We've got to feel for John Dehlin at this stage. We don't know his motives, and we don't know what he's thinking, so we can't render judgment on the man himself. All that we can do is redouble our efforts to be kind nonjudgmental people, treat him (and others like him) with love and respect, and not let anything they say knock us off this true path.
BluePlanetApril 14, 2015
I didn't know a mole in the church gets paid that much..lol Dang, it's amazing how lucrative it can be to be a pseudo anti- mormon.
sallyFebruary 13, 2015
I converted just 2 years ago, and I am a big fan of John Dehlin. His excommunication causes me great grief. Atho I suspect the support of ss marriage and ordain women were factors in excommunication, certainly the negative information on web was a big factor. What I don't understand was the perception that Dehlin was leading people away from church. His info, even the negative, helped build my testimony. It was helpful to me to hear the negative to think through issues. And some of the podcasts were extremely spirit filled. A few years ago he spoke at a conference - his speech was titled why i stay. He talked about his escalating doubts, and he was clearly in pain. I don't understand how exing helps that. It seems unkind.
judithFebruary 10, 2015
Thank you for this intelligent, well-balanced article. I have listened to some of John's podcasts (the earlier ones), and I appreciated them. However, as other commenters have indicated, the tone of more recent interviews has become cynical, accusatory and, at times, condescending.
I send him much compassion as I believe that he, like Sonya Johnson, had good intents--to help those in pain find peace. Peace, though, is found by following the teachings of Christ which are clearly set out in our scriptures. I feel for his children.
He has a good heart, a good intellect...but I fear he has lost his way. No one wins here.
thisisboomFebruary 4, 2015
I listened to the Sandra Tanner podcast. That nice old lady sure did not seem hostile to me.
Although I agree that for Dehlin it is more than Ordain Women and same sex marriage. However, just a while ago Kate Kelley was excommunicated and I don't think a real argument can be made she was X'd for anything except her support of Ordain Women. They X'd Kate for supporting Ordain Women, it wouldn't surprise me if the X'd John for it as well. Especially considering they were both summoned at about the same time.
W.L. ElliottJanuary 30, 2015
People look at excommunication in a very narrow way, and that is a mistake. Excommunication or removal from the church is not the church "getting even" or thumbing their nose at a member. It is a chance for the excommunicated member to examine their beliefs, repent if necessary, and return if desired. The sadness comes when someone chooses to distance themselves from the Gospel and God. Anyone who has been excommunicated is, and always will be, invited to return, but they must align themselves with the Church to do so. And why wouldn't someone? Why would you join a church you didn't believe in? So if he really no longer believes, he is simply being released from membership - with no grounds to gripe about no longer being a member, since he doesn't want to be one anyway.
Shirl DyerJanuary 30, 2015
I add my voice to all the great comments, Most felt sorrow for John and his family instead of hate or anger. Thank you for this good article and for not being negative but insightful. It is sad to see what many do because of their unbelief and I am afraid there will be many many more like John in the days to come.
Matt SmithJanuary 30, 2015
This is a great article and one of the the few that takes the time to gather the facts that are available.
Also, in response to some of the comments, I feel like it needs to be said, that John was on the executive track at Microsoft in it's hay day before his faith crisis. If he did not devote so much time to blogging, he would probably be making well over $300K in salary alone by now as a software executive. He is a smart communicator with legitimate skills and could easily get a job for over $90K tomorrow if he wanted to and probably put in a lot less hours. Those who are promoting the idea that this is a big money grab for John are showing their ignorance.
Kyle WashburnJanuary 28, 2015
At this time I can only feel sadness. I hope and pray that John and his family will be safe in the hands of his stake president and the high council.
When a member of my family faced Church discipline, I spent hours trying to help him get through it. My efforts were not successful. The verdict was mistaken. As it turns out, the excommunicated person turned out to be mentally ill, unable to even understand what happened and why. The stake high council did not understand what was happening or why. They followed procedure but failed in their mission to follow Christ, healing the broken.
I do not understand what happened to John. At first so many of his podcasts were quite helpful. But when I listened to him, I realized he was terribly gullible, believing the most ridiculous assertions some of the people he interviewed made. He seemed over his head, trying to discuss Church history when he lacked the background or knowledge to make rational judgments about it. And he was unwilling to suspend belief or disbelief until he did more research and consulted people who could refute the assertions against the Church that his guests were making. I hope he is not excommunicated. I hope he can be reclaimed. To lose someone for whom Christ died is to lose indeed.
MicJanuary 28, 2015
It's too bad the closed minded posts of the forum discussion. The article was geared toward a one way,one audience thinking. Of course those who always have too much to say in there day to day activities, priesthood quorums, relief society job etc. didn't take the time to listen...with their hearts and with there minds, what this is really about. Judge not, that ye be not judged a wise man once said...how can a group of people, so bent on a one world Zion be so heartless and cold...you don't agree with their thinking, so oust them? public or not. God is bigger than you think he/she is. John is a hero for bringing difficult things to light. You have to understand that this is on a bigger scale than you see it, how can you have such a narrow view of something you know nothing about but your tiny words, and lack if full study or knowledge concerning the matter "seek ye out if the best books"... If anything I feel empathy for all of you and your hurtful words and poor brother and sisterhood in such dire circumstances. Losing a brother is a terrible thing, and to do it willingly is even worse.
JohnJanuary 28, 2015
I like John. I believe he wants to stay with the church because it is so engrained into his life. He can not simply walk away. He is receiving money, but he is also working to obtain the credentials to help reduce the high incidence of gay male members committing suicide. Let me ask a question relating to Rick G's comment regard John practicing priest craft as a result of accepting money. How does this compare to the GAs accepting money?
Scott WhiteJanuary 28, 2015
I am a fan of Nathaniel Givens and his parents. I have enjoyed his parents interviews with John Dehlin. They are some of the most faith affirming presentations I have come across. For this I am grateful to John. I think that all of us should be expressing feelings of sorrow and empathy for John. He may be leaving our community of faith. How tragic for anyone to lose the blessings of covenant that are ours. I hope that his journey will bring him back to the fold and the faith.
JP WirigJanuary 28, 2015
John Dehlin is a coward - please know that he heavily moderates the comments on his facebook and his website and this is the reason it appears he has as much support as he does.
