I am starting this thread based on a request from AhmadJoyia to know more about my faith.  I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, otherwise known as Mormons.  First off, we usually call ourselves LDS for Latter Day Saint.  This is because of the Misperception that we worship Mormon.  We do not, Mormon was a prophet and a he compiled one of our Scriptures from the texts of his people the Nephites.  Thus, Mormon though a term we accept, its not really a term that gets alot of respect.  Now, how I thought I would start this thread is with the Basics, the Articles of Faith.  A newspaper once asked our Prophet Joseph Smith to write down what Mormons believe in a few words.  The following is the substance of the letter sent to the newspaper.  From that I will answer any questions and respond to any thoughts. 

Articles of Faith:

1. We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.

2. We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression.

3. We believe that through the atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

4. We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.

5. We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.

6. We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.

7. We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.

8. We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.

9. We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.

10. We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.

11. We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.

12. We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.

13. We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul--We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

These are the very basic concepts.  Each one obviously has alot more too it, but its a start.

Angela not to be rude if I created now a text in Hebrew which I believe to be the word of God and I spokje it and said it came to me from a dream would it be considered a word of God according to the article:

9. We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.

Well, the Book of Mormon was neither in Hebrew nor was is reveal IN a dream.  But, I see what you are trying to ask, I think.  What is to stop everyone from becoming Prophets?  Coincidently, this was actually a problem in the early church.  We believe the mantle of Prophet and the Keys to the Church (Matt 16:19) are only held by one person at any given time.  Currently Gordon B. Hinkley is the only man who holds all the keys at the same time.  Each of the Apostles hold a key, but not all the keys.  Revelation is a key that can only be held by the Prophet who gets his authority directly from Jesus Christ.  The golden plates from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from were indeed seen by 11 other men.  Three of them having been given the privilege to handle the book and another 8 men saw the book and were able to examine it while Joseph turned the pages. (Some of these men later left the Church for various reasons, NONE of them ever recounted seeing the book.  Not even the ones who sought the Church's destruction.)  We also have an additional Scripture called the Doctrine and Covenants, this contains revelations given our prophets as recently as 1978. 

Also, there are ways one is told to look for the Truth.  Is it not true that you believe your book to be the ministrations of Angels to the Prophet Muhammed?  When Joseph was 14 years old, he prayed for an answer to which church he should join.  God answered that prayer by manifesting with his Son and directing Joseph to join none.  A detailed account by Joseph's on hand is in the Joseph Smith History ( http://scriptures.lds.org/js_h/1 - http://scriptures.lds.org/js_h/1 ) as to how he came by the plates, etc.  Also, we are taught to pray and allow the Holy Spirit into hearts so that we may know the truth of the matter.

James 1:5    5  noscript - 4  noscript -
<>document.write(drawVerse(5,140211)); 5  noscript -
<>document.write(drawVerse(6,140212)); 6 And whatsoever thing is good is just and true; wherefore, nothing that is good denieth the Christ, but acknowledgeth that he is.

Dear Sis Angela, thanks for your insight of presenting this religion, unknown to many of us. Definitely there would be alot to learn and know of this from asking different questions. Some of these may seem or appear to be harsh, but I think you would apologize us for being ignorant than rediculing your faith. I have a very simple question when you say

Angela wrote: Well, the Book of Mormon was neither in Hebrew nor was is reveal IN a dream.

So in which language and in which form the Book of Mormon was revealed?

But, I see what you are trying to ask, I think.  What is to stop everyone from becoming Prophets?  Coincidently, this was actually a problem in the early church.  We believe the mantle of Prophet and the Keys to the Church (Matt 16:19) are only held by one person at any given time.  Currently Gordon B. Hinkley is the only man who holds all the keys at the same time.

But then you say "Each of the Apostles hold a key, but not all the keys." So, what are you actually trying to convey here? Also, one may not forget that many prophets of the past remained on earth in the same time frame. Classical example of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Lot. So, how do you say that "We believe the mantle of Prophet and the Keys to the Church (Matt 16:19) are only held by one person at any given time."

Revelation is a key that can only be held by the Prophet who gets his authority directly from Jesus Christ.

Which part of Bible (NT or OT) says this? I thought, NT talks about "Holy Spirit" to take care of this job. Isn't it?

The golden plates from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from were indeed seen by 11 other men.  Three of them having been given the privilege to handle the book and another 8 men saw the book and were able to examine it while Joseph turned the pages. (Some of these men later left the Church for various reasons, NONE of them ever recounted seeing the book.  Not even the ones who sought the Church's destruction.)  We also have an additional Scripture called the Doctrine and Covenants, this contains revelations given our prophets as recently as 1978.

