Knowing

In his discussion, Shawn McCraney emphasizes that true salvation and spiritual connection are found not in religious institutions, but through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and reliance on His Word. He critiques religious organizations, including Catholicism, Mormonism, and modern Christianity, for being flawed and defiled by human actions, highlighting that while church can be beneficial, it is ultimately Jesus who offers redemption.

Shawn addresses the issue of absolute certainty in spiritual beliefs, particularly within the LDS Church, highlighting that various religious groups, including Jehovah's Witnesses, Muslims, and others, claim similar assurances of truth in their faith experiences. He suggests that the use of phrases like "I know" in religious testimonies, especially in LDS sacrament meetings, reflects this need for certainty and is indicative of totalistic methods, which are highlighted by the standardized and repetitive nature of their testimonies.

The teaching emphasizes the distinction between belief and knowledge, suggesting that true knowledge must be based on verifiable truth, unlike belief which can be mistaken. The use of "I know" in religious testimony is critiqued, arguing that it prematurely closes the door to exploration and is inconsistent with the Biblical emphasis on faith, hope, and seeking.

Christians can confidently assert their salvation as it is grounded in the certainty of Jesus, who is recognized as the ultimate and absolute truth. In contrast, Mormonism encourages trust in the church and its figures, rather than relying solely on the assurance found in Jesus as the way to freedom and salvation.