I'm so glad the church spares no expense...

[_Moniker]

Couldn't these stories also just be the stories of men? Is it at all possible that Solomon just wanted a really lavish temple, and just SAID that God commanded it, even though God had nothing to do with it?

Uh, No!

[_bcspace]

Solomon's temple comes to mind.

Wasn't Solomon's Temple just another example of his excess?

Is that how it's portrayed in the Bible?

[_Bond...James Bond]

Is it at all possible that Solomon just wanted a really lavish temple, and just SAID that God commanded it, even though God had nothing to do with it?

There are some tangible benefits to having a huge Temple

1) Centralization of religious power.
2) A place that draws people where (shock!) economic trade will take place.
3) Centralization of political power (based on 1 and 2).

[_Scottie]

Couldn't these stories also just be the stories of men? Is it at all possible that Solomon just wanted a really lavish temple, and just SAID that God commanded it, even though God had nothing to do with it?

Uh, No!

Oh yeah!!! Well......ummmm.....

Damn...I got nothin.

You win.

[_bcspace]

I love how all of these posters keep comparing old testament temples to today.

The Old Testament God is a WAY different God than the Mormon God. You can't compare the two.

The Gods are the same, but the New Testament does imply a significant change in temple ordinaces via Hebrews 10:20. Since we are no longer looking forward to the Advent of Christ, we have a new and living way through the veil.

[_Bond...James Bond]

Solomon's temple comes to mind.

Wasn't Solomon's Temple just another example of his excess?

Is that how it's portrayed in the Bible?

Of course not. You think the Bible is going to cast the "wise" King Solomon in a bad light? He's written as one of the good guys! By making Solomon look good it makes God look good (since Solomon is King over God's chosen people and all that jazz)...it's a situation where God and Solomon affirm each other.

[Guest]

Imported isn't always the most expensive. How about those imported foreign cars that Americans buy because they are cheaper than American made. And I'll bet you have a lot of "Made in China" labels around your house. All that expensive imported stuff? Ever think about that?

Italy is not a third world country and charges accordingly. It's costly apparel. It is what it is.

If there is a God, he will hold these cold blooded old farts accountable for every child that has starved to death in the world on their watch - by each tile, brick and the overstuffed chairs they sit in above everyone else but twice a year.

Remember, saving a starving child only costs .17/day. Thousands die each day. Shame on them.

I imagine He will also ask you why you were so heartless and stupid to continue to support men spending His money on such worldly wants. Most Mormons have no idea what you have been made aware of here.

[Guest]

Didn't even get past this :

something good natured, calm, reasonable farm boy typed that I've edited

before the giggles got me!

What happened to the good natured, calm, reasonable farm boy that used to chide me for my poor behavior? Did Charity get your dander up? :)

[_Inconceivable]

Rats. I went back and edited it.

But since you quoted me, now C$*@)ty nows pretty much what I think of her and her lunacy.

Thanks a pant load.

[_bcspace]

Is that how it's portrayed in the Bible?

Of course not. You think the Bible is going to cast the "wise" King Solomon in a bad light? He's written as one of the good guys!

Indeed. So since one is speaking to those who believe the Bible to be the word of God, one is not likely to convince that 'extravagant' spending on the temple is a problem.