Jerry is a past Mormon who authored this book and web site to help Christians find a bridge of ministry to Mormons.

This papyri was rediscovered in 1965. Click on the Abraham page to see it's story.
This manuscript was rediscovered in 1934. It contains part of the precious Gospel of John. Scholars say this copy was written as early as A.D. 110. Click on Sola Scriptura or His Word to see it's story.

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Purpose for My Ministry

I was a Mormon for forty years. Part of my activity included my ordination by current president of the LDS Church, Gordon B. Hinckley. After coming to the Lord on October 14, 1985, I found many Christians asking to help them understand confusing Mormon issues.

The information included here is different from other apologetic sites. Instead of using small quotations from key LDS leaders, I present entire articles [including footnotes and bibliographies] to give a fair and balanced presentation. Also I use the most current sources available. Most will not be surprised to learn that the result of my research and experience have led me to acknowledge that Joseph Smith abdicated biblical authority in such an extreme way that it raised questions about the whole integrity of his church.

If you are LDS and you are looking at my site, there is a larger gap than you realize between your experience as a Mormon and that of your Christian friends or neighbors. If you listened to all the messages at the last General Conference of the Church it will demonstrate my point. The current message of the Church is filled with the latest level of this world's wisdom. It is historically centered around pop psychology, and success-motivating inspirational stories. These feature the central LDS value that humanity was created for their own happiness.

This is very different from the values and purposes communicated in the Bible. "For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible … everything got started in Him and finds its purpose in Him" [Col. 1:16 Message Version].

"Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end. Attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious life" [Rom 8:6 Message Version]. We can never discover our life's meaning by exploring the popular books on the shelves currently being written by LDS leaders because they generally miss this theme. The Bible says, "it is God who directs the lives of His creatures; everyone's life is in His power" [Job 12:10 TEV].

"It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had His eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose He is working out in everything and everyone" [Eph 1:11 Message Version].

Please consider turning your heart and life over to Jesus Christ. Jesus brought me safely out of the confusion and guilt associated with leaving a religion like Mormonism. In place of my relationship with a religion, I found a wonderful relationship with the Living Christ.

Every choice or idea has a consequence. Read my testimony and ask Jesus Christ into your heart and life. What do you have to loose? That same loving Christ from the Gospels is standing outside the door to your heart and life right now. Billions have discovered He is still healing and restoring His people as in the past. He is a safe Foundation on which to build your life.

If you are a Christian reading this page you may be confused about Mormonism. But if God has brought a Mormon across your path please share with them what Christ has done for you. Mormons carry the burden of a works religion. Share with them about how your relationship with Christ has set you free. Jesus said Feed My Sheep so please be bold and share Christ.

If you get an opportunity to share with a Mormon click over on my Mormon Message Area first to see how their message is changing. Many are reporting big changes in the way Mormons are responding. They seem far less confrontational. Tell them about your new birth and offer Jesus Christ.

Recent Supreme Court Cases assure that one citizen can share a message with a neighbor citizen without getting permission from any local governing agency. We are free to share Jesus Christ in America as one citizen sharing a concerned message to another free citizen.

Get acquainted with the values of some our founding fathers. Values of Our Founding Fathers.

Check out some recent articles as well as read the source document from the Supreme Court in 2002. News articles on your freedom to share.
Source material from the Supreme Court itself.

Search:
Keywords:
In Association with Amazon.com

If you click on the "Our Shop" Amazon image it will take you to our page at Amazon. There I have several helpful categories of books about specific interests in Mormonism. This can help make locating hard to find books on Mormonism easier. If you click on the other Amazon image it will allow you search for new and used books in many categories. If you purchase through this site, they forward part of that purchase price to us. This will help us go on carrying on our ministry to Mormons. Thank you for your desire to help and pray in a practical way for our ministry. God Bless You.

OVERVIEW OF ONLINE RESOURCES

Acts 26:18
"To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me."

MORMON SOURCES ~ SCRIPTURES

TESTIMONIES

RELIGIONS IN THE NEWS

RELIGIONS & SECTS

BOOK OF MORMON ISSUES

THE BOOK OF ABRAHAM

MORMON THEOLOGICAL PROBLEMS

HISTORICAL PROBLEMS

UNDERSTANDING THE MORMON MESSAGE

SOURCES FOR TRUTH WE CAN TRUST

TESTIMONIES

MY TESTIMONY ~ Failed Promises of Mormonism

This page is a good resource if you want to see an illustration of the way two families came into Mormonism. Some insights into the "culture" of Mormonism are found there. Two families came into Mormonism at different times for different reasons. My story reflects why Mormonism seemed to work and provide answers even in a modern southern California climate. My testimony demonstrates the message and technique of many who witnessed to me over decades. I discuss and compare those methods with the approach that finally brought me to the Lord. My testimony also examines why temple Mormons are hard to reach. I also go into the successful missionary program of the Mormon church and my involvement in southern California which was one of the church's hotest fields. I also share about the way many Mormons move into "denial" after they learn the truth about the Mormon church. Why won't they leave the church after discovery? This is important today because there are millions of Mormons in denial. I finally share how I came into a relationship with Jesus Christ.

DAVID STOKES ~ David titled his testimony, "Victory in Christ."

