Restored Truths in the Book of Mormon 1

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. . . I will build my church. Matthew 16: 18 3

APOSTASY For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn everyone night and day with tears. Acts 20: 29 -31 4

Roger Williams (1603 -1683): In writing to John Winthrop as early as 1636, Williams bemoaned the spiritual nakedness of New England’s churches but added the hope that within a few years the Lord would reveal “the first and most ancient path” more plainly “to you and me. ” More than a dozen years later, in a letter to Winthrop’s son, Williams indicated that he found no churches organized “after the first pattern”. . . Edwin S. Gaustad, Liberty of Conscience: Roger Williams in America (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1991), 91. 5

After Constantine, a true ministry no longer existed, and none but God could now bring it back. Williams did not come to this position easily, nor did he find it easy to persuade others that recreating the true church of Christ was a vain pursuit – apart from direct divine intervention. Edwin S. Gaustad, Liberty of Conscience: Roger Williams in America (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1991), 91 -92. 6

GOSPEL RESTORED BY ANGELIC MINISTRY And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people. Revelation 14: 6 7

“He said there was a book deposited written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang. He also said that the fullness of the everlasting gospel was contained in it, as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants. ” Moroni and Joseph Smith by Tom Lovell © by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. Courtesy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All rights reserved. Used by permission. 8

The next day on September 22, 1823: “Convenient to the village of Manchester, Ontario County, New York, stands a hill of considerable size. . . On the west side of this hill, not far from the top, under a stone of considerable size, lay the plates deposited in a stone box. ” 9

GOLD PLATES DELIVERED TO JOSEPH September 22, 1827 “. . . having went as usual at the end of another year to the place where [the plates] were deposited, the same heavenly messenger delivered them up to me. . . Joseph Receives Plates from Moroni by Ken Riley © by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. Courtesy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All rights reserved. Used by permission. 10

Oliver Cowdery: “These were days never to be forgotten – to sit under the sound of a voice dictated by the inspiration of heaven, awakened the utmost gratitude of this bosom! Day after day I continued, uninterrupted, to write from his mouth, as he translated, with the Urim and Thummim, or, as the Nephites would have said, ‘Interpreters, ’ the history , or record, called ‘The Book of Mormon. ’” 11

Testimony of Three Witnesses Oliver Cowdery David Whitmer Martin Harris “Be it known unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people. . . that we. . . have seen the plates. . . and we also know that they have been translated by the gift and power of God, for his voice hath declared it unto us: wherefore we know of a surety, that the work is true. And we also testify that we have seen the engravings which are upon the plates; and they have been shown unto us by the power of God, and not of man. And we declare with words of soberness, that an angel of God came down from heaven, and he brought and laid before our eyes, that we beheld and saw the plates, and the engravings thereon. ” 12

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON 13

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON Christ’s Gospel • If someone told you that they knew of a set of instructions to reside in heaven for eternity, is there anything that could possibly be more important than that? • The "gospel" is God's plan for our salvation. That plan is comprised of building blocks called "doctrines. " • Over centuries, the gospel of Jesus Christ has been modified, not always by changing scriptural text, but more often by the way that scripture is interpreted. Today, there are many different Christian gospels. • Which of those gospels more closely approximates the original gospel of Christ? 14

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON The Book of Mormon makes the claim that its purpose was to restore the truths, or doctrine, of Christ's gospel. In 1 Nephi 3, the Lord said: ". . . I will be merciful unto the Gentiles in that day, insomuch that I will bring forth unto them in mine own power, much of my gospel, which shall be plain and precious, saith the Lamb; For behold, saith the Lamb, I will manifest myself unto thy seed, that they shall write many things which I shall minister unto them, which shall be plain and precious. ” (continued on next slide) 15

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON The Book of Mormon makes the claim that its purpose was to restore the truths, or doctrine, of Christ's gospel. 1 Nephi (continued) And after thy seed shall be destroyed and dwindle in unbelief, and also the seed of thy brethren; behold, these things shall be hid up, to come forth unto the Gentiles by the gift and power of the Lamb. And in them shall be written my gospel, saith the Lamb, and my rock and my salvation. " 1 Nephi 3: 183 -186 16

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON The Book of Mormon makes the claim that its purpose was to restore the truths, or doctrine, of Christ's gospel. ". . . in the latter days, when our seed shall have dwindled in unbelief, yea, for the space of many years and many generations, after the Messiah shall be manifested in body unto the children of men, then shall the fullness of the gospel of the Messiah come unto the Gentiles, and from the Gentiles unto the remnant of our seed. ” "And in that day shall the remnant of our seed . . . come to the knowledge of their Redeemer, and the very points of his doctrine that they may know how to come unto him and be saved. ” 1 Nephi 4: 16, 17 & 19 17

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON The Book of Mormon makes the claim that its purpose was to restore the truths, or doctrine, of Christ's gospel. 19 Wherefore, the fruit of thy loins shall write; and the fruit of the loins of Judah shall write; 20 And that which shall be written by the fruit of thy loins, and also that which shall be written by the fruit of the loins of Judah, shall grow together, 21 Unto the confounding of false doctrines, and laying down of contentions, and establishing peace among the fruit of thy loins, 22 And bringing them to the knowledge of their fathers in the latter days; • And also to the knowledge of my covenants, saith the Lord. 2 Nephi 2: 19 -23 18

Restored truths in the book of mormon Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one stick, and write upon it, for Judah, and for the children of Israel his companions: then take another stick, and write upon it, for Joseph, the stick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel his companions. And join them one to another into one stick; and they shall become one in thine hand. . . Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand. And the sticks whereon thou writest shall be in thine hand before their eyes. Ezekial 37: 16 -17, 19 -20 19

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON Doctrine and “Fullness of the Gospel” • “Doctrine” does not belong exclusively to theologians. It is the calling of every believer to understand the “plain and precious" doctrines of Christ. • Doctrine directs our worship of God and our relationship with him. It is one reason for the existence of Christ's restored church. • Every member of Christ's church should be equipped to explain what the "fullness of the gospel" is, what doctrines in that gospel have been lost, and why there is a need for a Restoration. 20

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON New Testament Culture • The New Testament Church shared a common culture and gospel with doctrines that everyone understood. • But unfortunately, those original shared meanings of New Testament Christianity have, to some extent, been altered or lost. • Anyone who wants to change a culture will start by redefining terms. • To restore the shared meanings of the New Testament church, we have examine how each doctrine operated in the life of the church. 21

Twelve Examples of Restored Truths in the Book of Mormon 22

INSTRUCTION FOR THIS PRESENTATION This presentation discusses four aspects of Christ’s gospel: 1. Free Will (or Agency) 2. Faith 3. Repentance 4. Water Baptism For each aspect, there will be two sections: 1. Existing Doctrinal Confusion In this section, we will examine what the Bible has to say about each aspect and the wide divergence of views on that subject. 2. What Does the Book of Mormon say? In this section, we will examine additional insight (i. e. , restored truths) that the Book of Mormon provides to clarify that aspect of the gospel. 23

INSTRUCTION FOR THIS PRESENTATION Under each subject, the second section about the Book of Mormon will identify “restored truths” of Christ’s gospel as follows: 1. Free Will (or Agency) • two restored truths 2. Faith • two restored truths 3. Repentance • three restored truths • Water Baptism • five restored truths This lesson will provide 12 examples of restored truths that can be found in the Book of Mormon. 24

Two Restored Truths About Human Free Will 25

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Calvinism In 1536, John Calvin formulated a number of concepts that have become the basis for Reformed theology, predominant among the 600 million Protestants living in the world today. Calvinists strongly insisted that human free will, or agency, had nothing to do with determining a person's eternal destiny. 26

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Calvinism A sovereign God predetermined who was damned to hell for eternity and who was saved, not based on any decision that humans would make (i. e. , unconditional election), but entirely due to the sovereign will of the Creator operating by means of his irresistible grace. To Calvinists, grace was an irresistible force that would draw a pre-determined elect into a saved condition. Any suggestion that man might influence that outcome was viewed as an attempt to diminish God's sovereignty and glory. 27

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Arminianism In the late 1500 s, a Dutch Protestant theologian named Jacobus Arminius argued that God did determine our eternal destiny at the foundation of the world as described in Ephesians 1, but God's decision to exercise mercy and save anyone was guided by his foreknowledge of the decisions we would make in this life to follow him or not. To Arminius, man's free will remained intact, and God’s grace was not irresistible. Man was given the ability to choose. 28

Using the Bible Alone, What Do We Learn About Human Free Will vs. Irresistible Grace? 29

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Calvinism Using the Bible alone, what can we conclude about this matter of free will? 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of the children of Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. Ephesians 1: 4 -5 30

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Calvinism Using the Bible alone, what can we conclude about this matter of free will? 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2: 8 -9 31

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Arminianism Arminius used Bible references like the ones on the next slides to make the case that our election at the foundation of the world was based on God’s foreknowledge of the decisions we would make in this life: Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. 1 Peter 1: 2 32

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Arminianism Arminian Bible references: O Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! (NIV says: “. . . but you were not willing. ”) Matthew 23: 37 33

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Arminianism Arminian Bible references: 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did foreknow, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified. . . Romans 8: 29 -30 34

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Arminianism Arminian Bible references: . . . choose you this day whom ye will serve. . . Joshua 24: 15 35

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Calvinism • Despite Bible passages like 1 Peter 1: 2, Matthew 23: 37, Romans 8: 29 -30 and Joshua 24: 15, this debate about free will versus irresistible grace has continued for centuries. • Unfortunately, the majority of protestants living in the world today continue to believe that agency, or free will, has no bearing on our salvation. They hold on tightly to John Calvin’s concepts of irresistible grace and unconditional election. Thus, the need for the Book of Mormon. 36

Using the Bible and Book of Mormon, What Do We Learn About Human Free Will vs. Irresistible Grace? 37

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? What does the Book of Mormon say about "human free will"? In 1830, Joseph Smith, Jr. translated the Book of Mormon which settled this issue that had been debated for centuries. It affirmed: 1. the importance of God's foreknowledge, 2. man's free will to choose, and 3. the fact that allowing agency to play a role in salvation in no way diminished God's glory and sovereign power. 38

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? What does the Book of Mormon say about "human free will"? The glory for our salvation is 100% given to God alone because: 1. he provided a means to be saved that would not be available to us without the sacrifice of his Son (2 Nephi 13: 27 -28). 2. he gave us the gift of agency in the first place. To God be the glory and honor for his mercy toward us (Alma 13: 46). 39

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? What does the Book of Mormon say about "human free will"? Here a few passages from the Book of Mormon that help to settle this debate about free will, or agency, versus irresistible grace: Wherefore, the Lord God gave unto man, that he should act for himself. 2 Nephi 1: 99 119 Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. 120 And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great mediation of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil. 2 Nephi 1: 119 -120 40

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? What does the Book of Mormon say about "human free will"? . . . remember that ye are free to act for yourselves; to choose the way of everlasting death, or the way of eternal life. 2 Nephi 7: 40 . . . for I know that he granteth unto men according to their desire, whether it be unto death or unto life. . . Alma 15: 55 . . . and he hath given unto you that ye might choose life or death. . . Helaman 5: 86 41

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? What does the Book of Mormon say about "human free will"? Conclusion: • At the foundation of the world, God determined our eternal destiny (1 Nephi 3: 28; Mosiah 8: 53; Ether 1: 110; Ephesians 1: 4 -5 & 11), but that decision was based on his foreknowledge of the decisions we would make in this life. • Asserting human free will or agency does not undermine God's sovereignty and power. God, who is all-powerful, wanted people to choose him of their own volition. God's grace calls out to every person, not just an elect few, inviting them to accept his invitation (Alma 3: 57; Moroni 7: 14; John 1: 9). 42

HUMAN FREE WILL OR IRRESISTIBLE GRACE? What does the Book of Mormon say about "human free will"? Two Restored Truths: 1. God's grace is not an irresistible force. 2. Man is given the choice to accept or reject Christ's invitation to embrace his gospel. 43

Two Restored Truths About Faith 44

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion • There are theologians who maintain that faith is a human act, something we do ourselves, rather than a gift from God. • Some maintain that to have faith merely means that we intellectually understand a set of facts about the saving aspects of the gospel. • They would deny that faith involves a commitment to Christ or a submission to him as Lord. • It is their thinking that a genuine "faith" could not possibly include even a "willingness to obey" Christ as Lord because that would be too much like a "works" salvation in which we might claim some of the glory for our own salvation. 45

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion However, we know that it is entirely possible to have a false assurance of salvation (Matthew 7: 21), and anyone who believes the doctrines in the last slide ought to re-examine their commitment to Christ. Now let's take a look at the Bible alone to see what it can tell us about the doctrine of faith. 46

Using the Bible Alone, What Do We Learn About A "Saving Faith"? 47

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion • Hebrews 11: 1 (KJV) says that faith is "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. " • In a previous lesson about being saved by grace alone, we said, "Belief in the atoning sacrifice of Christ is a supernatural work that can only come from a power outside ourselves" (Ephesians 2: 8). 48

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion • Faith necessarily involves a "willingness to obey" Christ as Lord of our lives (Acts 2: 36). Nothing about this implies that any credit or glory should be given to the believer for his salvation. • Hebrews 11 is sometimes referred to as the "Faith Hall of Fame. " It tells us that, by faith. . . Enoch was translated. . . Noah prepared an ark. . . Abraham went out not knowing where he went. . . Sara received strength to conceive seed. . . Abraham offered up Isaac. . . Isaac blessed Jacob and Essau. . . Moses refused to be called the son of Pharoah's daughter. . . and, by faith, the walls of Jericho fell. 49

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion • Each story in Hebrews 11 describes people who acted on their faith and who submitted to Christ as Lord. Faith did not lie dormant. In every situation, their faith bore fruit. • In the same manner, a "saving faith" is more than an intellectual understanding or momentary decision that, by itself, guarantees entrance into heaven. • In Matthew 14: 21 -28, Peter had to exercise "real faith" in order to step out of the boat and walk to Jesus on the water. The effort to walk on water began with Jesus calling Peter and saying “Come. ” Peter then acted on his faith when he "got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. " (NIV) 50

