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Help Thou Mine Unbelief - Page 2

I agree with this but feel there is some danger in assuming we know things that have not actually been revealed by the Brethren. Even with revealed doctrine and especially with true anti-mormons, sometimes silence is best. Even Christ, when confronted by unbelieving Pharisees, knew when words would have no effect, and kept silent. It's a hard call though, and takes guidance by the Spirit, to know when to talk and when not to.

Yes, there are a few. I won't divulge which, because my inner processing chip is very slow, but you'll hear from me eventually.

Unbelief Thou Help

Valla said:

I do not recall mentioning about assuming we know things the Church has not revealed. I was referring to the doctrines and practises that the Church through its Prophets have revealed as such and practised.

I suppose it all depends on the circumnstance and who is the person you are discussing a point of doctrine. If the person is totally irrational or ignorant, then I never bother even starting a conversation but if they are not, I think clarifying and talking about certain doctrines can help in a lot of ways. Silence is a great tool if used properly but when misused, can be interpreted it as a sign of shame on that particular doctrine, lack of knowledge or simply an attitude of not caring enough about it. Just in my opinion, of course.

Help Thou Mine Unbelief Studies Doctrine Mormon

No, you didn't. It was just a thought I had as I considered the difficulty I have in discussing the deeper doctrines with non-LDS, regardless if they are opposed to the church or investigators. There have been times were I've assumed a certain doctrine or principle has been revealed through the Prophets and then later discovered that it has not, but is only tradition. This could be something as simple as a quote by a general authority that is taken out of context, or common beliefs that is assumed by members of the church.

Offtopic but, I think this forum will eventually do me a great justice by toning my abilities to discuss the deeper doctrines intelligently.

I think we're on the same page here, only I would rather err on the side of caution for myself, in keeping silent. This has to do, I think, with confidence in my own knowledge. In my opinion, some get so caught up in the process of living that they believe they don't have the time to study and learn the deeper doctrines, and that these things are not necessary for Salvation, as you mentioned. I believe they do matter because they keep us spiritually fit, and are a great missionary tool when somebody who is truly interested inquires of us. Through many mistakes and some years of trial and error I've learned, for myself, that I will stop and wait for the Spirit to prompt me if I should say something. If I don't feel that prompting, I keep silent. I'm not a great speaker anyway, so on my own I would be hopeless. I hope this isn't too off topic but to bring it back let me add that in understanding the deeper doctrines a measure of passion about the gospel is required because it does take some hard work and some who have been members their whole life lack this, in my opinion.