History of Mormonism: Another Testament of Jesus Christ

History of Mormonism: Another Testament of Jesus Christ

The history of Mormonism is about Jesus Christ -- His teachings, His role as Savior of the world, and His visit to the ancient Americans. Jesus Christ led people through prophets in the Americas just as He led through prophets in the eastern hemisphere, as recorded in the Holy Bible.

The Book of Mormon covers Jesus Christ's teachings through prophets from 600 B.C. to 400 A.D. These Book of Mormon people brought with them the record of the Jews, the Bible, when they left Jerusalem. They were obedient to God's teachings and commandments. Having prophets among them, their revelations were recorded, as were their histories. One of the last prophets, Mormon, abridged the records of these people which are entitled the Book of Mormon.

Although Christ's teachings are throughout the Book of Mormon records, I want to focus on the greatest event of the Book of Mormon: the appearance of the resurrected Jesus Christ to the Ancient Americans. 

At the time of Christ's crucifixion, the people in the Americas had a terrible storm. The storm was so great that the thunder shook the earth. Tornadoes and earthquakes and fires followed the storm. Most of the inhabitants were killed in the tumultuous storms. The sky became dark while the earth continued to groan. The darkness was thick like a vapor. No light from the moon or stars could be seen; no candle or fire could be lit. People all over were heard crying and howling over the loss of their families and friends. This darkness lasted three days. 

While it was still dark, the voice of the Lord, Jesus Christ came to the people telling them of the destructions throughout the lands and that He was the one who caused it. He spoke asking why the people didn't listen to His prophets and repent. He now called them to repent. There was silence in the land until Christ once again spoke to the people. He told them how he desired to gather them as a chicken gathers her chicks under her wings, but they would not. His voice left the people and they began to weep and howl over their losses again. However, the light came with the rising of a morning sun and the earth stopped groaning and stood still and solid. (Although the whole face of the earth had changed.)

After this, the people were observing the great changes all around when they heard something they couldn't decipher; it was a voice that was not harsh nor loud, but did pierce their souls and cause their hearts to burn. They heard an unknown voice again. The people looked up towards heaven from where the sound was coming. Not until the third time did the people understand the voice; it was the voice of God, the Father introducing His Son, Jesus Christ. "Behold my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, in whom I have glorified my name -- hear ye him." (3 Nephi 11:7 in the Book of Mormon)

The people saw a man dressed in white descending from heaven. He came down and stood in the midst of the people. They were astonished and thought it was an angel appearing to them. Then Christ introduced Himself saying, "Behold, I am Jesus Christ whom the prophets testified shall come into the world. I am the  light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me, and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world, in the which I have suffered the will of the father in all things from the beginning." (3 Nephi 11:10-11)

Christ invited the people to come and feel the wounds in his hands, feet and side so that they would know that He was the Christ the prophets told about. The people went one by one and touched their Savior's scars. When they were done they all shouted hosannas to the Most High God and fell to the earth to worship Christ. After that, Jesus Christ ordained Nephi with the priesthood power to baptize. 

Christ did many of the same things for these people as He did for the Jews; he blessed the children, healed the sick, lame and blind. He ordained apostles and set up laws and ordinances for His Church to be upon the American continents.

I love reading the accounts of Jesus Christ in America and like to imagine what it was like for those people to be taught directly by Him. If you want to read the account for yourself, you can order your own copy of the Book of Mormon here.

An Introduction to the Book of Mormon (video)

A Book of Scripture with a Promise! (video)

CHAT LIVE with a Mormon Missionary about Christ's Appearance to the Ancient Americans!

What is the Book of Mormon? click here

Q&As about the History of Mormonism: click here

Numerous references to search about Jesus Christ... click here

Mormonism: the Childhood of Christ

Mormonism: the Childhood of Christ

Mormonism encompasses more about Jesus Christ than any other source. Mormonism uses the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, and other latter-day scripture given through a line of modern-day prophets. 

Mormonism speaks of Christ, writes of Christ, thus testifying of Christ and rejoicing in Christ more than any other religion. Because of the additional references of Jesus Christ and His teachings recorded in addition to the Bible, we Mormons have more to study and focus on. It's the same with any area of study, the more resources one has, the more in-depth in learning and wisdom a person can become. With the multiple original sources of Jesus' teachings and commandments, many people are studying them, praying about them, and talking and writing about them... giving us even more resources to learn about Jesus Christ. 