The Mormon Church makes many promises to its people. They say come to our temples and make your family last forever! But why are so many families falling apart within the Mormon Church? David was thirteen years old when his family fell apart. See his own story of the grace and mercy of God in saving David as well as enabling him to live the Christian life.

MICHAEL'S TESTIMONY ~ My Son's Testimony is Titled "Freedom in Christ."

Michael was much younger when his Mormon family fell apart. Like untold thousands of others, Michael's story is one of new freedom in Christ as his life is turned around by the genuine Christ. Have you experienced the empty promises of the Mormon Church? Michael has something to offer on his page.

FREEDOM IN CHRIST ~ We See So Many Personal Failures Today is this Promise Real?

Christians for centuries have been discovering this freedom but it is not an automatic thing. This page that shows the history and development of this promise through the Old Testament, New Testament as well as in church history. Augustine's testimony as well as Martin Luther share how out of different backgrounds Christ was able to give them a new life too. This page also has an extended study by John Calving. Do you long for true freedom in Christ? Read how many have discovered it not through loyalty to a religion but in relationship with Jesus Christ directly.

RESEARCH ZONE ~ Offers Study Helps for Your Research.

If you are a Mormon [or someone caught up in a controlling religion] and you are confused as you read. Consider going over to the research page which is filled with research helps. Initiate some Bible studies on key words and passages. Remember that God is not the author of confusion. All passages must be interpreted in light of the remainder of the Bible.

BIBLIOGRAPHY ~ Fair and Balanced Sources Have Been Researched

This research has resulted in a growing use of sources that is more than thirty-five pages in length.

MORMON SOURCES ~ SCRIPTURES

BIBLE

These online resources come from their own official web pages. Their Bible is the King James Version. These Bibles are alive to key word studies using their official Topical Reference System and Dictionary.

Joseph Smith's INSPIRED VERSION of the Bible

Joseph Smith was commanded several times in the Doctrine and Covenants to complete his own translation of both the Old and New Testaments. When the church divided at his death in 1844 his wife Emma took these manuscripts with her and later published the entire work. This entire Bible is available for study today. Also one can go to the official LDS web page to see a very small version that includes only a handful of passages. This work should be studied by any student of Mormonism. Utah Church Selections from Joseph Smith's Inspired Version

Joseph Smith's BOOK OF MORMON

The Book of Mormon has altered in thousands of places. This is why we present three historic versions for your study. The first edition of the 1830 is now available for study. The second version is the 1908 version published by the Reorganized Church. The third resource is available through the Official LDS web site.

Joseph Smith's PEARL OF GREAT PRICE

This fourth standard work of the LDS Church contains separate works. Smith's Book of Abraham, Book of Moses, his translation of Matthew 24, his own testimony leading to his First Vision, and finally his Articles of Faith.

Joseph Smith's BOOK OF ABRAHAM

This is the full text of this controversial book which Joseph Smith claimed was written by Abraham himself. This translation was first published in March 1842 in Times and Seasons. This work is said to be the revelation behind the Mormon temple endowment. This is the first instance of Joseph Smith presenting polytheism. Because they reject this message the Reorganized church never accepted this work into their canon.

Joseph Smith's DOCTRINE & COVENANTS

Joseph Smith's first published revelation came in his 1833 Book of Commandments. This was changed and expanded into his 1835 Doctrine and Covenants. Later revelations added polytheism and polygamy in the 1844 edition. Because the Reorganized church rejected both these beliefs their future Doctrine and Covenants did not canonize much of that later work.

RELIGIONS IN THE NEWS ~ Truth in the News

See spiritual reasons behind many headlines. Read articles showing Christian Longo's past as a Jehovah Witness. See the importance of Elizabeth Smart's kidnapper as a polygamist. Included is the complete language of Brian Mitchell's revelations titled, The Book Of Immanuel David Isaiah. Have you asked yourself why didn't Elizabeth just escape?
This page also updates DNA news which is one of the smoking guns in Mormonism. It covers the possible excommunication of an LDS scholar who published his findings as they related to the Book of Mormon. It also has Mormon legal news presenting the case of the two Baptists arrested for merely handing out tracts in Salt Lake City after General Conference sessions in April 2002. It also updates and gives some background for the controversial Plaza in Salt Lake. This page has a religious news ticker with updates on current news.

MISSIONS UTAH ~ A call to evangelize Utah

This page gives the purpose and vision of Missions Utah at home and in the field. It has activities and message outlined which will focus on the new birth.

WITNESSING TO MORMONS ~ Opening the Mormon Mind

This page offers some ways to overcome curious changes in terminology and culture that have many confused. It includes a quick survey one can do to help understand your Mormon friend or loved one. It then uses the new birth as a strategy.

THE NEW BIRTH ~ Are Mormons Really Born Again As They Claim?

Since so many are confused about the new birth as it relates to Mormons this page begins by exploring the Biblical claims. It starts in the Old Testament and works through the history and development of the new birth. This page includes full articles on the subject from the Mormon side including their own bibliographies. It concludes with a Christian response.