Robert WilliamsJanuary 28, 2015
One has to wonder about a member of the church that does not have the whispering of the Holy Ghost on a daily basis. All of the promptings and warnings and instruction, even having words spoken to you from time to time, giving specific instructions. And the biggest of all; receiving a undeniable witness of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon by the power of the Holy Ghost. Someone who has regressed so far that they no longer have these experiences either have major un-repented transgressions, or they have stopped feasting on the Latter-day scriptures on a daily basis. The flow of revelation has stopped. "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." James 1:8
Rick G.January 28, 2015
Dehlin, has lost all objectivity and thus credibility when he started receiving compensation for his Podcast. The word for that is Priestcraft short and simple. Also, he basically wants all the benefits of being a member without believing in the core values or beliefs. This is not what the LDS faith is about. He is free to pursue his own course with all that goes with it. The problem many of these apostates struggle with is that they want to recreate the church in their own image. Especially when it does not agree with the manmade doctrines that they espouse. Aside from all of that we can still "know them by their fruits". This is God's Priesthood not man's. Only God can tell us how he wants for it to operate, enough said!
Junk BinJanuary 28, 2015
Gordon B Hinckley, " We do not have such a thing as The Loyal Opposition".
Your choice
GailJanuary 28, 2015
If you don't believe The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only authorized church restored by Christ through Joseph Smith....then leave; or are you receiving too much money and fame to give it up? Where would you be and what would you be doing if you weren't exploiting your disbelief. Get an honest job.
Loueen AndersonJanuary 27, 2015
Why do people put forth so much effort to criticize the LDS Church. I believe it just goes to show that the Church is true. If it wasn't true, there would be no need for Satan to work against it.
SteveJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you so much for the thoughtful and balanced article. I've listened to John Dehlin off and on the past few months - some interviews have been very healthy for my faith and some not so much. I believe he raises some important concerns that the Church needs to address, but I also believe he has gone too far in influencing others to disregard their faith. I too am not sure why he would want to retain his membership, but I think the last thing we should be doing is heaping more and more judgements upon this man. Let's leave that up to his local leadership who are call by authority to handle this matter. Those who struggle with their faith (which includes me at times) need all of the love and support followers of Christ can give them.
Albert SchindlerJanuary 27, 2015
Is there a chance that all these comments can be forwarded on to Mr. Dehlin? Maybe he would understand that he's hurting himself more than he is hurting the Membership of the Church.
In my long life I left several Church organizations in my quest to find the Truth before finally finding it in the LDS Gospel. However, each time when I left these former Church organizations, I left quietly believing that, because I didn't find Truth to my satisfaction in that particular faith, didn't mean that that Church failed in providing spiritual food for other persons.
At one time I, too, had my issues with "Church History" until one day a very wise Bishop sat down with me and explained the difference between some Church member's actions and the Church Gospel. For Mr. Dehlin to feel such hate towards our Church, he must be suffering terribly within. My feeling is that he should be placed, spiritually, in our Prayer Circle and we pray that Jesus the Christ's love for all of us heal his aching soul.
joy andersonJanuary 27, 2015
it is sad to hear that mr. Dehlin is no longer belive in lds faith..:( but i don't understand his statement saying ..I NOW BELIEVE THAT MEN SHOULD FOLLOW THEIR JOY!... 1. he is deceiving himself if he think joy can be found outside the gospel of Jesus Christ. 2. if men follow their joy they will find themselves inside the fold where there is a God who created him.3. i do believe that only in this church the fullness of happiness is being taught. 4. i wonder what kind of joy he is saying, there is no joy on turning away on light...
Tom JohnsonJanuary 27, 2015
Just wait, John Dehlin will be the keynote speaker at the Sunstone Symposium next year.
Brett AllenJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for your thoughtful article. I wish it could be more widely disseminated, but Dehlin's version is much more appealing to the world. Sadly the Church has its share of "moles".
Mr. Dehlin is just a more subtle Korihor, pretending to help people while striving to destroy their testimonies.
He would have felt very comfortable sitting with King Noah and his priests judging and then destroying Abinadi.
Sasha Bill KwapinskiJanuary 27, 2015
I left the Unitarian church several years ago,( before becoming LDS). When I did so, I did not make a public spectacle of myself, or carry on a continuous, ongoing campaign of antagonism. I certainly did not make any money off of it. Due to various religio-political issues, I no longer felt that I belonged there, and so I "voted with my feet," taking my loyalties elsewhere.
MicheleJanuary 27, 2015
So sad his family will leave with him!
BenJanuary 27, 2015
I am grateful to John Dehlin. He was the "gateway" drug for me to find out about the real history of Mormonism, but as time went on, I realized I could no longer believe in Mormonism at all. I wanted to be authentic, so I asked to have my membership removed from the rolls. I don't believe that Joseph Smith ever was a prophet and don't support LDS doctrine in anyway. If John doesn't either, it would be easier to just send the letter and get on with life.
BryanJanuary 27, 2015
@JC. Denver Snuffer is, indeed, hostile to the church, and come out about 6 months ago stating he had wrested the PH keys from the church and has started his own 'communities' (read churches, although he will not state as much). He too led many down the primrose path with his apostate teachings. I know that there are many that seem to think the church is 'oppressive' and 'backwards' but in reality they do not have a testimony of who is actually in charge of the church, and so by fighting it, the are actually fighting Jesus Christ Himself.
JoshJanuary 27, 2015
I empathize with all who struggle with their faith. It is the common lot of all men to struggle from time to time (this earth wouldn't be much of a test if we didn't struggle, now would it?) and to work out their salvation with fear and trembling before God. With that said, I don't understand people who blame the Church for their crisis of faith regarding the history of the restoration and say that the Church doesn't share the "real" history.
First, history is always messy and subject to interpretation. Second, all of the "difficult" history topics that catch some people off guard is available for study--usually through church sources, and almost always from church member historians (see the original history of the church, Rough Stone Rolling, etc).
If the only history you know is from Sunday School, then that is your fault--not the fault of the Church. Plus, the Sunday School has a different mission than you thought. It isn't a history class, it is a religion class. We all have time to study the history of our religion, the only question is if we cared enough to make it a priority.
