Why History Is Important

Shawn McCraney's "Heart of the Matter" show aims to introduce Latter-day Saints and other viewers to the importance of spiritual rebirth and the Biblical Jesus, contrasting Biblical Christianity with modern-day Mormonism. Drawing from his personal journey from Mormonism to Christianity, Shawn highlights his mission to help others understand the difference between following religious doctrines and developing a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ, while promoting a mature faith through understanding the history and practices of Mormonism.

Understanding the history of any religious or organizational movement is crucial to fostering trust, allegiance, and true knowledge, as ignoring historical facts can lead to manipulation and a misguided sense of faith. The quest for truth demands hearing all sides of an issue to avoid propaganda, ensuring decisions are informed by a comprehensive understanding of past events, which is particularly vital in religious contexts like Catholicism and the LDS Church.

Shawn's teaching critiques the LDS Church's recommendation to only consult its own curated materials regarding Joseph Smith, suggesting that such an approach equates to accepting incomplete information akin to buying a "pig in a poke." He advocates for a comprehensive study of the LDS Church's history to uncover neglected facts, emphasizing that trust should ultimately be placed in Jesus alone.