Mormon Exodus: Why members leave the LDS Church

A lot of people are leaving the Mormon church these days. Many of us have noticed as our friends and family disappear from church attendance. What is making them leave, and where are they going? Among all of the issues and problems in the LDS church, what is still true?
I take a look at these questions in this video. I'm glad you're here and I hope you enjoy!
Here are some links to free online sources of the Book of Mormon. I use these in my studies because they are free from distracting and misleading chapter headings and footnotes:
www.holybooks.com/wp-content/...
archive.org/details/book-of-m...

[@Mmmmmk247]

Leaving the church and truly gaining a relationship with God is the best thing my wife and I ever did. Thank you for making this video

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks Mmmmk. I am inspired that you are gaining a relationship with God - much of the media out there about leaving the church involves going off the deep end and disbelieving God and everything about religion. I would love to know more about your story!

[@Mmmmmk247]

@@CMZIEBARTH being born and raised in the church creates cultural pressure to do religious works. They prefer you gain a testimony of the truth of the BOM and Joseph Smith and don’t focus on gaining a testimony of Christ. Every fast and testimony mtg began with the words, “I know the church is true and Joseph Smith was a true prophet who restored the gospel…” it just wasn’t Christ centered. The pressure of going on a mission, going to church, going to the temple, getting married in the temple, paying tithing… for alot of people it destroys one’s will to want to go, then shames you if you don’t perform. On top of all that, repentance is a constant shame cycle of eventually messing up because we’re human, say sorry, publicly not take the sacrament, feel like crap for sinning and feel shame. It may not even be judgement from other members seeing you not take the sacrament but you feel it. It just doesn’t feel like the church represented a ‘light yoke’ as Jesus states his is. It feels heavy. On top of all that, the God the LDS church worships isn’t the God of the Bible. Same name, different in character. The motivation is self centered and trusting in yourself to achieve your earned position in the celestial kingdom through your works. When I read the New Testament, it just doesn’t align with LDS theology. Jesus warns against following a false gospel and false Jesus. I believe the LDS church is all of that. I believe the LDS religious elites are the modern Pharisees etc… The church cherry picks what they like from the Bible and says the rest was mistranslated, which now can be proven to be false. There are many, many issues with the BOM and history of the church. The Bible can be trusted, we have more manuscripts that any other text in history. Also I believe God is able to preserve His word and more than capable of ensuring the important event in history (Jesus life and sacrifice) is preserved in those texts. It is my hope that everyone turns from having a go-between church or religious system and finds their relationship with the one true God. If you have further questions please feel free to ask

[@Mmmmmk247]

@@CMZIEBARTH moving towards a Christ centered theology shouldn’t have ever been a thing. The LDS gospel roots are tragic starting from its origin with Joseph Smith. Slowly becoming more Christ centered is telling of a false gospel attempting to mimick and exploit Jesus teachings for what?…. Well the LDS church throughout history has shown it has existed originally for sex, money and power and eventually removed the sex component. Yet here they are continually requiring money for the highest order of heaven and have power over their members with the whims of the new prophet.

[@Surfer5689-ez2yd]

@@Mmmmmk247 I am intrigued by your post after being Mormon what do you believe is necessary to be saved. Your post brought up many questions but I am not sure that you can answer them.

[@Mmmmmk247]

@@Surfer5689-ez2yd ask away. It doesn’t matter what I believe, it matters what the Bible says. It teaches you are saved by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ who atoned for the sins of the world. Anyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.

[@rhyde0731]

Cafeteria Mormon here, honestly I’m proud of that. It’s been the healthiest thing for me and my family. I’m also very disappointed with the direction of the church. Man we have such an idolatry problem in our church! It’s crazy how you don’t see it when being a TBM. My husbands testimony completely crumbled 8 years ago. We attend for community only.

[@ronaldwinfield307]

Actually Cafeteria Mormonism is the most logical religion I can possibly think of. I encourage you to be a devout & active Cafeteria Mormon. Let me explain myself. As a religion we know a lot of things that nobody else knows & we need to cling to these things. The basics are absolutely true. Growing up church leaders said stick to the basics. That was good advice. Rejecting that advice leads us to false doctrine. Often by no fault of our own we get exposed to things that go beyond the basics. Many of these things are false. These false things threaten our testimony.

[@scotthullinger4684]

Clear that up for me: What exactly is the "direction" of the church? You think something has changed, so what might that be? Is it fun to be a jack Mormon? If you attend, then you should attend for more than just "community." How about worshipful participation? Church is not a club. It's unfortunate that no shortage of members surely DO treat Church just like it's the same as going to the club house. Aren't you even the least bit ashamed of that?

[@rhyde0731]

@@scotthullinger4684 why should I attend for more than community?

[@scotthullinger4684]

@@rhyde0731 - Did I say you should? I'm not sure what you think your problem is. Exactly which "direction" is the church headed? You think something's changing? Such as ... ?

[@rhyde0731]

@@scotthullinger4684 to quote yourself “If you attend, then you should attend for more than just “community”. “ So yes, you did say that. Do you really believe it’s your business to police others about why they choose to attend church? There are some great scriptures that you should read about Pharisees and finger pointing. Have a blessed day.

[@jc72outdoors]

I was a life long member myself. My family heritage goes back to the beginning with Joseph Smith. I waa raised in the church and I raised my family in the church. When I was 40 I was serving in the bishopric and at 43 I left the church. I'm now 50 years old. I left when my kids were in their teens and this was difficult for them and my wife and I. Now both my wife and I have resigned our membership as well as my mother who is 77. She was a temple worker before she resigned. The reasons for leaving are complex and difficult to put into words here. I do miss the community I once had but I can't belong to a church I believe is false. Thanks for the video.

[@MormonRescue]

Your story feels very familiar to me. Thank you for sharing it! I'd love to know more about why you finally felt like leaving, and how you have found your way since. :)

[@ComoconfiarnoSenhor2023]

Hello. I am a member of the Church in Portugal. Why is the Church false?

[@jc72outdoors]

@@ComoconfiarnoSenhor2023 Lot's of reasons.

[@federicoeco9030]

​@@ComoconfiarnoSenhor2023 for me is not false. False are our General Authorities. They don't do what the Lord have asked through Joseph Smith. We the members have to live in consagrated communities where not exist poor and reach.

[@ComoconfiarnoSenhor2023]

@@federicoeco9030 ok

[@Teresamaisey76]

I'm right in the thick of this dark place of doubt. Thank you for this awesome video

[@MormonRescue]

"I'm right in the thick of this dark place of doubt." What a great description! If your experience is like mine, it is a dark place indeed. I hope that finding others including so many of the great people in this community can help us get through it and to a good place of belief. Glad you are here.

[@lisa143justin]

It's such an interesting space to be in, isn't it?

[@SummitSecrets]

I am out there and with you Teresamaisey. I have left the church and returned to the true gospel found in the Book of Mormon and NT.

[@JaredPalmerVlogs]

Hi! Quick question just wondering where you’re at now with your belief? I’m just curious because I was also in a thick place of doubt about a year ago, and have been slowly coming out of it (as a non-believer now) for the last year. It’s crazy to see the other side being out of the church, when you’re in it and when you’re out it’s two such completely different perspectives. I’d love to hear your experience!(:

[@briarhill4950]

So happy you’re back! We’ve been thinking about you, and praying for you!

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks so much, that is wonderful of you.

[@lyndseeh]

I echo that sentiment! Your voice is needed here! Please remember that. Never let anyone silence you, censor you, or infringe on your free agency. (I tell myself that daily…) ❤️

[@lisatreelove9278]

Beautiful. Thank you for coming back online. Your videos are so thoughtful and respectful, so I wanted to share some to help someone in my life understand some of the concerns I have with the church without putting them on the defense. I’m grateful to you for making them and putting them back up.

[@aliceaubalmasque3645]

That is a great testimony ! I began to experience doubt about leaders since 2020. When it happened that we were no longer allowed to attend Church meetings due to lock down for several months, I realized that I didn't miss it at all and felt more spirituality listening to hymns and studying Scripture at home. Then more and more questions came in my mind. It's clear for me that I'am walking on the same path as you do !

[@federicoeco9030]

I agree with you. Read 2 Nephi 26:29-31

[@lyndseeh]

Thank you for this! I feel like I could have made this video myself. Your experience parallels mine almost verbatim. You are definitely not alone. The path can be lonely when you truly start searching for truth, but it’s miraculous how much Heavenly Father will teach us, when we finally become teachable. God bless you. ❤️

[@MormonRescue]

"I feel like I could have made this video myself. Your experience parallels mine almost verbatim." I'm sorry and happy at the same time! Sorry that you are having to go through this like I am, and so glad to hear that we are in this together, that it's not all just in my head. It is so nice to find others on the path, and may God bless all of us :)

[@Zeett09]

My wife left Mormonism 40 years ago because of one word “judgmental”. (Note: I’m ex Catholic) She lived in a small town in Utah. Everyone just gossiped and judged everyone. She left that town at 18 and became a loving non-judgmental atheist and never looked back.

