PTM WEEKLY UPDATE -- SEPTEMBER 8, 2008
What our readers and listeners say
Mormons -- and Judgment Day
Your Q&A in the August 25 PTM Weekly Update Judgment Day was a great read. Given my past in Mormonism, I've had that question asked of me by transitioning Mormons, more along the lines of: "Well, if I don't have to work for my salvation anymore, then what am I going to DO with my life now? For many it's difficult to grasp the concept of grace. It was certainly difficult for me to grasp the concept of grace, to think that my sins are paid in full by the blood of the Lamb. But I also know that it is His grace that motivates me and keeps me in a state of love, humility, service to God, my neighbor, and even my enemies (which is a BIG challenge I have yet to master as a human living in the world today). Mormons smirk at the Christian definition of grace, thinking that we believe it's a free ticket to do whatever we want. What they don't understand is that it is not by our works we are saved; it is by our belief in Jesus THROUGH FAITH that we do good to others and serve others in His name. Good works as a result of our FAITH, not religious belief . . . "so that no man can boast" (Ephesians 2: 8-9). Mormons believe that their temple work for the dead brings them salvation, so in essence they are "saviors," prepping their own selves for godhood. I had so much pride in being a member of the LDS church; it is one of the many regrets I have about my life to this very day. I look back and literally wince at the thought that I could ever have so much pride to think that I could be like God. There is great peace, knowing that I am forgiven and loved. Would we like to live in constant fear that we're not measuring up, working so hard to be our own saviors...or would we like to live a life of peace, joy and rest in Christ (Mathew 11:28)? I don't know about you, but I choose the latter! -- TennesseeWhen were you saved?
Thank you for your answer to "When Were You Saved?" I belong to a church which is grace based but there still are some older members who can quote the "date" of their salvation, but I personally have had several "memorable" encounters with the Savior so am never exactly sure of when I was saved! My husband, God bless him, felt so pressured by this group he actually came up with a date! I know he and I both are "saved" by God's grace and I have never felt comfortable with the 'date' issue. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for addressing this subject! (I had already decided I would let the Lord worry about my date, but it's still nice to hear what I believe is finally, the truth!) Living in His Love -- Florida
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