 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||
|
 |
The FAIR JournalThe FAIR Journal is published monthly. It contains information about new apologetic information at the FAIR Web site. If you would like to sign up to receive the FAIR Journal automatically, click here. To return to the index of past FAIR Journal issues, click here.
======================================================================
THE FAIR JOURNAL February 2007
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Apologetics: The branch of theology that is concerned with
defending or proving the truth of Christian doctrines. (The
American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth
Edition, 2000.)
INSIDE THE JOURNAL
----------------------------------------------------------------------
* MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT. Scott Gordon reviews some of the
wiki resources that have become available at FAIR over the last
year.
* CLAREMONT ANNOUNCES SEARCH FOR FIRST CHAIR IN MORMON STUDIES.
Claremont Graduate University is conducting an academic search
to fill the Howard W. Hunter Chair in Mormon Studies.
* NEW ON THE WEBSITE. "The Testimony of Eight." Scott Gordon
reviews the testimony of the Eight Witnesses.
* ASK THE APOLOGIST. Got a question you are dying to ask? Here's
how.
* FAIR TOPICAL GUIDE. The Topical Guide on the FAIR Web site is
one of the most popular resources offered. Learn what is
available and help us expand our references.
* FAIR LDS BOOKSTORE. The 2006 FAIR Conference proceedings are
now available in CD, DVD, and MP3 formats.
* ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS. Interested in writing for FAIR? Learn how
you can have your apologetics work published.
* PUBLISHING NOTES. Learn how you can become more involved in
FAIR and how you can reuse the material we publish.
* FAIR JOURNAL ARCHIVES. All of the FAIR Journal issues since
October 2001 are on the FAIR web site.
------------------------------
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
The FAIRWiki at www.fairwiki.org continues to grow and respond to a
number of issues and challenges. We are especially proud of the new
material that has been added on the First Vision accounts at
http://www.fairwiki.org/index.php/First_Vision_accounts
It would be worth your while to read through these. Some critics hope
that you won't have the resources to recognize the underlying poor
assumptions that are contained in some of their books and articles on
this topic. With this new area of the FAIR Wiki, you now have at your
computer keyboard access to some of the best information on the topic.
We have also started working on a German Version at
http://de.fairmormon.org
While it is only just starting to get off the ground, we have high
hopes for it. We are looking forward to being able to announce FAIR
wikis in other languages as well. Using the Wiki style format, we hope
to be able to bring answers to questions raised by professional
anti-Mormons to people of many different languages and cultures. Of
course, the biggest problem is finding people who can translate into
those languages.
In the past we have put out a call for people to translate, only to
have our translators be disappointed that we didn't have the
infrastructure in place to support the various languages. We believe
that Wiki software will allow us to support multiple languages, but we
can only provide those languages for which we have volunteers to do
the work.
If you have the time, we now have the resources.
--Scott Gordon
President
------------------------------
FAIR is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, so if you are in the United
States, your donation is tax deductible. Without your donations, FAIR
would cease to exist. Thank you for your support.
http://store.fairlds.org/bi071.html
You can also contact FAIR via the U.S. Postal Service using the
following address. (NOTE: This is a new mailing address for FAIR.)
FAIR
P.O. Box 491677
Redding, CA 96049-1677
------------------------------
CLAREMONT ANNOUNCES SEARCH FOR FIRST CHAIR IN MORMON STUDIES
The Claremont Graduate University School of Religion is soliciting
qualified applicants to fill the newly-created Howard W. Hunter Chair
in Mormon Studies. The candidate should have competency in American
religious history and be able to converse with scholars in as many of
the following fields as possible within the School of Religion: ethics
and society, historical studies, women's studies, history of
Christianity, scriptural studies, philosophy of religion, and
theology. Review of applications begins on February 15, 2007, and will
continue until the position is filled. For further information, please
contact Lisa Maldonado, Administrative Assistant to the Dean, at:
lisa.maldonado@cgu.edu
You can read more about the Claremont Mormon Studies program and the
Howard W. Hunter Chair at the following websites.
http: //www.cgu.edu/pages/4144.asp
http: //www.howardhunterfoundation.org/index.html
------------------------------
The Testimony of Eight
by Scott Gordon
The witnesses to the Book of Mormon have been a major obstacle for
critics of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There was
a group of men who claimed to see the plates and engravings, all of
whom maintained their testimony throughout their lives despite many
opportunities and ample motive to retract their words.
