He died for you and me. Zechariah 13:7a “Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.”
John 18:11 “Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?”
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I use John 18:11 when witnessing to Mormons. While they do believe Jesus died on the cross, they also believe the heretical misinterpretation of scripture that He paid the price for sin in the Garden of Gethsemane. You’ll notice the lack of depth in Mr. Oaks’ talk concerning the events of Jesus’ death.
Share the biblical verses with them today as well as the historical significance of where Jesus and His disciples were at when this happened. About 980 years previous to Jesus crossing the brook Kidron, David was in flight for his life while being chased by his own son Absalom. Both shed tears for the tragedy of the scene.
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“We understand that the Atonement of Jesus Christ gives us the opportunity to overcome the spiritual death that results from sin and, through making and keeping sacred covenants, to have the blessings of eternal life.” — Dallin H. Oaks, “Teachings of Jesus,” Ensign, Nov. 2011, 93
The Old Sarge hopes that this recent uncovering of the Mormon Churches financial activities, takes on wings and becomes big news. I say that because Mormons have been taught to trust their leaders in all things, to include the spending of their tithe money. If it is discovered that the church has been less than honorable in the ways it spends people’s money, perhaps this will open some eyes. Perhaps, church members will see that their leaders are not always who they claim to be.
If trust in Mormon leadership takes a big hit, then perhaps members will realize that not everything their leaders have told them is true. Maybe, some members will realize that they have been lied to for a long time
The Old Sarge has a word of advice for all doubtful Mormons: quit listening to your church leaders. Pick up the Bible, and begin reading scripture. Not just reading the scriptures, but pondering and meditating on the scriptures (Read Psalm 119:15,16,38,59,,93,105): “Thy Word is a lamp unto me feet and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
If you are Mormon and feel betrayed by your church leaders (present and past), turn to the scriptures for comfort and guidance: “It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn thy Word.” (Psalm 119:71)