Recently in LDS doctrine Category

This is a second piece on Bushman's Mormonism: A Very Short Introduction (OUP, 2008). [See Part 1.] Every faith and denomination has an approach for balancing faith and reason. In Chapter Two of the book, Bushman briefly outlines the LDS approach.

It is sometimes difficult for Protestants and Evangelicals to understand that the LDS Church is not simply another Protestant denomination with a well-defined catechism or creed. It is expected to be well defined since, in the Protestant world, those with different doctrinal views quite easily split off to form their own denomination, movement, or megachurch affirming a slightly different set of well-defined doctrines. The idea that Mormonism is more like a religious tradition embracing a range of doctrines rather than a denomination with a narrow doctrinal range is not easily grasped. Views on inerrancy are a good example of this.

Good question. For some answers, read Peggy Fletcher Stack's Salt Lake Tribune article "Mormons and the cross." The article suggests the LDS practice of avoiding use of the cross is a cultural practice that developed in the 20th century rather than a doctrinal position rooted in any scriptural passage or modern (LDS) revelation.

The Mormon Times has a short write-up on a presentation given by Terryl Givens at UVU (that's Utah Valley University) on the preexistence in Western thought, the topic of his soon-to-be-released book. While the doctrine certainly has its appeal, it remains a heresy to orthodox Christians. Here, quoting from the article, is one purported theological advantage of accepting the doctrine.

A pleasantly entertaining op-ed piece from the Belfast Telegraph: "What if Mormons are right and Catholics and Protestants are wrong?" Not only does the writer cover in short order the ancient Christian tradition of baptism for the dead and why its practice by modern Latter-day Saints shouldn't really bother anyone ... hey, it's just fun to read Irish! As in this closing line: "If, on the other hand, it isn't the Mormons at all, those who turn out to have been right can wave a merry farewell to the crestfallen followers of Brigham Young as they trundle downwards to their eternal comeuppance."