Comparisons of Faith
Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior
A Comparison of Doctrine-Faith and Fruits
Two examples come to mind if we are comparing mainstream Christians and my church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church):.
1. I think of music. Let’s say you love classical music and that is only what you like to hear. I have different tastes and I like many types of music. You may be perfectly happy with your music. I just find more to enjoy.
2. Think of pizza. You may love pepperoni pizza only. And you are happy with it. I like to experience more with my pizza.
So, if your music/pizza (mainstream/traditional) Christianity works for you, enjoy it. I hope that you are blessed for your beliefs and efforts. I choose to enjoy my music/pizza that is according to my tastes.
Simply,if we’re looking at the basics, I believe in God, Jesus Christ and the Bible just as other Christians do. I cannot prove to you what I believe by logicWe may disagree with what it means to be a Christian.. But Jesus taught us not to judge or to be hateful. The gospel of Jesus Christ is about love, not hatred. If you are a Christian, you should forgive me for believing differently than you. But most importantly, you should appreciate that I am a believer in Jesus Christ and in the Bible.
The gospel of Jesus Christ is simple. In my opinion, Paul taught another gospel compared to that of Jesus Christ. However, one must keep in mind that his writings were sent to strengthen the Christians in different countries, so much of his words can be taken out of context. To me, his words are often cryptic. I would love to talk to him in the next life to get his thoughts on so many thinking grace only is the way. James 2 teaches faith without works is dead. Revelation 20 teaches that we will be judged by our works. We do not earn our way to Heaven. But if we believe, we must follow Jesus Christ in our thoughts and actions, not just our words.
Living as I do is a way of life. What you choose to do is up to you. Agency is at the core of our experience of life. The one thing that God would never take from us is our agency. We must choose to follow Him. All must find truth for themselves.
Once you understand the principles of the Gospel, it all comes together and makes perfect sense. I would have it no other way. Jesus Christ organized His church and man changed it. All religions have some truth, but not all of it. I believe the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is His restored gospel, with all the truth.
I just don't like it when I feel like my faith is being criticized. On the other hand, if you had sincere questions about things that you didn't understand (versus statements of opinion where you have consulted critics instead of going to sources from our faith), I would be happy to answer questions.
Consider the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). I know because of peace and happiness. That is something that the devil cannot give to me. Satan is the author of confusion and many are confused about what is true. They listen to things that they hear online and do not find out for themselves. I know because the gospel makes sense to me. There is much more to be said for fruits: Matthew 7:16-23. Matthew 12:35, Luke 6:43, John 3:20, John 7:17, John 12:35-36. Acts 5:38-39. 1 Cor. 1:27. I choose to follow Christ out of love, not fear.
Yes, there are wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15), so we shall know them by their fruits (Matt. 7:16). I know we had this discussion previously, but you have not explained what fruits are. Verse 21…he that DOETH the will of my Father which is in Heaven.
Consider faith: Hebrews 11:1-Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:6- But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Moroni 10:6 And whatsoever thing is good is just and true; wherefore, nothing that is good denieth the Christ, but acknowledgeth that he is.
A true Christian does more than talk and preach about it. That is why Jesus talked so much about hypocrisy with the Pharisees, Sadducees and Scribes. They were blind to the good that He was trying to share with them. Find the principles taught by the scriptures and live by them. My people listen by taking a positive approach versus attacking beliefs and actions in others that you do not like.
One of our core beliefs: Articles of Faith 11: We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.
Have you read the Book of Mormon, attended one of our services or met with our missionaries? If you were to read the Book of Mormon, you would know that it is another testimony of Jesus Christ. It clarifies teachings that many Christian denominations disagree on. We believe that there was an Apostasy (falling away), so the Church was no longer on the earth after the apostles were killed and it needed to be restored. We believe that the teachings of Christ were distorted over time (such as with the Nicaean Creed in 325 AD).
In conclusion...Mark 9:40- For he that is not against us is on our part- I am not against mainstream Christians. I was just hoping to help all of you understand where I am coming from. I am willing to stake eternity on what I believe.
