Law: Problems with Playing Church Today

Shawn McCraney discusses the vast financial growth of the LDS Church despite criticism and emphasizes the need for unity among Christians while acknowledging that all organized religions may have some flaws. He also introduces the Great News Network as a platform for diverse Christian expressions, encourages respectful engagement in religious discussions among the youth, and highlights contributions by individuals dedicated to faith outreach like his daughter Mallory, who integrates scripture with music.

Mallory, an artist with a background from Hunter College in NYC, has worked in the music industry singing backup for well-known performers. Shawn discusses the interpretation of religious concepts such as the Trinity and the concept of "Law" within Christianity, correcting a previous statement about the Trinity and examining diverse religious approaches to rules, laws, and personal conscience as understood through scriptural teachings.

Christians commonly categorize the laws from the Sinai gathering into Ceremonial, Civic (or Judicial), and Moral Laws, with many considering the Ceremonial Laws fulfilled by Christ and the Civic Laws as historical to Israel. The Moral Law, often associated with the Ten Commandments, is debated in contemporary Christianity, yet it's emphasized that the presence of law highlights human sinfulness, underscoring Paul's teachings that justification comes by faith in Christ, not by adhering to the law, a point he makes clear in his letters to the Galatians.

The teaching emphasizes that no one has perfectly kept the Moral Law except for God's Son, which is why believers are instructed to look to Him in faith for justification and guidance. The Ten Commandments or "Ten Words" represent God's fundamental desires for His people and serve as a marriage contract with the Nation, while additional commandments were intended to highlight deviations from these core principles, prompting individuals to offer sacrifices and return to God.

The teaching emphasizes that the central commandment is to worship only God, while other laws highlight the tendencies of people to deviate from this allegiance, illustrating the spiritual dangers of idolatry. Additionally, Shawn critiques religious legalism, suggesting that focusing on imposed rules, like a hypothetical "Sock Law," can lead to judgment, division, and artificial piety within communities, detracting from core spiritual values.

Shawn emphasizes that traditional religious laws, such as those concerning substances, entertainment, and ceremonious practices, are unnecessary and often lead to judgment, division, and false unity. Instead, he upholds that through Christ, the true laws of faith and love are personally inscribed on the hearts of individuals, steering them toward a personal understanding and relationship with God, free from external constraints.

Shawn teaches that redemption and justification come through faith in Jesus Christ, not through adherence to the law, emphasizing that God's righteousness is declared through belief in Him. The death and resurrection of Jesus marked a shift from the old law to a new era of faith and love, allowing individuals to decide their spiritual path independently.