Crash Course in Mormonism

Download or read book Crash Course in Mormonism written by Volker Heide and published by . This book was released on 2019-08-25 with total page 181 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book is designed to help you better understand the teachings of Mormonism. It called a "crash course" because it covers a lot of ground. While this overview is comprehensive, all the chapters flow together to give you a good insight into LDS teaching and practices. All of us have Mormon friends, coworkers or neighbors. How do we effectively share our faith with them? The first step is to try to understand their teaching and way of thinking. You need to try to understand their world and way of life. Then, after establishing a relationship of friendship and trust, and if the right opportunity arises, we can discuss what we believe about God, Jesus, and the Bible. This book also presents an overview of the basic teachings of the Bible, especially as it relates to specific doctrines of the LDS. If you want to share your faith, you must first be well grounded in the Christian faith. Numerous passages are given to show what the Scriptures teach about God, humanity, law, gospel, the Bible and Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Please note that these Bible verses are not given so that you might bash a Mormon over the head with them. The LDS are very offended by "Bible-bashing" (as they call it). This is when a Christian starts quoting Bible passages to prove that Mormon theology is all wrong. This never works well. A Mormon will take this as a personal attack on themselves and their church. Their defenses go up and they immediately shut down. They feel like we are using the Bible to bash their faith and integrity. Many well-meaning people use this confrontational approach of trying to argue doctrine with members of the LDS church (especially those missionaries that might visit your home). However, it rarely works. In fact, it does more harm than good. The discussions of the Bible verses in this book seek to deepen your understanding of the Christian faith. You need to fully understand and appreciate the good news of the gospel. You need to have a living and vibrant relationship with the Living God. Appreciate the incredible power of God's grace and the forgiveness of sins that comes through the cross and resurrection of our Lord. Realize that God the Father loves you unconditionally. Experience for yourself that "peace which passes all understanding." Then, you can be prepared to discuss and explain theological points in a loving and winsome manner, when that opportunity arises. This is the best way to talk about God with your LDS friends. As Peter tells us, "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."