Did any of the prophets of the past used these kind of methods for people to believe their Prophethood? Secondly, does this new edition of Doctrine provide any thing new which is already not covered in the Bible (OT and NT) and the book of Mormon? Can you give any example of such new thing?

..........James 1:5    5  noscript - 5  If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and unbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Can you ask your Current Prophet to reveal the wisdom of actual nature of light to solve the paradox of 'daul nature of Light" etc? Though, my question may seem stupid to some, but if someone is claiming to be prophet, shouldn't he be connected to the physical as well as spiritual world at the same time? Hence, should be able to resolve the scientific riddles at least. Definitely one can ask the same question about Prophet Mohammad, but since he is not among us, I am not sure if he left any such question unanswered except what Allah Himself has not revealed to anyone. So, at the minimum, your Prophet shall either declare that these scientific riddles are the un-revealable secrets of God or shall provide the answer. Isn't it? Then hopefully, one day, if any of these riddles are solved scientifically prior to the revealation through your Prophets, the truth shall menifest itself to everyone. Isn't it logically to think?  

So in which language and in which form the Book of Mormon was revealed?

The Book of Mormon was kept in a form of Egyptian.  Lehi was an olive trader who spent much of his time in Egypt before he was commanded to build a boat and sail to parts unknown.  Which we believe to be South America or Possibly Central American, in the region that was later dominated by the Incas, Olmecs and Aztecs.  Since Egyptians had a way of writing that was pictographal in nature, they could contain more information in less space than Hebrew.  Or at least that was the explaination I was given.

But then you say "Each of the Apostles hold a key, but not all the keys." So, what are you actually trying to convey here?

I asked the same question once.  Lot is not considered a Prophet, instead he is a faithful man.  The events at Sodom and Gamorrah are as a result of Abraham's request, not Lot's.  When told that the wicked cities were to be destroyed, Abraham pleaded the case asking the righteous to be spared.  Unfortunately, only Lot's family were found to be righteous and so they were spared.  (With the exception of Lot's wife who disobeyed and looked back, becoming the pillar of salt)  I also asked about the Prophetess Deborah once and was told, she was called only because at the time there were no worthy males to give the message that she gave.  Also, because we believe Jesus Christ to be the Son of God, everything was reorganized after the fulfilling of the prophecy of the Messiah.  Jesus organized the church in the manner is should be with apostles, prophets, excetra and so forth.  Peter was the first as he is the rock Jesus built his church on, it passes from there.  Peter was given the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven and the ability to seal upon earth and in heaven. 

Matthew 16:18-19 <>document.write(drawVerse(18,75419));

 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

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I was just doing my own scripture study and as I was reading I went to move my bookmark and found a scripture that related to a question posed by AhmadJoyia.  In Ether, Chapter 5, Moroni fortells of the three witnesses.  I'll post this passage as it is in the Book of Mormon and not the Old Testament.  (Now, understand, we are arguing my religion and just as you believe the Koran to be the word of God, so I believe the Book of Mormon.  I'm not expecting any of you to understand and convert, just understand how I view the world.)

Three witnesses and the work itself shall stand as a testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.

1 AND now I, Moroni, have written the words which were commanded me, according to my memory; and I have told you the things which I have sealed up; therefore touch them not in order that ye may translate; for that thing is forbidden you, except by and by it shall be wisdom in God.

2 And behold, ye may be privileged that ye may show the plates unto those who shall assist to bring forth this work;

3 And unto three shall they be shown by the power of God; wherefore they shall know of a surety that these things are true.

4 And in the mouth of three witnesses shall these things be established; and the testimony of three, and this work, in the which shall be shown forth the power of God and also his word, of which the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost bear record�and all this shall stand as a testimony against the world at the last day.

5 And if it so be that they repent and come unto the Father in the name of Jesus, they shall be received into the kingdom of God.

6 And now, if I have no authority for these things, judge ye; for ye shall know that I have authority when ye shall see me, and we shall stand before God at the last day. Amen.

^{Anyway, the coincidence in me stumbling on this chapter was not lost on me.  Enjoy the short read.} 

^Angela

MY sis Angela, thanks for your replies and as you have already pointed out that this has resulted in more questions; obviously.

So lets begin with very simple question and that is what is ether in the title of your post "THE BOOK OF ETHER"?

