Controversies About the Book of Mormons
The Book of Mormons is an ancient religious text containing teachings which differ significantly from mainstream Christianity. There have been various questions raised regarding its historicity.
The Book of Mormon chronicles Lehi and his family as they migrate from Jerusalem to America around 600 BC, mirroring both its narrative style and certain contents with those found in the Bible.
It is a sacred record
Since 1830, when it was published, the Book of Mormon has provided spiritual guidance to millions. Its teachings and doctrines have strengthened, guided, and uplifted their lives; furthermore it is responsible for many miracles such as Joseph Smith’s vision of Christ and resurrection.
The Book of Mormon tells the tale of Lehi, an ancient prophet in Jerusalem who followed God’s instructions to migrate his family from their native lands to New World. Lehi’s descendants, the Nephites, are depicted as righteous and civilized while Lamanites (their enemies) are shown as barbarians and ungodly barbarians.
Scholars have discovered that the Book of Mormon was written in an ancient language with features similar to Hebrew poetry and rhetoric as well as Mesoamerican symbols and traditions. Additionally, biblical references abound; including chapter and verse systems similar to those found in scripture – suggesting that people living in New World cultures were highly educated peoples.
It is a second witness of Jesus Christ
The Book of Mormon stands as another witness to Jesus Christ and confirms His divinity and subsequent visitation after death – this conforms to Jewish tenet that truth must be established through multiple witnesses.
This book is an eclectic mixture of stories and sermons detailing the experiences of several early Christian groups as they fled Holy Lands for North America, recounting both their interaction with God as well as their eventual destruction through internecine warfare.
One of the Book of Mormon’s most remarkable characteristics is its strong emphasis on Jesus Christ as the center of prophet-led people’s faith, with Nephi making reference to Christ over sixty times, other prophets emphasizing their testimony, and at one miraculous point receiving an appearance directly from Christ Himself!
The Book of Mormon contains Hebrew poetry, rhetorical patterns and idioms as well as Mesoamerican symbols, traditions and artifacts influenced by Isaiah of Old Testament fame. Research indicates this influence upon its writers.
It is central to missionary work
The Book of Mormon is considered sacred by Latter-day Saints, who view it as an authentic witness to Jesus Christ and His message of salvation. A companion book to the Bible, it contains many key doctrines such as God’s plan for our salvation as well as many inspiring tales such as Joseph in Egypt, Daniel’s courage in the Lion’s Den, and Abinadi’s faithfulness – just a few examples among many!
Book of Mormon is not only an important church document; it is a breathtaking literary work as well. Reading its words can be both contemplative and prayerful; its poetic style may remind readers of Psalms or Gospel of John. Indeed, so popular has this text become that the Church now publishes all three Restoration scriptures together as one volume along with King James Bible.
Though its language can be difficult to decipher, the Book of Mormon’s message is clear. Its authors intended to convince people that Jesus Christ is indeed God’s son.
It is a musical comedy
From the creators of South Park comes The Book of Mormon, an irreverent musical comedy guaranteed to make audiences and critics laugh. This Broadway smash hit has received high acclaim both critically and publically; winning an unprecedented seven Tony awards this year alone!
The play satirizes the beliefs of the Mormon Church without intended to attack it directly; rather it pokes fun at some of its more ridiculous aspects – like portraying Mormon eschatology as being simply another version of other Christian belief systems; in reality it is far more nuanced and inclusive.
This story follows two Mormon missionaries sent to Uganda who struggle with boredom, resentment, homesickness and sexual tension as well as homophobia. Jesus, Satan, Genghis Khan Darth Vader Johnnie Cochran are just a few characters featured. Tony award winner Stephen Nicholaw’s choreography is impressive with both outrageous lows and life-affirming highs being perfectly balanced within its script.