Word of Wisdom, Part 4

Shawn McCraney challenges individuals within the LDS Church to leave institutional control, expressing that true faith in Christ is sufficient and unnecessary to mix with religious or political institutional demands. He emphasizes that Christianity should focus on being a light through prayer, love, and sharing faith rather than engaging in political activism or moral enforcement, criticizing the LDS Church's involvement in political issues like same-sex marriage legislation as contrary to the teachings of Jesus.

Shawn critiques the LDS Church’s involvement in passing Prop 8 and contrasts their health code, the Word of Wisdom, with biblical teachings, suggesting that the latter allowed more dietary liberties. He argues that, unlike the LDS directives against coffee, tea, and alcohol, biblical scripture, as shown in passages like Deuteronomy 14:26, reflects a more lenient stance towards the consumption of such items, emphasizing that divine intent originally permitted the enjoyment of various foods and drinks.

Shawn's teaching emphasizes that faith in Jesus and the grace He provides transcend the old religious laws, such as dietary restrictions and circumcision, shifting the focus from outward adherence to inward change and relationship with God. This grace is inclusive and open to all people, regardless of their past actions or current state, wherein righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit take precedence over religious legalism.

Shawn emphasizes the biblical Christian approach in which individuals should not be judged by what they eat or drink, contrasting this perspective with the strict dietary codes of Mormonism as mentioned in the Word of Wisdom. According to Romans 14, believers are encouraged to live and let live, as their dietary choices are personal convictions before God, promoting righteousness, peace, and mutual edification rather than imposing legalistic practices.

Faith cannot be reduced to mere adherence to rules or a sense of personal worthiness based on actions like what you eat or drink; true righteousness and worthiness are found only through Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once and for all. While maintaining good habits is beneficial, it should not lead to feelings of superiority over others, as spiritual worth is not measured by physical well-being but by a heart aligned with God.