339-340: Mercy and the Atonement

This episode (in two parts) is a continuation of an earlier discussion of Mercy (Episode 332, March 2016) but also very different, focusing this time on “mercy” as it functions for so many as a theological concept rather than the way it should: as something transformative in our spiritual lives. The conversation starts out a bit nerdy, with host Dan Wotherspoon laying out some framings about mercy that he senses are very much in play within Mormonism, but it soon turns into a very approachable and insightful discussion of far more powerful understandings of God and the plan of salvation, and especially the concept of “sin,” than one typically encounters. Joining us again are wonderful scholars, authors, and conversationalists Mat Schmalz, Fiona Givens, and Alonzo Gaskill.

This episode represents very well the wideness of views possible within Mormonism and wider Christianity, in this case Catholicism, as well as their power. If in the past you’ve been turned off by “thin” discussions of religion and the way it is presented, I think this is an episode that could help you reconsider the richness that is present but that only needs a bit of prodding to burst forth.

Please listen and then add your thoughts in the comments section below!

_______

Links:

Mathew N. Schmalz, Mercy Matters: Opening Yourself to the Life-Changing Gift (Huntington, Indiana: Our Sunday Visitor, 2016)

Terryl Givens and Fiona Givens, The God Who Weeps: How Mormonism Makes Sense of Life (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2012)

Terryl Givens and Fiona Givens, The Crucible of Doubt: Reflections on the Quest for Faith (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2014)

Stephen H. Webb and Alonzo L. Gaskill, Catholic and Mormon: A Theological Conversation (New York City, Oxford University Press, 2015)

Alonzo L. Gaskill, Odds Are You’re Going to Be Exalted: Evidence That the Plan of Salvation Works (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2015)

Alonzo L. Gaskill, The Truth about Eden: Understanding the Fall and Our Temple Experience (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2013)

Alonzo L. Gaskill, The Lost Language of Symbolism: An Essential Guide for Recognizing and Interpreting Symbols of the Gospel (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2012)

Alonzo L. Gaskill, Sacred Symbols: Finding Meaning in Rites, Rituals and Ordinances (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2011)