[@user-ze1rs3kb4c]

My own experience solidly supports your conclusions about people not only leaving or stepping back from current LDS doctrine, but from organized religion as a whole. The child abuse scandals of the Catholic faith, the intrusion of radical politics into fundamentalist protestant denominations, and the abuse of finances, together with the destruction of community relationships engendered by the internet, have all served to make people aware of how far their respective churches have strayed from the teachings of Christ. My personal revelation has been that the salvation offered by Jesus Christ comes from studying and attempting to follow his teachings rather than blind obedience to dogma , and that I am quite capable of having a rich and rewarding relationship with Him without the intercession of some sort of 'higher authority." Keep up the good work!

[@patrickmo7137]

We are here Brother we are here and you are the support that alot of us find Thankyou

[@jameshasapoint7628]

MR, thank you for your message. Your treatment of why so many members are leaving was refreshingly accurate, balanced, fair, respectful and loving. Your overview was vastly superior to what LDS leaders say. I would add another category: Saints who believe in The Book of Mormon, priesthood power, in short, the restoration narrative, but who have been abused by the brethren. In my case I was, like you, a Mormon's Mormon, never even having declined a single calling or asked for early release (except when moving). But... In four out of five states where I have held some residency I have been battered by racism, deprication of my profession and income. For decades I tried to ignore it, told myself I was the problem, told myself to submit and just try even harder than ever before, that eventually I would be delivered. I also suffered from massive ecclesiastical abuse under the guise of being "shepherded". But eventually the white-worship (no offense to you; you don't have even a hint of that sick bias) and mammon-mongering, not to mention abuse from leaders, local and mostly the fifteen at the top, led me to need to step back. I still attend Sacrament once a month (because I believe), I pay a full tithe (but sadly for the mammon-mongering brethren, according to revelation, not policy), and I serve in callings I called myself to 🙂, and I attend the Temple, at least until the leadership meddles with that. I love The Lord, I repent daily and strive to keep His ways. I'm far from perfect nor do I think or say "I'm good", but I love Jesus. We need change. The brethren need to reform or be swept out by the Lord. The Book of Mormon teaches that the twelve served until age 70. Imagine the cleansing of the inner vessel if our leaders were NOT chosen for their money, worldly honors, connections and ethnicity, but by The Lord. Imagine what would happen if the brethren esteemed every soul as equal. Well, I respect you and wish you Godspeed in your journey of pure faith in Christ.

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks James for adding this 4th category. Excellent examples and description, and I appreciate your explanation!

[@stevenhorne]

I'm one of those Book of Mormon believers who is not part of the LDS church anymore.

[@MormonRescue]

I wish I could pick your brain sometime on how you stay a believer in the Book of Mormon despite everything. I feel like I"m in a similar boat and love knowing people who hold strong to their faith. :)

[@Kristy_not_Kristine]

There are a lot of us out there!! :)

[@stevenhorne]

@@Kristy_not_Kristine I'm find that out. It's very reassuring as I feel like I've been on a very lonely path for the past thirty years.

[@valiantliege]

You can believe the Book of Mormon because the Word of God is in it. It I love the word of god, and the BoM borrows so much from the King James bible. Recognize you are the temple of the Holy Spirit, not the brick and mortar building. I say this as a never-Mo who has considered converting, but see issues with the church that I can not overlook.

[@dpost9921]

I resonate sooo much with what you describe in this video. It is exactly my experience. Looking back and realizing the spiritual abuse I’ve endured my entire life while living in the LDS Truman Show has been difficult. But deciding to step away from the toxic nature of the church and coming to learn of the Savior and develop a new relationship with him has been amazing. And yes, it is the Savior that shows up in the BOM, loving, kind, full of grace, and accepting ALL who come unto him and accept him.

[@MormonRescue]

I'm so happy to hear that his has been your experience too, Daniel! Thanks much for this.

[@tsmithson1]

Funny, I have recently thought a lot about how the LDS tradition acts much like the Truman show. We are so consumed with keeping people safe, we have completely excluded adventure, and instead demonize everything outside the bubble of safety. We forget that, Adam and Eve chose adventure over stasis.

[@JaredPalmerVlogs]

Just want to say thank you for how well you put everything out there and how accurate/unbiased your descriptions were of why people are leaving the church today! In most of the videos i see there is a lot of heavy bias towards one certain way of thinking, when in reality people are scattering everywhere and all doing their best to come to the right conclusions with the evidence they have. And out of all the videos I’ve seen, i think you did probably the best out of all of them just laying everything out there. Also loved hearing your story and journey!! Appreciate this video a ton!!

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks so much!

[@ComoconfiarnoSenhor2023]

I met the missionaries in 1986 in a small place in Portugal. They presented the message of the restoration of the Church but we didn't understand anything they said as they spoke very little Portuguese. But as they spoke, a feeling of truth flooded my heart. I knew they were speaking the truth because the feeling said so. My father, my mother and my sisters never felt what I felt. And they weren't even interested in hearing the message. I didn't know what that feeling was but it felt good to me and I wanted more. Years later I learned that it was the Spirit of God confirming the truth. I had the right attitude for the Lord to reveal the truth to me: true intent and a sincere heart. Moroni 10:4-5. Whenever the missionaries would come to my house, that feeling would come back when they started talking. John 14:26. When they left there, the feeling was also absent. These missionaries had come from the other side of the world to teach me the truth about Joseph Smith and the Restoration of the Gospel. I began to feel a change of heart Alma 5:14. My family was not interested nor asked the Lord why they believed the Catholic Church to be true [Mosiah 16:12]. I had attended many churches but for the first time a feeling spoke to my spirit that the truth was in the Book of Mormon. The years went by, I did the Mission and that Spirit was felt by my spirit from time to time, always with the same sensation of truth. I learned to respect personal revelation. The Lord has guided me hundreds of times in my life. However, science, the Internet, friends, enemies of the church, family members have tried to destroy my testimony but could not shake Jacob 7:5. Many have worked diligently with great power of conviction to lead me away from the truth Jacob 7:3 but I am used to hearing the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. There are things that I am not able to explain but I prefer to continue trusting in the Lord. Isaiah 29:13. I was spiritually born for the Lord. Alma 5:14. How do I know that Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon are true? Because the Lord revealed it to me. Alma 5:45-46. There are many things that want to cause doubt in my mind and heart. Many people have Satan's power to cause doubts that are difficult to resolve. Jacob 7:4. But I just listen to God's voice and study the scriptures diligently for answers. John 5:39. Today after so many years I hear so much against the Church, against Joseph Smith, against the Book of Mormon by the Americans who brought the truth to Portugal that it makes me sad. I ask all who have been convinced by the power of science, the devil, and the things of this world to seek an answer from the scriptures and personal revelation for every opposition. Mosiah 16:12. I have personally felt the power of the adversary trying to cause doubts in my mind causing pain, hurt and distrust but I know that He is not a God of doubts. I Corinthians 14:33. Dear brothers in America [Salt lake, Provo, Utha..etc.] It was you who brought the truth to me, please don't be the one to give up now. I love you and soon my son will be going on a mission thanks to the first missionaries who taught me. Let's get through everything together. I need you. Today Europe needs to help Utha.

[@adamkaine2714]

6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. 8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? 10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. - John 14:6-10 Jesus is saying to Phillip if you know me you have seen my father. That is to you heavenly father or the God head. Then Jesus says have you spent so much time with me and have not known me? So Jesus is acknowledging they have seen the God head. How is that possible if Jesus is not the father? Then the best part is he claims to be Heavenly Father. He that hath seen me has seen the father. That's why Jesus says after, then why do you say show us the father? These are the Messiah's words telling his disciples that they have seen God. They've seen God in the flesh. According to your theology Jesus is not the God head, unless you can give me a reasonable explanation that lines up with LDS teaching?

[@frankhall1551]

Matt, I’m glad you’re back. I feel like I’m reunited with a friend I had lost contact with for a time. This is a very good video. I’m convinced there is a huge community of Americans who are disaffected with the institutions we grew up with and trusted: the government, media, and sadly - even the Church. And the more we study and learn about all of them, the more disenchanted and cynical we become. All of them have lofty pronouncements and seemingly righteous goals, but all are subject to corruption by power hungry and greedy men. I think we are witnessing the modern day iteration of The Church that we can read about in The Book of Mormon when it had been corrupted by corrupt men. I know many very good and righteous people on The Church, many who are family members of mine, and I can say in all honesty I am glad that I was raised in The Church and that I raised my own daughters in The Church. My grand children are all being raised the same way, but I also must admit that many of the huge life decisions I made in my early life were made because I was so indoctrinated in the dogma that I should do precisely as my priesthood leaders directed, and in a sense I think I was robbed of my “free agency” and later suffered the consequences of those decisions. I tried my best to rectify those false doctrines when I advised my own children and I think they profited from the lessons I learned. One of the best lessons I learned as a young Utah Mormon was the concept of self sufficiency. Too bad those teachings did not include self sufficiency in thought, but I have learned that lesson in my recent years. I am a searcher, and as I search, I am assisted in my endeavors by other searchers such as yourself. Thank you for your courage and strength, and know there are many who support you. Frank

[@MormonRescue]

This means a lot to me Frank. Thank you, and I'm glad to see you. The more I study in my own way, the more I am becoming convinced of what you say about corruption. I wish I knew how to help my loved ones when everything around seems swallowed up in it. What you wrote resonated with me: "I am a searcher, and as I search, I am assisted in my endeavors by other searchers such as yourself." Being able to talk together here is so strengthening! I will continue to search, and my paths may not always be right, but my efforts are sincere.