GLOSSARY OF MORMON TERMS ~ Encyclopedia on Mormonism

Many are confused about what Mormons believe because of the way Mormons have changed their dictionary. This page has the full article from the Encyclopedia on Mormonism titled Latter-day Saint Vocabulary. This is followed by the full and untouched Glossary from the Appendix of that work which is linked to other areas where fuller explanations are offered. This research page closes with a list of past and present Mormon periodicals which are often quoted in Mormon reference works.

BOOK OF MORMON ISSUES

THE BOOK OF MORMON MOVIE 2004 ~ Coming to Theaters Near Your Home

No one spared expense on this movie. Mormons are asking their non-Mormon neighbors to view this film in your area. Theater locations and times can be found at this > One of the reasons this film was finally made was to combat what scientists know about the First Americans through DNA research. A wonderful video on this subject can be found at. DNA vs. The Book of Mormon VIDEO by Mormon Challenge.com This discovery has resulted in an exodus away from the Book of Mormon’s authority among your LDS neighbors.

THEOLOGY IN THE BOOK OF MORMON ~ It’s Origin & Development

The student of Mormonism is often surprised when they read this book because it lacks the flavor of historic Mormonism. It is missing polytheism, polygamy, and the idea that human beings can be exalted into Gods.

This research paper examines the changing theology presented in the Book of Mormon. It also examines the importance of witnesses in Mormon theology and how flawed those associated with the Book of Mormon are. It then examines the evidence behind the claim that the Book of Mormon is complimentary to the Bible. The problematic Isaiah inclusions are researched examining the way this important book changes within the Book of Mormon. Because of this confusion most Mormons skip these Isaiah passages when they read the Book of Mormon. Finally this research covers the problems associated with finding wonderful Isaiah scrolls in 1948 as part of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

ISAIAH IN THE BOOK OF MORMON ~ Twenty One Chapters

Many LDS people are confused about the message of the Book of Isaiah. This is because the Book of Mormon inclusions have a “cut and paste” approach that sets aside the original intent of the author. One-third of the verses have major differences. One-third of the Isaiah verses in the Book of Mormon have minor wording or punctuation changes which Mormons say do not alter the verse’s meaning. The final third are said to be exact quotations from the King James Version of the Bible. But even Mormon apologists admit the way this prophetic work is introduced causes most LDS readers to “skip” the Isaiah inclusions as they read their Book of Mormon.
Victor L. Ludlow, BYU, Isaiah in the Book of Mormon

DID "HE" WALK THE AMERICAS? ~ As the Book of Mormon Claims

This page begins by looking at Book of Mormon claims. It notes how very early in church history LDS leaders began linking Christ in America with Quetzalcoatl. It examines the way FARMS and others have viewed these claims. It then looks at the Maya who Mormons today believe were the Christian pre-Columbians.

ARCHEOLOGY

This page begins by documenting one of the greatest finds of the century in Palestine. The ossuary of Jesus' brother James. Two articles are included. One is from National Geographic and the other from Biblical Archeological Review. Following this are some other articles from BAR which demonstrate the lively debate among various scholars over the database of archeological evidence for the Bible. Following these is the complete article on archeology from the 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism. Here the author must admit the lack of any "direct" evidence for the Book of Mormon. Following this is one from FARMS scholar Nibley titled "Archeology and Our Religion." Finally is a response to Mormon archeology that looks at some specific finds the church itself has claimed as evidence. This section includes material from non-Mormon scholars looking at the same artifacts.

DNA ~ And the Book of Mormon

This page is dedicated to a single strand of evidence against the Book of Mormon. It begins with a quick reminder of BOM claims as to which people group were the "First Americans" and then reviews what modern science is saying. In it I update the reader both on what the most up to date scientific reports are saying as well as including whole articles and features by influential Mormon apologists. If you are witnessing to Mormons this page is an important part of your message after you study the way Mormons themselves are attempting to deal with the problem in their own words. This page has clicks over to many source university sites that are on the cutting edge of using DNA in ways that are solving many controversies. Jewish sites are important due to BOM claims. Are the Jewish people really different in ways that scientists can discern? Most Mormons have been told they themselves are form the tribe of Benjamin and claim many special promises because of that. This page also takes you over to BYU where scientists are usinng DNA for genealogical research. See what some cutting edge scientists from BYU are saying as they weigh into the debate. Log into the Mormons in the News page and see some articles about LDS anthropologist Thomas W. Murphy who faces excommunication from the Mormon church because he dared to acknowledge this evidence. Murphy teaches at Edmonds Community College in Lynnwood, Wash., is completing a dissertation on Mormon representations of Native Americans for the anthology "American Apocrypha: Essays on the Book of Mormon" (Signature, May). His church trial was originally scheduled for Sunday December 8, 2002, but it was postponed temporarily. Click on Guestbook and read his own letter as well as responses from others. DNA vs. The Book of Mormon VIDEO by Mormon Challenge.com

LINGUISTICS ~ And the Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon people were said to be Maya. This page begins by looking at the University of Texas program on Maya language. It offers classwork and textbooks authored by world class Maya scholars. Next it looks at similar programs being offered by Brigham Young University. While some of the coursework sounds impressive they currently only allow 14 students to attend. While the University of Texas is offering a full educational opportunity, BUY seems to be offering indoctrination in the way they keep the information out of the hands of the student body at large. The Mormon Church has a need for thousands of trained teachers for their Seminary and Institute programs. Not very many are being allowed to study the original language [Mayan] of the people of the Book of Mormon.

