I Report, You Decide: Romney's Mormon Faith

Your comments are skewed, biased, and in one case a lie. Many of the items you quote as fact from the bible are in fact open to interpetation. I can quote just as many scriptures supporting the Mormon doctrine. You forgot to state that the Mormon church is reallyThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We believe Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. We also believe that the only way to return to our Father in Heaven is through Jesus. Such dangerous beliefs. Please give me a break.

On a seperate note I find it disgusting that you would use religion to attack a candidate. All we need to know is would Mitt defend and support the constitution? Is he an honest and fair man? Does he have good judgement?

Michael

I'm sorry if I have angered you. It's not my intention to make people angry, yet, I know that I can be pretty strong in my opinions, too. Can you allow me that right, as well?

What I have included here is from a university professor who grew up as a Mormon. He knows all the ins and outs of the Mormon doctrine. You can click on any of the hyperlinks' above to get to his information.

Also, I hope you'll see that I'm not attacking Mr. Romney. It's never been my intention to attack him as a person. I appreciate all the information that I've received that indicates that he is indeed a good man. I fully well believe that he is. Indeed, when I see him in the public's eye, I see a very distinguished gentleman. It's a simple fact that his belief system is something I'm not comfortable with. I have a right to express that opinion.

So, I feel that you are accusing me in ways that this article and the way it is stated do not deserve. I'm not using religion to attack Romney. If what I have stated is uncomfortable to you, I have tried to be fair.

Romney may well be the man for the job. God and time will determine that.

Lastly, I prefer to not leave any communication as an enemy, and I hope you will not consider me as such .

http://www.str.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=5144

http://www.str.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=5282

Go to http://www.str.org and you can search yourself just put in the word Mormon. After reading what "michaeln" wrote I'll let you check it out yourself.

I like some of the things Romney is saying, but everyone should realize that the LDS thing is going to come up if it looks like Romney has a chance to get the Republican nod.

Saw you on Sheila's blog.

I too have studied the differences in Mormonism and Christianity and have found that the historical Christian faith has no similarity to Mormonism.

Though Romney seems to be a sharp candidate, I believe those who believe in historical Christianity will have difficulty voting for him, though it doesn't disparage him as an individual, or his right to believe as he does.

Thanks for sharing the links. What I have listed above is from a university professor that grew up in the Mormon Church.

You're completely right, the Mormon Church will go through a much more intense degree of scrutiny. Romney, though not an intention of his, has opened the door for Mormons to be in the public's eye in a way in which they may not be bargaining for.

I am only at the fringe of Mormon beliefs with what I shared above. I don't think people take a candidate's personal beliefs as seriously as they used to. There's both good and bad to that. As I said below, Romney may well be the man for the job.

Hi Dawncy.

I'll make a little comment about Romney, but first about my reason for this visit. I just read this from you:

Monday, February, 12, 2007 9:57 PM

I think that the greed issue is found in more than just the tax policy. Democrats have also hidden behind causes (homosexuality, abortion, I hate to put this in the same context, but; rights for underprivileged such as people with disabilities, and various minority groups) to elevate themselves. I think it's offensive that they use these "causes" to hide their real identity. I guess I think it goes deeper; I think they really know of these things, and believe that they are quite clever to use such causes as their disguise.

(VERY WELL SAID!! I like your insight, here. I get furious that everything that comes out of them is something to buy votes, as you say, hiding behind "causes". They couldnt care less about causes, but only that they can hook fools into voting for them. The foolishness of those who cant figure that out, is even more disgusting, because these vermin couldnt get into office, if fools didnt vote for them. America shows astounding stupidity.

Maybe more than stupidity, it's astounding selfishness. A selfishness that looks to lie, cheat, and swindle, through the socialist promises and thievery of democrats.

I'm not impressed with any govt, as it has always been socialistic in nature. But the current democrat party is a clear cut liar socialist disgrace. It speaks badly for america to allow any of these things into any position of authority. Gone are the days when america cared about integrity and character. Even traitors are thought to be wonderful, now.)

ROMNEY: I appreciate your comparison of Mormon to Christianity. I also VERY MUCH appreciate that you put TRUTH ABOVE POLITICS. Most people can only think outcome, and not care about looking at the truth along the way. As we know, God's way is not, and cannot be, ends justifies the means. There must be truth and other good along the way. The many people who care only about the ends, we know, are not of God.

As you say, maybe Romney is the best the U.S. can come up with now, in these days of caring nothing about what's right and good and true. Nevertheless, you're doing well by saying what is true. Thank you!!