[@user-og2wt3le4j]

There are many reasons why people leave. I noticed people leaving sin 2013. However I have noticed a real spike since 2020. And no leadership in the church is willing to talk about it. Jana Reiss has done some work in the area. She identifies at least 15 reasons why people leave.

[@michaelsutherland5848]

Great video. I'm in the third group with you. The foundation of the Church is solid, but the enemy took over the vineyard and we're awaiting God's work to reclaim it. All prophesied in the BoM and D&C. "The Book of Mormon is the most anti-Mormon book in the world." - Stuck out to me. I might have remained in the Church for the community, but I'm gay. I was resigned to live a life of celibacy and loneliness because that's what people I trusted ("The Brethren") told me that's what Jesus wanted. But I never though to ask Jesus what HE thought. It took a loss of trust in modern Mormonism for me to think to ask the question. Jesus told me to look for somebody to commit to, and since that's incompatible with LDS policy, leaving the Church was the only way to follow that path.

[@lisa143justin]

Small correction.. Elder Uchdorf was the one that said, "Doubt your doubts."

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks for the correction, I see that you are exactly right!

[@mmmbarrett]

So many similarities with my journey even though I was raised RLDS. thanks for sharing. Watching your videos I’ve lost track of so many times I’ve thought to myself “amen” or “exactly”.

[@MormonRescue]

You echo my own feelings when I watch your channel!

[@ericbyers235]

Welcome back. You do good work.

[@morjulies]

I'm glad you are back! I relate to what you are saying. I mostly relate to being a cafeteria Mormon. :| I love the Book of Mormon, but am feeling discouraged by the direction of the church.

[@MormonRescue]

"I mostly relate to being a cafeteria Mormon. :| I love the Book of Mormon" :) That's great! It is a new experience for me feeling free to pick and choose what I believe in, and not feel the need to be in lockstep. And, I'm so glad that you still believe in the Book of Mormon. When I started feeling things slip, and not being able to reconcile much of the church with the gospel of Jesus, I was initially tempted to follow along with the "throw it all out" crowd. But something told me to give the BoM one more chance, and it has changed my life. I'd love to hear why you still hold on to it? So refreshing to meet more people who do!

[@morjulies]

@@MormonRescue I stay because I love the church in the ways that made me who I am today. There is so much of it that still blesses our family until God gives us something better or tells us to go into the wilderness in time. Right now, that would be more harm than good for our family.

[@djhorsegirl]

So glad to have you back!

[@lorineilson7529]

I had my struggles with the church too. But instead of turning to the Book of Mormon I turned to the Bible. That is where Gods word and truth is found. I am now a Believer in Christ.

[@MormonRescue]

One thing I have loved since trying to see outside the LDS bubble, is Christian music! So much of it is heartfelt and inspiring. I have felt for a long time that many of the hymns we sing, and the way we sing them, are like something found at funerals. While I believe wholeheartedly in the BoM, I am coming to see that the Bible and Christians in general are so good and have so much to offer. Thank you.

[@itsnezer]

​@@CMZIEBARTHNo. First because Galatians 1:6-9, 2 Corinthians 11:3-4 and 1 Timothy 4:1-2. Second because Romans 3:10-12 and Isaiah 64:6.

[@johnrowley310]

Nice to know you will be at Jesus feet rather than swimming in a very hot lake...Mormonism is works based. Nobody will enter his kingdom by presenting their works to him. His finished work on the cross is the only way...

[@user-di9os9gl3h]

@@MormonRescue I agree on the music. Sometimes the music in other churches is very spritual and uplifting, not so at the LDS meetings.

[@charlescresap4451]

​@@johnrowley310The Grace of Jesus Christ saves us. The LDS Church teaches that contrary to what you espoused. Works by themselves are nothing. You are saved through the grace of Christ, but only if you repent and follow him. My example is "Without the Lord you are wandering around in the dark. His grace is he willingly lit the fire to show us the way. Your responsibility, your work is to follow that light which he provides. Following, going to him is work. Sometimes it is up hill. Sometimes the road is nasty and hard work. However, his grace shows the way for all who wish to follow it. I used to be a Mormon. Now I am a Latter-day Saint. Christ s grace saves me because he guides my works. If you have faith but no works; you sit on your rear and do nothing for his kingdom, what do you have?

[@patrickmo7137]

I have stepped away from the Church instead ive grabbed onto the Book of Mormon and the True Doctrine of Christ found in it

[@MormonRescue]

That is wonderful to hear Patrick! I'd love to hear some of the reasons you hold onto the Book of Mormon even having stepped away.

[@patrickmo7137]

@@MormonRescue Because it is True its the Church who has rejected its teaching wondering off on strange paths Lehi’s dream without the LDS GLASSES IS VERY TELLING

[@teekonnal2099]

My story is somewhat similar. I grew up non-religious, joined at age 20. Was in all local leadership positions, was super active and ultra obedient. Gradually became more liberal and by the time Covid started, became an attending member with universalist beliefs. I had my dark night of the soul and anxiety attacks. When I started to deeply study, on my own, world religions and the psychology and sociology of religions, along with epistemology and the scientific method, I ended up an atheist/agnostic. I am very happy and much more at peace than I have ever been. I resigned from the LDS Church last year in my mid-forties.

[@MormonRescue]

We may be going different directions, but I respect your path and the peace you have found. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@danlingren7389]

You’re not alone brother. Many former LDS members have traveled the same journey and struggle with the truths we discovered along that path. My wife and I ended up resigning our membership in 2023 following a 2 year investigation of Church doctrine, history, it’s founder and subsequent leaders. I hold no resentment about their obfuscation, but happy to have the additional enlightenment.

[@Kristy_not_Kristine]

I'm in the 3rd group, too. Similar story as you❤. I no longer believe anything from BY down is legitimate. A few years ago, I learned RN and others in the 12 are Bonesmen, and then the public shot with a mask and encouraging that evil ... THEN a few months ago i started looking into the polygamy issue and digging deep into primary source documents and learning how Joseph's teachings were altered and that polygamy didn't originate with him... that was the last straw. Officially resigned last month!

[@lisa143justin]

Have you watched any of Michelle Brady Stones polygamy videos on KZbin? 132 problems with polygamy. Excellent information!

[@michaelsutherland5848]

Out if curiosity, who else of the Brethren are Bonesmen? I'd heard about Nelson, but hadn't heard that it goes beyond that.

[@aliceaubalmasque3645]

What is "Bonesmen" ? I'm from France and don't know a lot about US culture. Thanks for answer. Since the c-o-v-...d masquerade I've been going through a tunnel of doubts about so-called seer prophets and revelators.... 🤔

[@michaelsutherland5848]

@@aliceaubalmasque3645 A Bonesman is a member of a secret society called "Skull and Bones."

[@JulieSnowstudiojuliesnow3698]

​@@michaelsutherland5848okay, but what is it?

[@user-ql2id3ml3i]

I am no longer a member but I have a strong testimony of first and foremost Jesus Christ, then The Book of Mormon and that Joseph is the prophet for this dispensation.

[@MormonRescue]

I would love to know how you keep your faith strong after having stepped away from the church? Have you found fellowship or are you going it alone? It would be interesting to hear your story.

[@giltoews1383]

The lds church is a cult.

[@Kristy_not_Kristine]

Same!!!❤

[@lisa143justin]

Amen! Keeping the baby but throwing out the dirty bathwater.

[@user-ql2id3ml3i]

@@MormonRescue the church isn't the gospel, it's an organization. Everybody keeps waiting for a callout, it's not what we thought. Many of us are being called out from the "church" and back into the plain gospel of Jesus Christ.

[@jacobmcneal3011]

Thanks for this video ❤ I was raised in the Church from a young age and have since served a mission and look forward to getting married 😆 (Im currently in my mid 30s). One of the reasons that I have "stepped back" from the Church, is that it doesnt solve the problems, sometimes it just makes those things worse. I am seeking to seperate Cultural LDS practices from Gospel Truths. Not always easy

[@FightTheFire32]

Wow! So surprised to see a new video from you. Thank you for all of the great work you have done on all of your videos! You have been given a great gift to present the information in the way that you do. Your videos have real value and I hope your able to re-post your prior content. I've missed Mormon Rescue more than you know. Thank you, again!

[@FightTheFire32]

I just noticed your video with the Legacy Links. Thank you.

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks! I really appreciate your words :)

[@caterflycaryerflubertyly3937]

Thank you for sharing your experience, I feel much the same way.

