Friday, November 15, 2013

# 6: The Church is Right About Marriage



We live in a world of shifting values and attitudes.  As recently as a generation ago, marriage was commonly understood to be a union between one man and one woman.  Now, more and more states in the United States are legalizing gay marriage.  I feel blessed to belong to a Church that still preaches the truth that marriage between a man and woman is sacred and ordained of God. 

Of course, the world inside the LDS Church is one of shifting attitudes and values, as well.  Once the Church preached that polygamy was superior to monogamy, and now the Church excommunicates polygamists.  Once the Church preached against interracial marriage.  Now it’s fine. 

But just because the Church has been wrong on a few things doesn’t mean it was wrong about everything.  And just because the Church has been wrong on some things doesn’t mean it’s not right on some things right now.  And one thing the Church is right about is marriage.  The official position of the Church is spelled out in the inspired document called The Family: A Proclamation to the World.

There are such things as moral absolutes.  There is a God who determines what is right and what is wrong, and God has revealed that homosexual acts are sinful. 

How has God revealed this teaching on homosexuality?  God has revealed this truth through scripture, tradition, ecclesiastical authority, and the Holy Spirit.  I would elaborate further, but that’s outside the scope of this blog.  

Not only are the members of the Church doing a great job preaching the truth about traditional marriage, but they're doing a great job practicing this truth.  If you stay in the Church, you will find yourself in a community that preserves and celebrates traditional marriage.  

It is possible that the Church will change its doctrines and practices in relation to marriage in the next few decades?  I think so.  Is it possible that Latter-Day Saints will one day embrace gay marriage?  Yes.   

If that day arrives, what should we do?  I don't know.  Let's cross that bridge when we get there.  For now, let's continue saying our prayers, baking whole wheat bread, and doing our home teaching.

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