The Prophet Joseph Smith and the Church have always had their detractors, from within as well as without. Some are quick to express disagreement with doctrine or policy, and some seem to delight in finding fault.
"In our own generation many in the news media who are drawn mindlessly to controversy have given [Mormon dissidents] new status and power, christening them 'Mormon intellectuals' and presenting them to the world as the thinking Mormons who know the inside story about the Church." So writes Noel B. Reynolds, professor of political science at Brigham Young University, in the introductory essay in this book.
But "in their rush to produce controversial news," he continues, "many journalists have overlooked the obvious truth—the LDS intellectual and academic communities are composed of strong believers in Joseph Smith's revelations and solid supporters of the Church leadership. Only at the fringes is there noticeable dissent."
Expressions of Faith is a collection of essays by 24 prominent Latter-day Saint scholars, wherein each bears testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel, based on his or her own experience. some share insights into scriptures or gospel principles. Some explore the relationship between learning by study and learning by faith. Some describe in very personal ways the path they took to become "a believer." But all have this in common: they all are scholars, and they all have firm testimonies of Jesus Christ, Joseph Smith, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Included among the contributors to this volume are such respected and noteworthy LDS scholars as Truman G. Madsen, Marilyn Arnold, Hugh W. Nibley, Allen E. Bergin, Gerald N. Lund, Susan Easton Black, Bruce C. Hafen, Robert L. Millet, Daniel H. Ludlow, Robert J. Matthews, and John W. Welch, along with many other.
"Although most contributors are persons of substantial learning, none base their beliefs in scholarly insights," writes Dr. Reynold. "Rather, all point to an inner conviction that has come through life experience and God's gift."
Writing in a clear, understandable, often personal style, the authors express their feelings and understandings in a way that strengthens faith and gives valuable insight. Those who read Expressions of Faith will feel a unity and harmony in the many testimonies and will be strengthened in their own.