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion On this same theme, Galatians 5: 6 says: "For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love. " • Some people describe the last few words in this passage as "faith formed by acts of love. " Any other kind of faith does not have the power to save; it "availeth" nothing. • A saving faith does not lie dormant. Like those great people described in the Faith Hall of Fame, a saving faith must be a principle of action (allowing God to work in us by his grace), and it must bear fruit. 51

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Despite Bible passages like Hebrews 11, Galatians 5: 6 and Matthew 14: 21 -28, there is sometimes a distorted understanding in the Christian community regarding what a “saving faith” is and how it works in our lives. Thus, the need for the Book of Mormon. 52

Using the Bible and Book of Mormon, What Do We Learn About A "Saving Faith"? 53

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “faith”? • Is faith simply a momentary decision for Christ that raises a firewall against the flames of hell regardless of how we live our lives? Or is faith like a seed that must be nurtured and cultivated and grow? • The Book of Mormon makes it clear that "faith" is more than simply a momentary, intellectual understanding. • A true, saving faith is one that bears fruit in the life of the believer. But in using the Bible alone, many well-intentioned Christians have failed to understand what true faith is really about. 54

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “faith”? Here are some Book of Mormon passages about “faith. ” For Nephi, his faith involved "submission to God's will" as Lord, not just Savior: . . . I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them. 1 Nephi 1: 65 55

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “faith”? Alma talks about how this supernatural act of faith begins in the heart of a believer: 143 And now as I said concerning faith: Faith, is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith, ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true. 151 But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith: yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words. (continued on next slide) 56

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “faith”? 152 Now we will compare the word unto a seed. 153 Now if ye give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell within your breasts; 154 And when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves, It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding; yea, and it beginneth to be delicious to me. 155 Now behold, would not this increase your faith? . . . 158. . . therefore, if a seed groweth, it is good, but if it groweth not, behold, it is not good; therefore it is cast away. . . Alma 16: 143 -158 57

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “faith”? 27 And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, Have ye spiritually been born of God? 28 Have ye received his image in your countenances? 29 Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts? 30 Do ye exercise faith in the redemption of him who created you? 31 Do you look forward with an eye of faith, and view this mortal body raised in immortality, and this corruption raised in incorruption, to stand before God, to be judged according to the deeds which have been done in the mortal body? Alma 3: 27 -31 58

WHAT IS A “SAVING FAITH”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “faith”? Two Restored Truths About Faith 1. Faith is more than: a. a human act, b. an intellectual understanding about a set of facts, or c. a momentary decision that raises a firewall against the possibility of separation from God, regardless of how we live our lives. 2. Faith, a gift of God, bears fruit in the life of every true believer (i. e. , God’s grace working within us). It must be cultivated and nurtured that we might grow in understanding and endure to the end of our lives. 59

Three Restored Truths About Repentance 60

WHAT IS “TRUE REPENTANCE”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion • There are theologians who take the concept of "salvation by faith alone" so far as to claim that we can be saved without repentance. • Some say that "repentance" is simply "a change of mind about who Christ is, " that the term is strictly limited to the meaning of the Greek term given in the New Testament. However, if that is true, how would their concept of repentance be different from their concept of faith? • Some maintain that repentance does not have to bear fruit – that we can be “carnal Christians” who never obey God and live however we like, yet we will still be saved. 61

Using the Bible Alone, What Do We Learn About "Repentance"? 62

WHAT IS “TRUE REPENTANCE”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Using the Bible alone, let's look at some aspects of repentance that we need to remember: a. Repentance, not just faith, is absolutely necessary for salvation (Acts 3: 19, 11: 18). b. Repentance necessarily involves turning away from sin. (Acts 3: 26). c. Repentance must bear fruit in the life of every believer (Luke 3: 8, 1 John 3: 9, Acts 26: 20). 63

WHAT IS TRUE “REPENTANCE”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion a. Repentance, not just faith, saves. Repentance is not optional. It is a necessary element of Christ's gospel. Repentance saves. Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out. Acts 3: 19 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. Acts 11: 18 So repentance has a direct bearing on our salvation. Christ's gospel requires that both faith and repentance must be evident in the life of any true believer. 2. 64

WHAT IS TRUE “REPENTANCE”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion b. Turning Away from Sin A true repentance means that we begin to look at sin with the same revulsion that God would. It is more than “a change of mind”; it is a change of life. This is what repentance meant to every believer in the New Testament Church: 26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities. Acts 3: 26 65

WHAT IS “TRUE REPENTANCE”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion c. Genuine repentance will bear fruit. Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance. Luke 3: 8 (KJV) Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin. (The NIV Bible says, "No one who is born of God will continue to sin. ”) 1 John 3: 9 But he showed first unto them. . . that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. Acts 26: 20 Every true believer will experience a change in the pattern of sin. This is not a work of man, but rather it is a supernatural act of God’s grace changing our lives. 66