Thanks for your thoughtful input. I just think there are a lot of unknowns in the Mormon organization.

Yes, may I restate that I feel these things do not disparage Romney as a candidate. In all reality, I think I would have an easier time voting for him than even, say, Guiliani. I believe he presents himself in a more respectable way, in some regards. As well, he may have a less famous political run than Guiliani has had which has not allowed us to see some of what credentials him.

My greater hope is that someone who has true spiritual roots that can draw upon this to fight the enemy, not only on the battlefield, but can wage war in the spiritual sense will be the front runner. It seems like many lesser candidates hold to a more mainstream, yet strong belief system, and I do so wish that the Hand of God would move them forward.


P.S. Sorry it took me awhile to get back to you, but had a computer crash, the phone call, etc... ;)

Though you make some good points I would like to hear from some Mormons to get their side of the argument. All of the references you cite come from the web page of a college professor who is a disaffected Mormon. Those are two reasons for me to be leary of what he has to say.

First of all, being a disaffected Mormon, wouldn't it be reasonable to assume that he wouldn't be projecting a completely objective argument? Secondly, can we assume that he's one of very small percentage of college professors who isn't operating from a base of political correctness and anti-American values? I'm making an effort not to be prejudicial towards him for being a college professor; but the point is, being a discerning person and seeing what it commonly coming out of our liberal academia, I have to make that effort.

Personally I don't attend any church because I've never found one that I didn't find disagreement with on key issues. But I still hold most of the Christians that regularly attend those churches in higher esteem than aethists, and people who call themselves Christians but never study the Bible.

The college professor you reference is an Evangelist. Isn't the rapture doctrine the common view of Evangelical Christians despite the fact that the Bible makes no reference to it and this doctrine didn't emerge until about 1820? And in Ezekiel's prophecy against false prophets the Lord says, "Behold, I am against your pillows, wherewith ye there hunt the souls to make them fly, and I will tear them from your arms, and will let the souls go, even the souls that ye hunt to make them fly." Ezek 13:20

I just point this out to show how easy it is to tear down a religion. But it is just as easy to recognize the value of the followers of that religion. It's our duty to point out the false prophets that we see but we should do it in a way that instructs and guides those who follow the teachings of the false prophets. Or as the Lord says "let the souls go".

As you and I, and many, consider Joseph Smith to be a false prophet it is undeniable that most Mormons, like Evangelical Christians love and serve God. So rebuke the false prophets but recognize the worthiness of Christians who are deceived by them.

Rudy Guliani seems to be an honorable man on most issues and I like his stance on the war. But if I had a choice between him and Mit Romney I would choose Romney. Not the candidate who puts a woman's right to choose (killing the unborn) above the love and will of God.

Matthew Wells

(I like your handle, by the way;))

I echo what you're saying, and I hear you loud and clear. Yes, my post about Democrats' hiding behind causes that they care nothing about really gets under my skin, too. I don't see how this is not obvious. Ask any of the underprivileged who they feign representation of, and you'll find out that they're not better off when Democrats "care for them". I think it's an utter disgrace, because it steps in the way of God's plan, in a very unusual sense. Democrats have pretty much made this a " no need to worry about this, because Big Brother is taking care of things" sentiment.

Unfortunately, the result of this has been that a laissez-faire attitude has prevailed, even in many Christian circles. Christian responsibility is no longer employed because "everyone thinks that someone else will do it"! Ultimately, and undermines and usurps God's authority. But then, what does the word Democrat have to do with God?

Ok, that was a little of line. There are some Democrats who are Christians. I simply haven't come to an understanding of how they can offer allegiance to a party that advocates homosexuality and abortion.

As far as Romney, it's slightly disheartening that your word choice is "Maybe that's the best the U.S. can come up with". I suppose this is partly why I bring these things up, and that in some small way an effect can began to highlight those candidates who can hold to more than just a form of religion, but whose fiber and being emulate one true God.

Thanks for visiting here, truthwanted, and I hope you'll keep coming back!

Dawn

Dawn, I personally do not like to make judgment's on others' religious beliefs unless it is going to harm us in some manner. Islam, as radicalized by some Muslims, is dangerous from the stand point that we are in danger of losing our lives.

I am a Catholic and there are plenty of people who could come up with reasons not to vote for some one because they are Catholic. In fact, it would seem that Catholic bashing is the flavor of the day with Edwards' bloggers making a mockery of the religion.