Still, the mortal life of Christ is only available to us in the New Testament -- the lands and time He lived upon the earth. At Christmas time Christians focus on Christ's humble birth in an animal stable. I imagine that it was filled with various animal manure, insects, maybe even mice. It probably stank. I wonder if care was taken to clean it up as much as possible -- we don't have those details. Was it open or closed-in somehow? Was it within the town with buildings all around it (not private), or was it outside of Bethlehem? Those of us who believe in Christ want to know as much as we possibly can -- we want to do all we can to know of Him and know Him.

Jesus Christ the baby and child most likely grew and developed as any other child of his time. He probably learned to help both his mother and father with their daily tasks. Despite these earthly basics, we must also recognize that Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God, the Father!

In Luke 2:40 it is recorded that "...the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him." In addition to loving parents of Mary and Joseph, we can be certain that Jesus' Heavenly Father was also blessing Him. Wouldn't it be great if all of us, and our children, could be so characterized?!

Every year Jesus' family went to Jerusalem for the feast of the passover. When Jesus was 12 years old the trip ended differently... Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem without telling his earthly parents. They didn't discover Jesus' absence until evening and returned back to Jerusalem to look for him. Joseph and Mary searched three days for Jesus before finding him in the temple. The account in Luke tells us he was sitting among doctors asking questions, listening, and answering questions. Mary asked Jesus why he dealt with them the way he did and that they were searching with much sorrow for him. We are familiar with Jesus' response: "How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?" (Luke 2:49) So, Jesus had to make choices as a youth and apparently obeyed His Heavenly Father's will before His earthly parents when needed.

From this point, Jesus went with his parents to Nazareth and submitted unto them (I assume as his parents). "And, Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man." (Luke 2:52) I think this means that Jesus was polite, respectful, helpful, and even personable.

The next New Testament account of Jesus is of His baptism by his cousin, John the Baptist. Jesus' age is not specified, although artists interpret Jesus as an adult when He was baptized. I wonder if the reasons behind Jesus' age when He was baptized was originally part of the holy record.

A video emulating how Jesus Christ changes people's lives!

CHAT with a Mormon Missionary about Jesus Christ! They will answer your questions.

Learn More about Mormonism and Jesus Christ's Life:

www.mormontopics.org

(questions and answers about Mormonism by Mormons)

www.lds.org

(read numerous articles about Jesus Christ and watch Bible videos)

 

www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

(Christ appeared to the people of ancient America after he was resurrected)

Mormonism: Darkness and Light

Mormonism: Darkness and Light

The Book of Mormon contains many examples of darkness versus light. Of course, most of those examples represent spiritual darkness or spiritual light -- people choosing wickedness or righteousness. It's the same battle and choices people have within Mormonism and without Mormonism in today's world.

My favorite Book of Mormon story about darkness in contrast to light is when Jesus Christ was crucified in the East. The Book of Mormon records what happened on the ancient American continents during the time Christ was being crucified in the eastern hemisphere. A great storm came to the people with great whirlwinds (probably eventually tornadoes), then shaking of the earth to the point of breaking up the land. Cities fell into the ocean, were sunk into the cracking earth, or buried with earth or waters. Some cities caught fire and were destroyed in that way. Almost all cities were destroyed; the cities that survived were severely damaged. This destruction lasted for three hours, followed by a great darkness.

The Book of Mormon states that there was a vapor of darkness. It was so dark that no candle or fire could be lit; the stars and moon could not be seen. People were heard all over the lands howling and mourning the destruction of their families and lives. This darkness lasted three days in which no work or activity could be done. 

Near the end of the three days of darkness, the voice of the Lord, Jesus Christ was heard. He declared the reason for all the destruction -- the refusal of the people to repent. He told the people how He caused each great city to be destroyed -- the most wicked places being burned with fire --there is another example of darkness (sin) being overcome by light (fire).

Then Christ tells the people who are alive that they are the more righteous people, yet still asks them to return unto Him and repent of their sins... to be converted, so that Christ can heal them and so they can have eternal life.

It is at this point that Jesus Christ identifies Himself (Jesus Christ, the Son of God), who created all things. He states that He is the light and life of the world and repeats His message of the people coming unto Him in repentance and humility. When Christ finished speaking, there was silence for many hours, though still in complete darkness. Christ's voice comes to the people again, telling them He has often asked them to come to Him, as a hen gathers her chicks, but they refused. Then, the people started howling because of the death of their family and friends.

Shortly after this, the morning dawned (after three days) and the earth and rocks of the earth stopped trembling and breaking apart; all the tumultuous noises ended. The people stopped mourning and felt joy; they were thankful to Jesus Christ for being saved. 

I try to imagine living for any period of time with no light at all -- complete darkness; I've experienced this more spiritually than literally. No matter how dark (literally and figuratively) life has gotten, I am grateful to have access to sources of light... candles, electric lights and the scriptures!

