Becoming a More Christian Christian

I rather love a difficult question. I like the way that doctrine rubs up against doctrine, only to reveal that we are all children of Christ with very mortal, shortsighted visions of truth. I don't actually mind the anti-Mormon basher. It seems to me that we are all seekers of truth, and that is a journey that I respect.

Elder Anderson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles recently visited the Oklahoma City Mission. He admonished us to talk of Christ, and to delight with our Christian friends in the truths that we share. When he visited with the Archbishop, Elder Anderson did not fight about doctrinal issues. He didn't even bear down with bold testimony. Instead he asked, "What would you teach me?"

We invited two antagonistic non-denominational Christians into the home of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We hoped for a venue of thoughtful discussion and sincere testimony. Our expectations failed. The members became accusatory, inflamed, and ungracious. I was shocked and embarrassed. Both parties forgot what it means to be Christian. The doctrine of Christ fell by the wayside and we were left with the futile quest to be "right."

How shall we act toward those of differing beliefs? What should be our response to acrid questions? Where should we focus our comments when the conversation tempts at adversarial? This is my plea for peace.

When dogma threatens to overwhelm the doctrine that you cherish, please begin by asking,
"What would you teach me?"

And then listen. Compassion will teach you what contention cannot.

Elder Neil L. Anderson
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles