The Theological Foundations of the Mormon Religion

The Theological Foundations of the Mormon Religion by Sterling M. McMurrin. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780874800517.

A Philosopher, Sterling M. McMurrin (1914-96) appreciated the similarities between Mormonism and Hellenistic Christianity. For instance, Church Fathers of the fifth century admired Plato, who taught that there is one God, coexistent with such eternal entities as Justice and Loveâ "to which Joseph Smith added Priesthood and Church. Where Augustine modified Plato, Mormonism would tend to side with his critic, the Stoic-leaning Pelagius. In this broad context, what is Mormonisms contribution to the overall pursuit of lifes fundamental, ontological questions? Herein lies McMurrins intentâ "an invitation to join him on a wide-ranging search for purpose. He finds his churchs synthesis of heresy and orthodoxy to be refreshing and impressive in this light, in its treatment of evil, sin, and free will. Belief in a personal God may run counter to traditional faith, but it is nonetheless emotionally satisfying and accessible to the human imagination.