Mormon Dilemma 261

Secret Societies

Evidences & Reconciliations, pg 282; “The Church ever operates in full light. There is no secrecy about its doctrine, aim, or work. It is open to all men who will conform to its requirements. Access to the temples, where the most sacred ordinances are performed, may be had by every member of the Church who lives the honorable life expected of faithful Latter-day Saints.”

Matthew 5:33-34; “Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne.”

I’m wondering how the Church answers to this section of scripture.  The oaths that are taken by members of the Church as they go through the temple rituals have been toned down over the years but don’t let that confuse you.  By participating in the temple you are taking those oaths unto yourself even if you didn’t actually speak the words aloud.  You’ve affirmed that you are in agreement with what was being said and you’ve taken that spirit of avenging the Church and the Mormon god upon your soul.  

Here’s a list of the ceremonies and oaths taken in the temples:

http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/04/05/mormon-temple-clothing-and-other-rituals/

http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/08/23/temple-endowment-ceremonies-part-1-the-creation/

http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/08/23/temple-endowment-ceremonies-part-2-the-garden/

http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/08/23/temple-endowment-ceremonies-part-3-telestial-world/

http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/08/23/temple-endowment-ceremonies-part-4-terrestrial-world/

http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/08/23/temple-endowment-ceremonies-part-5-the-veil/

http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/08/23/temple-endowment-ceremonies-part-5-baptisms-for-the-dead-sealings-confirmations/