Explanation

Seeing that it is Sunday I thought we should post something a little more "Sundayish." Jordan wrote this little explanation about what the Book of Mormon is, what its purpose is, and how we as LDS people use it.

The Book of Mormon is a book of scripture that testifies of Jesus. It is similar to the Bible, and supports the Bible's teachings about God, Jesus Christ, their mercy, love, and teachings. The Book of Mormon does not seek to replace the Bible. In fact, the LDS Church uses the Book of Mormon in conjunction with the Bible. The Book of Mormon also tells of a people who lived in the ancient Americas, and of Christ's visit to them after his resurrection. We believe that Jesus Christ is Lord and God of all people on the Earth, and that He visited others besides those living in Jerusalem and that area of the world. The Book of Mormon gives us testimony and teachings about Jesus Christ. I love the Book of Mormon. It has helped me be a better person and a better disciple of Christ.

I would also like to say that I believe the Book of Mormon is scripture. Many people find this strange, and all I can say is - I know. Before I read the Book of Mormon for the first time I believed it was a false set of scripture written by Joseph Smith in order to deceive people. After spending a whole year reading it though, my opinion changed. I learned that the teachings in the Book of Mormon are teachings of Christ, that support and confirm his teachings in the Bible. But don't take my word for it. One of my biggest pet peeves is when people blindly trust others' perceptions. If you want to find out if Dickens' extensive use of imagery is just plain sentimental or if it is a genius literary skill - then go read A Tale of Two Cities. If you want to know if Jacob or Edward is hotter, then go read Twilight. If you want to find out if the Book of Mormon is scripture or not - then read it!

 Don't take anyone else's word as fact. You have the responsibility to find out for yourself. Cause I doubt at the judgement bar you can say "Well, so and so  told me it would be okay to steal from that person, or spread lies about this person." And then Christ will respond with, "Oh, that's okay. I understand, you were misinformed." He'd probably be more likely to say, "So and so isn't responsible for your ignorance, you should have read the ten commandments for yourself." (Except in a more loving way I am sure.)

So there is my mind for you. Take it or leave it.
If I have offended anyone, well then I am very sorry. It was not my intention.
Happy Sunday! And in the words of my wonderful mother, "If you remember anything at all, remember this - Jesus loves you."