“The Mormon Trump Card” – two links
The Mormon Trump Card – by Ryan Decker
Viewpoint: The Mormon Trump Card
I think these two articles/posts deserve some attention and consideration. While I think scriptures and the words of LDS general authorities have authority and significance in any discussion, they should be used properly and in a balanced way. There is sometimes an instinctual desire to find a quick, final, authoritative answer to a nettlesome question and the scriptures and the words of modern-day prophets and apostles sometimes provide a convenient way to accomplish that. However (without taking away the significance of the scriptures and modern-day revelation, in any way) we need to be wise and thorough in our evaluation of our sources, our quotes, our scriptures – and these sources may often provide more nuanced and balanced arguments that we initially realize or appreciate. They may even offer contradictory points of view that have to be sifted, evaluated and assessed before they are truly understood. If this kind of thought, prayer and analysis doesn’t happen and we aren’t thoughtful about how we approach and use them, then they aren’t actually being used properly or correctly.
(hat tip to “By Common Consent:” for linking to one of these articles, which led me to the other one)
Hmmm.
My first thought is…I’ve never been shut down in such a way. I must keep more intelligent company than other folks.
second-I wonder if I’ve ever done it. If I have, it’s probably because… its what I believe! So my faith may be based on shallow research, that is the definition of faith. My disgruntled opponent needs to walk away and understand that I’m still learning, I’ll get there someday. Settle down you know.
my third thought comes from an idea that came to me in a Gospel Doctrine Class last year…”If we agree with the prophets, we say its inspired. If we disagree, we say it’s opinion.”
If someone wants to end their search for understanding at what the prophets have said, so be it. I know that there are sometimes that I just need a rest from certain topics. I need a time of peace. I find a crutch and lean on it until I can wrap my mind around a new idea. We’ll all get there, (well those who want to will) some just a little faster than others, and that is okay.
Gwenevere