Patterns of Light: the Light of Christ

Patterns of Light: Discerning Light

CHAT LIVE with a Mormon Missionary about Mormonism and Light

I'm grateful for the Light of Jesus Christ in my life; I partake of this light every time I read my Book of Mormon and Holy Bible... it gives me the assurance I need in my day-to-day life as well as in challenges.

Questions and Answers about Mormonism: www.mormontopics.org

Free Book of Mormon: www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

Meet Mormons: www.mormon.org

Endless References about Christ and Light: www.lds.org

Mormonism: Tests and Trials

Mormonism: Tests and Trials

Mormonism and trials??? Duh! Any devoted Church member can attest to trials and tests of many kinds. The harder we work to do what's right, the more adversary comes into our lives! 

Because Mormons believe in upholding the laws and ordinances in the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, and modern-day prophets we are consistently striving to improve our understanding and obedience-- as well as consistently falling short due to human nature and ability.

For most of my Mormonism life, I believed that if I was obedient enough (good enough) that I would not have to suffer great trials... boy, was I wrong! I'm not perfect, but I certainly have suffered great losses and pains despite my efforts to do the right thing as much as is humanly possible. To be honest, I became quite angry with God about this for a while; yet now, I'm gaining some understanding of the reason behind trials that we didn't bring onto ourselves by our own wrong-doings or mistakes.

Reading a particular phrase about Jesus Christ's suffering jumped out at me: 3 Nephi 11:11 "And behold, I am the light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me, and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world, in the which I have suffered the will of the Father in all things from the beginning." (Book of Mormon)

"...which the Father hath given me..." ...that small phrase helped me see that God, the Father gives us trials! Heavenly Father gave Jesus Christ trials! As perfect as Christ was during His mortal life, He still suffered "all things" that God gave for Him to suffer. What an incredible example! This has undoubtedly been part of my Mormonism teachings, yet I needed to "see" it on my own, in my own time. I see that I need to humbly submit to the trying things in this life as Jesus Christ did. Some of them are from the adversary, but some trials are from God. 

I'm not sure why we have to under-go difficult tests; supposedly it's to help us humans grow spiritually. I've read the book-answers, but I still don't fully understand it. I suppose I will understand better in time and perseverance.

CHAT with Mormon Missionaries about Adversity!

 Of course our trials give us each the opportunity to turn to our Savior, Jesus Christ for guidance, comfort, and healing... is that the main reason behind God's giving us trials? To know Jesus Christ must be the greatest gift we can receive now and in the eternities!

Rescued by Jesus Christ

Come what may and Love It

by trusting Jesus Christ

Learn More about Jesus Christ and Adversity:

Q&A about Mormonism

http://www.mormontopics.org

Mormonism Beliefs and People

http://www.mormon.org

Plethora of Mormonism References

http://www.lds.org

Take a chance to chat live with Mormon Missionaries

http://www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Read your own copy of the Book of Mormon

http://www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

Mormonism; Standards

Mormonism: Standards

Mormonism is known for having higher, or strict, standards of living. Compared to what is common in the world today, that thought is appropriate. Mormonism teaches high moral values that strengthen character and personal integrity.

Mormonism standards include honesty, chastity, and healthy care of our bodies. 

Honesty is required in both personal and business/employment areas of life. Manipulation and "white lies" are not honest. 

Chastity means individual purity before and within legal marriage vows. Tainting one's mind and spirit with base thoughts and images negatively affects one's ability to be receptive to things of the spirit and fully love ourselves and our families.

Mormonism is also known for adhering to laws of health; no smoking, drinking of alcohol, coffee or caffeinated teas, narcotics, or mis-use of prescription drugs. Mormons are also supposed to be conscious healthy eaters, however, that is one of my personal weaknesses to overcome. 

These various standards are taught to Mormons from childhood on through their lives. Moderation in all things; yet abstinence in obedience to God's laws/commandments.

CHAT with a MORMON MISSIONARY

 about Mormon Standards and Beliefs

Yes, these standards seem to be high and unrealistic to many people, yet they are not unrealistic and bring peace and joy within oneself as they live these standards. 

Standards of the law of Moses were more strict and had severe punishments; people were either maimed or killed for many sins. Today, most people would be lined up for punishment of death for fornication and adultery if the law of Moses were enforced. Many would not have hands or eyes, etc. as a result of stealing, lying, or looking at impure images. Or, would people avoid these sins because of the strict punishment?

It is better to obey God's commandments on our own accord without coercion; yet obedience for any reason is better than disobedience and blatant disregard. God's laws have not changed, only the enforcement of God's laws are gone. Mormonism believes in adhering to God's commandments throughout our lives.