CraigJanuary 27, 2015
I am very troubled by this whole affair. I was an avid listener of the Mormon Stories Podcast the first few years. In fact, I believe the Podcasts helped get through a very difficult time. Unfortunately, over the years the tone and tenor of the podcast changed, and he became more candid about his own beliefs, which were primarily negative toward the church and the leaders. I don't know if he changed or if he just decided to reveal himself as he always believed. I'm inclined to believe the former. At this point I am left believing, that it has all become about John. I believe, that if John truly was only interested in being "true to himself" he would have resigned his membership years ago. Now it appears its all about publicity and money. Too bad, because for a time John was a light to many people. He may scream "look at me" but the light is now fading.
MikeJanuary 27, 2015
3 Nephi 14: 15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
20 Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them.
The "thorns" and "thistles" references seemed more relevant to me, as pertaining to Mr. Dehlin, when measuring the fruits of his activities. Having read Church history all of my life - including that written by those trying to undermine the Church - I find it surprising that people believe they are finding something that undermines their faith. When individuals proclaim that the Church has "white washed" the narrative and has mislead people into believing, I again am astounded. I find nothing but faith in the reporting of Church history. I stand as a witness that only God could have brought His Gospel back to the earth and that He has done so through living prophets.
Deb E.January 27, 2015
There are ALWAYS 2 sides to a story....thank you for bringing this all to light...too bad the media doesn't care for fair and balanced news.
J BurtJanuary 27, 2015
It's pretty clear what John has been up to (whether he realizes exactly what he's been doing or not).
Think for a moment, what is the best way to try and bring down any organization, government, nation, etc?? It is from within ( See Abraham Lincoln's speech on this topic).
If the Church is the true kingdom of God on Earth and if there is an adversary (Satan) working his might to try and bring it down, what do you think his (Satan's) preferred tactic would be? The anti-mormon supporters of John said it about as plainly as one can, "he is a mole inside the Mormon Church." The only thing that amazes me is how much patience the Church leadership has had with this guy, he should have been ex-communicated a long time ago...
WilliamJanuary 27, 2015
I was raised LDS, my personal community is LDS, I have checked all the LDS boxes in full belief through my entire life and then I learned about and studied the history of the church and found that the narrative we were told by the church was really a simplistic, white-washed version of reality. It was the hardest thing I have ever been through in my life. I am trying to carve out a space in our LDS community and remain active because of the HELP of John Dehlin. I am not 100% behind how he has handled his "court of love" so publicly, but I can say Im probably 85% behind it. I feel that his stake president has tried to minimize the degree to which his support of LGBT issues and OW has had on this process because it would be a PR nightmare for the church. So John is trying to make sure that those issues, which his stake president explicitly told him were a part of the issue in his interview, were not thrown by the wayside. The message that this is sending to those of us who doubt many of the church's truth claims but WANT to remain members of the church that we claim as our own is not a good one.
Renaissance NerdJanuary 27, 2015
Dehlin is simply dishonest. If he were honest he would've had his records removed long ago. He was waiting for, aching for a disciplinary council so he could improve his standing with the anti set. Excommunication is actually not really appropriate, since he has no intention of repenting and that's its purpose, but there's really no other option.
Jim PittJanuary 27, 2015
The articles in todays posts reveal one important fact ... Why does he persist in being called a member of the Church??? He does so to promote himself,. He makes money and keeps himself in the main stream news etc. etc. I especially enjoyed the words of "One Opinion" You can buy anything in this world with money
Robert AmesJanuary 27, 2015
When a person accepts baptism in the Church, they officially accept its tenants and doctrines and agree to abide by the Church's leadership. It then becomes a contract, if you will. When, and if, they find they cannot endure the conditions of that contract any longer, they have a responsibility to resign or accept termination of that contract, which in the case of a religious institution, consists of excommunication, i. e. termination of membership. This should not be grounds for contention on the part of the excommunicated person, because he/she has essentially initiated or asked for that action to be taken. If one does not agree with the basic tenants of the Church then they unofficially do not agree with the church in its entirety. One must always be careful what they wish for, because they just might get it.
VelDeanJanuary 27, 2015
Many years ago, I watch Sonya Johnson (a strong, vocal advocate of the Equal Rights Amendment and vocal critic of the leadership of the LDS Church) from my seat in the audience of an Atlanta television studio, where she was being interviewed. Until watching this, I could not imagine a member of the Church standing up and publicly, verbally, opposing a living prophet. What hit me the most strongly in watching her was that I realized how deeply she believed her position to be true. How carefully the adversary leads us down the path to apostasy, if we are not careful and intentional about safeguarding our testimonies of the truth! These are days of sifting, and if not careful, even the very elect can be deceived. I suspect Mr. Dehlin believes in his position. I, on the other hand, am grateful for a deep testimony of the Gospel and the Church organization and strive to strengthen and nourish it from day to day.
DuellaJanuary 27, 2015
Once again, pride is at the root of the sin. Selfish motives. This is a day that was promised would come as we face a great falling away. We all have to have our own solid foundation.
Darrin IvieJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for the insight and introducing, in a clear way, another side of the story.
BradJanuary 27, 2015
Objection, your Honor. Speculation.
ClarkJanuary 27, 2015
Mr. Dehlin, by his own admission, has not believed many of the Church's core beliefs for years. Yet, he says he loves the Church. His Stake Pres., Dr. King, asked him last spring if he (Dehlin) would like his name to be removed from the Church records, which he refused.
Since then, Dehlin has continued his negative Church blogs. This makes it totally clear that he is only out for the publicity and the $$$$$$ that his Church negativity brings to him.
ktnJanuary 27, 2015
About a year ago, my son-in-law was profoundly affected by John Dehlin's "Mormon Stories', experienced a crisis of faith and decided he that is an atheist. He is an RM, graduated with honors from BYU, married in the temple, and is currently a PhD candidate at a prestigious university. Obviously there were other issues in his life that made him susceptible, but 'Mormon Stories' was the catalyst that gave him the narrative to cut his ties to the Church. It is a tragedy--for him, for my daughter, and for both our extended families. John Dehlin is a wolf in sheep's clothing, and exults in his influence. A tragedy for him and for his family as well.
DavidJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for the "rest of the story" on this current issue. Your information puts the events into a much clearer picture. As is almost always the case, there is another side to the story.
GwenJanuary 27, 2015
By posting it to social media and bringing attention to himself for something that is sacred and personal, says to me he is a glory seeker. Its' more important what the "world" thinks of HIS choices than the sacred covenants he took at baptism. It's obvious that he is trying to make the church look bad because he made choices that brought him where he is. I am grateful for the Church and it's disciplinary actions. The sifting of the tares from the wheat is what is happening here.
