By Terryl Givens and Fiona Givens
Ensign Peak, 2012. 148 pgs. Nonfiction
Terryl and Fiona Givens illuminate LDS theology in this rich consideration of what Mormons believe as compared with other faiths and philosophies. The title references Enoch's vision as recorded in the Pearl of Great Price of God weeping over his wayward and suffering children, and the God the Givens describe "has made us His central concern, and as long as humans live--He will share in all our sorrows . . . in all our triumphs and joys. For He has set His heart upon us." In this book, Mormonism's core beliefs are highlighted by considering them in light of alternate philosophies and beliefs, and by sharing the reflection of LDS belief from other sources. For example, even as the Givens repudiate Jonathan Edwards' fearful descriptions of "sinners in the hands of an angry God," of a father who "abhors" his unforgivable children, they share the quieter vision of Edwards' wife Sarah who, feeling "a strong desire to be alone with God" withdraws to her chamber where "God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ, seemed as distinct persons, both manifesting their inconceivable loveliness and mildness, and gentleness, and their great immutable love to me. . . ." The Givens have drawn from an apparently encyclopedic knowledge of history, belief, literature, and philosophy to outline LDS belief in the richest possible terms, both for members and other interested readers.
LW
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