Also, though I don't agree with your statement "Lot is not considered a Prophet, instead he is a faithful man", but nevertheless, there are many other examples to look at. e.g. Prophet Ibrahim and his both son were Prophets. Similarly Prophet Jaqob and Prophet Joseph were Prophets, on the more, Prophet Moses and his brother Haron were both Prophets. What do you say about them?

So you mean "Holy Spirit" can't answer all your requests?? And other members of the "Trinity" have to be called in for this specific job?

So, is your Phrophet able to show some miracles as you gave the examples of the past, though your comment "Abraham turned his staff into a snake." does not seem to be correct. It was Prophet Moses whose staff turned into snake in the court of Pharoh. Isn't it?

Alright, my sis Angela, no asking of curosity laden questions of science, but what about pure humantarian relief questions? Like cure for the diseases such as AIDS, Cancers etc? Aren't they worth asking?

One last question, how is next prophet selected or appointed?

Thanks for your patience.

Jenni,

I'm sorry to hear that your experience in the Temple was a bad one.  Baptisms for the Dead are not a torture on 12 year olds.  Obviously, someone, somewhere did not fully explain what was being done.  I have done Baptisms for my own family.  Some of them I'm sure will not accept those ordinances, but they will all have the opportunity.  You miss understand if you think that every person who gets their work done by proxy is now Christian, more that they have the choice to become so.  Paul mentions Baptisms for the dead in the New Testament.  This is not something Mormons cooked up.  Its an ancient ordinance returned to practice.

1 Corinthians 15:29

29 Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?

Needless to say, its nothing to have a bad taste left in ones mouth.  But, what I can't understand is your insistance that we are not Christian.  We believe in Jesus Christ as our savior, we believe him to be the Son of God.  We believe that only through him can we reach our Father in Heaven.  If this is not a Christian, then what is?  We are a denomination, but we are Christian.  By your logic, an Eastern Orthodox Christian could have claimed the Roman Catholics to not be christian since the mutual excomminication of churches in 1054.  And I'm sure they would not say that.  Muslims believe in Isa, but they are not Christian, because they do not believe in the Divinity of Christ or his role as the Savior.  That's what makes the difference between a non Christian and a Christian.  I don't mean this to sound harsh, but its true.  We believe in Jesus Christ, we are the Church of Jesus Christ.  We are Christians.

(Dictionary.com)

Christian adj

1. Professing belief in Jesus as Christ or following the religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus.
2. Relating to or derived from Jesus or Jesus's teachings.
3. Manifesting the qualities or spirit of Jesus; Christlike.
4. Relating to or characteristic of Christianity or its adherents.
5. Showing a loving concern for others; humane.

n.

1. One who professes belief in Jesus as Christ or follows the religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus.
2. One who lives according to the teachings of Jesus.

Angie

Thanks Sis Angela for your elaborated reply, though you must have hurrying in catching up your routine after coming back.

Angela wrote: Okay, the Book of Ether is much like the Book of Job in the the Old Testament.  The Book of Mormon is both the collection of books, like the OT and the NT is it also A book in the BoM.

So you mean, Ehter is a name of a Prophet? If yes, then where did he come to place? I mean which people and where and when?

Well, we believe that though both Abraham and his sons were Prophets, they did not carry the mantle at the same time.  Abraham died passing the mantle onto his son, and since Ishmael left and founded his own nation, he doesn't really flow with the line of Prophets.

This is indeed interesting to know but yet we know that "believing" is different than "factual". isn't it? Secondly, do you think leaving of Ishmael to another place, a good reason to believe that he was not a Prophet? Thirdly, what was crucial in leaving of Ishmael that didn't make him Prophet? Place or the tribe or Will of God? BTW, can you tell me who was the son of Prophet Ibrahim to whom he planned for slaying in the path of His God? And can you provide me the reference of your source?

(I am still waiting on an answer from the Church on what they believe as far as Islamic Prophets)  Aaron was not a Prophet to us, Aaron was Moses' mouth piece.  Moses was the Prophet at that time.

This is indeed another strange view that I didn't hear before.

Jacob/Israel was a prophet and Joseph was a prophet, however, given Joseph was taken to Egypt, his calling was different from his father.

Oh, I see. So this mean, going to another place shall not be a problem for the Prophethood. Isn't it. Then what other reason is left for Ishmail not being a Prophet? Secondly, What was the difference between the callings of the two Prophets, at the same time, but to people of different places, especially once we know their God was one and the same. Since all their source of divine guidance was same, what else could be different? Were their morals different or their religious practices were different or whatelse could be different?

