A Rational Theology

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, my bishop recommended this book to me when a non-member friend and his questions caused me to doubt the rationality behind my religious beliefs. My friend would ask many questions about the church which I could answer on my own but then he'd want me to justify the answer with either biblical references or with examples from historical theologies. Reading this book helped me understand why the LDS church beliefs make sense. It's perfect for those who need to hear the logical reasoning behind this religion. I found Widtsoe's writing different and somewhat difficult. It's definitely not leisurely reading but once you are comfortable with his writing technique, it becomes very insightful. He leaves out the biased side (since he was a member himself) and explains why the LDS church is a rational theology. I love this book and ended up buying it!

This overview book expounds many of the doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, along the line of "Gospel Principles," and is a very good read, considering Elder Widtsoe was an emigrant form Norway. He covers the basics, but as President Hinckley has said, we learn by repetition. For those who are a fan of Widtsoe, this is an essential addition to their library. The only drawback being that it is was designed for used in priesthood meetings, so it is not designed for non-Saints. For anyone interesting in "first contact" with the Latter-day Saints, I would recommend reading "The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ," or "Standing for Something" by Gordon B. Hinckley, the current world leader of the Church. Don't drink below the horses, including myself!It should be noted that Brother Widtsoe comes from the point of view of a chemist and describes our theology in terms of rationality and a science. C. S. Lewis warned about "Christianity And," (Screwtape Letters, chapter 25) such as "Christianity and Pacifism," or "Christianity and Vegetarianism," the problem being that we are diluting the Gospel and rewriting it in the light of our own hobbies or profession. True, our theology is rational and can stand the scrutiny of a Thomas Aquinas or a Jesse Ventura, but it is not the product of a test-tube or a syllogism. In other words, Joseph Smith didn't get our religion from re-shuffling verses of the bible, or just deep thinking or pondering, but he got revelations. He said, "I have got all the truth which the Christian world possessed, and an independent revelation in the bargain, and God will bear me off triumphant." (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 376) Despite this one point, would recommend this book for a new member learning, a non-member curious, or an old member wanting to review basics. C. S. Lewis also said that we should alternate between reading old books, and new books, since the old ones have stood the test of time, whereas the new books, such as "Believing Christ," or John Bytheway books are still on trial. I'm not saying the are bad, but that there is a verdict of history associated with "Jesus the Christ," or "Mormon Doctrine" that these striplings do not yet have.

This is an unusual review, as I have not read the book. But I noted that no-one else has reviewed it, so somebody has to say something. My father was found by LDS missionaries in 1961. He has a great love of science, and naturally had many questions. Someone gave him a copy of this book, and he was convinced. He has a rational answer to most questions, and this book shaped his attitudes. I have not read the book, but it has indirectly defined my life and the lives of others.