As far as Romney goes I would make my judgment on him as an individual, his character, his specific
skills or talents to be president, not his religion if I were to consider him for POTUS. At this early time in the political arena I have not come to any conclusions about anyone except for McCain who is too unstable in my opinion.

As far as Romney goes I don't believe he would use his religious beliefs to bring down our country in any way. That's just my opinion. I don't see anything evil about his character so far.

I tend to stay away from debates over whose "religion" is right or wrong. I don't like the arguments because they tend to bring the worst out of people. It is a never ending circular argument that goes nowhere.

For myself I believe in my Catholicism and as far as everyone else goes, let there be freedom to practice the religion of your choice. That is the great part of being in America. Let freedom ring!

thanks for all you share here. I completely understand how important your comments are, here.

I want to give a more thoughtful reply, but ... life, that real thing that happens, sometimes ;) , keeps me somewhat away for a day or two.

Will you come back then? Perhaps others have things to add to what you share, too?

Really appreciate your input!

Dawn

did you get to check out this special thing?
frontline picture that says so much without a word!:
http://www.geocities.com/thechristianheartbeat/welcome.html

Not sure if I will add much, but Mormonism is not a Christian faith, by Christian standards. Yes, they believe in Christ, but the Christ they believe is not the same we do. So be it...

As to Romney, I do not know much about him, though he seems a fair enough condidate. His Mormonism may be a problem for me, too. Will depend on other viable candidates, I guess, as to whether he gets my support.

Mormons put on a good face, but I am not sure how far I can trust them to put the good of everyone first... These comments come from my parents living in Utah. It seems they just are terribly exclusive to their own. That being said, there are some wonderful Mormons, and they do have wonderful tradtional values...

I have a little extra time for the moment, and i always appreciate some in depth thinking and communicating, which you seem to appreciate, too.:

truthwanted,

(I like your handle, by the way;))

(THANKS, AT FIRST, it was just going to be TRUTH, but then i felt that could be misconstrued that i think i have all the truth. While i might have some, only God has it all.)

"I don't see how this is not obvious."

(DAWN, HAVE YOU EVER NOTICED how those who dont see it, dont express anything honestly? That's because they dont want truth. They will do ANYTHING to avoid truth. Thus, it isnt that they cant see the obvious; it's that their thinking is, "What will be to my most benefit?", about every issue. If denying the obvious, is what they think will be to their most benefit, then that denial is what they do.

It used to be very frustrating to me, trying to talk to them, until i realized that their absurdity is in keeping with their selfishness. When i see those who are hell-bent on retaining their selfishness, and denying truth, i do as apostle paul instructed, "Brush off your feet, and go elsewhere.")

"Ask any of the underprivileged who they feign representation of, and you'll find out that they're not better off when Democrats "care for them"."

(YES. ON A CHRISTIAN PROGRAM, I saw a terrific interview with an inner city black woman. She beautifully exposed how much DAMAGE GOVT. HANDOUT PROGRAMS have done in inner cities.)

"I think it's an utter disgrace, because it steps in the way of God's plan"

(I APPRECIATE YOUR GODLY DESIRE for God's plan, Dawn. It seems these days, that so few people care much about God's will and God's plans, even among churches. A woman has told me she's Christian. Last year, when hezbollah and israel were fighting in Lebanon, she noted it. I said, "the muslims have been asking for trouble for a long time." She said, "or has it been the jews asking for trouble?" She calls herself Christian, with a question like that?? What has her church been teaching her? Has she ever read any of the Bible?

Then we can add in episcopal homosexual "leaders", and a large assortment of obvious Godlessness among supposed Christians. No wonder the country has to be judged.

It looks to me like it's like days of old when God sent ravagers (muslims, in this case) to judge those who are getting increasingly evil, Godless, and unrepentant. It looks all the more that way since the muslims have said that they have the "right" to attack america for its Godless evil. While i dont like the muslim religion, primarily because of its infringement on the appropriate freedoms of others, and i dont like their desire to attack, and take over america, i do agree with their assessment that america is full of sin. If it wasnt for so much american sin, i dont think there would be a muslim problem for america.)

", in a very unusual sense. Democrats have pretty much made this a " no need to worry about this, because Big Brother is taking care of things" sentiment."

(I THINK THOSE are the seeds of the socialism that the U.S. has now come to. (trading in God for govt). In my eyes, that's a HORRIBLE trade!!!)