So you mean "Holy Spirit" can't answer all your requests?? And other members of the "Trinity" have to be called in for this specific job? I didn't say, can't.  I say won't.  We are here to be tested.  Faith is a test of the unknown and unseen.  If every answer was given to us, then there would be no test.

Oh, I see? So, you mean, the present day prophets of Mormins are not under test and all others are under test? Am I correct? BTW, what is this test, specifically? Also, where do you find this information regarding duties of individual members of Trinity? Is it in BoM etc? Kindly provide a reference if you can?

So, is your Phrophet able to show some miracles as you gave the examples of the past, though your comment "Abraham turned his staff into a snake." does not seem to be correct. It was Prophet Moses whose staff turned into snake in the court of Pharoh. Isn't it? There are witnesses to Joseph Smith healing the sick in Navoo when the LDS were hit with Malaria so bad that hundreds were dying.  Other Prophets have healed the sick as well.  Brother Joseph also bound the tongue of a prison guard who was laughing about having tried to feed the Prophet and his friends human flesh while they were captive in Liberty Jail.  President Monson dusted his feet off leaving Hartford, Conneticut after a missionary had been castrated by a local gang and the city did nothing.  Hartford's enconomy collapsed and the city suffered hard economic times afterwards.

Do you really think, these are miracles, what to say they are equivalent of what Prophet Moses or Prophet Jesus had? I have even read it from NT, if my memory is not very poor, that some apostles of Prophet Jesus also raised people from the dead. Don't you think their should be atleast some of that kind of miracle, if nothing else?

Alright, my sis Angela, no asking of curosity laden questions of science, but what about pure humantarian relief questions? Like cure for the diseases such as AIDS, Cancers etc? Aren't they worth asking? Again, we are hear to be tested.  If every answer was given, what test would their be.  The answer to curing AIDS is inspiration for someone, that doesn't mean it will be a prophet.  All suffering is a test, how we weather our tests is how we will be judged.

If an "inspiration" by God to someone doesn't imply Prophethood, then what else is unique in someone to be called as Prophet? Secondly, ok as you say that suffering is a test, but how about those Multi-National companies who are making billions of dollars on the name of curing the diseases through drugs that too from the same sufferers of disease? Do you consider them also under test? On the more, if God has invoked some kind of test, then for what purpose the Prophet has landed on this earth. Not to remove the sufferings of his people even though they may listen to him to do what ever he asks them to do, this is not comprehensible? Didn't Jesus heal the sick people and hence removal of "test" from them? And according to NT, the same practice was followed by his apostles on his name?  

One last question, how is next prophet selected or appointed? President Monson is next in line after President Hinckley.  If he's meant to be Prophet, he'll still be alive when President Hinckley passes.  The Apostles are called by inspiration to their posts.  Elder Bednar was chosen from a lowly position in the Church to the Quorum of the Twelve.  This was because he was meant to be there.  President Monson was called as first counselor to the current Prophet.  So, he will be the next.  If he's not to be the next, he will pass and another will be called to his position.  If a tragedy were to strike and the Prophet and both his counselors were to pass away.  Then the Quorum of the Twelve would meet and pray, they would let the Holy Spirit guide them on who becomes the next Prophet.  When Joseph Smith was Martyred, several members of the Church vied for leadership.  None claimed to be Prophets.  As the meeting to determine who would lead the Church progressed, Brigham Young stood and addressed the crowd.  Thousands of witnesses swore they saw Joseph's image descend over Brigham and Brigham's voice change to Joseph's voice.  This was their sign that Brigham was to lead them next.  He had been President of the Quorum of the Twelve at the time.  It was almost 3 years later until is was officially recognized as Prophet and President of the Church.

Sis, can you provide any example of similar appointment of Prophets in the history of Bible? Do you think any of the Prophets that I have mentioned were appointed like this way as you have described?

Thanks once again, for patiently answering my questions.

I just popped in quickly to check this forum.  Today is my husband's birthday and we're going to be gone for a couple of days in celebration.  If I can, I'll answer your questions tomorrow.  But, I promise to get to them as quickly and respectfully as possible.  Have a good weekend.

Angie

Sorry it took so long.  This is the first I've been able to comeback to the site and answer your questions.

1.  Ether was the last Prophet of the Jaredites, a group of people who were builders at the Tower of Babel.  The Book of Ether is a section of the Book of Mormon.  It tells the story of how and where these people went and of their destruction because of their wickedness.