Here young adults of different faiths share their beliefs about being sexually pure.

It takes courage to be honest.

LEARN MORE about MORMONISM Beliefs:

Qs&As   http://www.mormontopics.org

Beliefs   http://www.mormon.org

CHAT    hpp://www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Free Book of Mormon http://www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

Official Church web site   http://www.lds.org

Mormonism: Book of Mormon History

Mormonism: Book of Mormon History

Is it just the Book of Mormon people, or are all people stubborn, hard-hearted, and stiff-necked? The history in the Book of Mormon is very realistic to human nature; I think that is why I continue to learn so much from reading it.

The Book of Mormon starts with Lehi, a prophet who lived in Jerusalem before 600 B.C. Due to the wickedness of the people in Jerusalem at this time, Lehi's life was in danger andhe was told by God to take his family and leave Jerusalem. God would lead them to a land of promise. Well, a prophet's life isn't easy; Lehi's life was threatened, he had to leave his home and property, and worse than all that, his two oldest sons were rebellious against things of God.


These two oldest sons, Laman and Lemuel, caused problems all along the way for the family members who loved God -- especially their younger brother, Nephi. Nephi was especially obedient and faithful and as a result, received the most persecution from his older brothers. I can't help but wonder if God specifically commanded Lehi to take Laman and Lemuel with him, or if Lehi automatically took them because they were part of his family who he loved. I think Lehi should've let Laman and Lemuel stay in Jerusalem.

Would the rest of Lehi's poseterity live in peace and righteousness through the generations without the Lamanite persecutions? I used to think so, but from the pattern in the Book of Mormon people, eventually, a righteous people will start becoming "spoiled" and then rebellious. This happens over and over again through the thousand-year history the Book of Mormon contains. In fact, near the end of the history, the description of the once-righteous people's wickedness and their state of mind and heart brings such disappointment that I actually feel grateful for my trials that keep me from being in such a hard-hearted state of being myself! Even just writing this surprises me, but that feeling reading about how badly the righteous people fell into wicked ways truly makes me welcome any experience to keep from that state.

Mormonism: Learn a little more about what the Book of Mormon is!

Mormonism: Youth share their views of the Book of Mormon.

Mormonism: Learn MORE about the Book of Mormon history:

Q&A   www.mormontopics.org

Mormons speak out  www.mormon.org

Read the Book of Mormon online http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm?lang=eng

Read about the Book of Mormon http://mormon.org/book-of-mormon

CHAT about Mormonism and the history of the Book of Mormon www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Mormonism: Book of Mormon Stories

Mormonism: Book of Mormon Stories

Mormon

Mormon was the prophet-historian who abridged the historical plates of the Nephite and Lamanite nations into what Joseph Smith translated into English as the Book of Mormon. When Mormon was a child of ten years old, he was chosen to be a successive historian and keeper of the plates of Nephi; he was shown where they were deposited for safe-keeping till he was of older age. 

At age 15, Mormon was chosen to captain all of the Nephite armies. Mormon led the Nephites in many battles until his death. Often Mormon preached repentance to the Nephites, but there was a period of time that Mormon refused to lead the Nephites in battle against the Lamanites because the Nephite people's hearts were so hardened that God would not support them in battle. After many losses, Moroni could see the destruction of the Nephite people so he once again captained their armies in battle against the Lamanites. Hundreds of thousands were slain. Some Nephites dissented to the Lamanites; some fled into the southern lands, but were eventually hunted down and killed by the Lamanites. Only 24 Nephites remained with Mormon... Mormon was killed afterwards, but his son, Moroni, remained long enough to write more on the sacred records.

Moroni wrote on the plates to the Lamanite descendants in the latter days. He writes that the records will come to them through the Gentiles, and people who believe the Bible will also believe the records Mormon was keeping (the Book of Mormon). Moroni abridges the plates of Ether and the Jaredite nation who were also led previously to the ancient American continents. Moroni lives long enough to see remaining Nephites who will not deny the Christ be put to death. In the meantime, he writes more teachings of Christ and writes beautiful promises of faith and trust in Christ and a promise that if any person reads the records (The Book of Mormon) with real intent and a sincere heart, then asks if it is true, the Spirit of the Holy Ghost will witness to that person and they will know of its truthfulness. 

I have done this; I have read the Book of Mormon many times and still read it daily to gain spiritual knowledge and understanding of God's will in my life. I have prayed and I have felt the spirit -- I now actually feel the spirit almost every time I read the Book of Mormon. I know it is from God and that it contains God's words through His ancient prophets. 

The history of the people is real and beautiful, although some periods of time are very sad and heart-wrenching. I know it's true, and it's fantastic that I'm able to read such details of a people so long ago.... like the Bible.