Next this page reviews the linguistic claims being made by the Book of Mormon itself. It uses statements from Book of Mormon scholars from the 1960's through recent times who examined evidence they believe supports the Book of Mormon. This section highlights research by Hugh Nibley, BYU and other FARMS scholars. It includes claims from a long article and bibliography from FARMS evidencing Native Americans languages being linked to Hebrew and Egyptian. Finally there is an entire research paper from Stanford University demonstrating the "First Americans" came from Siberia using linguistic evidence. This also includes works from the University of California Berkley and the Smithsonian. As I worked through this evidence I was impressed with the way the work of linguistic scholars is in agreement with those studying DNA evidence.

BYU TRAVEL STUDIES ~ Visiting Book of Mormon Lands?

Brigham Young University still sponsors trips to Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras calling the tour, "Journey to the Times of the Book of Mormon." Tour lengths vary from one to two weeks. Their literature and itinerary list sites as being associated with the Book of Mormon. Students attending can get undergrad university credit by joining these groups. Tours to Mexico that visit the "Temple of Quetzalcoatl" claim the link to Christ. Dr. George Talbot Director of the BYU Travel Center requested on May 30, 2003 that we no longer include "downloaded information" from his department on this web page. Clicking here will take you to our email correspondence. From no on when you click on the BYU button below this will take you directly to BYU's Travel center.

MORMON THEOLOGICAL PROBLEMS

ABRAHAM ~ The Fall of the Book of Abraham

This page covers the history and development of the Book of Abraham. This book is the source for the Mormon temple endowment. Because it is so important I include the entire article on that subject from their 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism. It takes a detailed look at each facsimile itself with illustrations and translations from both Mormons and Egyptologists. Since it was published in 1842 it moved the church into polytheism. IRR Has produced a new video that features these problems. Every Christian or Mormon confused about the core of what Mormons believe should watch this video. BOOK OF ABRAHAM VIDEO

KING FOLLETT DISCOURSE ~ This 1844 message implemented for the first time much that came from the Book of Abraham.

The idea that man can be God and God was once a man. I include a Biblical examination of these claims. Also included is the history and development of these changes in Mormon theology. Even though many modern Mormon apologists would rather ignore this teaching it is still very popular with the current leaders.

PLAN OF SALVATION ~ Where do we come from, why are we here and where are we going?

This page examines the Mormon belief that all humans lived spiritually before birth with God as intelligent spiritual beings. This page examines first the LDS claims and then offers research into how the Bible answers those key questions. This page has a graph depicting the Mormon plan to help those confused.

BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD ~ Should we hope for a second chance after death?

This is a full page. It includes many source articles and even a chapter from a Mormon FARMS author. It begins with research examining just the Biblical claims. It has some responses by many well known Bible teachers and theologians in church history.

THE MORMON TEMPLE SYSTEM ~ The history and development of LDS temples.

This site is safe for even loyal temple Mormons to read because my research examines temples using FARMS and BYU scholars. While it does not go into "secrets" it does examine important foundational claims being made to millions of temple Mormons today. Researched is the claim that New Testament temples were the same as modern Mormon temples. Also researched is the claim Old Testament and Maya temples had much in common. Included are the 1992 articles from the Encyclopedia on Mormonism which detail the correlation between Freemasons and Mormon temples. If you are not a loyal temple Mormon, this reference studies source material that includes the current 1990 version of the endowment. Many loyal Mormons who have watched the endowment go through major changes in the last decades are beginning to question the authority to change such fundamental things.

THE MORMON CREATION STORY ~ Slide Show Depicting LDS Creation Theology

Richard Deem of God and Science Ministries documents problems from the viewpoint of what current Cosmology is saying about the universe and how it fits LDS theology. This page is titled “Testing the Creation Model of the LDS Church” This slide set includes 56 beautifully produced works. They have more than a dozen other slides shows. My favorite is titled Tour of the Universe. They utilize the best work from our Hubble Deep Space Telescope.

HISTORICAL PROBLEMS
IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF MORMONISM

JOSEPH SMITH JR. ~ Examines Problems Mormons Have With Their Own History

This uses much source material from the church. It also includes the complete language of all ten differing versions of Joseph Smith's First Vision. It also includes a complete FARMS booklet titled, Censoring the First Vision written in 1991 by a major LDS scholar who is well respected. Since Mormonism is attracting many today because of their current emphasis on families I have included some material on Joseph's own family values. Joseph Smith's claims to be a true prophet are examined in light of history.

DOCTRINE & COVENANTS ~ Examines the History and Development of LDS Revelation

This page begins by including all complete articles on this book from the 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism. It also includes all of their own bibliographies. The first version was published in 1833. This was changed and updated with an 1835 version as we can read for ourselves how Mormon doctrines evolved. Another version that can be studied is the 1844 version which was the date of Joseph Smith's death. The current official version used by the church today is dated 1981. Study these changing versions together.

This research page includes a Biblical response to this changing book. It gets into specific problematic revelations using charts. Finally, this study includes a "Countdown to Zion" which looks at the chronology of certain specific failed promises made to early Mormons. This is helpful when we examine the dates many leaders chose to leave the church.