2.  I asked my husband about Ishmael and Mohammed.  We debated, discussed and pondered.  The nearest we can tell is that there have been statements made that each of the Twelve tribes will have their own prophets and their own records which will be revealed in the last days.  Now, given this statement, its possible that the Koran and Mohammed are the prophets of the Tribe of Ishmael?  This is our conclusion and is in no way the doctrine of our church.  I have not found an answer to the churches official stance.  Also, we believe that all religions have a shard of the truth, some more than others, some just misguided or corrupted by the teachings of men.  As for the son Abraham was to sacrifice, it was Issac, but only after he was already made to sacrifice his older son by casting him and his mother out.  Abraham was a man who had been tested greatly in his life.

3.  Joseph was given his Patriarchal Blessing by his father Jacob/Israel before he was carried to Egypt, this is why his brothers became jealous and sold him.  In his blessing, Israel promised him his brothers would bow before him, a sign he would be Prophet.  Now, I'm not sure whether that meant that Israel passed on the mantle to Joseph or that he was able to do the things because it was his birthright? 

I have to say, as a convert of just over a year, many of the deeper questions you ask of me are too deep doctrinally for me to answer you with any kind of accuracy or certainty.  I am trying so you must be patient.

4.  Yes, the Prophets are tested.  They suffer tragedy, they are asked to sacrifice and knowledge is withheld whenever their faith and obedience needs tested.  Whatever of my statements led you to think otherwise was either a mistake in understanding or I did not make myself clear.  We believe that before the war in heaven between good and evil that we existed and lived with God, or to us Heavenly Father.  He offered us a chance to go to earth, were a veil would be pulled over our eyes and we would not know what came before.  We are to obey the commandments God has given us and prove ourselves worthy to remain with him after the Resurrection.  The Prophets are our only link to Heavenly Father, our only way to know his commandments.  That is how they differ from others who just get inspiration. 

As for the Duties of the Trinity, we believe in three separate beings, not a "trinity" as the Catholics believe.  But, I think it best you just read for yourself what our Book of Moses says on it.

http://scriptures.lds.org/moses/contents - http://scriptures.lds.org/moses/contents

5.  There have been many miracles preformed, I don't know them all.  The closest I came to finding an example is the story of Brother Fordham.  He was stricken in the Malaria epidemic I mentioned before.  He was dying and there was no hope.  Joseph knelt by his bed and prayed and the man was healed.  To be honest, there are no Mormon Lazarus stories.  If you looking for some absolute proof, I have no proverbial smoking gun for you.

6.  Jesus healed the faithful with his miracles.  Their faith in him is what lifted their burdens.  They passed their tests by believing in him.  The more faith one has, the better one faces the hardships put before you, the greater the blessings when all is said and done.  Does this mean that all illness is God's will?  No, there are things that are the result of the actions of men.  There for, finding a cure for a disease is not a sin.  And the noble cause of relieving others suffering is an act of love that is very much in the teachings of Christ.  However the big drug companies that make medicines so expensive that people cannot afford them....well, they are just evil.  That is my PERSONAL opinion and not my religious opinion.  I hate big drug companies and find how they bleed sick people of their money disgusting.  (I was going to rant about the AIDS epidemic and greed, but that's another forum)

7.  Okay, here's one of those questions that you asked that are kinda out of my league.  I found a good break down on a NON-mormon site, its a little lenghty, but I think it will keep from me having to keep answering questions about the priesthood.  Since I am a woman and don't hold the priesthood and have not had the classes, I really can't answer those questions very well.  I would suggest you just read this site.  I am sorry its quite lengthy, but it will answer most questions you will have about the structure of our clergy.

http://www.answers.com/topic/priesthood-mormonism - http://www.answers.com/topic/priesthood-mormonism

I apologize if I missed anything.  The link for the Book of Moses can also lead you to our churches official website, there are all of our scriptures as well as access for speeches and articles written by the Church's leaders.  I highly suggest the two proclaimations.  The Living Christ and Proclaimation to the World.  I will be losing access on a regular basis as of tomorrow.  So if I'm slow to respond, again I'm sorry.

Angie

Thanks for your elaborations on my intriguing questions about mormonism.

Angela wrote: 2.  I asked my husband about Ishmael and Mohammed.  We debated, discussed and pondered.  The nearest we can tell is that there have been statements made that each of the Twelve tribes will have their own prophets and their own records which will be revealed in the last days.  Now, given this statement, its possible that the Koran and Mohammed are the prophets of the Tribe of Ishmael?  This is our conclusion and is in no way the doctrine of our church.  I have not found an answer to the churches official stance.

