In Search of Common Ground

Latter-day Saints and traditional Christians often live on the same streets, work in the same offices, and send their children to the same schools. Yet when faith comes up, the conversation tends to end before it begins. One side feels misunderstood. The other feels unsure where to start. Both walk away having learned very little about what the other actually believes.

In Search of Common Ground was written to change that. Its purpose is not to win an argument but to build understanding, so that honest, respectful conversation can happen between neighbors who both claim the name of Jesus Christ.

The book begins with history: the key figures and events that shaped the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It then sets out LDS beliefs clearly and fairly, including the Restoration, additional scripture, the Godhead, eternal progression, the plan of salvation, baptism for the dead, priesthood authority, temples, the Word of Wisdom, and the emphasis on family.

From there it places the two traditions side by side on the questions that matter most: the nature and origin of God, human potential, revelation and scripture, the role of Jesus Christ, and how grace, faith, and works fit together in salvation. Where the views differ, the book says so plainly. Where they meet, it says that too.

A chapter on common misconceptions clears away some of the myths that stand in the way of real conversation. The final chapters offer practical guidance for encouraging dialogue and close with the greatest commandments: love God, and love your neighbor.

For the Christian who wants to understand a Latter-day Saint friend, and for the Latter-day Saint curious how other Christians see their faith, this book is a place to begin.

One cover note: this image carries no title or author name. On an Amazon page it will read as a stock painting. Adding the title and subtitle in the upper band would let it work at thumbnail size.