In an age marked by contention, critique, and division—even within religious communities—a subtle yet profound distinction has emerged in how truth is conveyed. This divide is particularly evident between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and many other Christian denominations. At its core lies a pivotal question: Are we witnessing for truth or merely witnessing against perceived error?
This article examines that distinction—not to cast judgment, but to illuminate the difference between testifying and attacking, between shepherding and pursuing. Grounded in scripture, logic, and observable patterns, it advocates for a Christlike approach to sharing truth.
Witnessing For vs. Witnessing Against: A Scriptural Foundation
Scripture establishes a clear pattern for proclaiming truth. Christ’s ministry centered on invitation: “Come, follow me” (Luke 18:22), “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), “Let your light so shine” (Matthew 5:16). These are affirmations of truth. Though He occasionally rebuked error—often with pointed clarity reserved for hypocrisy—His mission was not a crusade against falsehoods but a declaration of God’s kingdom. Prophets like Nephi, Alma, and others mirrored this focus, testifying of Christ with power while addressing error only as needed. The distinction is critical: teaching truth stands apart from dismantling every real or perceived misbelief.
Modern religious discourse, however, often diverges from this model. Online sermons, articles, and social media frequently emphasize disproving and debunking. In many mainstream Christian circles, the LDS Church is a common target—not through constructive dialogue, but through content aimed at exposing perceived flaws and doctrines, often with scant articulation of the critic’s own faith. Such encounters leave one wondering: What do they truly affirm?
Some traditions hold that all false doctrine must be refuted, yet there is a vital difference between guarding truth and hunting error, between defending light and attacking darkness. As an analogy illustrates: “I can explain a moment why 2+2 equals 4, or spend an eternity opposing every number it is not.” Disproving another’s belief does not establish one’s own—it reflects a false dilemma, often leaning on argument from ignorance. Logically, this approach is inefficient; spiritually, it is draining, conditioning the heart to seek flaws rather than light.
Scripture endorses vigilance against error (e.g., Jude 1:3, Ephesians 5:11), but always with truth as the foundation. Christ did not exhaust His ministry correcting every misconception; He proclaimed what is. Overemphasizing opposition risks dimming the very light we aim to uphold.
Sheep, Shepherds, and Wolves: Behavior as Testimony
Biblical imagery of sheep, shepherds, and wolves extends beyond doctrine to behavior. Sheep do not aggress; they respond to a trusted voice (John 10:27). Shepherds guide and protect, not pursue. A sheep stands apart from a wolf by its calm and humble nature.
This perspective reframes Christ’s warning of “wolves in sheep’s clothing” (Matthew 7:15). The threat lies not solely in false teaching, but in predatory conduct masked as piety. The manner of witnessing—peaceful or hostile—reveals more about the witness than their stated beliefs. When shepherds abandon guarding for chasing, they may unwittingly bolster the deception they oppose.
Truth vs. Relativism: A Cultural Parallel
This theological divide reflects a broader societal tension. Contemporary discourse prioritizes critique over affirmation, driven by tribalism and validated by subjective perception. Truth fragments into “my truth” or “your truth,” dissolving into relativism. Conversations splinter, policies grow muddled, and clarity fades.
Paradoxically, those who reject absolute truth often invoke science or morality as ultimate arbiters, eroding shared meaning while insisting on justice. This inconsistency does not liberate; it confounds. Truth is not a malleable claim but a discoverable standard. Only witnessing for what is true can disrupt the cycle of opposing all else.
This is not a call to silence but to witness with greater fidelity to Christ’s example. He declared, “If I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men unto me” (John 12:32). Let us emulate His ministry:
- Proclaim what we know, not merely what we oppose.
- Define our discipleship by what we cherish, not what we combat.
- Uphold truth with gentleness, not hostility.
President Russell M Nelson urges us, “As we follow the Prince of Peace, we will become His peacemakers.” May we choose this higher, holier way, lifting others to Him through our words and deeds.