This short video explains Moroni's promise further!

Latter-day prophet tells us truths about the Book of Mormon!

More about Mormonism and the Book of Mormon:

www.mormontopics.org (Q&A)
www.mormon.org/book-of-mormon (about the Book of Mormon)
www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon (FREE Book of Mormon to read)
www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm (CHAT live about Mormonism)
www.lds.org (search references to the Book of Mormon prophets)

Mormonism: How I Feel About Temples

Mormonism: How I Feel About Temples

Mormonism and temples -- Mormon temples. I've never been to another religion's or culture's temple. I've been to other religion's buildings of worship, though. Although the architecture and adornments may be made with great care and detail, I don't feel or sense the light and spirit I feel in Mormon chapels or temples. 

Mormonism encompasses both service and worship in their temples. I can go to any Mormon or LDS temple and give service to God and my fellow beings; or I can go and read the scriptures, meditate, pray and listen for guidance from God in my life. 

The scriptures contain a lot of symbolism; Jesus Christ spoke in parables; and temples have symbolism within. Symbolism allows people to learn what they are prepared to learn. I can learn or feel the spirit of God at the spiritual level I'm at in my own life, while another person can do the same at their spiritual levels. 

I love the temples; I love the strong, yet peaceful feeling within their walls. I acknowledge that I don't understand the scriptures or temple teachings completely, but I cannot deny the Spirit of God I sense every time I go to one of the Mormon temples.

Watch this video of a family's sacrifice to go to the House of the Lord (a Mormon temple) in order to be sealed together for eternity!

I am grateful for temples. Often the temple is the only place I can feel peace amid all the turmoil of life's trials. That feeling of peace is unique to the House of the Lord which every Mormon temple is.It is a privilege to be able to enter in such a sacred place. Sometimes I have to work hard at having my life in good order to enter into the temples; sometimes it's easy to obey God's commandments... either way, the sacrifice of obedience and faith is worth the blessings of God's temples.

Read and learn more about Mormonism and Temples:

Q&A http://www.mormontopics.org

Lots about Mormons and Mormonism http://www.mormon.org

Search any topic about Mormonism and temples www.lds.org

CHAT live with a Mormon about your questions www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Free Book of Mormon www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

History of Mormonism - Sabbath Day

History of Mormonism - Sabbath Day

History of Mormonism and the Sabbath Day... When I think of who besides Mormons keeps the Sabbath day holy, I'm thinking that Jewish people and other non-Christians keep the Sabbath day holy more than other Christians in today's society. Today, Sunday seems more like the preferred day for recreation; Saturday being a get things done and work day.

Sunday is a day of rest, but not recreation! If Sunday is supposed to be kept holy, then we need to ponder what "holy" is. I think that doing what Jesus Christ would do on the Sabbath is a good example for us to follow -- the perfect example!
Christ would probably serve others, spend extra time praying to our Heavenly Father, eat simply, and do these things with serenity. Christ's example is part of the history of Mormonism.
We can do those things, but could also add study of God's word in the scriptures and church services seems appropriate. Keeping the Sabbath day holy is one of the Ten Commandments of God... I think people have forgotten that. The wording of this commandment makes it seem like Sunday is day of holy work, not only a day of rest and lazing around.

Discover joy in serving the Lord and overcoming discouragement with Mormonism.

I'm grateful for the Sabbath day commandment, otherwise I would not make time for the Lord and spiritual things for an entire day each week. The Sabbath day does bring me peace and a needed spiritual rest, although I may be busy doing service.

Read more about history of Mormonism and the Sabbath Day:

www.mormontopics.org
www.mormon.org
www.lds.org

CHAT live about Mormonism: www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm
Free Book of Mormon: www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

Mormonism - Tithing

Mormonism: Tithing

Mormonism and tithing are a unique pair. While other people and religions give and receive donated monies, I only know of Mormonism that pays and collects tithing. Many people don't know what tithing is... so I will explain it.

Tithing is giving one-tenth of one's income, or increase, back to the Lord. I say, "back to the Lord" because the scriptures teach us that God gives us everything, so anything we give is simply giving back to God what we already received as a gift/blessing.




Malachi, and Old Testament prophet wrote the most blunt expectation of God regarding tithing in Malachi 3:8-11 "Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.

Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts.'

This verse gets my attention when it tells me that I'm robbing God if I don't pay my tithing! I chose to pay my tithing since I was a child. I still remember the little jewelry box I used to put my tithing in until I gave it to the Mormon church ward I attended. I can't remember paying tithing while in college, but hopefully I did. There were a few years I didn't pay my tithing when I was very discouraged spiritually. Thankfully, Christ provides repentance to each of us. Because of it's simplicity, tithing is able to figure out easily and know I'm either obeying that commandment or not. 