Rob GhioJanuary 27, 2015
Thanks for the excellent article. This highlights one of the main problems with any reporting about proposed or actual communications: The disciplined member controls the public message. The Church properly keeps such matters confidential and respects the privacy of the individual, so he or she ends up being able to spin the discipline in whatever manner he or she chooses.
I often wonder why anyone insists on staying in the Church when they don't accept the fundamental doctrines of the Church. I guess this fellow found about 90,000 reasons a year.
On an unrelated subject, your parents write some of the most moving discussions of the gospel I ever have had the pleasure of reading.
AnnJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for bringing a honest look at church discipline in general terms and to John Dehlin's smoke and mirror version of his own situation more specifically. Dehlin is free to question and believe as he feels right. However, advocating and teaching those beliefs is a horse of a different color.
Tom BarrattJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for your article and opinion. I believe the Church has the inherent ability and can take action against John Dehlin or any other person they so desire. That is their right and anyone who is in that position of Church discipline is no doubt fully aware of that. In spite of that, truth will prevail in the end. That is the focus of why we are here on this earth to find light and truth. It is a personal journey and not necessarily an institutional one. Zion is the only answer to the problems of today both in and out of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Zion is also an individual journey and not an institutional one. Why are we focusing our attention on whether John Dehlin is an apostate or not? That is not our duty but our duty is to bring peace and comfort to others in the ways we feel is the most important and needed. Let John Dehlin find his own way to do that. Where is the Spirit of Christ in all this? It is in Zion and that should be our focus not whether or not we are supporters of this instiution or that institution.
JcJanuary 27, 2015
This is just a little side note.
I think that it is a stretch to call Denver Snuffer a "hostile" critic.
I've read some of his writings and seen him lecture a couple of times- maybe I just missed something... or,
Maybe I just don't know what you mean by "hostile".
Just being critical of someone or something/ having a difference of opinion, doesn't constitute being hostile.
janaJanuary 27, 2015
It would appear from reading this article that Mr. Dehlin has already left the church. He no longer believes the very core tenets that support the gospel and he voices this very clearly. He is using this as an opportunity to put himself out there as a martyr and gain the approval of the world. He is a very intelligent man who has lost his way.
One OpinionJanuary 27, 2015
As I read this excellent analysis, one item stood out: He makes a lot of money from his website and downloads.
That's what all of this is about: promoting himself for more money, and now he may be panicking a bit that if he's exed, there goes that gravy train of $90,000/year.
You can buy anything in this world with money . . .
Kaarin EngelmannJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for the article. It was very enlightening. I appreciate getting more well-rounded coverage.
AngelaJanuary 27, 2015
John Dehlin is, of course, free to believe or disbelieve whatever he likes. But why would he, or anyone else, even want to stay in a church whose most fundamental doctrines he no longer believes in?
MargieJanuary 27, 2015
Since Dehlin no longer believes in the Church, he should not be opposed to excommunication. After all, won't that give him more fodder for his anti-Church rantings?
KathaleenJanuary 27, 2015
Why don't people just leave the church and ask to have their names removed from the records if they no longer believe church doctrine? I think it was Joseph Smith that said that once you have known the truth, you can never be neutral again. You will either be for or against. In my opinion, the very vocal disagreement is an attempt to garner support for the decision from outside yourself, this justifying your actions.
LeoJanuary 27, 2015
I could only stomach one of Dehlin's interviews and left half way through. I have been down that road he faces and as stated I see childishness 'of look at me' versus Kate Kelly. He feels he is in control and no matter the outcome he can make it sound like he was always the innocent victim. If he doesn't believe in Mormonism then have the backbone to leave. Instead he willingly to drag the church through the muck of public opinion with a definitely tilted and slanted view that will become his war cry. I would suppose that he expects his fame to grow afterwards and reap the monetary rewards. My only question for him is when you leave mortality John do you honestly believe you will not have to answer for your actions in this life? Sorry to say but one can see the line he drew in the sand and where he stands.
Jay MonsonJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for this very well written article. It sheds additional light on this situation and is much appreciated.
Randall McNeelyJanuary 27, 2015
Amen! Very well thought out, very articulate, and spot on!
LukeJanuary 27, 2015
Helpful information giving perspective and actual reasons.
LukeJanuary 27, 2015
This was a necessary and helpful artcle. It gave. needed insight and information.
stuart hallam stocksJanuary 27, 2015
no way will this person lead me from the church, I only follow the prophets of the day, our father in heaven has told us this, you read about these people in the book of Mormon that once had the light and lost it, but are not satisfied until they lead people away, woe woe unto them, the wrath of god will rest upon him, I feel sad for him, he once was and now is lost, very sad for him and his family, yours truly stuart.
Terry AndersonJanuary 27, 2015
For me the question is not whether John should be removed from the church, but rather why he hasn't removed himself. He espouses a religion led by tragically flawed characters that will be led in the direction of higher consciousnesses under the influence of popular culture. In this respect, he sees Mormonism as no different to any other religion. I would not be the slightest bit perturbed if John leaves the Church. Salvation is a personal journey, worked out with fear and trembling. He craves publicity and he's getting it.
Kathleen O'MealJanuary 27, 2015
John Dehlin, by his own account does not believe the Church to be true. Then the right thing for him to do is to leave the Church under his own accord. He should just write a letter asking to be removed from membership records. Let him search for a religion he can align with or start his own Church....follow his own joy. However, it seems not being a member is not enough for him. And, it seems his true motive is to injure the Church and gain a discipleship towards a movement that bases its beliefs on defaming the LDS church. He should worship according to the dictates of his own conscience and officially announce and begin his "church of LDS defamation." He needs to be transparent about his intent or find another job.
Loma SilsburyJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you kindly for your well presented and evenly balanced treaties updating the ‘John Dehlin’ saga.
Mr. Dehlin is more to be pitied than censured, for his life has so little worth in his own eyes that, in order to justify his existence, he must actively participate in the attempted destruction of those things which bring peace and comfort to others.
It is no skin off his nose what another holds dear and unless it actively impacts upon his own existence, it can be no possible consequence to him and yet. . . mighty are his struggles to steal away the comforting cloak of his fellow man. This alone speaks volumes.