[@brendakoyle6914]

Great video

[@brotherinchrist72]

The saddest part, is those who find the truth, and learn about the real history and origin of the LDS church, and realize that Joseph Smith Jr was a false prophet, the Book of Mormon is nothing more than a fabrication that pulls from the 1611 KJV Bible and other external sources, that Joseph Smith never had any true divination or ability to translate anything (Kinderhook plates that were proven as man made fakes), or the Book of Abraham that has thousands of lines to it that all came from a handful of Egyptian characters that were later revealed to be nothing more than the rights of the dead, a breathing scroll, etc. When LDS members lose their faith in the church, most of them become Atheist, and stop believing in Jesus and God the Father and the Holy Spirit all together. This is very sad, because the Bible is true, and there are many solid Bible teaching churches and good pastors that you can find a new church family to grow in. Mormonism is so very hard to recover from, especially when you have spent a life time and built a life style around the LDS church. Many of the LDS church leaders have openly proclaimed, "where else are you going to go?" - as if a taunt, letting their members know, even if they do not have the true gospel, even if everything they taught is false, that they have been keeping the truths from their members for as long as they could... "where else are you going to go?" keeps getting asked, because they bank on the fact that you were indoctrinated (like I was for over 20+ years) and starting over elsewhere, to learn and grow in the truth, is just going to be too hard for you, and so many become Atheists. My prayers and hope is that those who leave the Mormon church for the right reasons, learning they do not have the true gospel of Jesus Christ, that they will seriously look into a local Baptist church and check several of them out, and see if what they teach is from the Bible alone, that they do not bend the gospel, hold true to it's principles and core teachings, and do not give in to the transgender / homosexual movements or any sinful lifestyle. A true church loves the person, but hates the sin, but we cannot allow those who embrace, affirm, support these sinful lifestyles to be a part of any church congregation, as it would be blasphemy against the most high God. The Bible alone (Sola Scriptura) is all anyone of us ever needed, for it is the fully realized, breathed out word of God, given by inspiration from God himself, through the Holy Spirit, in which holy men were commanded to write the word of God and keep it. God is faithful, and his word has never faded away, nor was there ever some great apostacy that corrupted the true writings and the Bible. Learn, pray, grow and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you.

[@Mmmmmk247]

Amen

[@MormonRescue]

Thank you Brother! I admire your faith and empathize with the difficulty recovering from Mormonism. While I disagree about the Book of Mormon being a fabrication, I definitely can see how many people can feel that way with all of the other outright lies and injustices done by the church in the name of God. As Michelle Stone said last week on her 132 Problems with Polygamy podcast, "The greatest evil is to do evil in the name of God." And I think the LDS church has done so much of that, and by so doing, driven good, honest people away from the Book of Mormon. There will be Hell to pay for this, I believe. I know it's not my place to convince anyone of anything, but maybe someday if you give the Book of Mormon one more chance to stand on it's own two feet, disassociated from the lies and liars, please think of me and this channel. :) Good luck in your journey with Christ and I'm glad you are here.

[@Kristy_not_Kristine]

Brigham was a false prophet, but Joseph was not. He is who he said he was and the Book of Mormon is true!

[@houndlover870]

I left right after C0v1d. How they handled it was the final straw. There are other things too...namely a bishop who allowed his son to pass sacrament while at the same time I presented proof that he was attempting to sell drugs to my daughter. Then the first counselor's daughter was caught tattooing my daughter in the bathroom at a church activity. There's more but I won't bore you. I won't submit to men who can't lead their own families. I do feel betrayed. You have that correct.

[@jaymecarter8578]

So good! Thank you!

[@mbennett3422]

What an insightful , open minded and spiritual review, analysis and conclusion I believe that you’re an advanced soul who continues to evolve to a grand, expanded view of God, which is also you

[@ronaldpashley9000]

You describe my situation perfectly. Thank you for your insights.

[@claudiacampbell3948]

Thankyou for this. My journey began with finally understanding the true law of tithing, after being robbed by the church my entire life. Then listening to videos on Isaiah's writings inserting our times in them as commanded by Jesus. I listened to other videos revealing truths about church history and doctrine and searched the scriptures, especially the D&C. What I found is that the D&C itself, is the greatest condemer of the church. Joseph Smith was a true prophet and the BofM is true scripture. It's the chuch that left true doctrine, and I'm very gratefull that my ees are opened to our awful state. I'm still a member because the Lord told me to stay, and I will do as He asked.

[@MargaretKatsouras]

The LDS church throw out their wounded,what a lovely Christian army it is! The purpose of all these tactics and promises is to get people deeper into the church and give them overwhelming fear of leaving it…any organisation that refuses to be transparent and has shady practices should be a red flag…I’ve finally found a true Jesus that saved me by grace through his crucifixion and that it isn’t about me and what I do but what He did for me…The true Jesus Christ is the only way to the Father and provides for us completely…His children are temples of the Holy Spirit,not physical buildings,no high priests just Jesus. I fell pregnant at 19 and the utter shame I was made to feel by the bishop and two other old men has marked me forever.. I was told that without repentance I would suffer an eternal spiritual death and that there is no true Latter day Saint who would not rather bury a son or daughter than to have him or her lose their chastity as chastity is is of more value than anything else…I am now 67 years old and my heart still weeps…

[@MormonRescue]

My heart is also sad from your story. I also know loved ones who have had similar experiences - the "brethren" spend their time and effort heaping guilt and shame on the members in an attempt to distract them from the true iniquity that is the hierarchy and domination of the leaders. The church certainly does "shoot the wounded" instead of healing them. My sincere questions this last year have only brought judgment, condemnation, and scorn from leaders. No empathy, no attempt to solve the huge problems in the church - just coverup, denial, obfuscation, and shaming of anyone who questions. I'm so glad you feel the love of Jesus Christ and his atonement. I strive for that each day.

[@cab9191]

I’m hopeful that more and more will find true Christianity through their awakening to the apostasy of the LDS church rather than turning to agnosticism. Currently I believe Joseph was a prophet and that the BOM is the word of God, but I don’t NEED them to be, since my relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit have revealed eternal truths to me that dwarf any need I have for the LDS movement….

[@Kristy_not_Kristine]

Another circle that could be added somewhere is discovering the connection of RMN and others of the 12 with Skull and Bones, the connection with the UN, CFR, and Bohemian Grove...

[@carolyearsley]

YES!! They are in league with the Jesuits and political Zionists, to bring down the country and institute Communism.

[@user-yj5xc6xq6j]

I believe in the BOM, but the church seems terrifying to me. I believe heavenly father to be the most real of all the Christian conceptions of GOD. I almost died in a fire quite recently and I read the BOM before I slept and I managed to live. I'm thankful for the Mormon religion, but I don't understand the church aspect much. I have many Mormon friends who I am very close with, but when I tried to join the church I felt like I was in a rush and the group was very frantic and disrespectful to other religions. I was told that I was "not interested" so I stopped receiving lessons. I am not complaining necessarily, but I actually want to keep up with the faith outside of the church. I hope this comment makes sense I appreciate your lectures here.

[@MormonRescue]

I don't think I've ever met someone who believes in the Book of Mormon without ever having been a member, what a fascinating story J. So glad you are willing to comment on the channel!

[@MormonRescue]

@AngryMormon Thanks for sharing this! I can't imagine what it must have been like for you and him, but what a cool moment you got to share together. Wouldn't it be amazing to have a do-over, where the Book of Mormon could be shared and spread without all of the baggage of the LDS church attached to it to drag it down? You make a great point about good people being willing to accept it if they just got a good chance to hear it.

[@justinturman]

BYU grad. Return missionary. Sealed in the temple. Elders quorum president. I moved to Europe and church meetings were at a primary level. So I started reading the writings of Joseph Smith. I quickly found that the church he started no longer exists. The modern church has prophets that don’t prophesy, revelators with no revelation and seers that don’t see. I got my own revelation that the church is in apostasy. Just as foretold the Book of Mormon.

[@John-jh9ud]

You do realize that serving a mission and graduating at BYU means absolutely nothing when it comes to the miracle of conversion ¿¿

[@ezekiellister3176]

Faithful member here i have a testimony of the church and the book of Mormon i am a laminate descendent. I am a ward missionary as well. I have a family and when i learned of yhe churchs hidden past. Didnt trouble me. I pondered it with prayer as it laid heavily on my mind. I thought of the people leaving the church. Etc. My thoughts were on a awhole as the church from begging to end. And i heard these words that helped me stay in th church. (It is righteousness in me) refrrring to Abraham and the ways the lord handles things. Joseph Smith...it is righouness in me....with all other things i do not know...again the lord says....it is righousness in me. And as an example when you experience bad things in life ...what does the lord say? (It is for your good.). So no need to be devastated no need to have panick attacks. Look again in the scriptures and find the lord again. Remember ehat the lotd has done for your fathers. Dont make there deaths invain.

[@wellsaidgoodheadfred9843]

you never studied church history and you're using thought-stopping techniques based on faulty reasoning and emotion. Tell me who Zina Diantha Huntington is, if you know any church history that is questionable.

[@tenny810]

❤😢 thank you. awesome research. Faith transition is a sad thing but a worth the struggle to go through if it means finding yourself.