"Unfortunately, the result of this has been that a laissez-faire attitude has prevailed, even in many Christian circles. Christian responsibility is no longer employed because "everyone thinks that someone else will do it"! Ultimately, and undermines and usurps God's authority. But then, what does the word Democrat have to do with God?"

(DEEP THOUGHTS, DAWN! I agree. As my last pastor said, "Welfare is the church's business, not govt's." He had a lot of quick little poignant sayings, e.g. "Your freedom stops where my nose starts.". On the humor side, was, "If you have a chip on your shoulder, it means there's wood higher up.")

"There are some Democrats who are Christians. I simply haven't come to an understanding of how they can offer allegiance to a party that advocates homosexuality and abortion."

(DAWN, I HAVE TO BELIEVE they cant possibly really be Christians. And they are good examples of how far down the U.S. has gone, even in supposed Christianity. (which i think is mostly just Christian in name only).)

"As far as Romney, it's slightly disheartening that your word choice is "Maybe that's the best the U.S. can come up with"."

(I'M SORRY, DAWN. I didnt at all, mean to dishearten you. I dont know if Romney would be a good president, or not. I do think he would be better than any democrat. When i said that, i meant it from the points that you brought up. I agree with you that a truly Biblical president would be best. That's all i meant. I could've said it in a more explanatory way: "Since america is now so against Christianity, maybe romney can be a reasonable second best, compared to most other non-Christian alternatives." Of course, non-Christians are going to hate such an attitude, but considering that Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man can come to the Father, but by Me.", then i conclude, as you expressed, that a TRUE Christian would be the best good for the country.)

"I suppose this is partly why I bring these things up, and that in some small way an effect can begin to highlight those candidates who can hold to more than just a form of religion, but whose fiber and being emulate one true God."

(I ESPECIALLY LIKE THIS STATEMENT, DAWN!! Beginning with, "...more than just a form of religion.": Oh YES, YES. The Bible warns so well about "having a form of Godliness, but denying the power thereof." So many are so concerned about forms, and so little concerned about Godly power.)

AND THEN, "whose fiber and being emulate one true God."

(I like tennis, and i remember when michael chang said, "I believe in Jesus with every fiber of my being." Let's get chang nominated.

I look forward to reign by Jesus, when all the nonsense will finally be subdued. What it really amounts to, i think, is the many Satan worshippers wanting to exalt their thrones above the throne of God, just like their father, satan, said he would do. Govt now, i think, is mostly a lot of little ones, thinking they will exalt their thrones, and thus, they hate God, who stands in their way.

Your statement also reminds me of, "Man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart.", in that you want a president with a genuine heart for God, as i do, also.

And i agree that these discussions are worthwhile. One like this does my heart good. It encourages me to see like-mindedness and like-heartedness. If we're really blessed, perhaps good action can come from it. Perhaps tangible things can be done. But for sure, there can always be prayer, as we're commanded to do.

On the tangible side, logic would say that we should be able to progress. After all, look at the absurdity we're up against. Good sense should easily prevail against absurdity and evil. I'm on townhall because i saw kevin mcullough on tv, touting it for common sense, and i knew that's for me, in these days of rampant, and increasing, absurdity.)

"Thanks for visiting here, truthwanted, and I hope you'll keep coming back!"

(I PROBABLY WILL, DAWN, as long as you want me to. It's been quite awhile since i've written at this length. It comes naturally to me, but i find it's too much for most people. It might be for you, too, in which case i would reduce length and content. Thanks for the warm welcome!)

tw
Dawn

One Brave Muslim Cleric Dares to Tell the Truth That The American Liberation of Iraq is a Blessing to Islam, on Arabic TV!

Go take a look at this http://patdollard.com/2007/02/11/muslims-say-god-bless-america/

I posted this on my blog and watch the commentator how she tries to get this going to anti-America..

If you look at it and like it please pass it on.

As a former Mormon, now a born again Christian i know what Mormonism is about. While it uses plenty of Christian sounding terms, it is in no way a Christian religion. Do not be bullied by the Mormons who will cry persecution at any disagreement with their faith, while they preach that all other Christians are lost and they are the one true church that holds the keys to heaven.

That said, given a choice between Romney and Guliani I would vote for Romney. His religion notwithstanding, he comes much closer to my beliefs than Guiliani ever could. If we are lucky we can have a real conservative in this race by the time we have to make a decision on a nominee.

...that being said, why all this reaction to his faith? It's not as if elected Romney is going to force Us all to convert to mormonism.