FUNDAMENTALISTS ~ Over 50,000 "Practice" Polygamy Today?

Mark Twain when lecturing in Utah, argued with a Mormon acquaintance on the subject of polygamy. After a long and rather heated debate, the Mormon finally said, “Can you find for me a single passage of Scripture which forbids polygamy?” “Certainly,” replied Twain. “‘No man can serve two masters.’” [Louis Utermeyer, A Treasury of Laughter (Simon & Schuster]. Today there are many still suffering under the oppression of polygamy.

Millions of modern Mormons "believe" polygamy is an eternal principle. Many important Mormon figures are “in denial” about the depth of the problem. As recently as October 2003 Senator Orrin Hatch said, "All I can say is, I know people in Hildale who are polygamists who are very fine people. You come and show me evidence of children being abused there and I'll get involved. Bring the evidence to me." Hatch said he would not "sit here and judge anybody just because they live differently than me." [Associated Press (USA), Oct. 27, 2003 http://tv.ksl.com] In spite of this public denial, many young girls and ladies are suffering in the Southwest in ways similar to Taliban wives and daughters.

My research page on the LDS Fundamentalist Movement outlines its history and development from Joseph Smith. It has the complete 1886 revelation from President John Taylor who has energized modern Fundamentalists. It then has the complete current version of the canonical revelation on polygamy [D&C 132]. Following this is the complete 1954 Deseret Press Commentary on this section. This is followed by the 1890 Manifesto banning polygamy. It also includes the complete article on Fundamentalists from the 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism.

Ideas have consequences. The next complete article is the full text of Brian Mitchell's ”Revelation” giving him “permission from his god” to kidnap and rape Elizabeth Smart. His revelation is lengthy and he calls it The Book of Immanuel David Isaiah. In it we see Joseph Smith mentioned regularly. Finally other current news stories about Fundamentalist polygamists who have been energized by Joseph Smith's revelation.

LECTURES ON FAITH ~ Comparison between this 1835 Booklet and Modern Word of Faith Teachers

This page begins looking at some specific quotations from Joseph Smith's 1835 booklet which he used to train his earliest leaders in his School of the Prophets. Then quotations from modern Word of Faith Movement leaders are included along with the experience of Rodney Browne. Then both are examined for similarities for example their Adam God theories. This is followed by a Biblical response to both Word of Faith and Joseph Smith's Lectures on Faith. Hebrews 11:1-3 is examined closing with the full ISBE article on faith. Then there are some modern LDS articles which define the way current Mormons define faith as well as on their view of the history and development of the use of the Lectures on Faith which is still a best seller in their book stores. Finally this has the actual source lectures in full for your own study.

DANITES ~ A Secret Bloody Group Associated with Early Mormonism

This research page examines the history and development of Joseph Smith's security forces which were later used by Brigham Young. Many Mormon apologists minimize Danites saying they were not really associated with the Church itself. This research goes into its beginning in Missouri. It looks at Senate Document 189 asking should we believe the testimony of these men? One of them was also a witness for the Book of Mormon. The bloody oaths of secrecy are not very different from pre 1990 temple endowment language. Research show how important early Danite Orrin Porter Rockwell was to Joseph Smith. It also has full chapters from Bill Hickman's testimony who was a Danite all his life. Both these leaders died in loyalty to the Church they defended. It ends with copies of the Nauvoo Expositor which many historians say led directly to Joseph Smith's death. As we read news reports about the radical Islamic Fedayeen doing bloody things in Iraq they remind students of the Danites of similar behavior.

UNDERSTANDING THE MORMON MESSAGE

THE UNIFORM SYSTEM FOR TEACHING THE GOSPEL ~ This is the current program being used by LDS missionaries globally.

This page offers insight into the LDS missionary system. It goes into the call each missionary receives from the office of the president. It also gives information about the MTC [Missionary Training Centers] and how they are able to have such a large output. This page demonstrates some of the rules from the "Little White Bible" or rule book that regiments life for the LDS missionary. Then it covers item by item in a helpful outline format each discussion the missionaries will be sharing if you call their 800 number. It also contains some information about the "interview" candidates for baptism and membership must undergo to determine worthiness before being admitted. It also covers some sins that can keep some "investigators" outside the Mormon Church.

MORMON APOLOGISTS ~ F.A.R.M.S. Foundation for Ancient Research Mormon Studies

Robert L. Millet & Noel B. Reynolds authored a concise work on ten basic issues that have historically divided Mormonism from Christianity. This entire study is included. It begins with the title "Are Latter-day Saints Christian?

DR. Scott Woodward is an important BYU Biologist. He speaks on the issue of DNA and tbe Book of Mormon. Also available is an audio file of his time on the radio in December 2002. Also included is a debate by LDS biologists who do not agree on what this evidence means as far as their faith is concerned.

GLOSSARY OF MORMON TERMS ~ Encyclopedia on Mormonism

Many are confused about the way Mormons have changed their dictionary. This page begins with a Christian perspective on Mormon terms. It then has the full article from the Encyclopedia on Mormonism titled Latter-day Saint Vocabulary. This is followed by the full and untouched Glossary from the Appendix of this work. It closes by naming past and present Mormon periodicals in chronological order. This is helpful as you begin to study Mormon quotes.