[@ashtonstaples2996]

I got sent home from my mission because of these truths. The scriptures are teaching different things than the church. It all has to do with polygamy, another apostasy, a re-restoration that is very soon, prophecies of latter-day prophets that can't see (Jer. 23 etc), the whole 9 yards. People are waking up, what a blessing to wake up early, more people will wake up when the humbling begins.

[@normanbonk8064]

I have deep respect for people's personal experiences with God, so I have no contention with this man's stated experience. What I can say is that in my three years experience with The Church o, which is astounding and possible only by the power of the Holy Spirit. Where there is failure, it is my own. As I read, study and contemplate the Book of Mormon, I continue to be astounded by the Scriptural integrity of the work, as well as the profound elucidations of complex spiritual matters seen also in The King James Bible. The more I learn the more I believe. As for "mistakes" made in the past by the Church, I know of no Christian endeavor undertaken by man that doesn't involve learning through trial and error, often beyond the capacity of human beings to patiently tolerate, but thankfully, which Heavenly Father does tolerate. The spiritual genius of the Church can be found in many places, but most notably, I think, in its ability to follow the teachings of the prophets to grow and change, provide endless service to others, admit when they were wrong and the fact that members commit their lives to ongoing learning and receptiveness to new revelations. There is great humility in all of this, which breeds confident testimonies. I sincerely pray that this man continues to seek God's guidance and in doing so, I am certain that Heavenly Father will lead him in the right direction. Prayers.

[@originalintent6916]

I enjoyed this I felt like it was similar to my path.

[@lindagoselin6637]

I was a TBM for 65 years. I now belong to no church. I am now in the body of Jesus Christ. My faith is founded in the Holy Bible KJV. I believe that the Gospel is found in 1 Corinthians 15: 1-4. Take the time to read Romans through Philemon in particular. My faith and hope is in Jesus Christ and his shed blood on the cross at Calvary. While we were yet sinners Jesus died for us. also read Ephesians 2 vs.8-9 "For by grace are ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God; Not of works, lest any man should boast." Take care dear brother. God bless you as you search for truth.

[@MrFishwalker]

The Lord taught that it is only His church when it teaches His gospel. When the church teaches doctrines that we believe contradict Christ’s teachings, many leave the church to follow Christ. My love for the Book of Mormon only grew, knowing that it prophesied of the apostate nature of the modern LDS church.

[@MormonRescue]

Couldn't agree more. Well stated.

[@ronaldwinfield307]

What you are talking about happens all around me. It sometimes worries me & makes me sad. I still value & hold onto my membership. I still hold onto the moral Code I was taught. I still believe the Book of Mormon, the Prophet Joseph Smith ,The Plan of Salvation & the Pearl of Great Price. It is true that since coming home from my mission I have had a few beliefs shattered. I have been offended by General Authorities. However I hold onto what I still know. I do struggle with juggling a demanding economy & church activity. I don't think I am in danger of losing my membership. I look to the future of the church with hope. We will see what happens.

[@johnrowley310]

Go to the Bible and find Christ. Mormonism is a hot mess. Leave it for Christ...

[@user-di9os9gl3h]

To me a church should be a conduit through which your relationship with God is enabled and enhanced. LDS in my opinion in some ways puts too much church between you and God.

[@rebeccacampbell585]

This is the opposite conversion story that they always tell in church. My path has been similar.

[@skeletor8169]

I am in the 3rd group. I have a strong testimony of the Book of Mormon and Joseph smith as a prophet of God. I am also an active member of the church. Recently I’ve had my eyes opened and I’m not looking back. My relationship with Christ much stronger because of that.

[@user-cw8yw8zl3c]

Loved this video. Why? Because I have taken this same difficult path. I left the Mormon church about 7 years ago, and it was for one of the great points of this video, that the Book of Mormon is TRUE. The Book of Mormon is the most ANTI- Mormon church and Mormon Doctrine book on the face of the earth. How can this be? It is because Joseph Smith was given ONE gift. And that gift was to bring forth the Book of Mormon. He was told to pretend to no other gift (As mentioned in the Book of Commandments). But did he do that? No. He started a church, introduced plural marriage (Totally against the teaching in the BOM), introduced secret oath and covenants (Totally against the teachings in the BOM), marriage sealings (NEVER mentioned by Jesus and totally against the doctrine of Christ set forth in the BOM), and many other things that are completely opposite to Jesus' teachings. I've literally read the BOM hundreds of times. It is true. And anyone that really wants to know the truth will find that the BOM will lead them away from the Mormon church and on to the path of knowing Christ and HIS doctrine.

[@user-cw8yw8zl3c]

Here are other items that the BOM teaches that are against the doctrine of the Mormon church. 1. All healings take place by faith and the authority of the Holy Ghost NOT by the priesthood. You'll never find Jesus or any other true prophet perform healings by the power of the priesthood, it is always by faith. 2. Jesus fulfilled the law of Moses, and he makes this point clear in the BOM. What does this mean? It means that the law of tithing and the law of the Sabbath is done away. After Jesus came to the Nephites you'll see that they did NOT meet once a week, and did not have tithing. 3. The BOM teaches that God is a SPIRIT. He has a body of spirit and does NOT have a body of flesh and bones and Joseph describes 4. Jesus describes exactly how baptisms should be performed and holding the arm to the square (A Masonic sign) is NOT the way Jesus describes it should be done. 5. With authority from God a man can baptize themselves. This is seen with Alma and Nephi in 3 Nephi. 6. Jesus says when we do alms we should NOT do them to be seen of men, yet Mormon members will wear a yellow Mormon Helping hands shirt when doing service. 7. The BOM clearly teaches that there is ONE God and that God himself comes to the earth and takes on flesh. 8. The BOM teaches that "Ye shall not esteem one flesh above another," yet the whole structure of the Mormon leadership is set up as a hierarchical order. 9. In the BOM meetings were conducted after the "manner of the workings of the Spirit." The Mormon church never does this, all meetings are run by program or an agenda. 10. There is never a case in the Bible or the BOM where Jesus gives authority to perform marriages. His gospel and doctrine is for the salvation of INDIVIDUALS and never talks about families. 11. The BOM clearly teaches AGAINST baptizing little children and should only baptize adults. The Mormon church baptized eight year olds. 12. The BOM teaches that we MUST search the mysteries, while the Mormon church tells member not to search the mysteries. 13. The BOM teaches that "all their priests and teachers should labor with their own hands for their support," but the Mormon general authorities receive a stipend. 14. The BOM teaches that the only ordinance needed for salvation is baptism. The Mormon church teaches that you need baptism AND temple ordinances for salvation. Jesus gives a warning about anything more or less than his doctrine in 3 Nephi 11:40 And that's just a few things. I have all the verses to support these thoughts if anyone wants to review them.

[@MormonRescue]

It's amazing what there is to be found in the Book of Mormon once I take off my correlation goggles.

[@humanbeing5396]

For me, it was the following: 1) Racial Issues 2) Polygamy 3) Prophets Contradicting each other 4) The Book of Abraham 5) Book of Mormon Translation.

[@MormonRescue]

I believe you are in good company. I see and hear these same concerns among so many who spent their lives believing before they found out. I hope to do a video on the BoM translation someday soon...among my list of other topics :)

[@Sobeit2024]

It was a Mormon wife and a Bishop that ruined my life by lying to better their own pockets over a sewer line . Makes me sick everytime I think about it. What's sad I gave them their start in the plumbing business. Had no idea you could buy your way into the Quarum.

[@samhunt9380]

I guess I'm a cafeteria member, although seriously considering leaving altogether. I'm disgusted by the leadership, greed of the church and its love of the stock market and have stopped tithing. I now give the equivalent to the hospice that cared for my wife in her last months of life after they approached me for financial help. They don't have enough money to play the stock market but are a small caring, loving community hospice......

[@MormonRescue]

I love that you give your "alms" in that way! And hope your wife would feel the beauty of what you are doing in her memory. Best, Matt

[@sadusattack2628]

Information. Believers can now find out about the truth of the Church. People are reading the CES letter and the letter for my wife. Or even the Gospel Topics.

[@didjosephsmithpracticepolygamy]

Thanks for sharing

[@SummitSecrets]

Great Video.

[@tthinker9897]

Try reading the New Testament. There have been more "corrections" to the B of M than to the New Testament scriptures. See if the Jesus you find in the B of M is the same/similar/different than the Jesus in the Gospels and taught by Paul. Just a suggestion.

[@DanielWilliams-cp3wx]

I left the lds church, ended up with Community of Christ, who are more honest about history and truth claims.

[@MormonRescue]

I've been intrigued learning about the Community of Christ this last year. If there were one in my area I would definitely go once just to see what it is like. From videos I've watched and things I've read, however, they currently seem to be quite similar in structure to the LDS church, and I have to say that beyond the lies and the false doctrine, it is the structure of the LDS church that seems most anti to Christ's church in the Book of Mormon. Service, humility, and pure equality are things I have yet to see in any modern church structure.

[@DanielWilliams-cp3wx]

@@MormonRescue community of christ is much more democratic, and it more about Unity in diversity, its really something you have to experience.

