truths with earthly existence. Historical context, including Smith's access to Swedenborg's writings and connections with followers of Swedenborg, supports the possibility that Smith borrowed from Swedenborg's principles to develop his own religious beliefs and doctrines.

Calvinist theology's Limited Atonement posits that Jesus atoned only for the sins of those preselected by God for salvation, aligning with the belief that not everyone is destined for redemption. Joseph Smith, noted for his ability to synthesize various religious teachings, opposed some doctrines of Jean Calvin, rejecting ideas like Total Depravity and Unconditional Election while forming his own teachings that attracted followers away from other theological views, such as those of Emanuel Swedenborg.

The teaching by Shawn explores various theological perspectives on the scope of Jesus Christ's atonement, contrasting Calvinism's limited atonement with broader views held by other Christian and Latter-Day Saint (LDS) traditions. While Calvinists assert that Christ's sacrifice was only intended for those predestined for salvation, biblical evidence and LDS beliefs suggest that Jesus' sacrificial act extends to all humanity, emphasizing that salvation through Christ's atonement can be universally accessible, though its efficacy may require acceptance and faith.

The teaching compares various theological perspectives on the Atonement of Christ, highlighting Joseph Smith's belief that while all humanity may be saved through Christ, only faithful believers of the LDS Church will reside with God posthumously. It invites consideration of different views, including Calvinism, which restricts atonement to the elect, Arminianism, where atonement requires personal acceptance, and an alternative view that aligns divine love, justice, and human free will with afterlife consequences.