CHARTS MORMON DOCTRINE ~ Graphic Biblical Responses

This graphic page has side by side information presenting theological differences between Mormonism's God and the God of the Bible asking are they one in the same? It also has material on Jesus Christ.

LDS TOPICAL GUIDE ~ Official Current Resource

This resource is source material from the Mormon Church. It is used by current leaders, educators and missionaries when they share their message with non-Mormons. It begins with explanatory articles about this Guide from their 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism. The Topical Guide is an alphabetical listing of every sort covering major themes as well as controversial subjects. This is an excellent resource for students of Mormonism who want to see how Mormons think as they use the Bible and other Scriptures to answer hard questions from their neighbors.

ROOTS OF NEW AGE THOUGHT

Religions From the East

Ideas Have Consequences

RELIGIONS & SECTS ~ A Searchable Reference to Confusing Religions

The SECT pages contain an alphabetical listing of 1,200 groups and leaders. This resource comes from Watchman Ministries.

NEW AGE ~ The New Age Movement

Most of us know New Agers in the schools, on the job, or in our families. The New Age began making inroads into American life in the "sixties." Some New Age ideas are confusing because we have allowed beliefs and vocabulary into many Christian churches. My New Age research page includes material from a wide variety of sources including Norm Geisler and Douglas Groothuis. The New Ager's Promises page includes material from New Age leaders themselves. New Age Movement

NEW AGE THEOLOGY~ Article by Norman Geisler.

This research page examines carefully the history and development of the theology of this movement. It contains explanations on confusing issues such as how new age leaders feel about God, Jesus Christ, Salvation and End Times. New Age Theology

NEW AGE CHRONOLOGY ~ A Timeline of the New Age Movement

This page traces this movement through time.

New Age Chronology

NEW AGE GLOSSARY ~ Terminology of the New Age Movement

The New Age Glossary begins with Dr. Walter Martin's glossary. He is followed by New Age and Pagan leaders definitions. New Age Glossary

PANTHEISM ~ Reference Pages on Pantheism

The page on Pantheism researches this subject Biblically, apologetically and historically. Abraham, Joseph, Moses and Daniel were all surrounded by pantheists. Their writings have been encouraging those surrounded by other worldviews for centuries. This page examines how its earliest roots from Biblical times manifest themselves in our times. The first king in Israel to blend these pantheistic ideas into Israel's religious life was Solomon. Study my research paper on 1 Kings 11 which documents how far Solomon went into this worldview.

MONISM ~ Reference Pages on Monism

Monism points to a single reality behind many gods. Monism and pantheism are related. These pages examine the confusion of the history and development of the way these ideas have influenced the New Age.

NATURALISM ~ Root of the Communist & Humanist Manifestos

Naturalists believe humans evolved from a naturally evolving universe.

Compare the naturalistic worldview to that of various theories of creationism.

Darwin, Marx and Freud were naturalists searching for answers in their fields. The Communist Manifesto as well as both Humanist Manifestos from 1933 and 1973 are included in this research. It also offers Pascal's Wager. Pascal was an important scientist whose Christianity has caused many Naturalists to consider Christ.

The most visible form of Naturalism is the Workers of the World Party. Today they are organizing, funding and directing current turmoil against America. Click on their pages and read some of their own language from their own founder and current leaders. They include a list of supporters and a call for people to get involved in spreading their ideas.

Darwin’s famous voyage that he said evidenced his theory of evolution was called the Voyage of the Beagle. That research can still be read and is available online, in libraries and in book stores globally. Many today believe life first came from Mars to earth. On Christmas Day 2003, the European states together funded a second Beagle 2 project to Mars.

Today there are is no shortage of theories about the origin of human beings. One theory presented by Christians has God doing the creation with an old earth with long creation days. Examine a page that studies the first chapter of Genesis.

NIHILISM ~ Hopeless Beliefs Are A Natural Progression from Naturalism

This page begins with articles by Norman Geisler, the Catholic Encyclopedia as well as many sources who consider themselves Nihilistic. This group holds there can be no eternal values to bring meaning to our lives.

EXISTENTIALISM ~ Reference Pages on Existentialism.

Existentialism is an attempt to answer the emptiness of Nihilism. This research includes some helpful definitions from dictionaries as well as source material written by existentialist authors. It also includes an official Roman Catholic document which raises questions against these beliefs.

POSTMODERNISM ~ Reference Pages on Postmodernism.

This research examines the philosophy behind this worldview from the standpoint of the Encyclopedia on Philosophy. It also has some important articles on apologetics. How can we carry a winsome message to the postmodern mind? There is also a helpful glossary of terms associated with this worldview. Finally on the Postmodern Quadruple Think page are some communication musts for this age.

Encyclopedia on Philosophy Article on Postmodern Leaders
Postmodern Apologetics
Postmodern Glossary
Postmodern QUADRUPLE THINK

PLURALISM ~ Reference Pages on Pantheism

The pluralism research page looks at the current problem of groups who claim all groups provide genuine pathways to God. Some baggage that comes with Pluralism is the need to change "truth" from "objective" and "knowable" to relativism. This is the same relativism which the Humanist Manifestos recommends. This page includes recent research papers from Harvard University's Pluralism Project that examine ways for Islam and Christianity to dwell together.

