Modern Christianity

False Doctrine

The Lord distinguishes between the "doctrines of devils" and "the commandments of men." (D&C 46:7.) One may be more sinister than the other or more invidious in its motivation, but the consequences of following an incorrect principle are the same, regardless of its source. (Deposition of a Disciple, p. 13.)

The injunction given in the Sacred Grove to Joseph Smith at the time of the Restoration is totally consistent with the character and standards of Jesus at the time he was here in his earthly ministry in the Holy Land. The Savior condemned the errors in both behavior and doctrine that had grown up in ancient Judaism; later he did the same regarding supposed Christianity. It shouldn't surprise us if he still condemns doctrinal falsity or casualness today. If Jesus of Nazareth described the way as straight and narrow (with few finding it), could he endorse the broad way with hundreds of competing and disagreeing Christian churches? (Things As They Really Are, p. 38.)


(Cory H. Maxwell, ed., The Neal A. Maxwell Quote Book [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1997], 116.)