Galatians 2:21 “ I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.”
To be sure, our hearts broke upon the reading of Mr. Renlund’s talk at General Conference.
In 26+ years of ministry, I’ve come across a fair amount of contradictory LDS statements. Today’s reference has to be at, or near the top of the worst I’ve ever seen. This man has complicated things beyond imagination.
First off, let’s quickly consider Deuteronomy 28 where God tells the Israelites if you obey, you’ll receive a blessing. Keep in mind this took place during the time of King Solomon. While the blessing is specifically for the Israelites at that time, we can still apply the principle of the way God works to our lives today.
Simply put, if we walk away the Lord has no other option but to forsake those who reject Him (2 Chronicles 7:22).
As we follow the Lord on this side of the cross, rewards/blessings can be thought of as the built in consequence of following Him, as it says in Psalm 1:1–4. For more info on blessings, see GotQuestions.org.
The problem in Mr. Renlund’s presentation is the confusion he created for LDS members. We’re wondering why it’s so difficult to share the truth from God’s word when they claim they believe in Him?
Furthermore, the Church has found another way to insert their favorite word ‘qualify’ to instill members with the idea there are more works for them to do. What blessings is he referring to, and what are the qualifications for receiving them?
Lastly beloved, Mr. Renlund was anything but honest by declaring ‘our salvation comes only through the merits and grace of Jesus Christ’. He purposefully left out the oft quoted BoM verse stating, ‘we’re saved by grace, after all we can do’ — 2 Nephi 25:23.
Be sure to share how the Lord blesses those who follow Him, and why it differs from the idea we have to work to receive special blessings from a false god.
With Love in Christ;
Michelle