[@michaelgiles7844]

I’m 51. My wife and I along with three of our adult children parted ways with the LDS church about one year ago. We both come from families who knew Joseph. I served a mission, we were married in the temple, our four older children were temple endowed and the two who are married, were married in the temple. We attended church every week and the temple once a month and sometimes more. We did not leave because we were offended, sinning, or for any of the “typical” reasons. We started to see how much we and others worshipped the church proper. We started to “believe” what we read in the scriptures. We realized how little LDS people worship Jesus Christ. We state that we believe in Him, that He is the Son of God, and that He suffered and died for our sins but, the doctrine that salvation can only come in and through the LDS church (it’s authority) flys in the face of all that Christ taught. Like you we began to see that the Book of Mormon is the most anti Mormon book. Then we started to look into the church’s history. Wow!😔 We are embracing being in the wilderness: church at home, extended family’s concerns that we have lost our way, the works. Yet through all this we have found God (the Lord Jesus Christ, He who is both The Father and The Son, the Savior of the world that He and only He created). He is my God, and my salvation. I am in awe that He would take on flesh and subject Himself for one purpose, to save His creations. He didn’t come here to become a god, He was, is, and ever will be the only God.

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks Michael for posting this. Your experience resonates with me so much, almost word for word. It's comforting to know there are others who are on the same path and making it work and finding a relationship with Christ. I admit it's not easy every day, but it feels like the right direction. It finally makes sense to me when I read the scriptures - there's not all the mental excuses I have to make every time I read - and Jesus' character becomes clearer and purer in my mind. I would love to learn more about how you make it work, how you overcome challenges, and the answers you find. - Matt

[@michaelgiles7844]

One thing I have been doing is listening to a pod cast called “The Bible Project”. One of the hosts is a Hebrew scholar. They just finished a series called “The City”. It provides a different view of Zion and/or the New Jerusalem. I am curious as to your thoughts concerning their perspective.

[@MormonRescue]

@@michaelgiles7844 Ok, I will try to see what I think. Thanks for the heads-up!

[@leahshaw1447]

I have recently discovered your videos and love them. You bring up issues that I've always wondered about. I'm in group # 3. I grew up in the church, and if something didn't 'feel' right, I was told it was my fault for not understanding it correctly. For example, I always felt it was wrong that you had to be baptized a member of the LDS church to get in the Celestial kingdom. Another thing, I don't make enough $ to pay tithing, so I was denied a temple recommend. The counselor's attitude was "no tithing, no recommend, too bad you're poor. Bye." As a result, that ensures I can't get my garments. And tithing was not a requirement in the early church for a recommend anyway. I questioned how Jesus in his day kept track of all the personal info and check boxes the church keeps track of with its computers today. Hello-- he didn't. Temple ordinances have been changed, covid mandates-- don't question the prophet, just mindlessly do what he says and does. The mind control church leaders have on members is so unbelievable, and as I have stepped back a bit, it is so obvious. Don't question--you'll be excommunicated. Fear, coercion, threats are not Christ's way. And how man's ideas have been implemented and then blamed on Joseph Smith, wow. Michael, keep doing what you're doing -- You bring so many questions to be examined. You are definately a voice of reason. Thank you!

[@shortvideo.292]

Same reason most people leave churches they no longer believe. I also think that plate just tired of organized religion. I’m there at that. Also, there’s been a deep decline in attendance in all religions.

[@marcensign4207]

It was Elder Uchtdorf, not Elder Holland who said, "doubt your doubts."

[@lisagrace6471]

I left because it isn't true. God is real, Jesus is real, but the rest isn't. I love God and I'm so excited to get to know Him more. My life has been better and I feel more peace and more of the Lord's presence in my life since. I feel that a barrier to the Lord has been removed. I am reading a plain English Bible cover to cover, trying to read without any filter, and it has been eye opening. I've learned so much. ❤

[@lisagrace6471]

I'm reading the Bible before even addressing if the book of Mormon is true... because how can I know the "2nd witness of Jesus Christ" is true, if I don't even know the 1st witness (the Bible) is true and I don't KNOW it for myself as a book and doctrine... if i don't know Jesus?

[@MormonRescue]

I admire that! I personally hold to the Book of Mormon first because I find confusing contradictions in the Bible, but I love people who feel the same as you do. Also I love that you feel peace and the Lord's presence in your life, I would love to know how you do it and how you pattern your life now. So glad you commented here!

[@lisagrace6471]

@@MormonRescue His word and truth are important too...but I can't lose sight of Him and His simple way.

[@sixtwooneninety4865]

Nuanced Mormon here, and proud of it. If only Salt Lake would become more open to the idea that it shouldn't matter how you have come to your faith, and what things you have had to discard or incorporate to get there.

[@joshuaboehner4652]

I left the church about 5 years ago, for one, and only one, reason. It is demonstrably untrue. Using basic epistemology and confronting bad reasoning (constant argumentative fallacies) the entirety of the claims of the church were dismantled.

[@patriciafinn5717]

Im.going through this too...its heartbreaking...the bible is true

[@kathleenwharton2139]

Jesus Saved and Freed His people from the Pharisees..the controlling Church of His Day. He is still doing it! 😊❤

[@MormonRescue]

I couldn't agree more! :)

[@marksnodgrass8384]

Matt, I am in the category of not really wanting to attend the LDS church any longer because of so many coverups and false teachings, but I know the BOM is true and am avidly seeking for truth and direction from God. I still feel that going to the house of prayer and partaking of the sacrament is important “Do this in remembrance of me”. Have you found an alternative to attending the LDS church just to enable yourself to receive the sacrament each Sunday? I would welcome thoughts from others as well.

[@MormonRescue]

Thanks for your comment Mark. That's a question that has weighed on my mind heavily too. I don't have an answer. For now, I feel like the poor of the Zoramites, to whom Alma and Amulek said that they don't need a church in order to worship. If the Jesus of the BoM is any indication, I have hope that he will have mercy on people who would with sincerity partake of the sacrament and baptism if they could, but who don't know where to go to receive it.

[@marcyarrowchis678]

Sadly the church is going the way of the world 😢

[@boydenterprises]

It seems in the world we live in people quit everything- relationships, jobs, school - everything.

[@louiswall2984]

So did you come back with full purpose of heart. Please response to me

[@John-jh9ud]

"Conversion is the goal of all gospel learning and teaching." Russell T. Osguthorpe Having a calling has never been a sure sign of conversion.

[@davepeen8321]

I converted spent 3 yrs in, was gona go to get endowed with an elderly lady who had been there ( converted) before me she Lied about somethings I mentioned about a Video if the temple suddenly I get called into the bishops office and hadalot of ppl glaring at me all because she wanted to get endowed before me. I will never step foot in their church again.

[@parker_chess]

I recently joined the church. And its impossible to go on the internet without being bombarded with anti-mormon material. Ive had to disconnect from most of it. I'm aware of the history of the church and the more controversial subjects of polygamy, how Joseph translated the BoM, etc.

[@shr19964]

President Nelson has condemned the use of the nickname Mormon as a tool of Satan. So who are the actual anti-Mormons? Those who see The Book of Mormon as a cornerstone and another witness of Jesus Christ, despite concerns about the church, aren’t anti-Mormon.

[@user-mx5ee7hk6u]

AMEN & PRAISE GOD! MAY GOD BLESS EVERY SINGLE ONE WHO LEFT TO FOLLOW THE REAL CHRIST; THE JESUS WHO HAS ALWAYS LIVED (not created), THE ALPHA AND OMEGA.

[@jeremycollins1068]

It was prophesied in D&C 45:31-32 31 And there shall be men standing in that generation, that shall not pass until they shall see an overflowing scourge; for a desolating sickness shall cover the land. 32 But my disciples shall stand in holy places, and shall not be moved; but among the wicked, men shall lift up their voices and curse God and die.

[@tonymason9855]

Your story is very similar to mine, at least from when you started questioning doctrines. The only difference is I was not a good Mormon growing up. I fell far away from God as a whole. The Bible and Book of Mormon were always part of my attempts to come back. When I did come back, I immediately felt a sense of something being wrong and I begged God to show me The Truth. I ended up in the darkest corners of Anti-Mormon content. I went straight to 3 Nephi chapter 11. I'm sure you know, I came out with the realization that, like you said, The Book of Mormon is actually Anti-Mormon. From there I was gifted the journey of understanding the verses and teachings of The Book of Mormon in a way that I can now show how the claims against it are twisted and false. Even going a step further maybe, in D&C 14: 2-9 I'm pretty sure Jesus calls himself God while also acknowledging the Father as God. D&C 39:1-6 is God speaking and is very much in line with Book of Mormon and Bible teachings and is also straight from Joseph Smith's mouth.

[@MormonRescue]

Yep, sounds very similar. I'm so glad to hear of your conclusions too! I believe there is so much good when I am able to let go of the bad.

[@NerdyGirlLiveLove]

Because they research and find out the truth.

