Throughout your mission you will undoubtedly come across some form of anti-Mormon literature whether in book, pamphlet or video form. Many of our investigators are given this destructive material at the most crucial times leading to baptism. What is "anti?" Who writes it? How do we deal with it?
The main objection to the Prophet Joseph Smith was his claim of continued revelation. The early Church grew quickly and converts came from varying denominations. Jealousy and backlash were quick to come. The objective was clear; destroy Mormonism by attacking Joseph Smith. With the publication of the Book of Morrnon as supporting evidence of Joseph's calling, those opposing the prophet could not deny the existence of the book. Thus, the first anti was written to "explain away" the Book of Mormon. Springing from those early attempts to disprove the Book of Morrnon, anti material has branched out to include attacks on our doctrine, practice and leadership.
Anti is the direct fulfillment of prophecy, for Moroni told the 17 year old Prophet that his "name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people" (JS-H l:33). Sixteen years later, while confined to Liberty Jail, the Lord again told Joseph that, "The ends of the earth shall inquire after thy name, and fools shall have thee in derision, and hell shall rage against thee;" (D&C 122:l).
The existence of this material confirms anew Joseph's prophetic mantle. It is nothing to be scared of; rather it should strengthen our testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith and the Church and Kingdom established through his instrumentality.
The first anti-Mormon literature was authored by Alexander Campbell, the founder of the "Disciples of Christ" (grew into the Church of Christ) in 1832. Since then, many have tried their hand at "warning the world of the evils of Mormonism." Some are excommunicated members, bitter at the Church and its leaders; others are leaders of other religious organizations scared at the continued growth of the church. Still others are opportunists, trying to capitalize on a profitable market that nets millions of dollars each year. While we cannot judge their motives, all these authors have one thing in common...they lie, distort the truth and ignore documented facts in their attempts to "deceive the very elect" (Matt. 24:24).
The chief instigator of anti is Satan who "stirreth up their hearts to anger against this work" (D&C 10:24). The Lord knew what would occur and has spoken conceming the devil and those who do his will, "And thus he has laid a cunning plan, thinking to destroy the work of God; but I will require this at their hands, and it shall turn to their shame and condemnation in the day ofjudgment" (D&C 10-23).
Whether encountered at a door or through investigators, we must be mature, clear and honest with all people. Following these steps will ensure that we do all in our power to give every individual an opportunity to accept the Gospel and be saved.
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This is not new, we understand there are some that are hostile towards the church for whatever reason. The material they received is false and the Spirit will tellthem that. Anti-Mormon authors use similar techniques that rvhen pointed out and understood can help the honest in heart to see the truth. All "anti" material can be categorized into 23 techniques used in what is called "yellow" (a word used to describe the unethical use of words to convey a false, sensational or tainted view of a subject) joumalism. A few common examples are...
If you check the bibliography of anti-Mormon books you will notice that a majority of the authors reference other anti-Morrnon authors. Thus, they recycle the same sources over and over as well as the same false information. These authors disregard thousands of LDS discourses and scriptures while focusing on the minute and interpret relatively insignificant information incorrectly. |
Two types of concerns will arise because of this literature, doctrinal and "foolish and unlearned questions" which Paul tells us to avoid (2Tim.2:23).
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We will answer doctrinal concerns upfront and clearly. If you cannot answer the concern, explain that you will find the answer and come back. As to the "foolish" questions (i.e. what Joseph Smith was wearing when he was shot etc.) we do not have the time nor desire to answer them. |
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For those who are sincere, refer them to: |
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End in pure, simple testimony and reiterate the importance of the Spirit in detecting truth ftom error (see Alma 4:19). |
Note: It is mission policy that we do not take anti material, study it or have it in the flat. It is appropriate to look over it with investigators in order to resolve concerns, but it is not to be brought home with you.