I like the last verses that tell us if we pay our tithing, we will be blessed ...again. God is very generous to give us all we have, and then bless us more as we pay tithing... which is really sharing our blessings with others. I have never run out of finances to take care of my needs; I feel that is a blessing from God whether it's a result of paying tithing or not.

Miracle of the Holy Bible video; many treasures to know.

Read about Mormonism and Tithing: www.mormontopics.org

Read about Mormonism: www.mormon.org

Search numerous references about tithing: www.lds.org

CHAT live with a Mormon: www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Read the Book of Mormon: www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

History of Mormonism - Families

History of Mormonism - Families

History within Mormonism has always emphasized the family unit. This family culture is a continuation from Adam and Eve who were commanded to multiply and replenish the earth (with children). Today, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints promotes the family unit with The Family: A Proclamation to the World.

This proclamation will become a permanent part of Mormon history -- these truths and standards will never change. The proclamation firmly states that marriage between a man and woman is an ordination of God and that the family unit is central to people's eternal destiny. 

This proclamation tells us that all people are spirit sons and daughters of Heavenly Father and are created in God's image and loved by heavenly parents. So, that means we have a Heavenly Mother, too! If we are children of a Heavenly Father and Mother, created in their image, and They love us, then we can become like them as we mature and spiritually progress. Who we are in this life is a continuation from who we were in the pre-existent life, and who we will continue to be in the next life -- male or female.

By coming to earth, we receive a body which is a step towards an immortal body, and like the immortal perfected bodies of our Heavenly Parents and eldest brother, Jesus Christ. We need immortal bodies in order to be in God's presence.

Just like Adam and Eve, marriage and sexual intimacy is only between a man and woman who are legally married. Married couples are still encouraged to multiply and replenish the earth. Mormons are usually the only families who have more than three children in various societies today. 

In this proclamation and in the history of Mormonism, fathers and mothers are responsible to love and care for each other as well as their children. Parents are to provide for both physical and spiritual needs or their children and teach their children to love and serve others. Mormonism teaches parents to teach children to be obedient to God's commandment and the laws in society.

Responsibilities of mothers and fathers are specified in this document and teaching and living gospel principles of Jesus Christ are also emphasized to be followed in family units.

 Christ's example and teachings can show us how to have the love for our spouses, children, families and friends that the history of Mormonism exemplifies.

Learn More about the History of Mormonism and the Emphasis of Family

Q&Ahttp://www.mormontopics.org
Search Mormonism http://www.mormon.org
Search Family http://www.lds.org
Chat live with a Mormon http://mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm
Free book of scripture http://mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

History of Mormonism-Joseph Smith

History of Mormonism - Joseph Smith

The history of Mormonism as far as most people consider starts with Joseph Smith. Joseph Smith was just like any young boy growing up in the 1800s. He was the third-oldest son in a family of eleven and suffered through a severe bone infection and surgery at a young age. Joseph's family regularly studied the Bible in their home, yet they attended different religious sects. Joseph was confused about the different religious sects being so contradictory while claiming to know the truth about the Holy Bible.

Joseph Smith studied the Bible on his own to know which church he should join. When he read James 1:5 "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God who giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." he felt a strong impression to ask God himself which church he should join. Joseph went to a grove of trees near his home where he could be alone in prayer. Joseph's prayer was interrupted by a bright light from heaven and two personages descending down in that beam of light. One of them pointed to the other, introducing Jesus Christ, as His Son (God, the Father's Son). Joseph was told not to join any of the churches because none were established by Christ. There could have been other instructions and revelations, yet from this one vision, Joseph Smith learned that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are two separate personages and that a church must be headed by Jesus Christ himself.

Joseph received subsequent visits by an ancient prophet, Moroni.  Moroni is the son of Mormon, the prophet-historian who condensed a thousand years of records of the ancient Americans. The records were written on plates of brass and gold. Moroni was the final keeper of these holy records and buried them in a stone box in the ground to preserve them from being destroyed. Moroni came to Joseph Smith once a year for four years to instruct Joseph about the plates and how to be responsible for the plates. Through time, Joseph Smith translated the ancient records into English as the Book of Mormon. The nicknames for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints come from this unique book of scripture.
Members of this Church (Mormons) are the only people who believe this book of scripture to be from God. When others read and come to know the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon through the Holy Ghost, they leave whatever affiliation they had and join themselves to this church of Jesus Christ.