[@karenl7791]

I totally relate to your journey. I quit believing in mormonism and was basically an atheist for 20+ years. I did not have the testimony of the BoM that you have, but found the Bible to be what spoke truth to me. I have been a born-again Christian now for 17 years and have found the peace that I was looking for....not in any church or denomination....but in the person of Jesus Christ. I highly encourage you to read the Bible with the same passion that you have read the BoM. Blessings on your journey!

[@charlescresap4451]

I have looked at the reasons that most of those who have left the LDS church have proffered. The main constant has been their incorrect and or incomplete understanding of the principles of the Gospel. Basically, they were taught incorrectly. Christ's grace saves completely, but only if you repent and follow him. Eternal life is to know God and his son, our redeemer. Alma, the Book of Mormon prophet, says when faith is exercised, it becomes knowledge. To know Christ you must work with what he has provided. The Book of Mormon is a place to start. Brigham Young said, " Don't believe it because I said it. Find out for yourself.

[@jakeseward9035]

I am glad you are finding more truth. One thing you really need to do in order to fully find the truth is to study the Bible and leave the Book of Mormon alone. The Book of Mormon is proven to be a false book by every measure you can use to know if it is true outside of only trusting your feelings about it. The teachings in the BoM come mainly from the Bible and so it does teach things that are true but does not teach about people that actually existed in history on the American continent. You said you are a teacher so I would encourage you to do the same kind of research you would do when writing a research paper about the Book of Mormon. See if there is any evidence for or against it being true and not just trusting your feelings to guide you. Being led by your feelings alone in anything is not how God has directed us to act, it's actually just the opposite. In the Bible we are warned that the heart above all things is deceitful and we are to use wisdom. The Spirit grants us comfort and peace which we can feel but it also gives us wisdom and that is in our brains. I was a Mormon for over 20 years until I read the New Testament and really studied it. I continued to find teachings in the Bible that directly contradict the church's teachings and after a period of denial I prayed to know if the church was true and God immediately answered and the burden of all the things I was in denial about regarding the church was lifted because I could accept that it was not true.

[@MormonRescue]

"I continued to find teachings in the Bible that directly contradict the church's teachings" Jake, I appreciate your detailed comment and I admire your faith in the Bible. I also believe much of the Bible, especially the 4 gospels. But there are things in the Bible that are incomprehensible to me in the bigger picture without the BoM - to name just two: the place of women in the church (see Paul's teachings), and the need for a church presidency and hierarchy (see Peter's striking dead the couple who would not give all of their money to the church leaders). These kinds of things, I believe, were added in by power-hungry men after the death of Christ, much like Polygamy was added into Mormonism by lustful and power-hungry men in our early history. When you say that the Bible contradicts the "church", I agree with you 100%. Because the current church is following the same path as the Pharisees, the early Catholics, and every other group who sets its heart on power, money, control, and secrecy. But to me, the Book of Mormon is a totally different entity from the modern LDS church - the book can be true without the church being true, just like the Bible can be true without the Catholic church (which brought us the bible) being Christs one true church. For me, only when I use the two books together does the larger picture start to make perfect sense.

[@jakeseward9035]

@Mormon Rescue you did not address the fact that the Book of Mormon is proven to be a false account of history.

[@MormonRescue]

@@jakeseward9035 You claim "the Book of Mormon is proven to be a false account of history". Those are confident words. They remind me of a cabal of leaders and 'scientists' a few years ago claiming that a medical experiment was "safe and effective" and that the "science is settled." I am wary of echo chambers who believe their own echoes simply because they hear them so much.

[@gregb6469]

@@MormonRescue -- Peter did not strike Ananias and Sapphira dead, the Holy Spirit did, and it was not because they didn't give all their money to the Church leaders, but because they lied about it, claiming to do so when they were keeping part of the money for themselves. As Peter said in Acts 5:4, had they been truthful about how they were giving part of what they sold the land for, there would have been no problem.

[@gregb6469]

@@MormonRescue -- Historians and archaeologists have been searching for over a century, and have yet to find any evidence of any of the persons and places described on the BoM as having been in the Americas ever existed. No documents, no ruins, nothing,

[@johnrowley310]

Time to follow God the son and quit worshiping the men in high seats...

[@louettesommers8594]

I would think that people are delving into the study of the Bible. Not the mormon scriptures.

[@monkeyspank3005]

Amen thank you I wish more missionaries found out the truth too. I tell them and they say I spread falsehoods

[@wallymcallister5831]

I’m so sorry for those who have lost their faith. Read John 6.

[@stevemitchell238]

I belive Its becaus the church only getsa together on sunday the church needs to meet more have a church camp a week long place where they worship our father having bible studies chirch pick necks have classic's of the bible many can not afford to go to BYU and learn about religion.

[@dd-tc6ip]

Not that simple why ANYONE would leave anything.

[@John-jh9ud]

I'm confused ¿¿ My lovely wife is a woman and she loves the church ¿¿ Also the gospel of Jesus Christ goes way beyond simply believing in "mormon doctrine" etc.. For everyone who actually understands the gospel experience through the rock of revelation, it goes way beyond simply believing or being "true believers" ¿¿ We preach the reception of knowledge even the spirit of prophecy, the miracle of conversion etc.. "Trusting in core beliefs" makes absolutely no sense at all?? That is definitely not the gospel experience we are preaching. "The foundation upon which the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is built is the rock of revelation" Lorenzo Snow "A testimony is personal knowledge of spiritual truth obtained by revelation" David A. Bednar Choosing not to believe in what has been revealed unto you is a contradiction, it simply makes no sense at all ¿¿ Not experiencing the intended fruits of the gospel and walking away makes more sense. It really is that simple. All that we learn and teach in the gospel is to bring about the miracle of conversion. Membership alone is NOT ENOUGH.

[@carolyearsley]

You can credit the Methodists for many of the more spiritual and up lifting teachings in the BOM Smith compiled it from many sources, but much of what he wrote came directly from them. During his early years he carefully studied their church services, doctrine, and culture, even visiting their services. I would like to point out one particular example. King Benjamin's moving speech came from Benjamin Abbott, a famous Methodist preacher who gave stirring sermons during the time of the Second Great Awakening. I would also like to point out that Smith did not come up with the ideas and teaching contained therein. He was a compiler, not a prophet, seer or translator. Also, his so called visions were modeled after how many Methodists of his time related to God in their fervent revivals, with intense visions and such. I am from a Methodist background, and even had a rather renowned great grand-father who was a Methodist pastor of a large congregation. I also grew up in a Methodist Camp Ground town, so understand their religion very well. I hope that this helps in your transition. One more thing. I was a Mormon convert for 30 years, and am now fully Exmormon.

[@MormonRescue]

Do you truly think that a 24-year-old farm laborer wrote/compiled the BoM? Truly? If you believe that, I admire your faith! I work with many intelligent and well-educated teenagers and young adults in the education world, and I don't know any who have published books by 24 and can't imagine anyone publishing a book remotely close to the complexity of the BoM. My hat is off to you - your faith pushes the bounds of what I believe humans are capable of.

[@carolyearsley]

@@MormonRescue He just copied what was available in the local area. Then Cowdery and Harris assisted him, That wasn't hard. The libraries there had all kinds of information at their disposal. It was New England, you know, where there were many great collections of old books that settlers had brought from England. Then he filled in with some of the stories from ancient lore that the Smith family would tell around the fire on cold winter's nights, in order to create an entire volume. It appears that my post disturbed you.. That was not my intention. I was only trying to point out comparisons. It seems that nothing at all of what I mentioned meant anything. I thought that what I presented might slightly pique your interest. On the age, I have a son who was diagnosed as a prodigy at age six, and who has done some amazing things. I am a teacher, as well, and have seen some amazing kids. So, yes, Smith could have had the talent to put the BOM together. Here's one other thing he copied. Moroni is the capital of an island called Comoros.( Cumorah) Oh, and he took the name Lehi from the city in Pennsylvania. That's just one example of the place names from the area that he either copied or slightly altered. Anyway, I'm not telling you to stop reading it, if it helps your life. Do whatever works.

[@MormonRescue]

@@carolyearsley Yes, I was aware of everything you mentioned in your posts - I've read and heard it elsewhere. I'm just constantly amazed at the way we revise, dress up, and fill in history when we are motivated to do so. Those who desperately want the BoM to be false are now even suggesting Joseph Smith attended Dartmouth! What I suggest is that you scrutinize the stories you believe about such things 1/10th as much as you are willing to scrutinize the Book of Mormon itself. Are you willing to share the book(s) your son has published so far? Would you say they are on par with the BoM?

[@carolyearsley]

@@MormonRescue I didn't say that my son has published books. He is a prodigy in the visual/spacial category, and has created hand crafted projects and sculptures from a very young age that are astounding. He even made the local news in H.S. But the point I was making is that age isn't always a factor in a person's abilities. We could go around in circles here, as we are coming from different outlooks. Being that you are into education and learning, you may have an interest in this book. It is written by a very well educated Exmormon in his early sixties, and who lives in Utah. It is his story of waking up from the Mormon maze. You may find his mission experience particularly interesting. He also covers much more information, some of which you may not have heard before. I will send it separately, as the copy and paste had a glitch. Best wishes as you navigate your new Mormon world view.