Comments | Return to Story
PeterJune 11, 2015
We've got to feel for John Dehlin at this stage. We don't know his motives, and we don't know what he's thinking, so we can't render judgment on the man himself. All that we can do is redouble our efforts to be kind nonjudgmental people, treat him (and others like him) with love and respect, and not let anything they say knock us off this true path.
BluePlanetApril 14, 2015
I didn't know a mole in the church gets paid that much..lol Dang, it's amazing how lucrative it can be to be a pseudo anti- mormon.
sallyFebruary 13, 2015
I converted just 2 years ago, and I am a big fan of John Dehlin. His excommunication causes me great grief. Atho I suspect the support of ss marriage and ordain women were factors in excommunication, certainly the negative information on web was a big factor. What I don't understand was the perception that Dehlin was leading people away from church. His info, even the negative, helped build my testimony. It was helpful to me to hear the negative to think through issues. And some of the podcasts were extremely spirit filled. A few years ago he spoke at a conference - his speech was titled why i stay. He talked about his escalating doubts, and he was clearly in pain. I don't understand how exing helps that. It seems unkind.
judithFebruary 10, 2015
Thank you for this intelligent, well-balanced article. I have listened to some of John's podcasts (the earlier ones), and I appreciated them. However, as other commenters have indicated, the tone of more recent interviews has become cynical, accusatory and, at times, condescending. I send him much compassion as I believe that he, like Sonya Johnson, had good intents--to help those in pain find peace. Peace, though, is found by following the teachings of Christ which are clearly set out in our scriptures. I feel for his children. He has a good heart, a good intellect...but I fear he has lost his way. No one wins here.
thisisboomFebruary 4, 2015
I listened to the Sandra Tanner podcast. That nice old lady sure did not seem hostile to me. Although I agree that for Dehlin it is more than Ordain Women and same sex marriage. However, just a while ago Kate Kelley was excommunicated and I don't think a real argument can be made she was X'd for anything except her support of Ordain Women. They X'd Kate for supporting Ordain Women, it wouldn't surprise me if the X'd John for it as well. Especially considering they were both summoned at about the same time.
W.L. ElliottJanuary 30, 2015
People look at excommunication in a very narrow way, and that is a mistake. Excommunication or removal from the church is not the church "getting even" or thumbing their nose at a member. It is a chance for the excommunicated member to examine their beliefs, repent if necessary, and return if desired. The sadness comes when someone chooses to distance themselves from the Gospel and God. Anyone who has been excommunicated is, and always will be, invited to return, but they must align themselves with the Church to do so. And why wouldn't someone? Why would you join a church you didn't believe in? So if he really no longer believes, he is simply being released from membership - with no grounds to gripe about no longer being a member, since he doesn't want to be one anyway.
Shirl DyerJanuary 30, 2015
I add my voice to all the great comments, Most felt sorrow for John and his family instead of hate or anger. Thank you for this good article and for not being negative but insightful. It is sad to see what many do because of their unbelief and I am afraid there will be many many more like John in the days to come.
Matt SmithJanuary 30, 2015
This is a great article and one of the the few that takes the time to gather the facts that are available. Also, in response to some of the comments, I feel like it needs to be said, that John was on the executive track at Microsoft in it's hay day before his faith crisis. If he did not devote so much time to blogging, he would probably be making well over $300K in salary alone by now as a software executive. He is a smart communicator with legitimate skills and could easily get a job for over $90K tomorrow if he wanted to and probably put in a lot less hours. Those who are promoting the idea that this is a big money grab for John are showing their ignorance.
Kyle WashburnJanuary 28, 2015
At this time I can only feel sadness. I hope and pray that John and his family will be safe in the hands of his stake president and the high council. When a member of my family faced Church discipline, I spent hours trying to help him get through it. My efforts were not successful. The verdict was mistaken. As it turns out, the excommunicated person turned out to be mentally ill, unable to even understand what happened and why. The stake high council did not understand what was happening or why. They followed procedure but failed in their mission to follow Christ, healing the broken. I do not understand what happened to John. At first so many of his podcasts were quite helpful. But when I listened to him, I realized he was terribly gullible, believing the most ridiculous assertions some of the people he interviewed made. He seemed over his head, trying to discuss Church history when he lacked the background or knowledge to make rational judgments about it. And he was unwilling to suspend belief or disbelief until he did more research and consulted people who could refute the assertions against the Church that his guests were making. I hope he is not excommunicated. I hope he can be reclaimed. To lose someone for whom Christ died is to lose indeed.
MicJanuary 28, 2015
It's too bad the closed minded posts of the forum discussion. The article was geared toward a one way,one audience thinking. Of course those who always have too much to say in there day to day activities, priesthood quorums, relief society job etc. didn't take the time to listen...with their hearts and with there minds, what this is really about. Judge not, that ye be not judged a wise man once said...how can a group of people, so bent on a one world Zion be so heartless and cold...you don't agree with their thinking, so oust them? public or not. God is bigger than you think he/she is. John is a hero for bringing difficult things to light. You have to understand that this is on a bigger scale than you see it, how can you have such a narrow view of something you know nothing about but your tiny words, and lack if full study or knowledge concerning the matter "seek ye out if the best books"... If anything I feel empathy for all of you and your hurtful words and poor brother and sisterhood in such dire circumstances. Losing a brother is a terrible thing, and to do it willingly is even worse.
JohnJanuary 28, 2015
I like John. I believe he wants to stay with the church because it is so engrained into his life. He can not simply walk away. He is receiving money, but he is also working to obtain the credentials to help reduce the high incidence of gay male members committing suicide. Let me ask a question relating to Rick G's comment regard John practicing priest craft as a result of accepting money. How does this compare to the GAs accepting money?
Scott WhiteJanuary 28, 2015
I am a fan of Nathaniel Givens and his parents. I have enjoyed his parents interviews with John Dehlin. They are some of the most faith affirming presentations I have come across. For this I am grateful to John. I think that all of us should be expressing feelings of sorrow and empathy for John. He may be leaving our community of faith. How tragic for anyone to lose the blessings of covenant that are ours. I hope that his journey will bring him back to the fold and the faith.
JP WirigJanuary 28, 2015
John Dehlin is a coward - please know that he heavily moderates the comments on his facebook and his website and this is the reason it appears he has as much support as he does.
