Biblical Literalism: Was Elisha Cruel ... A Case Study

[rameumptom]

I am so sorry that it appears that I am attacking PC. I have the highest regard for him and his work. I believe in the resurrection – and above all I believe in Christ. What I cannot accept is a belief that G-d would have his servant act as his proxy, in his very sacred name and as an example for all in the manner that is being suggested. That this is the example that we all should emulate in how we deal with our fellow men is outrageous; particularly for myself being that I have lived most of my life bald. Something about the interpretation of Elisha’s as being the example for us all as infallible righteousness as spoken of in Holy Scripture leaves me most perplexed.

The problem is you and Snow are trying to compare ancient views and actions with 21st century political correctness. Hugh Nibley told of teaching a BoM class decades ago, where he had some Arab students in the class. When he discussed Nephi's killing of Laban, they began whispering amongst themselves. When Nibley asked their opinion, they said they were disappointed in Nephi, because he should have immediately listened to the Spirit, and not shirk from slaying Laban.

Do you not wonder why God would have Nephi slay a drunken man? Why didn't he just incapacitate him, tie him up, etc? God DOES bring about many things that appear evil, at least on the surface, for those who are not educated in the ways of ancient Middle Eastern customs.

You are attempting to impose upon all the prophets an infallible character. None of them are. Some of them were very rough and wacko. Isaiah walked around for years naked. Samuel slew unarmed kings. And God did wipe out all of Sodom and Gomorrah, Jerusalem, and etc. Our ways are not God's ways, and we don't always think like He does. But when we learn about ancient ideas and concepts (which is what Joseph Smith tried to get us to do with the Restoration), then we see that God has an over-arching plan that includes providing salvation for children who are torn apart by bears.

[rameumptom]

Uh-huh. Picture 42 boys/youths being attached by wild bears bears but the bears having the skill and self-control to simply cut the boys, not kill them. Perhaps the bears - and this has precedence in the scriptures - had the power of speech and said to the boys, "Hold very still whilst we gnaw on your legs and abdomens with our bear teeth, lest we accidentally puncture an artery and bleed you out." ... and the boys reply "Yes wild bears of the forest, we hear the wisdom of your words. We will not panic and run away, lest our strugglings cause the slashing and chomping to peril our very lives, rather we will line up hear and take our lacerations like the men later apologists will claim us 'little children' to be be."

Snow, let's keep the discussion in context. You are solely mocking here. PC did not state any of these things, and you, again, bring things to an absurd level. Let's stop it now, and return to real discussion.

[Connie]

I'm so glad i'm not the only LDS here who agrees with PC on this one. I was starting to wonder if i should convert.

Love and Law

[robertshawwilliamian]

Of course God isn't cruel. The "children" refered to were teenagers or young adults.

Possibly old world "street gangs". Cheers.

[Moksha]

Of course God isn't cruel. The "children" refered to were teenagers or young adults.

Possibly old world "street gangs". Cheers.

Which might suggest that the Salt Lake City Police Gang Enforcement Unit, might be wise to team up with the Division of Wildlife Resources, for better citizen protection.

:)

[Dravin]

Which might suggest that the Salt Lake City Police Gang Enforcement Unit, might be wise to team up with the Division of Wildlife Resources, for better citizen protection.

:)

If the Canadian Moose Calvary are any indication they would be a force to be reckoned with.

[Just_A_Guy]

Which might suggest that the Salt Lake City Police Gang Enforcement Unit, might be wise to team up with the Division of Wildlife Resources, for better citizen protection.

:)

I think that only works if the current prophet is bald.

No.

Yes.