Sis, Quran is not a Prophet but the word of God given to Prophet Mohammad as His divine message to mankind.

Also, we believe that all religions have a shard of the truth, some more than others, some just misguided or corrupted by the teachings of men.  As for the son Abraham was to sacrifice, it was Issac, but only after he was already made to sacrifice his older son by casting him and his mother out.  Abraham was a man who had been tested greatly in his life.

And whats your source of Info?

3.  Joseph was given his Patriarchal Blessing by his father Jacob/Israel before he was carried to Egypt, this is why his brothers became jealous and sold him.  In his blessing, Israel promised him his brothers would bow before him, a sign he would be Prophet.  Now, I'm not sure whether that meant that Israel passed on the mantle to Joseph or that he was able to do the things because it was his birthright?

Is there anything called "birthright" in the kingdom of God? Its only God who chooses His prophets. Isn't it? Similarly, I don't think there is anything called as "passing of mantle" from one human to another. The only one who appointed prophets is God and God alone. For example, if you believe Joseph Smith got it from God all by himself, then why this is not possible for the rest of the generations after him? Why there is a need for meeting of elders of the church to decide and select among themselves who is going to be the next prophet? Aren't they all are humans and hence can err? 

I have to say, as a convert of just over a year, many of the deeper questions you ask of me are too deep doctrinally for me to answer you with any kind of accuracy or certainty.  I am trying so you must be patient.

My dear Sis, that is perfectly ok with me. Take your time as there is no rush. I hope you would bear me of my sometime seemingly silly questions.

4.  Yes, the Prophets are tested.  They suffer tragedy, they are asked to sacrifice and knowledge is withheld whenever their faith and obedience needs tested.  Whatever of my statements led you to think otherwise was either a mistake in understanding or I did not make myself clear.  We believe that before the war in heaven between good and evil that we existed and lived with God, or to us Heavenly Father.  He offered us a chance to go to earth, were a veil would be pulled over our eyes and we would not know what came before.  We are to obey the commandments God has given us and prove ourselves worthy to remain with him after the Resurrection.  The Prophets are our only link to Heavenly Father, our only way to know his commandments.  That is how they differ from others who just get inspiration.

Sis, as you already mentioned elsewhere on this forum, about the need for the new prophet, what do you think that has been corrupted in the christian doctrine that God sent Joseph Smith. On the more what went wrong with the doctrine of Joseph Smith that God is yet sending a continuous chain of Prophets one after another. Specifically speaking, I mean to ask about their purpose?

As for the Duties of the Trinity, we believe in three separate beings, not a "trinity" as the Catholics believe.

O, I see. Can you put some words to explain this concept in little more detail. I shall appreciate it.

But, I think it best you just read for yourself what our Book of Moses says on it. http://scriptures.lds.org/moses/contents - http://scriptures.lds.org/moses/contents

Though I did look at this link, but since its so lengthy a document, I really couldn't go over it to find this specific answer about the roles of different entities of Trinity. Can you provide some verses that could ease my limitation. However, I do see the very first page relating the story of interaction of God with Moses. Don't you think, this story is in direct contrast with the Biblical account of the same incident? Then who shall we believe what is truth?

5.  There have been many miracles preformed, I don't know them all.  The closest I came to finding an example is the story of Brother Fordham.  He was stricken in the Malaria epidemic I mentioned before.  He was dying and there was no hope.  Joseph knelt by his bed and prayed and the man was healed.  To be honest, there are no Mormon Lazarus stories.  If you looking for some absolute proof, I have no proverbial smoking gun for you.

Sis, though I am not looking for "smoking gun", but the assumption is that if someone claims to have a unique and exclusive access to God, then, if not physical, shouldn't he correct the spiritual beliefs of the people who went astray? That is to say, that should he not be either correcting or defending Bible where ever it has has been proved sceintifically dubious. Faith is one thing, but facts found through scientific analysis is what the need of the hour is. Don't you agree with me?

Does this mean that all illness is God's will?  No, there are things that are the result of the actions of men.  There for, finding a cure for a disease is not a sin.

I really couldn't understand your logic over here when you say "No" to your question "Does this mean that all illness is God's will?" So, does it mean there is some illness which is the result of the actions of men but is not through the "Will" of God? Then from where does this illness comes from? From Satan etc?