Robert WilliamsJanuary 28, 2015
One has to wonder about a member of the church that does not have the whispering of the Holy Ghost on a daily basis. All of the promptings and warnings and instruction, even having words spoken to you from time to time, giving specific instructions. And the biggest of all; receiving a undeniable witness of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon by the power of the Holy Ghost. Someone who has regressed so far that they no longer have these experiences either have major un-repented transgressions, or they have stopped feasting on the Latter-day scriptures on a daily basis. The flow of revelation has stopped. "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." James 1:8
Rick G.January 28, 2015
Dehlin, has lost all objectivity and thus credibility when he started receiving compensation for his Podcast. The word for that is Priestcraft short and simple. Also, he basically wants all the benefits of being a member without believing in the core values or beliefs. This is not what the LDS faith is about. He is free to pursue his own course with all that goes with it. The problem many of these apostates struggle with is that they want to recreate the church in their own image. Especially when it does not agree with the manmade doctrines that they espouse. Aside from all of that we can still "know them by their fruits". This is God's Priesthood not man's. Only God can tell us how he wants for it to operate, enough said!
Junk BinJanuary 28, 2015
Gordon B Hinckley, " We do not have such a thing as The Loyal Opposition". Your choice
GailJanuary 28, 2015
If you don't believe The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only authorized church restored by Christ through Joseph Smith....then leave; or are you receiving too much money and fame to give it up? Where would you be and what would you be doing if you weren't exploiting your disbelief. Get an honest job.
Loueen AndersonJanuary 27, 2015
Why do people put forth so much effort to criticize the LDS Church. I believe it just goes to show that the Church is true. If it wasn't true, there would be no need for Satan to work against it.
SteveJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you so much for the thoughtful and balanced article. I've listened to John Dehlin off and on the past few months - some interviews have been very healthy for my faith and some not so much. I believe he raises some important concerns that the Church needs to address, but I also believe he has gone too far in influencing others to disregard their faith. I too am not sure why he would want to retain his membership, but I think the last thing we should be doing is heaping more and more judgements upon this man. Let's leave that up to his local leadership who are call by authority to handle this matter. Those who struggle with their faith (which includes me at times) need all of the love and support followers of Christ can give them.
Albert SchindlerJanuary 27, 2015
Is there a chance that all these comments can be forwarded on to Mr. Dehlin? Maybe he would understand that he's hurting himself more than he is hurting the Membership of the Church. In my long life I left several Church organizations in my quest to find the Truth before finally finding it in the LDS Gospel. However, each time when I left these former Church organizations, I left quietly believing that, because I didn't find Truth to my satisfaction in that particular faith, didn't mean that that Church failed in providing spiritual food for other persons. At one time I, too, had my issues with "Church History" until one day a very wise Bishop sat down with me and explained the difference between some Church member's actions and the Church Gospel. For Mr. Dehlin to feel such hate towards our Church, he must be suffering terribly within. My feeling is that he should be placed, spiritually, in our Prayer Circle and we pray that Jesus the Christ's love for all of us heal his aching soul.
joy andersonJanuary 27, 2015
it is sad to hear that mr. Dehlin is no longer belive in lds faith..:( but i don't understand his statement saying ..I NOW BELIEVE THAT MEN SHOULD FOLLOW THEIR JOY!... 1. he is deceiving himself if he think joy can be found outside the gospel of Jesus Christ. 2. if men follow their joy they will find themselves inside the fold where there is a God who created him.3. i do believe that only in this church the fullness of happiness is being taught. 4. i wonder what kind of joy he is saying, there is no joy on turning away on light...
Tom JohnsonJanuary 27, 2015
Just wait, John Dehlin will be the keynote speaker at the Sunstone Symposium next year.
Brett AllenJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for your thoughtful article. I wish it could be more widely disseminated, but Dehlin's version is much more appealing to the world. Sadly the Church has its share of "moles". Mr. Dehlin is just a more subtle Korihor, pretending to help people while striving to destroy their testimonies. He would have felt very comfortable sitting with King Noah and his priests judging and then destroying Abinadi.
Sasha Bill KwapinskiJanuary 27, 2015
I left the Unitarian church several years ago,( before becoming LDS). When I did so, I did not make a public spectacle of myself, or carry on a continuous, ongoing campaign of antagonism. I certainly did not make any money off of it. Due to various religio-political issues, I no longer felt that I belonged there, and so I "voted with my feet," taking my loyalties elsewhere.
MicheleJanuary 27, 2015
So sad his family will leave with him!
BenJanuary 27, 2015
I am grateful to John Dehlin. He was the "gateway" drug for me to find out about the real history of Mormonism, but as time went on, I realized I could no longer believe in Mormonism at all. I wanted to be authentic, so I asked to have my membership removed from the rolls. I don't believe that Joseph Smith ever was a prophet and don't support LDS doctrine in anyway. If John doesn't either, it would be easier to just send the letter and get on with life.
BryanJanuary 27, 2015
@JC. Denver Snuffer is, indeed, hostile to the church, and come out about 6 months ago stating he had wrested the PH keys from the church and has started his own 'communities' (read churches, although he will not state as much). He too led many down the primrose path with his apostate teachings. I know that there are many that seem to think the church is 'oppressive' and 'backwards' but in reality they do not have a testimony of who is actually in charge of the church, and so by fighting it, the are actually fighting Jesus Christ Himself.
JoshJanuary 27, 2015
I empathize with all who struggle with their faith. It is the common lot of all men to struggle from time to time (this earth wouldn't be much of a test if we didn't struggle, now would it?) and to work out their salvation with fear and trembling before God. With that said, I don't understand people who blame the Church for their crisis of faith regarding the history of the restoration and say that the Church doesn't share the "real" history. First, history is always messy and subject to interpretation. Second, all of the "difficult" history topics that catch some people off guard is available for study--usually through church sources, and almost always from church member historians (see the original history of the church, Rough Stone Rolling, etc). If the only history you know is from Sunday School, then that is your fault--not the fault of the Church. Plus, the Sunday School has a different mission than you thought. It isn't a history class, it is a religion class. We all have time to study the history of our religion, the only question is if we cared enough to make it a priority.