More about the History of Mormonism:
www.mormontopics.org
www.mormon.org
www.lds.org
Get your own copy of the Book of Mormon:
http://www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon
Chat live with a Mormon: 
www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Mormonism and Jesus Christ

Mormonism and Jesus Christ

I wrote a blog about Jesus Christ on another site (http://www.squidoo.com/jesus-christ9) and I looked at it today and saw that no one has commented on it. I asked for people to share what they know about Jesus Christ. Either people don't have anything to share, or no one is reading that blog. Is my writing lacking? Or people aren't interested in Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and Savior. Either way, I'm wondering what would be best for me to do now as I want to write again about my Savior.



I think I will write about what Mormonism believes about Jesus Christ... a little of it anyway... there is too much knowledge and belief in Mormonism about Jesus Christ to put it all in here.

• Mormonism knows that Christ has a resurrected body of flesh and bones and is the literal, begotten Son of Heavenly Father. 
• Mormonism knows that Christ was born by Mary, grew under Mary and Joseph's care, then ministered at age 30 till His crucifixion as Lord of this world.
• Mormonism knows that Jesus Christ is the perfect example for all mankind on how to lives our lives and make choices that will lead us back to our Heavenly Father.
• Mormonism knows that Christ perfectly follows eternal laws and is obedient to Heavenly Father's will.
• Mormonism knows that Christ is the ONLY way back to God, the Father; only through Christ's Atonement can any person be redeemed from sin and physical death.
• Mormonism knows that Jesus Christ leads The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints through His chosen prophets and apostles today.
• Mormonism knows it is out of perfect love for all of us that Jesus Christ lived on earth to be our example, suffered in Gethsemane to atone for the world's sins, and was crucified.

I have a knowledge that Christ is my Savior; I know that I'm dependent upon Christ's mercy and love in order to have any hope of forgiveness and redemption in order to return to Heavenly Father's presence.





Learn LOTS more about Jesus Christ at the following links: http://www.jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod/eng/
Learn Lots more about Mormonism and Jesus Christ here:
http://www.mormontopics.org
http://www.mormon.org
Learn about Jesus Christ visiting the ancient Americans:
http://www.mormon.org/book-of-mormon
Chat live with a Mormon: http://www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

History of Mormonism: Service

History of Mormonism and Service

History within Mormonism covers so many situations and since 1830. Service is most common within every family unit where the service every father, mother, and child would give for their daily sustenance. Older, historical days required more service by the common Mormon person than what happens in today's society. In earlier days, the common person maintained their own homes, means of transportation, food production, health needs and more. Today, people have access to specialists for every human need: mechanics, doctors and nurses, contractors, grocers, etc.

Although there are many life conveniences today, God's commandment and expectation of His children is the same -- to serve one another. So, today, giving service takes more conscious effort than the once typical Mormon lifestyle. People still get sick, have accidents, need help getting their vehicles to mechanics, but helping our neighbors and friends can be challenging. Visiting people as friends just to show we care is a valuable service in such an automatically fixable society. Helping our neighbors may not take as much time as was once needed, but if we are looking, we can find ways to help others in need.

This video exemplifies how much service is needed and can be given in society today.

Mormonism and service in the media.

Read More about Mormon History at: www.mormon.org, www.lds.org

Read Q&As about Mormonism at: www.mormontopics.org

Read the Book of Mormon for yourself: www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

CHAT live with a Mormon missionary: www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Mormonism: Covenants

Mormonism and Covenants

Mormonism is a life full of covenants. Simply put, covenants are promises made to God... promises to keep God's commandments.

Matthew teaches us in the New Testament that the first and greatest commandment is to love God, and the way to love God is by keeping His commandments.

"36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment."
(Matthew 22:36-38)

This life of covenants starts with baptism; with baptism, we covenant to keep God's commandments. From there, Mormons renew this covenant each week with the taking of the Sacrament. (Jesus Christ implemented the Sacrament for His followers near the end of His mortal life.)

Mormonism and keeping God's commandments requires faith -- the first principle of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We first need to choose to exercise faith in Christ (believing that He is who He tells us He is -- our Savior) in order to have the desire to keep God's commandments.
Once I chose faith in Christ and desired to keep His commandments, then I made covenants through the choice of baptism to evidence to God that I would do all I humanly can to be obedient to His commandments.
I trust, or have faith, that maintaining my covenants to God to keep His commandments will bring me happiness in this life and the life to come despite the many trials in this world.

God always made covenants with His children on earth starting with Adam and Eve. Sometimes it's easy; sometimes it's difficult, yet to me, Mormonism is keeping covenants with God.

 




Obedience to parental guidance exemplifies the importance of obedience to our Heavenly Father.