WHAT IS “TRUE REPENTANCE”? Existing Doctrinal Confusion Despite Bible passages like Acts 3: 19, 11: 18, 3: 26, Luke 3: 8, and 1 John 3: 9, some Christians continue to distort the meaning of repentance, deny its saving power and insist that a believer who just has faith can live a carnal life of unabated sin as long as he simply “accepted Christ as his Savior. ” Thus, the need for the Book of Mormon. 67

Using the Bible and Book of Mormon, What Do We Learn About Repentance? 68

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? a. Repentance, Not Just Faith, Is Necessary For Salvation Behold, now I say unto you, that he commandeth you to repent; and except ye repent, ye can in no wise inherit the kingdom of God. Alma 7: 13 And thou also hast heard, that whoso repenteth not, must perish. 1 Nephi 3: 212 For the Lord covenanteth with none, save it be with them that repent and believe in his Son, who is the Holy One of Israel. 2 Nephi 12: 78 69

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? a. Repentance, Not Just Faith, Is Necessary For Salvation 7 And King Benjamin again opened his mouth, and began to speak unto them. . . 8 For behold, if the knowledge of the goodness of God at this time, has awakened you to a sense of your nothingness, and your worthless and fallen state; 9 I say unto you, if ye have come to a knowledge of the goodness of God, and his matchless power, and his wisdom, and his patience, and his long suffering toward the children of men. . . (continued on next slide) 70

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? a. Repentance, Not Just Faith, Is Necessary For Salvation 13 And again: Believe that ye must repent of your sins and forsake them, and humble yourselves before God; and ask in sincerity of heart that he would forgive you. . . 20 Even so I would that ye should remember, and always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own nothingness, and his goodness and long suffering toward you unworthy creatures, 21 And humble yourselves even in the depths of humility, calling on the name of the Lord daily and standing steadfastly in the faith of that which is to come. . . (continued on next slide) 71

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? a. Repentance, Not Just Faith, Is Necessary For Salvation 31 . . . and except he repenteth of that which he hath done, he perisheth for ever, and hath no interest in the kingdom of God. 32 For behold, are we not all beggars? Do we not all depend upon the same being, even God, for all the substance which we have; for both food, and raiment, and for gold, and for silver, and for the riches which we have of every kind? (continued on next slide) 72

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? a. Repentance, Not Just Faith, Is Necessary For Salvation 33 And behold, even at this time, ye have been calling on his name, and begging for a remission of your sins. 34 And has he suffered that ye have begged in vain? 35 Nay, he has poured out his Spirit upon you, and has caused that your hearts should be filled with joy. . . Mosiah 2: 7 -35 73

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? a. Repentance, Not Just Faith, Is Necessary For Salvation 30 And may the Lord grant unto you repentance, that ye may not bring down his wrath upon you, that ye may not be bound down by the chains of hell. . . Alma 10: 30 74

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? a. Repentance, Not Just Faith, Is Necessary For Salvation Behold, he sendeth an invitation unto all men; for the arms of mercy are extended toward them, and he saith, Repent, and I will receive you. Alma 3: 57 • If you were taught a "faith alone" gospel that denied the importance of repentance, you can make a fresh start. • More than simply "accepting Jesus" as Savior, you can repent of your sins and turn away from them. 75

WHAT IS “TRUE REPENTANCE”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? b. Repentance Necessarily Involves Turning Away From Sin And they did all declare unto the people the self-same thing; that their hearts had been changed; that they had no more desire to do evil. Alma 12: 176 And now my brethren, I wish from the inmost part of my heart, yea, with great anxiety, even unto pain, that ye would hearken unto my words, and cast off your sins, and not procrastinate the day of your repentance. . . Alma 10: 27 76

WHAT IS “TRUE REPENTANCE”? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? b. Repentance Necessarily Involves Turning Away From Sin O repent ye, repent ye! Why will ye die? Turn ye, turn ye unto the Lord your God. Helaman 3: 18 For ye know not but what they will return and repent, and come unto me with full purpose of heart. . . 3 Nephi 8: 65. . . if ye will repent and return unto me with full purpose of heart. 3 Nephi 4: 58 Now they, after being sanctified by the Holy Ghost. . . could not look upon sin, save it were with abhorrence. Alma 10: 4 77

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? b. Repentance Necessarily Involves Turning Away From Sin 87 For the arms of mercy were extended toward them, and they would not; they being warned of their iniquities, and yet they would not depart from them; 88 And they were commanded to repent, and yet they would not repent. 89 And now had ye not ought to tremble and repent of your sins, and remember only in and through Christ ye can be saved? Mosiah 8: 87 -89 78