CraigJanuary 27, 2015
I am very troubled by this whole affair. I was an avid listener of the Mormon Stories Podcast the first few years. In fact, I believe the Podcasts helped get through a very difficult time. Unfortunately, over the years the tone and tenor of the podcast changed, and he became more candid about his own beliefs, which were primarily negative toward the church and the leaders. I don't know if he changed or if he just decided to reveal himself as he always believed. I'm inclined to believe the former. At this point I am left believing, that it has all become about John. I believe, that if John truly was only interested in being "true to himself" he would have resigned his membership years ago. Now it appears its all about publicity and money. Too bad, because for a time John was a light to many people. He may scream "look at me" but the light is now fading.
MikeJanuary 27, 2015
3 Nephi 14: 15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them. The "thorns" and "thistles" references seemed more relevant to me, as pertaining to Mr. Dehlin, when measuring the fruits of his activities. Having read Church history all of my life - including that written by those trying to undermine the Church - I find it surprising that people believe they are finding something that undermines their faith. When individuals proclaim that the Church has "white washed" the narrative and has mislead people into believing, I again am astounded. I find nothing but faith in the reporting of Church history. I stand as a witness that only God could have brought His Gospel back to the earth and that He has done so through living prophets.
Deb E.January 27, 2015
There are ALWAYS 2 sides to a story....thank you for bringing this all to light...too bad the media doesn't care for fair and balanced news.
J BurtJanuary 27, 2015
It's pretty clear what John has been up to (whether he realizes exactly what he's been doing or not). Think for a moment, what is the best way to try and bring down any organization, government, nation, etc?? It is from within ( See Abraham Lincoln's speech on this topic). If the Church is the true kingdom of God on Earth and if there is an adversary (Satan) working his might to try and bring it down, what do you think his (Satan's) preferred tactic would be? The anti-mormon supporters of John said it about as plainly as one can, "he is a mole inside the Mormon Church." The only thing that amazes me is how much patience the Church leadership has had with this guy, he should have been ex-communicated a long time ago...
WilliamJanuary 27, 2015
I was raised LDS, my personal community is LDS, I have checked all the LDS boxes in full belief through my entire life and then I learned about and studied the history of the church and found that the narrative we were told by the church was really a simplistic, white-washed version of reality. It was the hardest thing I have ever been through in my life. I am trying to carve out a space in our LDS community and remain active because of the HELP of John Dehlin. I am not 100% behind how he has handled his "court of love" so publicly, but I can say Im probably 85% behind it. I feel that his stake president has tried to minimize the degree to which his support of LGBT issues and OW has had on this process because it would be a PR nightmare for the church. So John is trying to make sure that those issues, which his stake president explicitly told him were a part of the issue in his interview, were not thrown by the wayside. The message that this is sending to those of us who doubt many of the church's truth claims but WANT to remain members of the church that we claim as our own is not a good one.
Renaissance NerdJanuary 27, 2015
Dehlin is simply dishonest. If he were honest he would've had his records removed long ago. He was waiting for, aching for a disciplinary council so he could improve his standing with the anti set. Excommunication is actually not really appropriate, since he has no intention of repenting and that's its purpose, but there's really no other option.
Jim PittJanuary 27, 2015
The articles in todays posts reveal one important fact ... Why does he persist in being called a member of the Church??? He does so to promote himself,. He makes money and keeps himself in the main stream news etc. etc. I especially enjoyed the words of "One Opinion" You can buy anything in this world with money
Robert AmesJanuary 27, 2015
When a person accepts baptism in the Church, they officially accept its tenants and doctrines and agree to abide by the Church's leadership. It then becomes a contract, if you will. When, and if, they find they cannot endure the conditions of that contract any longer, they have a responsibility to resign or accept termination of that contract, which in the case of a religious institution, consists of excommunication, i. e. termination of membership. This should not be grounds for contention on the part of the excommunicated person, because he/she has essentially initiated or asked for that action to be taken. If one does not agree with the basic tenants of the Church then they unofficially do not agree with the church in its entirety. One must always be careful what they wish for, because they just might get it.
VelDeanJanuary 27, 2015
Many years ago, I watch Sonya Johnson (a strong, vocal advocate of the Equal Rights Amendment and vocal critic of the leadership of the LDS Church) from my seat in the audience of an Atlanta television studio, where she was being interviewed. Until watching this, I could not imagine a member of the Church standing up and publicly, verbally, opposing a living prophet. What hit me the most strongly in watching her was that I realized how deeply she believed her position to be true. How carefully the adversary leads us down the path to apostasy, if we are not careful and intentional about safeguarding our testimonies of the truth! These are days of sifting, and if not careful, even the very elect can be deceived. I suspect Mr. Dehlin believes in his position. I, on the other hand, am grateful for a deep testimony of the Gospel and the Church organization and strive to strengthen and nourish it from day to day.
DuellaJanuary 27, 2015
Once again, pride is at the root of the sin. Selfish motives. This is a day that was promised would come as we face a great falling away. We all have to have our own solid foundation.
Darrin IvieJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for the insight and introducing, in a clear way, another side of the story.
BradJanuary 27, 2015
Objection, your Honor. Speculation.
ClarkJanuary 27, 2015
Mr. Dehlin, by his own admission, has not believed many of the Church's core beliefs for years. Yet, he says he loves the Church. His Stake Pres., Dr. King, asked him last spring if he (Dehlin) would like his name to be removed from the Church records, which he refused. Since then, Dehlin has continued his negative Church blogs. This makes it totally clear that he is only out for the publicity and the $$$$$$ that his Church negativity brings to him.
ktnJanuary 27, 2015
About a year ago, my son-in-law was profoundly affected by John Dehlin's "Mormon Stories', experienced a crisis of faith and decided he that is an atheist. He is an RM, graduated with honors from BYU, married in the temple, and is currently a PhD candidate at a prestigious university. Obviously there were other issues in his life that made him susceptible, but 'Mormon Stories' was the catalyst that gave him the narrative to cut his ties to the Church. It is a tragedy--for him, for my daughter, and for both our extended families. John Dehlin is a wolf in sheep's clothing, and exults in his influence. A tragedy for him and for his family as well.
DavidJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for the "rest of the story" on this current issue. Your information puts the events into a much clearer picture. As is almost always the case, there is another side to the story.
GwenJanuary 27, 2015
By posting it to social media and bringing attention to himself for something that is sacred and personal, says to me he is a glory seeker. Its' more important what the "world" thinks of HIS choices than the sacred covenants he took at baptism. It's obvious that he is trying to make the church look bad because he made choices that brought him where he is. I am grateful for the Church and it's disciplinary actions. The sifting of the tares from the wheat is what is happening here.
