Why do Mormons take 1 Corinthians 15:29 literally when two verses later in verse 31 Paul shows that he is obviously speaking metaphorically when he speaks of death? He says “I die daily”. So was Paul literally dying daily? Of course he wasn’t. I believe Paul was talking about baptizing for those who are spiritually dead in trespasses and sin, not for the physically dead. Show me how the bible teaches this doctrine, because I know that it doesn’t. I know that the Book of Mormon teaches this doctrine, but show me from the bible. Also the other verse that is used to support this doctrine is Revelation 20:12. This verse is talking about unbelievers at the end of 1,000 year reign of Jesus being judged before the great white throne for their “works.” Baptism isn’t even mentioned. Believers in Jesus won’t be standing at that judgement. It is for unbelievers only. The judgement for believer sis found in 1 Corinthians 3:5-17.
Shiloh
Answer
___________________
Hello Shiloh,
As Latter-day Saints we believe in modern day prophets who have been called by God to declare His word and to provide correct interpretations of the scriptures the Lord has given us.
These prophets, particularly Joseph Smith, through revelation have given us the following interpretation of 1 Corinthians 15:29, and its sure relation to baptism for the dead. This is why we preach, teach, and share with others the true meaning behind these verses as given by the Lord’s servants, His prophets.
In 1 Corinthians 15:35, correlates with the notion that Paul was indeed speaking of people who were physically dead, as he states, “How are the dead raised up?”
In verse 42 Paul continues to speak of those who are physically dead when he says, “So also is the resurrection of the dead.” As Latter-day Saints this further witnesses to us that he was speaking of individuals being baptized for people who were physically dead.
We live in a wonderful day and age when the Lord again has chosen servants, prophets, who lead and direct the affairs of His kingdom and His gospel. Through these servants we have discovered and have been enlightened to recognize how the Bible teaches us of baptism for the dead.
I realize as you seek to learn and understand the Lord’s teaching as given by His prophets, sometimes you may have been taught, or you may have misunderstood what someone said, however, the Book of Mormon doesn’t teach baptism for the dead by proxy. It is a Biblical teaching, and further witnessed by the Lord through His prophets.
Gramps