A recent trend in anti-Mormon activity has been to claim that the
witnesses really didn't see exactly what their testimony claims--they
saw and "hefted" the metal plates, handled them with their hands, and
observed the gravings on the plates. Instead, some critics now claim,
the witnesses only saw the "plates" as a covered object, something
that was not actually seen or actually felt.
In his article, Gordon reviews some of the testimonies given by the
witnesses in later years that shows that the critics' novel attempt to
discredit the witnesses' testimony is without merit.
Read the article:
http://www.fairlds.org/cgi-bin/site.pl?s223
------------------------------
ASK THE APOLOGIST
FAIR invites the public to submit questions relating to LDS beliefs,
practices, and history. Some questions are asked sincerely by members
and investigators, others are clearly hostile questions challenging
the veracity of the Church and its teachings. Many of these responses
may end up on the Web site as a FAIR paper or brochure. If you have a
question, you may submit it through the FAIR web site.
http://www.fairlds.org/contact.php
Questions sent to FAIR will be shared with members of FAIR, so it is
not uncommon to receive several responses that approach the issue from
different angles.
------------------------------
FAIR TOPICAL GUIDE
The Topical Guide is one of the most important LDS apologetic
resources available. If you aren't familiar with this part of FAIR's
Web site, check it out at
http://www.fairlds.org/apol
The following are the Topical Guide updates for the month.
* Robert Rees
"The Book of Mormon and Automatic Writing"
Some critics claim that Joseph Smith created the fictional Book of
Mormon in a manner known as "Automatic Writing." Rees examines
this claim.
Book of Mormon > Authorship and Evidences
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai110.html
* Camille Williams
"Women in the Book of Mormon"
Camille Williams explores the question of why so few women are
mentioned in the Book of Mormon. She sets this matter against the
wider backdrop of feminist studies on the Bible and, from a
woman's point of view, offers compelling observations why the
Book of Mormon can and does speak relevantly and spiritually to
women.
Book of Mormon
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai105.html
Gender & Women's Issues
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai138.html
* Teryll Givens
"The Book of Mormon and Dialogic Revelation"
Givens explorers the Book of Mormon's role in allowing believers
personal opportunities to receive revelation from on High.
Book of Mormon
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai105.html
Book of Mormon > Book of Mormon Doctrinal Issues >
Witness of Christ
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai106.html
* Kirk Henrichsen
"How Witnesses Described the 'Gold Plates'"
Henrichsen compiles all the known quotes and comments by
witnesses who described the Book of Mormon plates.
Book of Mormon > Metal and Metal Plates
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai267.html
* Scott Partridge
"The Failure of the Kirtland Safety Society"
The argument over the Kirtland Safety Society is typical of
historical discussions in which much is made about the "facts" of
a situation. It is as if the truth were somewhere "out there" and
if we could somehow manage to separate fact from opinion, we
would know what really happened. This idea neglects to consider
the point that the facts of history seldom come to us in pure
form, since they are always filtered through the mind of the
historian who wrote them. There are no "facts" waiting in
splendid isolation for discovery by the historian, but only the
observations of earlier writers who had their own prejudices.
Thus, the anti-Mormon writer who sees the "facts" as damning to
the Church and the pro-Mormon writer who sees them as further
proof of the validity of his own argument might be wise in
working to obtain a broader perspective of the problem in order
to reevaluate that which they have come to accept as fact. The
purpose of this paper is to reexamine the story of the Kirtland
Safety Society.
Early LDS History
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai046.html
* Charles Harrell
"The Development of the Doctrine of Preexistence, 1830-1844"
Perhaps no doctrine has had greater impact on Latter-day Saint
theology than the doctrine of preexistence, or the belief in the
existence of the human spirit before its mortal birth.