[@carolyearsley]

@@MormonRescue projectavalon.net/lib/A.%20True%20Ott%20-%20Free%20At%20Last.pdf

[@glcsprince]

I've had experiences of doubt myself about doctrines taught in the church. But I had had experiences I knew were not created in my mind, but were truly inspiration from a higher power. Why, then, was I struggling? It's been many years now, and through prayer, study, and inspiration from God, I now doubt my doubts. I've had to read and pray more. I have found a power that comes when I ponder on issues for an extended period of time. The Lord loves effort. When we exert that effort, he blesses us with knowledge and wisdom. I mostly discovered that my early understanding of the gospel was either incorrect or inaccurate. It would be interesting to understand why one would come to the conclusion that the Book of Mormon was anti Mormon. I find its precepts and teachings are aligned with the doctrine taught by the church. What I find more and more is that members of the church, especially younger members, misunderstand a lot of the doctrine. God's plan for His children is laid out clearly in the Book of Mormon and other scriptures. It's up to each of us to learn these principles by the power of the Holy Ghost, not by a man's interpretation. Leaders are not infallible, but much less so than the rest of us. The church is led by inspired leaders. I'm not sure why some members think they have something to gain and are motivated by self-enrichment. Most left very lucrative professions and made considerable sacrifices to accept these callings. There was a short reference to the Covid vaccines. The brethren encouraged the vaccines (and counsel with which I disagreed), but that was their collective encouragement and was not tied to any doctrine or "thus saith the Lord" power behind it. No one was removed from the church, and a new question about vaccines was added to the temple questions asked to obtain a temple recommend. I truly believe that the person who created this video will change his mind if he continues his sincere desire to know the truth. God will gently guide him if he is sufficiently humble. That's been my experience. I recommend that everyone wrestle with God to know the truth. He hasn't lost a match yet.

[@MormonRescue]

I appreciate your sincere testimony. Thanks for not being preachy or just spouting the "party line." In your last paragraph you said that God will guide me if I am sufficiently humble. That is my daily hope and prayer. May he guide us all.

[@garyprince5013]

@@MormonRescue You sound very sincere. The Lord will reward you for that sincerity. There are so many good people out in the world of all persuasions. Although I have a firm conviction that the LDS church is the true (have God's authority) and living (have prophets who receive continuing revelation until we are all in the unity of faith) church, other faiths and denominations have people who are guided by their love of God and His son Jesus Christ. God loves everyone of His children. Each has a divine purpose and it would be a shame if any rejected His love once they have experienced it. We need to first love God with all our hearts, might, minds, and souls. Only then will be anxiously engaged in the second great commandment, to love our brothers and sisters (neighbors) as ourselves. Everyone is worth so much in God's sight. We should, likewise, see the worth in all others in the same light God see all HIs children. That is the essence of being true disciples. I like the saying, "You're not okay and I'm not okay. And that's okay!" Together we'll lift each other to higher realms.

[@garyprince5013]

@@MormonRescue I think you would like these quotes from Albert Einstein. I found them fascinating and pretty much in complete compliance with the Gospel: Albert Einstein Quotes “I didn't arrive at my understanding of the fundamental laws of the universe through my rational mind.” “Concerning matter, we have been all wrong. What we have called matter is energy, whose vibration has been so lowered as to be perceptible to the senses. Matter is spirit reduced to point of visibility. There is no matter.” "Time and space are not conditions in which we live, but modes by which we think. Physical concepts are free creations of the human mind, and are not, however it may seem, determined by the external world." “Time does not exist - we invented it. Time is what the clock says. The distinction between the past, present and future is only a stubbornly persistent illusion.” “I think 99 times and find nothing. I stop thinking, swim in silence, and the truth comes to me." "The intellect has little to do on the road to discovery. There comes a leap in consciousness, call it intuition or what you will, the solution comes to you and you don’t know how or why.” "A human being experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest, a kind of optical delusion of consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty." "Our separation from each other is an optical illusion." “When something vibrates, the electrons of the entire universe resonate with it. Everything is connected. The greatest tragedy of human existence is the illusion of separateness.” “Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.” “We are souls dressed up in sacred biochemical garments and our bodies are the instruments through which our souls play their music.” “When you examine the lives of the most influential people who have ever walked among us, you discover one thread that winds through them all. They have been aligned first with their spiritual nature and only then with their physical selves.” “The true value of a human being can be found in the degree to which he has attained liberation from the self.” “The ancients knew something, which we seem to have forgotten.” “The more I learn of physics, the more I am drawn to metaphysics.” “One thing I have learned in a long life: that all our science, measured against reality, is primitive and childlike. We still do not know one thousandth of one percent of what nature has revealed to us. It is entirely possible that behind the perception of our senses, worlds are hidden of which we are unaware.”

[@garyprince5013]

Additional quotes I forgot to include from Albert Einstein: “I’m not an atheist. The problem involved is too vast for our limited minds. We are in the position of a little child entering a huge library filled with books in many languages. The child knows someone must have written those books.” "The common idea that I am an atheist is based on a big mistake. Anyone who interprets my scientific theories this way, did not understand them." "Everything is determined, every beginning and ending, by forces over which we have no control. It is determined for the insect, as well as for the star. Human beings, vegetables, or cosmic dust, we all dance to a mysterious tune, intoned in the distance by an invisible piper." “The religion of the future will be a cosmic religion. It will transcend a personal God and avoid dogma and theology.” “Energy cannot be created or destroyed, it can only be changed from one form to another.” “Everything is energy and that is all there is to it. Match the frequency of the reality you want and you can not help but get that reality. It can be no other way. This is not philosophy. This is physics.” "I am happy because I want nothing from anyone. I do not care about money. Decorations, titles or distinctions mean nothing to me. I do not crave praise. I claim credit for nothing. A happy man is too satisfied with the present to dwell too much on the future."

[@richardbarrow4620]

Where are you going to go? I'm 72 and I can truthfully promise you the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is Christ's true church on earth. This Church requires much and sometimes is administered by assholes and/or morons. It's been a bumpy ride ride for me but it's a lesser church that requires less. Jesus Christ is the answer.

[@MormonRescue]

I appreciate you sharing your testimony, and your point of view is just as valid as mine. But I do wonder when you say "I can truthfully promise you." That's where I draw my line. Can you *promise* that polygamy is the doctrine of heaven? Because if not, the church is not true. Can you *promise* that men preside over women in Christ's true kingdom? Can you *promise* that Christ is unchanging (as he says over and over in the Book of Mormon)? Because the doctrines and beliefs in the LDS church are constantly changing. Can you *promise* the Book of Mormon is true? Because it claims to have the full and everlasting gospel - yet it doesn't contain most of the covenants or ordinances or commandments the LDS church requires for salvation. Can you *promise* that we must swear oaths and receive tokens and make covenants to be saved? Because Jesus taught us never to swear oaths. Can you *promise* the 15 apostles, prophets, seers, and revelators are called by Jesus himself and wield his power? Because not one of them does the works of Jesus' true apostles: they don't cause the blind to see, the lame to walk, or the dead to rise. We can all have our own beliefs, but promising other people that your way is the only way requires that you back up that promise.

[@user-pu4nx9tw1h]

The treatment of the gay community isn’t concerning to me, I feel they’re right there… oh boy here come the comments…. That’s my opinion and I’m entitled to it 👍

[@seanrathmakedisciples1508]

I was born a Roman Catholic but on the 24/10/1986 I called on the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation. I was burdened with a lot of sin or I was very sin conscious. I was striving to save myself with my own efforts. When I called on Jesus I immediately had peace. God spoke to me tend revealed to me that he loved me like Moses and Isaac and Jacob. He also revealed to me that His word was true and so I decided to read God’s word daily starting at John chapter 14 onwards. Later I was baptized and I’m now a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ while making other disciples on my journey with Jesus 24/7 . Therefore being justified by faith I have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ Romans 5:1. Justified means just as I’ve never sinned. Jesus is my substitute forevermore

[@MRRANDOMZ11]

Mormon this Mormon that is all hear you on purpose leave out Christ whos church and kindom it is his people are a covenant people The church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints is the name that the lord himself gave it So you can mock all you want i dont care I know the truth and i stand bold in my testimony I would never leave my faith for it is the air i breathe Our covenants connect us to Christ he is the bridegroom we are his bride Truth is eternal The Gospel is eternal

[@MormonRescue]

I'm glad you brought up the true name of the church. You are right that the LDS church now goes by that full name. Yet, this is just one more example of a difference between the LDS church and the Book of Mormon. In the Book of Mormon, Jesus himself gives his true name for his church, from his own mouth, in front of multiple witnesses. And he says his church will be called the Church of Christ. Interestingly, the group of believers in the Book of Mormon when it was translated was called the Church of Christ. It wasn't until later, when such influential people as Sidney Rigdon came on the scene, that the name of the church was changed to "The Church of the Latter Day Saints", and then to "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints". You can belong to whatever church you want to. But if you believe in the Book of Mormon and the Christ in it, his true name for his true church is right there in 3 Nephi.