ISLAM ~ Middle Eastern Thought

This research begins with basic ideas about Islam. It presents the Five Pillars of Islam. It also has some information on the history and development of this religion. It includes help in examining textual problems with the Quran. It concludes with advice from Christian missionaries ministering with Islamic people in the field. As we see radical Islam at work in Iraq we see them adding these words "ALLAHU AKBAR" to their flag in 1991 which means "Allah is Great." This is the energy source of their form of jihad which used repeated calls to arms offering promises of special benefits for martyrs which includes financial support for the families they leave behind. The radical Fedayeen seemed willing to perform any bloodthirsty act for their leaders even though the promise of God's help on their national flag proved meaningless. The Fedayeen reminds students of Mormon history of their early Danites. I have research pages on both groups study them and see the similarities for yourself. Have you wondered if Allah is the God of the Bible? Click on this research page which answers many related issues about differences between Islam and Christianity.

Today there is a great debate among Christians as to whether we should take the Gospel of Jesus Christ into Iraq as President Bush has declared a "free speech zone" among aid givers in the country. See different sides of the issue. The page has news articles from Christianity Today, Baptist Press and other conservative sources. Then it has several from the New York Times giving their perspective. Articles from Islamic News sources follow with a final long article with an interview between clerics on Hamas and the future of Palestine. ISLAM & CHRISTIAN MISSIONS. Click here if you would like to study source material on Islam as the full text of the Quran is included for your study. FULL TEXT OF THE QURAN.

SOURCES FOR TRUTH WE CAN TRUST

GOD

Examines Evidence for the God of the Bible

This page begins by examining some recent articles by Mormon leaders in their 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism. All include the full article as well as their own bibliography. There is an article titled Elohim which looks at why Mormons call God by that name. An important article included is one authored by Stephen Robinson who coauthored "How Wide the Divide?" with David Blomberg. Robinson's article examines the Fatherhood of God from the LDS historical perspective. There is also the article titled Mother in Heaven which demonstrates the need for God to have female companionship to accomplish creation of humans. Finally this page examines what the Bible says about God. It begins with the Old Testament creation accouts looking at important words and narratives that evidence the difference between God and human beings. We see the theme of God being the Potter who is sovereign over humanity which he has shaped. This page looks at the God of Abraham examining evidence for God's person and work later in Genesis. It moves to the God of Moses studying again the revealed person and work of God at this period of the formation of the Mosaic Law. Finally it researches the God of the New Testament. It begins with the Father Jesus introduced and moves into apostolic evidence for the person and work of God. Finally there is a section which answers specific issues about Mormon theology from a biblical standpoint.

JESUS CHRIST

Examines Biblical Evidence for Christ

This page is really a book on Jesus Christ. It begins by looking at the way many view Christ. Conservative Mormons believe he was married, Fundamentalist Mormons believe he had more than one wife. In my LDS missionary work in Anaheim California many others saw Jesus as an Oriental Guru. The Jesus Seminar has its own unique way of viewing Jesus. The Watchtower believes he is an angel. Many wish to ignore Jesus Jewish setting and culture.

Because of this confusion, I begin with the Jesus from history. This section examines earliest evidence from source historical documents, a very early papyri as well as the latest archeological find of the name of Jesus on a first century artifact. What were people of his own time saying about Christ?

Almost everyone agrees Jesus had a life in heaven before his birth in Bethlehem. My next section researches who the Biblical record says Jesus was before before Bethlehem. Did Jesus present himself in the New Testament using Old Testament names? My research also examines types and prophecies about Jesus from the Old Testament. It then looks at the Christ who was born to Mary. Was there anything unique about the man Jesus? Why do some say he was fully God and fully man?

I examine the details of his life and ministry before the cross. Because not everyone agrees about the meaning of Christ's crucifixion I examine what the Biblical record actually says was accomplished there. Was he really the Lamb of God as Gospel writers claimed? Because many are confused about Jesus in context with prophecy, I examined what he said about what his future work would involve. I also researched the living Christ today. Billions are saying Christ promised to indwell his followers and now he is doing just that. But Mormons say that is a false view. My final section includes more than a dozen articles from the 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism including their own bibliographies. Is the LDS view of Jesus Christ a defendable Biblical view?

THE HOLY SPIRIT

Examines Evidence for the Holy Spirit from the Bible

This page begins by describing the Mormon view from the 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism. It has articles titled the Mormon Holy Ghost which reflects their belief that even the Holy Spirit has a human shaped body. It also has one titled the Light of Christ which describes an impersonal force that Elohim, and Jehovah depend on to carry out works requiring deity. Then I have inserted a detailed study on the Holy Spirit from an Old Testament view which I researched in my last semester of seminary. It then has a similar study on the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. Both have summaries looking at evidence for the real person and work of the Holy Spirit.

THE TRINITY

Examines Biblical Evidence for the Triune Nature of God

It begins with full articles on the "Godhead" from the 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism. It also has remarks made by other "modern" prophets. Then this page looks graphically at controversial passages displaying helpful texts together. It also examines how the Watchtower denies the Trinity. It documents Oneness Pentacostalism's problem. It also looks at claims from Islam. The history and development of the belief is traced. Finally there is a helpful topical reference section.