Fundamental concepts such as the nature of man as an eternal
being, his singular relationship as the offspring of Deity and
concomitant brotherhood with all mankind, the talents and
privileges with which he is born into the world, and his
potential godhood are all inextricably connected to the doctrine
of preexistence. This distinctive LDS doctrine was not
immediately comprehended by the early Saints in the more fully
developed form in which it is understood today. Like many of the
other teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, it was revealed line
upon line and adapted to the Saints' understanding. Moreover,
there was a natural tendency to view initial teachings on
preexistence in light of previously held beliefs until greater
clarity was given to the doctrine. This study traces the early
development of the doctrine by examining chronologically the
revelations and recorded sermons and writings on preexistence by
the Prophet Joseph Smith in light of contemporary commentary by
his associates. Seeing how early Saints perceived preexistence
enhances our own understanding of the doctrine and leads to a
greater appreciation of our theological heritage.
Doctrinal Issues > Plan of Salvation > Pre-Mortal Life
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai005.html
* Jan Shipp
"'Is Mormonism Christian?': Reflections on a Complicated
Question"
Since I, a staunch member of the First United Methodist Church in
Bloomington, Indiana, have been studying the Latter-day Saints
for more than thirty years, it is perhaps not surprising that I
am frequently asked whether Mormons are Christians and whether
Mormonism is Christian. Put to me by journalists, academics,
denominational bureaucrats, participants in adult forums in
various local Protestant and Catholic churches, active Latter-day
Saints, bona fide anti-Mormons, my students, and a variety of
other interested persons, the query comes in both forms. But
whatever the form, a forthright yes or no answer seems to be
expected. Because many people think the two questions are one and
the same, inquirers are often startled when I respond by asking
if they wish to know whether Mormons are Christians or whether
Mormonism is Christian. Moreover, since their question, whatever
its form, seems so straightforward to so many, inquirers are also
surprised--and sometimes impatient--when I attempt to determine
the framework within which the question is being asked. Yet
before I can formulate a response, I must know both the substance
of the question and its context.
Comparative Religion > Are LDS Christian?
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai052.html
* Rich Russell
"Where Were the Moroni Visits?"
Rich examines the likely geographical scenarios wherein Moroni
visited Joseph Smith.
Book of Mormon
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai105.html
* Eugene England
"Review of 'How Wide the Divide?' by Craig L. Blomberg and
Stephen E. Robinson"
The good news is that Mormons and Evangelicals aren't as far
apart in their theology as some had supposed. The bad news is
that Mormons and Evangelicals aren't as far apart in their
theology as some had supposed. "How Wide the Divide? A Mormon and
an Evangelical in Conversation" is a unique book and an excellent
model for future religious dialogue between Mormons and other
faiths and among Mormons themselves. It takes on one of the most
notorious divides in Christianity, one fraught with stereotypes,
acrimony, misinformation, and, in a word, much un-Christian
behavior. The book provides clarity, insight, and, I hope, some
healing of wounds. The authors are well-trained biblical scholars
and experienced, able writers. In this book, they reveal
themselves as devout believers in their respective Christian
faiths and as thoughtful, gracious men.
The structure of HWD, carefully planned and worked through, is
key to the book's success, since it requires genuine listening to
each other's positions. The four chapters, each on a crucial,
historically divisive issue, begin with a statement by one or the
other author on the subject and a review of the usual uninformed
"misconceptions" by others of their views. Each author then
includes a quite critical section of "misgivings" about what they
understand the other group believes and ends with "A More
Positive Conclusion" that points toward a "Joint Conclusion"
written together after the other has gone through the same
process for their half of the chapter.
Reviews > Book Reviews
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai186.html
* Matthew R. Connelly
"Review of 'How Wide the Divide?' by Craig L. Blomberg and
Stephen E. Robinson"
In August 1997, Stephen E. Robinson and Craig L. Blomberg
published through InterVarsity Press a book that broke important
ground in LDS and Evangelical circles. The award-winning
book--How Wide the Divide? A Mormon and an Evangelical in
Conversation--is a bold attempt to conduct an ongoing, civil
dialogue between Mormons and Evangelicals.
As the title suggests, HWD asks a significant question. At issue
is the degree of difference and similarity between Latter-day
Saints and Evangelicals. By addressing these in an insightful,
scholarly, and informative manner, the book intends to elicit
individual responses to the question the title poses. It does not
attempt to impose authoritative answers to the question. That
burden is left to the individual readers who, based on the
material in the book and careful thinking, must decide for
themselves the breadth of the divide. The appearance of HWD is
distinctive because it presents, for the first time in LDS
circles since the B.H. Roberts-C. Van der Donckt debate of 1902,
a well-informed and respectful public dialogue between two
scholars who seek to define, explain, and openly discuss their
respective beliefs on their own terms, without surrendering to
reckless polemics. In this book, the question of who is
ultimately right or wrong is temporarily set aside. Because HWD
attempts to navigate the sensitive, unfamiliar waters of real
religious understanding, it is expected the book will be subject
to intense scrutiny for some time to come.
