AboutMichael Kelley Expertise For a different viewpoint on Mormonism for your questions, try me. I am a staunch believer in the Book of Mormon and belong to another church (the Church of Christ)that is set up identically to the Biblical church. If there are things about traditional Mormonism that trouble you or you have questions about, just ask and you might find the answers from the Book of Mormon to be quite surprising. I have been studying the scriptures diligently for 16 years under the school of hard knocks... I may not have all of the answers but will sure go find them if I don`t. I`m strongest on Biblical and Book of Mormon doctrines, and am also somewhat familiar with Mormon history and archaeology.
Scott writes on 2007-11-14 20:18:17
Lauren, to give you an answer from the perspective of an LDS returned-missionary, the answers posted here are not necessarily 100%. While a missionary will not really be punished for going back after a mission and marrying a person he/she met while there, it is still not encouraged. Missionaries are to keep a strict code of conduct while serving as such. It's not uncommon to have started to feel for this elder. In fact, it happens quite often. However, don't expect him to act on anything - especially because of his calling as a representative for Jesus Christ.
Now, to respond to some of Mike's comments--
While Baptism for the Dead is not taught in the Book of Mormon, it IS taught in the Bible. Paul taught the Corinthians about baptism for the dead. As for Celestial marriage, the principles of a covenant marriage are taught in the Bible all the way back to Abraham and Sarah, and even Adam and Eve. But the doctrine of eternal marriage was not restored until Joseph Smith received the revelation. In a nutshell, most of the doctrines that may seem "different" from most other Christian churches can be resolved in a simple prayer to Heavenly Father as to whether or not Joseph Smith is a true prophet. I know he is. I know the Book of Mormon is True. It is, indeed, the word of God.
