Okay, not really. We take a peek at this well worn phrase and what it has come to mean to most members. Sure, we try to mix a little fact and history in as well, so you may end up a little smarter after you listen. (This of course will only counter the effects of previous episodes, so you may just end up “less dumb”, patents pending.)

View Show Notes for the episode, including links mentioned in the show at:
http://wiki.mormonpotluck.com/ShowNotes/Episode028

On what doctrinal basis was the priesthood denied to some members? Do the monthly church publications The Ensign, or The Liahona constitute modern day scripture? Are some church policies not known by the general church membership?

Join us as we fire up the collective brain power of the brethren and attempt to form an opinion and answer questions about these important matters. And remember, if you hear it on this show, it’s Mormon doctrine according to the Potluck Dudes!

View Show Notes for the episode, including links mentioned in the show at:
http://wiki.mormonpotluck.com/ShowNotes/Episode022

In 1842 when Joseph Smith, Jr penned the ‘Wentworth Letter’ in response to an inquiry by the editor of the Chicago Democrat, he declared:

We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.

This declaration, later know as the first of thirteen Articles of Faith, clearly sets forth a principle belief in Jesus Christ. As a member of the church it could not be more simple, yet many would argue otherwise. Why then, does the Church’s stance that Mormons are Christians become the subject of such controversy?

In this post on the Washington Post-Newsweek On Faith blog, Michael Otterson, director of media relations for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints writes:

When some conservative Protestants say Mormons aren’t Christian, it is deeply offensive to Latter-day Saints. Yet when Latter-day Saints assert their Christianity, some of those same Christians bitterly resent it. Why? Because both sides are using the same terms to describe different things.

Otterson explores these terms and descriptions and puts them each into context based on different points of view. Having found myself in the position of responding to this question throughout the years, my reply has always been, we believe in Jesus Christ, therefore we are Christian… I mean it’s right there in the name: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I realize however, that I never offer to explain much more about what I take to be a simple fact.

Although the ideas expressed by Otterson are not new, they have caused me to more clearly think about the roots of this important question, and how I might better prepare a more informative response when faced with the question, “Are Mormons Christians?”.

How do you respond when asked, “Are Mormons Christians?” Let’s talk about it in the forums.

In this episode we explore the succession of the President of the Church, analyzing the church’s policy and scriptural references. Join us as we explore the highest levels of church government including offices you have heard of, like the First Presidency, and maybe a few you haven’t (Common Council of the Church anyone?).

Listen as the Potluck Dudes are rebuked, and repent of their sins. Find out how you can locate ‘missing money’, and don’t miss Brother Sean’s LDS Joke of the Day™.

View Show Notes for the episode, including links mentioned in the show at:
http://wiki.mormonpotluck.com/ShowNotes/Episode021