Read More About Mormonism:

http://www.mormontopics.org
http://www.mormon.org
http://www.lds.org

Chat with a Mormon about your questions:

http://www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Order your own copy of The Book of Mormon:

http://www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

Mormonism and Money

Mormonism and Money

Where does the Church get its money?

Mormonism and Money... this is what I know:

Some early Church members were asked to give all of their property and/or money to the Church for the use of the Church and its members. Many members obeyed in faith and gave all their excess to the Church. Property was purchased by the Church and sale of property benefits the Church growth needs and its members.

The law of tithing (giving one-tenth of one's income/increase back to God) was implemented and practiced by Church members since its organization April 6, 1830. Today, tithing is generally used for the building of meeting houses and temples, and the supplies and utilities used by them.

The Lord, through His prophets, also asks Church members to contribute fast offerings. Fast offerings is an amount of money individually determined to be in lieu of the amount of money that would have been used for missed meals during a monthly fast. These fast offerings are pooled and used to aid people who are in need of food and other living assistance. Mormons are encouraged to be generous in their fast offerings. 

There are also other options for monetary giving in Mormonism: a person can give monetarily to a general mission fund, an education fund, temple building, helping families with the cost of going to a temple... and there's probably more. 

Mormonism is about loving God and loving our neighbors (which includes all mankind), therefore, truly converted members of the Church give all they can in time, service, and funds. The Book of Mormon teaches us that 'when we are in the service of our fellow beings, we are in the service of God.' Mosiah 2:17

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is known to have a lot of wealth. This is a good thing; Mormons want to be able to support and provide for the needs of all God's children in the various capacities that cultivate spiritual growth and well-being. All giving is done privately and is up to each individual's conscience to give according to God's commandments.

 Mormonism teaches that each individual and family should be live providently in order to be self-sufficient and able to help others as needed.

Read more answers to your questions about Mormonism and Money:

http://www.mormontopics.org

http://www.mormon.org

http://www.lds.org

Chat LIVE with a Mormon about Mormonism:

http://www.mormon.ort/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Read the Book of Mormon for yourself to learn what Mormonism is based upon:

http://www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

Mormonism: Baptism for the Dead

Mormonism: Baptism for the Dead

Mormons baptizing the dead??? What's that all about?

This could sound kind of creepy, but the dead stay in the ground, buried! The names of people who have died are collected in genealogical libraries and Mormons do baptisms in behalf of those names who have already died, dying without baptism. 

Christ commanded all people to come unto Him and be baptized. Baptism is one of the first ordinances in a person's life-path back to God. The crucial ordinance of baptism to return back to God is the reason Mormonism takes time and effort to do baptisms for the dead. 

These baptisms are not done in any body of water as can be the case for a living person; baptisms for the dead are only performed in sacred temples. Each of the temples built and dedicated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints contains a baptismal font. The fonts are always 'mounted' on the backs of 12 oxen, representing the 12 tribes of Israel. The oxen face north, south, east and west in sets of three. Worthy members as young as 14 years old can go to temples and be baptized in place of those who have died. 

The Church keeps meticulous records for each person (dead or alive) who is baptized. The Church supports the largest genealogical libraries in the world.

A little about temples in general.

More Mormons answer questions about baptism for the dead: www.mormontopics.org

Mormonism -- search baptism for the dead here: www.lds.org

Mormonism beliefs found here: www.mormon.org

Read the Book of Mormon yourself: www.mormon.org/free-book-of-mormon

CHAT live about Mormonism: www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Mormonism and Marriage

Mormonism and Marriage

Why is marriage so important to Mormons?

Mormonism emphasizes marriage because of the scriptural commandment of marriage, along with laws of chastity from the Holy Bible. A man and woman are to leave their parents and cleave unto each other.

Also, God loves all His children and wants each one to be born into the most stable environment possible -- one with love, support and encouragement. A married, united mother and father can provide this optimal environment. This life is hard and children deserve the best upbringing possible. Single parents often carry too many responsibilities in order to give a child as much love and support a married couple can give.

Another element to marriage that is specific to Mormonism is marriage in an LDS temple. Temple marriage seals a couple together for eternity -- not just for this life-time as a civil marriage only lasts. When a couple is married for time AND eternity in God's temple, a child born to that couple is automatically part of that eternal family unit. Of course, each person must faithfully continue to follow Christ's teachings in this life in order to maintain that family unit for eternity.

Marriage is the perfect relationship to practice following Christ's love.

Love between married couples.

Read about Mormonism and Marriage at:

www.mormontopics.org

www.mormon.org

www.lds.org

Chat live with a Mormon at: www.mormon.org/chat?cid=sgo-csm-cm

Read your own copy of the Book of Mormon: www.mormon/org/free-book-of-mormon