The Miracle of Forgiveness

By Spencer W. Kimball. Reviewed by Bill McKeever

In my opinion, one of the best books written by an LDS general authority that clearly exposes Mormonism's as non Christian is The Miracle of Forgiveness. This book, which was written by 12th President Spencer W. Kimball, contains some of the most horrendous teachings imaginable including:

Mankind has the ability to perfect himself and become an omniscient and omnipotent God (p.2).
No one can repent on a cross, nor in prison, nor in custody (p.167).
Forgiveness is cancelled on reversion to sin (p.169).
Discontinuance of sin must be permanent (p.176).
Keeping God's commandments brings forgiveness (p.201).
Salvation by grace alone was originated by Satan (p.206).
Only by living all of the commandments can a Mormon be sure he is forgiven (p.208).
Personal perfection is an achievable goal (p.209).
The time to become perfect is now, in this mortality (p.210).
Forgiveness could take "centuries" and is granted based on a Mormon's humility, sincerity, works, and attitudes (p.325).
The repentance which merits forgiveness requires the transgressor to reach the point where the very desire or urge to sin is "cleared out of his life" (pp.354-355).

Statements such as these make me wonder how he chose the title. If what Kimball said is true it would be a miracle if anyone is forgiven! However, this is what makes Kimball's book a very effective tool when challenging Mormons about their faith. Because many Mormons also find the above statements troubling, it is not uncommon for some to dismiss the importance of this book by insisting that since Kimball was only giving his own opinions and because he was only a Mormon apostle when it was written, its teachings are not authoritative. This argument is weak on many points, including:

1) Though written when he was an apostle, the book was reprinted while Kimball was president of the church. If Kimball thought that he had erred in his teachings, why didn't he, or the LDS Church itself, correct the mistakes? Besides, wasn't most of the New Testament written by mere apostles? If Mormonism is truly a "restoration" of early Christianity, why don't Mormon apostles carry the same authority as New Testament apostles?

2) On the second floor of the LDS Museum of History and Art (west of Temple Square), there is a huge display highlighting all of the presidents of the LDS Church. Next to Kimball's painting is a copy of The Miracle of Forgiveness preserved under a glass case. If this book should be forgotten, why has the church given it a prominent display in its museum?

3) If this book should not be taken seriously by members of the LDS Church, why has church-owned Deseret Book celebrated the book as a "landmark work"? In its March 2004 catalog, Deseret Book calls The Miracle of Forgiveness "a penetrating explanation of repentance and forgiveness that is illuminated with a bright hope for those who are searching for peace and security. It is a landmark work that has spoken with authority and insight for 35 years, bringing to bear President Spencer W. Kimball's rich experience and the inspiration of his calling" (p.8).

In my experience I have found that many Mormons disagree that this book is a source of peace and security. One such example took place several years ago as I was having a pleasant conversation with a Mormon missionary in the Assembly Hall at Temple Square. During the conversation I mentioned Kimball's book and was surprised to find that she had read it also. When I asked her what she thought of Kimball's tome, she said, "That book scared me to death." I must concur. If Kimball was telling the truth, everybody is in big trouble. Kimball's message is hardly "good news."

For a Christian perspective on God's grace and justification we recommend The God Who Justifies by James White.

The Miracle of Forgiveness

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