General Conference, ‘Keep the Change’, October 2020 “When I was younger, I visualized myself walking along an upward, vertical path toward my goal of eternal life. Each time I did or said something wrong, I felt myself sliding down the path, only to start my journey all over again. It was like landing on that one square in the children’s game Chutes and Ladders that slides you down from the top of the board back to the beginning of the game! It was discouraging! But as I began to understand the doctrine of Christ and how to apply it daily in my life, I found hope. …
We endure to the end by continuing to apply these principles throughout our lives and inviting the Lord to change us. Enduring to the end means changing to the end. I now understand that I am not starting over with each failed attempt, but that with each try, I am continuing my process of change.” — Becky Craven, Second Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency
1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 2:1-2 “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”
Ms. Craven’s explanation at Mormon forgiveness is tragic, not only for her, but everyone who listened to, and trusted what she said.
According to Joseph Smith, she’s wrong. She, and all other Mormons, are active participants of that spiritual ‘chutes and ladders’ game.
Doctrine and Covenants 82:7 “And now, verily I say unto you, I, the Lord, will not lay any sin to your charge; go your ways and sin no more; but unto that soul who sinneth shall the former sins return, saith the Lord your God.”
Take note beloved, this isn’t the only reference to this. Ms. Craven viewed her predicament exactly the way this church wanted her to do. See our post, God doesn’t Tolerate Same Sin Twice —
Miracle of Forgiveness, p. 357 “The Lord will indeed forgive, but he will not tolerate repetitions of the sin.” – Spencer W. Kimball
Repentance Brings Forgiveness, p. 7 “The forsaking of sins must be a permanent one. True repentance does not permit making the same mistake again.” “The Lord said, ‘Go your way and sin no more; but unto that soul who sinneth shall the former sins return.’ (D&C 82:7).” – Spencer W. Kimball
My heart grieves for her, and all Mormons, who believe this lie. I remember all too well feeling the same way as a Mormon.
For more info on how the Church views forgiveness, see The Unforgiving god of Mormonism. Most importantly, share your story as an example of how God forgives us!
With Love in Christ;
Michelle
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