tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10407988.post6608927013738106617..comments2023-08-05T21:48:58.831-04:00Comments on Philochristos: Some general comments on MormonismSam Harperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15884738370893218595noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10407988.post-5198611550748395722008-09-21T22:50:00.000-04:002008-09-21T22:50:00.000-04:00I think that because the Book of Mormon (BOM) cann...I think that because the Book of Mormon (BOM) cannot be corroborated in any historical way—indeed, it defies historical and genetic data—it becomes nearly impossible to take Smith on any other grounds than blind faith. Perhaps he could be believed on some personal grounds, such as a reputation above reproach or witness of miracles he had performed, but he is so surrounded in legal and social controversy that we really haven't that to depend upon except in an a priori way. For these reasons I think the Mormon missionary ultimately leans upon the request that we simply read the book and pray that God will give us a feeling (burning in the bosom) that it is true.<BR/><BR/>I have two responses to this.<BR/><BR/>1) I "feel" strongly that classical Christianity is true, and I also have rational and historical grounds for believing it as well. How is the Mormon to compete with my feelings, or to prove that his bosom burns more fiercely than mine?<BR/><BR/>2) If everything I know about the BOM smells dreadfully fishy, then how is it sensible or honoring to God for me to ask Him if I should embrace the religion that authored it? Not to be nasty here, but I may just as well pray to God to ask if a rotten fish would make a wholesome meal.Paulhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11853366401521123552noreply@blogger.com