Reviews > Book Reviews
http://www.fairlds.org/apol/ai186.html
------------------------------
FAIR LDS BOOKSTORE
The FAIR Bookstore is excited to announce that we finally have
available the 2006 FAIR Conference proceedings. All sessions are now
available on audio CDs, DVDs, and downloadable MP3s.
The specials are:
* 2006 FAIR Conference Proceedings (15) CDs, only $74.25
* 2006 FAIR Conference Proceedings (15) DVDs, only $74.25
They are also available for $6.95 each, or you can download an MP3 of
any session for only $3.95. You can find information on the conference
proceedings here:
http://store.fairlds.org/bi135.html
We're also pleased to announce that the new FARMS Review of Books
(Volume 18, No. 2) is now available at the bookstore. We are offering
the volume for only $8.75. This book normally retails for $12.95. You
can find further information here:
http://store.fairlds.org/prod/pFR1802.html
To see all of our specials in one place, visit this special page:
http://store.fairlds.org/specials.html
Remember that when you order your books through the FAIR Bookstore
you will be supporting FAIR.
- The FAIR Bookstore Staff
------------------------------
ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS
We welcome article submissions for the FAIR Journal and website. If
you would like to submit an article, please review the editing
guidelines at:
http://www.fairlds.org/EdStyle.pdf
Submit your article to the FAIR Journal Editor, Paul McNabb
(FAIR contact page). An appropriate article would be one that
affirms the truthfulness of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints.
While LDS apologetics (in the broadest sense) deals with refuting
critics of the Church, articles don't necessarily have to deal with
anti-Mormonism, but may deal with some new evidence of the Book of
Mormon, some interesting scripture interpretation, a viewpoint or
quote from the early Christian Fathers or other historical figures, an
interesting lesson idea, an inspiring missionary story, Church
history, or your view on a current event related to the Church or a
piece from a historical journal.
We may also accept articles from people who are not members of The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that may not necessarily
meet the guidelines of supporting the church if it is a topic of
general interest to people involved in apologetics.
A submission may range in length from several pages to a single
paragraph.
------------------------------
PUBLISHING NOTES
FAIR is not owned, controlled by or affiliated with The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All research and opinions provided
in the FAIR Journal and on the FAIR website (http://www.fairlds.org)
are the sole responsibility of FAIR, and should not be interpreted as
official statements of LDS doctrine, belief or practice.
If someone has forwarded this e-journal to you and you would like to
join, you should go to www.fairlds.org and click on the "Join &
Support FAIR" link.
If you are interested in apologetics and would like to participate
actively in FAIR you should consider joining our apologetics e-mail
list. Visit www.fairlds.org and click on the "Join & Support FAIR"
link to join this list as well.
If you manage your own e-mail list, and wish to include some of these
thoughts or articles on your list, contact us at
webmaster. We have a fairly liberal policy of using our
material as long as you contact us first to gain permission, clearly
identify that your source was FAIR, and add a link to the FAIR Web
site (www.fairlds.org).
--------------------------------
FAIR JOURNAL ARCHIVES
For past issues of the FAIR Journal, go to
http://www.fairlds.org/FAIR_Journal
--------------------------------
Copyright (c) 2007 by The Foundation for Apologetic Information and
Research (FAIR). All rights reserved.
If you would like to sign up to receive the FAIR Journal automatically, click here. To return to the index of past FAIR Journal issues, click here.
|
|
FAIR is not owned, controlled by or affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. All research and opinions provided on this site are the sole responsibility of FAIR, and should not be interpreted as official statements of LDS doctrine, belief or practice. If you like what FAIR does and you agree with our mission, we invite you to support FAIR in any way you are able. You can make a donation, or visit our Membership page for additional support ideas. FAIR only succeeds through the efforts of our gracious volunteers.
|
|
Welcome |
Topical Guide |
FAIR Publications |
Join & Support FAIR |
Message Boards
Last Updated
February 07, 2007
You can send comments/suggestions using our contact page. |