7.  Okay, here's one of those questions that you asked that are kinda out of my league.  I found a good break down on a NON-mormon site, its a little lenghty, but I think it will keep from me having to keep answering questions about the priesthood.  Since I am a woman and don't hold the priesthood and have not had the classes, I really can't answer those questions very well.  I would suggest you just read this site.  I am sorry its quite lengthy, but it will answer most questions you will have about the structure of our clergy. http://www.answers.com/topic/priesthood-mormonism - http://www.answers.com/topic/priesthood-mormonism

After going through the info from this website, it seems that an elaborative system of decourums have been formulated to deal with all kind of issues that can be percieved by human imagination. Not much different, I think, from Catholics except that the ranks and appointments have different names or duties. But the important question to ask is that Is this all have divine origin or from human managerial skills. Hence the question remains unanswered that why people need to select/elect the next prophet and not the God Himself?

Thanks anyway for your patience in replies.

Oops, I just looked over how I worded that one sentence when I read your post.....I knew the Koran was a book....I am normally responding to you at 3am after my work is done at the Hotel I work at....I'm not always very concious...sorry.

As for your question on my sources, I'm not sure if you meant my sources on Abraham or that all religions have a shard of the truth.  If your talking Abraham...that strictly Old Testament stuff on his having to give up his first son and then being asked to sacrifice Issac as a test of his faith.  If you're talking about the "shards" thing...that comes from teachings of church leaders and from common sense.  If all religions have common themes, then it stands to reason, there is a little truth in all religions.  Who has it all right?  Only God knows.

The chosing of a Prophet is God's doing, the revelation of who that prophet is to be is received by the Apostles.  This is a complicated process that requires, prayer, meditation and revelation.  The new prophet is affirmed by the Apostles by their knowing he's the one by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Normally it ends up being the President of the Quorum of the Twelve.  The basis of this is that Peter was the head Apostle and Jesus left him in charge and Paul was the lead Apostle after Peter died, etc.  But, its possible that another could be called if that is who God wanted.  This kinda answers your last question too....its not that he's "elected" as much as affirmed.  Its our belief that if God were to call a 12 year old boy like he did Samuel.  The Apostles would know by the power of the Holy Spirit and would be led to the boy. 

As for what happened to need a new Prophet.  First off was the loss of truths taught by Jesus.  The loss of ordinances he established, the truth about salvation and God's plan for his children.  The nature of Heavenly Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.  What is expected of us, etc.  Also, the fracturing of Churches into endless denominations.  Chritianity is to be one church, not 1000s.  Much like the arguement over whether Shia and Sufi's are muslim.....who is following the truth?  As for why the continued need for Prophets, it because we believe that not all has been restored and revealed.  One of the things lost during the Great Apostacy was the loss of the belief in revelations.  The loss of Prophets, the tongues of God.  Prophets are important because they are our link to God's will.  That's why the continued need for Prophets.  Especially when technology and society are changing.  There is a constant need for reaffirming what our place is and our duties are.

The duties of the Trinity.....Heavenly Father is the ruler and the creator of our spirits, we believe him to have a physical form and a definite gender.  Jesus, was God's only begotten.  In otherwords, he is the only child born of a human mother and God's direct hand through the Holy Spirit.  He is our Savior.  The saying is that through his grace we are saved.  What that means is, he took on the sins of the world, he suffered and died and conquered death.  If he had not conquered death, then there would be no resurrection.  Its more than just dying for our sins, he died that one day we may live eternally.  His death and resurrection are an important part of God's plan.  Also, he is the one who taught us what we need to know, so we can return to heaven.  We were all sent here to get a body.  The only ones who did not get a body are those who sided with Satan.  The Holy Spirit on the other hand, voluntarily gave up his chance to have a body so that he might act as the Voice of God, his divine messanger.

The scriptures you'd want are on that page they are as follows.

Holy Spirit, Mission of  http://scriptures.lds.org/tgh/hlyghstm - http://scriptures.lds.org/tgh/hlyghstm

Jesus Christ  Moses 4:1-4 and then there's the others http://scriptures.lds.org/tgj/jsschrst - http://scriptures.lds.org/tgj/jsschrst   (Now that's alot, I more suggest this)  http://www.lds.org/library/display/0,4945,90-1-10-1,00.html - http://www.lds.org/library/display/0,4945,90-1-10-1,00.html

Heavenly Father  http://www.mormon.org/learn/0,8672,801-1,00.html - http://www.mormon.org/learn/0,8672,801-1,00.html  this is only a tiny piece....the rest is lenghty like the link for Jesus http://scriptures.lds.org/tgg/gdfthrlh - http://scriptures.lds.org/tgg/gdfthrlh

As for prophets clearing up where the scriptures have been scientifically dubious.....yes, they do.  Many of the more vague passages have been cleared up.  For example we are taught not to take creation in absolute literals.....a day to God is not a 24 hour period of time made by man.  So what was 7 days to God????  It very well might be 4 billion years.  There is no confusion between creation and evolution for us.....its all God's work.  The prophets have also clarified passages like 1 Corinthians 15:29 and other such enigmatic statements that were obvious to the authors of the scriptures but have been lost over 2000 years.