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? c. Genuine Repentance Bears Fruit And now my beloved brethren, for ye are my brethren, and ye had ought to be beloved, and ye had ought to bring forth works which are meet for repentance, seeing that your hearts have been grossly hardened against the word of God, and seeing that ye are a lost and a fallen people. Alma 7: 46 79

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? c. Genuine Repentance Bears Fruit That he [God] is just in all his works, and that he is merciful unto the children of men, and that he has all power to save every man that believeth on his name, and bringeth forth fruit meet for repentance. Alma 9: 27 And now, my brethren, I would that ye should humble yourselves before God, and bring forth fruit meet for repentance, that ye may also enter into that rest. Alma 10: 6 80

WHAT IS TRUE REPENTANCE? What does the Book of Mormon say about “repentance”? Three Restored Truths About Repentance: a. Repentance, not just faith, is necessary for salvation. b. Repentance is more than “a change of mind about who Christ is. ” Repentance requires a "turning away from sin. ” c. Repentance must bear fruit in the life of every true believer. If a person truly repents, it is not possible to be a “carnal Christian” (i. e. , with no change in the pattern of sin). 81

Five Restored Truths About Water Baptism 82

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion In Christianity today, there is a bewildering difference of opinion regarding water baptism. Let’s look at two widely-held views: 1. Protestantism. Adherents of a “faith alone” gospel believe that being “born again” strictly refers to receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit at the point of initial belief. At that moment, salvation is secured for eternity and you are “born again. ” 2. In making a public commitment to Christ, many protestants today rely on a practice called "decisionism" in which the new convert "accepts Jesus" as his Savior by raising a hand, walking an aisle, repeating a sinner's prayer, signing a card or reciting a pledge. 83

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Protestantism (continued) To protestants, water baptism is a “work” and not part of Christ’s gospel. It is a good thing to do after you have been saved, but it does not save you. To many, baptism is merely an “outward sign” of an inward grace. There are many protestants (such as Methodists, Lutherans, Reformed and Anglican) who, for various reasons, still practice baptism of infants or small children. 84

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Protestantism (continued) Baptist churches strongly object to infant baptism and practice only “believer’s baptism” (the candidate must be aware of the commitment they are making). They view baptism as an “act of obedience” that occurs after you are saved. However, it is required before you can be a church member or partake of the Lord’s Supper. But baptism is not an element of salvation and therefore not part of the gospel. 85

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Protestantism (continued) In baptizing by water, some churches sprinkle, partially immerse, or immerse completely. Baptist churches practice total immersion. In protestant churches, it is an act that they are encouraged to do, but it is not a requirement of their gospels (i. e. , not necessary for salvation). Quakers, Salvation Army, Christian Scientists and Unitarians do not even baptize. Since protestants adhere to the concept of “the priesthood of all believers, ” technically any believer has the authority to baptize someone. However, in actual practice a minister normally performs this sacrament. 86

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion 2. Catholicism. In the Catholic Church, baptism is necessary for salvation (part of their gospel). By it, they are supposed to obtain forgiveness for original sin, personal sin and the punishment for sin. Infant baptism is supposed to remove both the guilt and punishment of original sin. Thus, the infant is “freed from the power of darkness. ” Water is poured on the head of the infant by a priest or bishop. At around the age of 12, a child then receives confirmation to consecrate or empower him for service to God. 87

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Catholicism (continued): From the Catholic perspective, a genuine faith must continue to grow. The Eucharist (or Mass) becomes part of the believer’s ongoing growth and commitment (John 6: 53 -56). Baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist are three of the seven sacraments, and all three are supposed to have a bearing on salvation. This approach is much more consistent across Catholicism, but it is the opposite order to the protestant view we just discussed. Approximately 1. 8 billion Christians adhere to one of the two perspectives discussed in these five slides. 88

Using the Bible Alone, What Do We Learn About Water Baptism? 89

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Before we examine what the Bible has to say about water baptism, it might be good to clarify two things: • Salvation is initiated by the grace of God calling us to a recognition of our sinful condition, our need for faith in Jesus Christ and a genuine repentance for sin. • Without this internal condition of the heart, baptism is a meaningless exercise. In fact, it is not baptism at all. 90

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Using the Bible alone, we see that Jesus and Nicodemus had this conversation in John 3: 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. John 3: 3 -5 91

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion In Jerusalem, a crowd listening to Peter’s sermon believed the gospel but had not yet received the gift of the Holy Spirit. They asked this question: “Men and brethren, what shall we do? ” Peter’s answer was immediate and clear: "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. " Acts 2: 36 -37 Here, a people believed. Then they repented and were baptized “for the remission of sins. ” After that, they received the gift of the Holy Spirit. 92