Rob GhioJanuary 27, 2015
Thanks for the excellent article. This highlights one of the main problems with any reporting about proposed or actual communications: The disciplined member controls the public message. The Church properly keeps such matters confidential and respects the privacy of the individual, so he or she ends up being able to spin the discipline in whatever manner he or she chooses. I often wonder why anyone insists on staying in the Church when they don't accept the fundamental doctrines of the Church. I guess this fellow found about 90,000 reasons a year. On an unrelated subject, your parents write some of the most moving discussions of the gospel I ever have had the pleasure of reading.
AnnJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for bringing a honest look at church discipline in general terms and to John Dehlin's smoke and mirror version of his own situation more specifically. Dehlin is free to question and believe as he feels right. However, advocating and teaching those beliefs is a horse of a different color.
Tom BarrattJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for your article and opinion. I believe the Church has the inherent ability and can take action against John Dehlin or any other person they so desire. That is their right and anyone who is in that position of Church discipline is no doubt fully aware of that. In spite of that, truth will prevail in the end. That is the focus of why we are here on this earth to find light and truth. It is a personal journey and not necessarily an institutional one. Zion is the only answer to the problems of today both in and out of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Zion is also an individual journey and not an institutional one. Why are we focusing our attention on whether John Dehlin is an apostate or not? That is not our duty but our duty is to bring peace and comfort to others in the ways we feel is the most important and needed. Let John Dehlin find his own way to do that. Where is the Spirit of Christ in all this? It is in Zion and that should be our focus not whether or not we are supporters of this instiution or that institution.
JcJanuary 27, 2015
This is just a little side note. I think that it is a stretch to call Denver Snuffer a "hostile" critic. I've read some of his writings and seen him lecture a couple of times- maybe I just missed something... or, Maybe I just don't know what you mean by "hostile". Just being critical of someone or something/ having a difference of opinion, doesn't constitute being hostile.
janaJanuary 27, 2015
It would appear from reading this article that Mr. Dehlin has already left the church. He no longer believes the very core tenets that support the gospel and he voices this very clearly. He is using this as an opportunity to put himself out there as a martyr and gain the approval of the world. He is a very intelligent man who has lost his way.
One OpinionJanuary 27, 2015
As I read this excellent analysis, one item stood out: He makes a lot of money from his website and downloads. That's what all of this is about: promoting himself for more money, and now he may be panicking a bit that if he's exed, there goes that gravy train of $90,000/year. You can buy anything in this world with money . . .
Kaarin EngelmannJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for the article. It was very enlightening. I appreciate getting more well-rounded coverage.
AngelaJanuary 27, 2015
John Dehlin is, of course, free to believe or disbelieve whatever he likes. But why would he, or anyone else, even want to stay in a church whose most fundamental doctrines he no longer believes in?
MargieJanuary 27, 2015
Since Dehlin no longer believes in the Church, he should not be opposed to excommunication. After all, won't that give him more fodder for his anti-Church rantings?
KathaleenJanuary 27, 2015
Why don't people just leave the church and ask to have their names removed from the records if they no longer believe church doctrine? I think it was Joseph Smith that said that once you have known the truth, you can never be neutral again. You will either be for or against. In my opinion, the very vocal disagreement is an attempt to garner support for the decision from outside yourself, this justifying your actions.
LeoJanuary 27, 2015
I could only stomach one of Dehlin's interviews and left half way through. I have been down that road he faces and as stated I see childishness 'of look at me' versus Kate Kelly. He feels he is in control and no matter the outcome he can make it sound like he was always the innocent victim. If he doesn't believe in Mormonism then have the backbone to leave. Instead he willingly to drag the church through the muck of public opinion with a definitely tilted and slanted view that will become his war cry. I would suppose that he expects his fame to grow afterwards and reap the monetary rewards. My only question for him is when you leave mortality John do you honestly believe you will not have to answer for your actions in this life? Sorry to say but one can see the line he drew in the sand and where he stands.
Jay MonsonJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you for this very well written article. It sheds additional light on this situation and is much appreciated.
Randall McNeelyJanuary 27, 2015
Amen! Very well thought out, very articulate, and spot on!
LukeJanuary 27, 2015
Helpful information giving perspective and actual reasons.
LukeJanuary 27, 2015
This was a necessary and helpful artcle. It gave. needed insight and information.
stuart hallam stocksJanuary 27, 2015
no way will this person lead me from the church, I only follow the prophets of the day, our father in heaven has told us this, you read about these people in the book of Mormon that once had the light and lost it, but are not satisfied until they lead people away, woe woe unto them, the wrath of god will rest upon him, I feel sad for him, he once was and now is lost, very sad for him and his family, yours truly stuart.
Terry AndersonJanuary 27, 2015
For me the question is not whether John should be removed from the church, but rather why he hasn't removed himself. He espouses a religion led by tragically flawed characters that will be led in the direction of higher consciousnesses under the influence of popular culture. In this respect, he sees Mormonism as no different to any other religion. I would not be the slightest bit perturbed if John leaves the Church. Salvation is a personal journey, worked out with fear and trembling. He craves publicity and he's getting it.
Kathleen O'MealJanuary 27, 2015
John Dehlin, by his own account does not believe the Church to be true. Then the right thing for him to do is to leave the Church under his own accord. He should just write a letter asking to be removed from membership records. Let him search for a religion he can align with or start his own Church....follow his own joy. However, it seems not being a member is not enough for him. And, it seems his true motive is to injure the Church and gain a discipleship towards a movement that bases its beliefs on defaming the LDS church. He should worship according to the dictates of his own conscience and officially announce and begin his "church of LDS defamation." He needs to be transparent about his intent or find another job.
Loma SilsburyJanuary 27, 2015
Thank you kindly for your well presented and evenly balanced treaties updating the ‘John Dehlin’ saga. Mr. Dehlin is more to be pitied than censured, for his life has so little worth in his own eyes that, in order to justify his existence, he must actively participate in the attempted destruction of those things which bring peace and comfort to others. It is no skin off his nose what another holds dear and unless it actively impacts upon his own existence, it can be no possible consequence to him and yet. . . mighty are his struggles to steal away the comforting cloak of his fellow man. This alone speaks volumes.
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