Where do man caused illnesses come from?  Man.  Many cancers are attributed to our manufacturing poisons.  Mesothelioma is directly linked to Asbestos.  Anthrax is bioengineered.  Smoking leads to lung cancer.  These are not the creations of God, but the creations of Man.  Inspired by Satan, more than likely.  He will do anything to see us in misery and give us reasons to turn away from God.  He wants to destroy us.  Satan is a very real and very dangerous enemy.  I'm not superstitious, but who but Satan could convince 19 young men that it was a good thing to fly planes into a building.  Certainly it was not God, Allah or any other good and just Being.  The biggest trick Satan ever pulled was making people think he doesn't exist.

As for your last question, I kinda answered it in a previous paragraph.

I hope this helps.  I will not be online again for some time.  It make even be a couple of weeks.  Be patient and I will answer any further questions.    By the way, I also wanted to thank you.  Because you've asked so many "silly" questions, I have been able to look deeper into my own religion.  Its helping me gain a better understanding and answering questions I too had.  Anything that strengthens ones faith is good.  (Oh an a little side note I thought you'd enjoy, my husband said that alot of Ex-mormons become either Jewish or Muslim.....go figure.  )

Bismillah,

Angela,  after years of seminary, I left the church because of the impossible theological doctrines which are complex and nonsensical.  Now, I thought and prayed about them frequently and deeply.  I did the 24 hour fasts and the three day fasts. 

When I say to you that I am a Muslim woman now, you should not say "go figure", but you should think deeply about why someone who has studied and prayed about both religions would choose Islaam.

I felt Allah, SWT's guidance when I was  a Mormon.  Allah's, SWT's, blessings urged me to believe in Allah despite the complicated, untrue Mormon doctrine.  I know many pious Mormons whom I respect. 

When people don't have an answer for your intellectually based, Allah inspired questions, they say:  Have faith.  (In all religions!)  Faith is my belief in Allah, SWT, not an excuse for unanswered questions.  Just think about it and keep your mind open, and may Allah, SWT, continue to bless you and your family.

Sorry, I've been gone so long.  I changed jobs, and life has been CRAZY ever since.  I popped on quickly to check on things. 

Herjihad.  I'm sorry if that sounded demeaning in any way.  The Go Figures was a statement of like minds.  Not a diminishing of any Muslimah's testimony of Islam.

In fact, I have more respect for a faithful Muslimah, than a Mormon woman who is only still a member because of society and not because of her own faith. 

I believe one should follow their faith and constantly seek the truth.  Religion is not a club, it is so much more and so much depends on it. 

One should be valiant in their faith, no matter what they believe, for if they are not valiant, then they do not truly believe. 

I pray God watches over your family and stays with you Herjihad.  I do not believe he turns away from good and faithful women.  We are not judges and only his judgement counts.

Angela

Bismillah,

Thank you Angela.  Same to you. We'll pray for you about the infertility also.  If I knew how much childbearing and birth can hurt...

 I've been thinking about religion not being a club.  This is a complicated subject.  Sometimes it seems like people want to make it a club that if you don't follow exactly their point of view, you are excluded.  It's that club membership rules idea thing.

Faith is the basis of my religion.  So I ignore people who tell me that I will be in hell for this or that.  Faith just means that I believe in Allah, SWT, first, as opposed to being an atheist.  Then it means for me believing in the prophethood of Muhammad, pbuh, (which includes the prophets of the Bible.)  And at least I have faith and struggle in my jihad (Child rearing.)

I'm not always valiant, but I still believe and have faith.  Valiance is such a noble thing.  Because I am a human with so many flaws, I concentrate on what my priorities are (kids), and becoming and staying healthy for them as long as Allah, SWT, wills.

In Shah Allah, we will all be bravest when it is most necessary for us.

Valiance is expressed in different ways.  It is the most difficult time in many ways to be Muslim in America.  The Mormons faced many persecutions and executions in their early history, and they are stronger for it.  Sometimes Valiance, is simple teaching the next generation and doing your duties to God.  Thankfully, not all of us are required to be martyrs. 

And thank you for the prayers, I appreciate them very much.

Angie