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Does baptism have the power to save? Ananias told Saul: And now why tarriest thou? Arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins. Acts 22: 16 The gospels describe the baptism of John the Baptist: And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. Luke 3: 3 Peter’s first epistle refers to being saved by water: • . . . in the days of Noah, while the ark was a-preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. • The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us. . . 1 Peter 3: 20 -21 93

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Continuing our study in the Bible alone, miracles followed Philip’s ministry in a city in Samaria as he proclaimed the gospel, and many were baptized. 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then, Peter and John came from Jerusalem and: 15. . . prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost 17 Then they laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. Acts 8: 12 -17 94

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion How should baptism be properly administered? Using the Bible alone, we see that we are required to enter the water to be fully immersed in order to symbolize Christ's death and resurrection: 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection. Romans 6: 4 -5 95

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Should little children be baptized or blessed? 13 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Verily I say unto you. Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. 16 And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them. Mark 10: 13 -16 96

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. Existing Doctrinal Confusion Using the Bible alone, we see that baptism performs three functions: 1. Baptism Saves. Administered properly, baptism is an integral part of salvation (Acts 2: 38; Acts 22: 16; Luke 3: 3 and 1 Peter 3: 20 -21). 2. Baptism Initiates a Covenant Relationship with God to Obey His Commands. Baptism is the means that God has provided for us to become disciples (Acts 2: 42). 3. Baptism is the Method of Entrance into Christ's Church. Baptism is the means by which we are numbered among the members of Christ's church (Acts 2: 41). 97

Using the Bible and Book of Mormon, What Do We Learn About Water Baptism? 98

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What Does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Three purposes of baptism: 1. Remission of sins – Speaking of baptism: a. Mosiah 9: 40 says, “. . . that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life, ” b. Mosiah 9: 44 says, “. . . and may he grant unto you eternal life through the redemption of Christ. ” • Alma 3: 108 says, “. . . be baptized unto repentance, that ye also may be partakers of the fruit of the tree of life. ” • Alma 5: 25 says, “. . . be baptized unto repentance, that ye may be washed from your sins. . . “ • 2 Nephi 6: 48 says, “. . . they must repent and be baptized . . . or they cannot be saved in the kingdom of God. 99

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? First Restored Truth About Baptism: • Baptism, properly administered, has the power to save. Therefore, it is part of Christ’s gospel. • Baptism is more than simply an “outward sign” of an inward grace. Baptism is “an inward grace bearing fruit in the life of the believer (i. e. , God’s grace working in us to accomplish his purposes). ” 100

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Three purposes of baptism (continued): 2. Covenant to obey God’s commands – Speaking of baptism: a. Mosiah 9: 41 says, “ye will serve him and keep his commandments. . . ” b. Mosiah 9: 44 says, “I baptize thee. . . as a testimony that ye have entered into a covenant to serve him . . . ” • Alma 5: 27 says, “Enter into a covenant with him to keep his commandments. . . by going into the waters of baptism. ” • 2 Nephi 13: 7 -9 says, “. . . the Lamb of God. . . baptized by water. . . witnesseth. . . that he would be obedient. . . ” 101

baptism, properly administered, has the power to save. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Second Restored Truth About Baptism: • By the holy ordinance of baptism, we become disciples of Christ and covenant to, by the grace of God, walk in obedience to his commandments. 102

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Three purposes of baptism (continued): 3. Method of entrance into Christ's church – Speaking of baptism: a. Mosiah 9: 39 says, “And now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and be called his people. . . ” b. Mosiah 9: 50 says, “. . . whosoever was baptized by the power and authority of God, was added to his church. ” • Alma 2: 4 says, “. . . many were baptized. . . and were joined to the church of God. ” • Mosiah 11: 129 says, “. . . this is my church: whosoever is baptized. . . ” 10 3

baptism, properly administered, has the power to save. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Third Restored Truth About Baptism: • Baptism is the means by which we become numbered among the faithful and affiliate with his church on earth. 104

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? So to summarize what we've learned so far: “Baptism” is a holy ordinance of God that necessarily involves a: 1. remission of sin, 2. covenant to obey God’s commands (discipleship), and 3. method of entrance into Christ's church. We call these restored truths because these facts have, to one degree or another, been lost to many in the Christian community. 105

baptism, properly administered, has the power to save. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? How should baptism be properly administered? Mosiah 9: 37 -46 describes how Alma baptized 204 new believers in the waters of Mormon: v. 37 And he did teach them repentance, and redemption and faith on the Lord. v. 43 . . . went and stood forth in the water. . . v. 44 . . . the Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he said, Helam, I baptize thee, having authority from the Almighty God. v. 45 . . . buried in the water. . . 106

baptism, properly administered, has the power to save. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? How should baptism be properly administered? Fourth Restored Truth About Baptism: Baptism, properly administered, must involve the following: • The person being baptized must have faith in Christ and a repentance for sin. • The minister must have authority from God. • The ordinance must represent the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 107

