In the spirit of you sharing a quote from the Book of Mormon I’d like to share a quote from Frodo in the Lord of the Rings. “I know what I have to do, Sam. The ring was entrusted to *me*. It’s my task, mine, my own!” Just like King Benjamin, Frodo is a well-meaning and caring individual. And just like Benjamin, Frodo is fictional and will always be fictional.
But alas I no longer think the #1 problem for the Mormon church is that the Book of Mormon is fictional. Their #1 problem above all others that is screaming at the top of its lungs is simply that it FAILS TO TELL THE TRUTH. Its absurd to what extent the church goes to in its efforts to whitewash its history. For example, Boyd K. Packer openly advocates that seminary teachers ought to not tell their students the truth on church history. As a result there are many who are in the church who are very misled on the church’s past. And its especially important if they want credibility that they learn their history and be prepared to answer questions honestly. Most people really won’t judge Mormons so much by how difficult their claims are to believe, but by how completely honest they are with them. So when questions come up about Mormonism I hope you won’t commit sins of omission in trying to hide or coverup any church history/doctrines. Just tell it the way it is and you’ll gain more respect from those who are honest seekers of truth.
You are so absolutely correct. It was discovering that the Church lies about its history that led me away. God’s Church absolutely cannot lie, if it does, it cannot be from God.
Today, with the advent of the internet it is imperative for the Church to deal with its issues honestly. Church apologetics may work on TBMs, but it doesn’t work on those with questions. That tactic will definitely NOT work with the voting public who are not LDS.
Actually much of Tolkien’s writings are based on Christian truths and actual ancient Christian medieval documents. (I have seen others much more learned than I in this area discuss examples here on FR) His son Christopher has also compiled his writings in 12 volumes and includes examples of the original documents from 600 or 900 AD that some of the story is based on. There is the “ring of truth” in his stories for a reason. It is the same with CS Lewis’ work. My brother’s co-worker did not realize Aslan the Lion was a type of Christ (it’s the secular world we live in). While Frodo the character may be fiction much Christian truth is in the books for those who recognize it. (or who are familiar with ancient religious texts).
You have stated your opinion that King Benjamin is a fictional character? How do you plan to go about proving it?