Mother in Heaven

Shawn McCraney reflects on the diversity within religious beliefs, highlighting that both Christianity and Islam have followers who genuinely seek God and those who may use their faith for evil purposes. He draws from the biblical story of Ishmael to illustrate that, as Christians, we should remember that Muslims are also part of God's creation, and faith in God is not about geopolitical divisions but about love and truth.

True Christians, as joint heirs with Christ, should recognize that God's purposes are not entirely understood by us and refrain from judging those of other faiths, emphasizing that love is paramount in our faith journey. To evaluate the truth and value of various doctrines or practices, consider whether they are biblically supported, foster greater faith and love, encourage spiritual growth, glorify God, cultivate humility, and promote liberation rather than bondage.

Heavenly Mother is a belief rooted in early Mormon doctrine, suggesting that God has a wife with whom He creates spirit children, a concept attributed to the teachings of the LDS founder Joseph Smith and further developed by church leaders. Although this belief is integral to Mormonism's understanding of God as having a physical form and being part of an eternal progression of Gods, it remains relatively understated in daily religious practice, despite being acknowledged in LDS hymns and teachings.

The teaching explores the belief within the LDS Church about a Mother in Heaven, discussing how this concept has been intermittently acknowledged and infrequently mentioned by church leaders despite being a part of church doctrine, while also addressing how that notion reflects the historical and present roles of women within the church, representing a presence that is acknowledged yet not actively vocalized. Over time, some individuals, particularly women and feminists, have attempted to address and include the Mother in Heaven in their spiritual discourse and practices; however, they have faced disciplinary consequences, highlighting the sensitivity and often unwritten limitations of discussing this doctrine openly within the church.

Shawn contends that Mormonism aligns with humanistic elements and may increasingly embrace various lifestyles and beliefs, notably the concept of a Mother in Heaven, which has historical connections to pagan and mythological worship of a Queen in Heaven. He asserts that these beliefs, echoed in ancient cultures such as Babylon, Greece, and Egypt, divert attention from monotheism, as warned by Prophet Jeremiah in the Bible.

Shawn emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unique roles and callings individuals have, focusing on their obedience and actions rather than the labels placed upon their work, demonstrating that true faith is shown through love and service to others rather than merely religious activities. Additionally, Shawn shares a testimony about finding true belief in Christ through discovery and the persistent prayers of family, highlighting the transformative journey from traditional religious understanding to a personal, spirit-filled faith.

Shawn encourages Christians to recognize the unique roles individuals play within the body of Christ and to approach others with different callings, such as those within Mormonism, with patience and understanding rather than judgment. He cautions against the dangers of Christian subjectivism, warning that feelings can be deceptive and should not replace a true personal relationship with God, as only genuine faith and adherence to biblical teachings ensure salvation.

Shawn emphasizes the importance of praying for individuals facing difficult situations and suggests that a believer's closeness to God should increase their desire to align with God's will and develop a distaste for sin. He underlines that true freedom in Christ involves liberation from sin, and while God is just and forgiving, it is crucial to seek reconciliation with Him.