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? “If I was baptized in another church, why do I have to be baptized in yours? ” 1. In other churches, baptism does not represent the three functions of remission of sins, a covenant to obey and church membership. 2. When you were baptized in another church, it conveyed a loyalty to a different set of commandments, not the fullness of the gospel as found in the three standard writings of Christ’s church. 3. In Acts 19, when the twelve men at Ephesus had not fully understood the gospel, Paul re-baptized them. 108

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Should little children be baptized or blessed? 9 Behold, I came into the world not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance; the whole need no physician, but they that are sick; wherefore little children are whole, for they are not capable of committing sin; wherefore the curse of Adam is taken from them in me, that it hath no power over them; and the law of circumcision is done away in me. 10 And after this manner did the Holy Ghost manifest the word of God unto me; wherefore my beloved son, I know that it is solemn mockery before God, that ye should baptize little children. Moroni 8: 9 -10 109

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Should little children be baptized or blessed? • • • The Book of Mormon leaves no doubt that baptism of little children is a false doctrine. Such a practice distorts the gospel of Christ and causes people to believe that a little child's soul is in danger unless he is baptized. Those who believe that the Bible is God’s only scripture are confused about this issue. However, the Book of Mormon takes a very clear position on this matter. 110

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Should little children be baptized or blessed? 23. . . and he [Jesus] took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them. 24. . . and saith unto them, Behold your little ones. 25 And as they looked to behold, they cast their eyes toward heaven, and they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were, in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about. 3 Nephi 8: 23 -25 111

baptism, properly administered, has the power to save. What does the Book of Mormon say about "water baptism"? Should little children be baptized or blessed? Fifth Restored Truth About Baptism The Book of Mormon clearly states that little children should not be baptized; rather, they should be blessed. 112

BAPTISM, PROPERLY ADMINISTERED, HAS THE POWER TO SAVE. IN SUMMARY: FIVE RESTORED TRUTHS ABOUT WATER BAPTISM: 1. Baptism has the power to save. 2. Baptism is a holy ordinance of God that necessarily involves a remission of sin, a covenant to obey and a method of entrance into Christ’s church. 3. Baptism, properly administered, must be performed by one who has authority from God and must represent the death and resurrection of Christ. 4. Those who affiliate with Christ’s church should be baptized, even if they were baptized in another church. 5. Little children should not be baptized. 113

SUMMARY • The Book of Mormon makes the claim that it: 1. contains the “fullness of Christ’s gospel. ” 2. restores parts of the gospel that have been lost. • This presentation provides 12 examples of restored truths relative to Christ’s gospel. • We could give many more examples of restored truths. 1. Today, many Christian denominations staunchly maintain a belief in the “Bible alone” as an undergirding, bedrock principle of their faith. They reject the fullness of the gospel and will not listen. But God wants to speak to his people today, just as he did in times past. 114

conclusion 35 Wo be unto him that shall say, We have received the word of God, and we need no more of the word of God, for we have enough. . . 44. . . many of the Gentiles shall say, A bible, a bible, we have got a bible, and there cannot be any more bible. . . 53 Thou fool, that shall say, A bible, we have got a bible and we need no more bible. . . 59 Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? 61. . . the testimony of the two nations shall run together also. 67 For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews, and they shall write it. 68 And I shall speak unto the Nephites, and they shall write it. 2 Nephi 12: 35 -68 115

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house: and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 11 Matthew 7: 26 -27 6

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Revelation 3: 20 117

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APPENDIX 119

THE CLARITY OF CHRIST'S GOSPEL IN THE BOOK OF MORMON 120

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON Material Sufficiency of the Bible The Bible is "materially sufficient. " In other words, the doctrines of Christ's gospel can be found in the Bible for those who are willing to search diligently. The material or doctrines of the gospel are there if we look hard enough. Thus, it is possible for a person who studies the biblical text to enter into a saved condition and obtain the gift of eternal life. 121

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON Formal Sufficiency of the Book of Mormon Though the “material, ” or doctrines, of the gospel can be found there, the Bible itself is not what we might call "formally sufficient. " In other words, certain aspects of the gospel are not always delivered in a form that makes it easy for a seeker to obtain a clear understanding of every doctrine. As a result, there is a great deal of confusion and disagreement among Christians. The Book of Mormon clarifies the doctrines of Christ. It is given in a form that leaves little doubt about what Christ meant. The Book of Mormon is “formally sufficient, ” meaning that doctrines are explained in a form, or manner, that makes it easier to understand Christ’s gospel. 12 2

RESTORED TRUTHS IN THE BOOK OF MORMON Formal Sufficiency of the Book of Mormon For my soul delighteth in plainness: for after this manner doth the Lord God work among the children of men. 2 Nephi 13: 4 123