Mormon Doctrine, pg 378; “Temporal and economic independence is essential if there is to be absolute freedom of worship. . . . Anyone whose support comes from another person or agency is to a greater or lesser degree subject to the will and control of the supporting power”. – Bruce McConkie
Luke 9:3; “And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece.”
“Without Purse or Scrip”, Collected Discourses 1886-1898, vol. 5, April 4, 1897; “…Elias S. Kimball, now presiding over the Southern States Mission, is due the credit perhaps, as much or more than to any of the Elders who are presiding over missionary fields, for reinaugurating the former practice of preaching the Gospel among the people without purse or scrip. It is gratifying to know…wherever this practice is observed, the work of the Lord is more prosperous…” – Joseph F. Smith
In light of all this what’s the Mormon to do? While proclaiming the ideology that to be independent means freedom should they use their own monetary means or follow the ideas of their past prophet who said God’s work was more successful when they go out empty handed?
Are their missionary efforts less successful today than before?
And what about the words of Jesus? What would happen if His admonition was taken into account?
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