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< Book of Mormon | Geography | Models | Limited | Meldrum 2003
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{{Resource Title|Are theories that do not agree with the Heartland model "apostate?"}} | {{Resource Title|Are theories that do not agree with the Heartland model "apostate?"}} | ||
{{GeographyPortal}} | {{GeographyPortal}} | ||
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*Rod Meldrum claims that "I do not claim to know that this proposed theory is true, nor is any claim made that it has been received by revelation."{{ref|meldrum.5}} | *Rod Meldrum claims that "I do not claim to know that this proposed theory is true, nor is any claim made that it has been received by revelation."{{ref|meldrum.5}} | ||
{{CriticalSources}} | {{CriticalSources}} | ||
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Meldrum would, upon learning of Daniel Peterson's firing from the Maxwell Institute, indicate that he believed that this represented a purging of "apostate" theories of Book of Mormon geography:{{ref|meldrum.19.nov.2012}} | Meldrum would, upon learning of Daniel Peterson's firing from the Maxwell Institute, indicate that he believed that this represented a purging of "apostate" theories of Book of Mormon geography:{{ref|meldrum.19.nov.2012}} |
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Book of Mormon Geography |
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Geography: DNA: Archaeology: Lamanites in North America: Other: |
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To see citations to the critical sources for these claims, click here
Meldrum would, upon learning of Daniel Peterson's firing from the Maxwell Institute, indicate that he believed that this represented a purging of "apostate" theories of Book of Mormon geography:[2]
It is thus clear that Meldrum regards anyone who differs from his "revealed" theory as apostate. Peterson pointed out that his conclusion was, in any case, in error: the Maxwell Institute was then preparing to publish John Sorenson's work on the Mesoamerican geographical model.
There are, however, multiple other indications of Meldrum's attitude toward those who differ with him.
Meldrum sent an e-mail on 9 May 2008 in which he invited those who had purchased his DVD to become members of his FIRM Foundation. This communiqué strikes quite a different tone:
This reply was reportedly received from a patriarchal blessing, fasting, and prayer. Meldrum then seeks a sign from God and gets it. Yet he argues that we are unjustified in concluding that this account strongly implies that God supports or agrees with what he is doing. Why would God give him a sign to spread a false theory about the Book of Mormon full-time? And why would he tell others about his sign-seeking unless he wants to influence them? Why would such divine instruction come to him and not to the president of the LDS Church?
Recipients were then told about a blessing that he had requested from an emeritus General Authority, "my dear friend":
There is no doubt in the Meldrums' minds about the validity of what they are doing. This again seems a claim of certainty for the theory Rod Meldrum is teaching full-time—or it is an attempt to exaggerate his importance so that others will support him. The reported blessing goes on to promise fruit from his efforts:
So this theory will inspire millions, and millions will convert and be saved. And other matters are alluded to that the recipients cannot yet know. One must ask, are we to conclude that God would use a false or uncertain theory for such lofty purposes?
The same theme continues on the FIRM Foundation Web site.[4] For example, a spiritual witness of Meldrum's theories is asserted:
The Web site likewise repeats the theme of certainty and proof:
Clearly, Meldrum's theory is repeatedly described as having "proved" Joseph's prophetic status, it is "irrefutable," and it is an "unshakable foundation upon which all truth is based." If Meldrum disagrees with such enthusiasm, why does he use it to sell his materials?
So, why should we believe his book's disclaimer when the evidence for what is really going on is all over his other writings and Web site?
Several grandiose claims are also made:
Such over-the-top praise seems unlikely to be instigated—much less publicized—by someone offering his audience a cautious theory. Note too the recurrence of the same theme that Meldrum emphasized from his purported General Authority blessing: his work must affect thousands or millions.
Meldrum's May 2008 e-mail announced that God had revealed the name of the foundation and how other aspects of its work should be conducted:
The testimonials also claim that Meldrum has been called by God to spread his theory:
Meldrum is "called" to be "an instrument in the Lord's hand," the "Spirit [is] guiding" him, he will bring "millions" to the truth, and it is an honor just to speak to him. Meldrum has no hesitation about publicizing "their words" so they "will touch the lives of others in positive ways."
Meldrum would, upon learning of Daniel Peterson's firing from the Maxwell Institute, indicate that he believed that this represented a purging of "apostate" theories of Book of Mormon geography:[5]
It is thus clear that Meldrum regards anyone who differs from his "revealed" theory as apostate. Peterson pointed out that his conclusion was, in any case, in error: the Maxwell Institute was then preparing to publish John Sorenson's work on the Mesoamerican geographical model.
Either the disclaimers in Remnant through DNA are not offered in complete sincerity or the author is untroubled by mixed messages.
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