THE TRUTH

The Historic and Development Behind The Battle For Truth

This page begins by examining the Biblical source for Truth. God is Truth in his nature. We see both Jesus and the Holy Spirit being linked with Truth as central to their being. This page examines what a message of Truth will be like. It looks at recent efforts to redefine truth and explores some of the consequences. It looks at the rise of Truth in a post-modern age. It then examines using LDS source articles the way Mormons have defined Truth. It has complete articles from the 1992 Encyclopedia on Mormonism including bibliographies to do justice to the author's intent. It also looks at a 1994 article by Gordon B. Hinckley.

SOLA SCRIPTURA

Evidence For the Authority Of God's Word

This page examines the history and development of the radical idea of choosing to trust the Bible alone as our source for authority. It begins by presenting dialogue between Erasmus and Luther in the earliest years of the Reformation. It also includes my own research paper for a seminary project in church history. It also includes source letters from key leaders in a confusing era of great change. Reading their thoughts demonstrates the basis for their decisions on both sides. In addition I include full articles from Catholic apologists who are still defending their decision to elevate Roman Catholic Tradition in modern times. This page also includes a research project on the integrity of the New Testament canon. Finally there are some articles from LDS apologists who are using the same arguments for placing trust in the authority of their modern leaders. Click on my page on the history of Joseph Smith for an additional confirmation. While Mormons happily emphasize "family values" today, examine Joseph Smith's "family values" in the final decade of his life.

Many admit their fear to trust the Bible alone. My ongoing research has demonstrated history presents us with very few human leaders worthy of this level of trust. History's lesson seems to evidence once we empower humans with something approaching absolute power they are too quick to divorce themselves from Truth and accountability. As I examined the history and development of the papal institution, I sadly found most were more eager to invest their authority to protect their own office and other leaders than in the little children they were given in trust.

SOLA FIDE

Is Faith in Christ Sufficient?

This section takes a serious theological look at research into this controversial subjet. Major theologians like John Gerstner, R. C. Sproul, John Calvin, Beza and Jones are included.

HIS WORD

Research Into the History of the Bible

His Word began by examining God's purpose for revealing the Bible. It also goes into the process of how God transmitted His word through revelation and inspiration. It examines how we got both the Hebrew Old Testament and the Greek New Testament. It also examines evidence behind the claims that God personally closed the canon of the Bible. It looks at the illumination work of the Holy Spirit who is still today making God's word active for modern readers. It looks at what historians have been saying about the historicity of the Bible. While not everyone agrees what the archeological record for the Old and New Testament is saying, there is an impressive data base of artifacts, and manuscripts to debate. This record has led many historians to comment on the historicity of the Bible. We have included many of their testimonies. While things that are "external" to the Bible can never "prove the Bible," they make an interesting study. Finally, this research project includes dozens of photos of important manuscripts, inscriptions, and artifacts.

THEOLOGY

Theological Research Sources

Galatians has always been central to theological controversy. It was difficult in Paul’s day to understand the pathway to salvation in an age dominated by libertarians and legalists of every sort. Galatians ministered to Martin Luther centuries later at the dawn of the Reformation. I have uploaded a modern easy to track with version called the New Living Translation of the text itself. With that work is a brief theological article on the purpose of Galatians as found in the current Baker’s Theological Dictionary. I have also uploaded Martin Luther’s beloved Commentary on Galatians.

ONE TRUE CHURCH THEOLOGY

Theological Research Sources

ONE TRUE CHURCH THEOLOGY This page has reference materials researching evidence about what the church should look like. It begins with articles from Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Theology and the International Bible Encyclopedia. It also includes claims from Mormons, Roman Catholics and the Watchtower.

HEAVEN

Biblical Research ~ Heaven

HEAVEN REFENCE SOURCE PAGE This page has reference articles on heaven from Biblical encyclopedias and dictionaries. It also includes an article from the Roman Catholic Encyclopedia.

The Research Project Heaven pages began after more than two years study with two Jehovah's Witness elders. Does Biblical research evidence that God has "a plan to fill heaven" with people from every age? Or is heaven reserved for an elite group of 144,000 associated with the Watchtower?

Watchtower Ideas About the Heavenly Group and Paradise Earth This page contains material about the way Jehovah's Witnesses believe heaven and the new birth are only for the 144,000 while they are expecting to enjoy Paradise Earth. They believe the pre-fall earthly conditions will be resumed. They believe humanity can live forever on this planet. They see its future as a winsome agricultural paradise. They believe human sexuality in that future place is important which is not something the heavenly group will enjoy.

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INVESTIGATE & INQUIRE IF IT IS TRUE

Deut 13:14
Then you shall investigate and search out and inquire thoroughly. If it is true and the matter established ….

Ezra 7:10
For Ezra set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel.

1 Pet 3:15
But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.

2 Tim 3:16-4:4
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but {wanting} to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.

Acts 26:18
"Open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me."

RESEARCH ZONE

Offers Serious Study Helps for Your Research

If you are a Mormon [or someone caught up in a controlling religion] and you are confused as you read. Consider going over to the research page which is filled with research helps. Initiate some Bible studies on key words and passages. Remember that God is not the author of confusion. All passages must be interpretted in light of the remainder of the Bible.

Religion News Blog This web log highlights news items, articles and web site