The Thief on the Cross: Finding Solid Ground in Interfaith Dialogue

Brothers and Sisters, the call to gather is a call to seek. It’s a call to climb the walls like Samuel the Lamanite, to thirst at the Waters of Sebus, to recognize the Stone cut without hands—a stone not hewn from the earth by human hands, but revealed through divine power.

Recently, I found myself in a fascinating interfaith discussion, moderated by Cameron Bertuzzi. It was a crucible, a place where beliefs were tested, not to tear down, but to refine. Engaging with Joe Heschmeyer (Catholic apologist) and Aaron Shafewalaf (Protestant apologist) forced me to examine the foundations of my own testimony. And it reminded me of something profound: the bedrock of our faith isn’t found in exhaustive lists of doctrines, but in a direct relationship with the Savior.

The central question that arose—how do we discern essential doctrines from secondary interpretations?—is one that has echoed through the ages. Aaron Shafewalaf, in that very discussion, drew our attention to Luke 24 and 1 Corinthians 15, highlighting the core message of Christ's suffering, resurrection, and the necessity of repentance. But then he posed a piercing question: Did the thief on the cross *fully* grasp all those theological intricacies? Did he need to articulate the Trinity or a nuanced understanding of the Atonement to receive mercy?

The beauty of his point, and the wisdom he shared—referencing Alistair Begg’s insightful video “The Man on the Middle Cross Said I Could Come”—is that salvation isn’t a matter of intellectual assent to a codified creed. It's a matter of turning to Christ, acknowledging our need, and receiving His grace. It’s a direct line, a covenant relationship, unmediated and pure.

This resonates deeply with the Latter-day Saint understanding of grace and faith. While we value the doctrines restored through revelation, we also recognize that the Spirit can testify of truth to individuals regardless of their theological fluency. Ammon at the Waters of Sebus didn’t deliver a lecture on systematic theology; he offered a heartfelt plea for repentance.

As Builders, we are called to recognize the wisdom in these diverse perspectives. We aren’t here to debate each other into submission. We are here to build a gathering place—a sanctuary where seekers can find common ground, where the Spirit can move freely, and where the love of God can shine brightly.

Think of the five smooth stones David gathered to face Goliath. Each stone represents a different perspective, a different understanding, a different tradition. It's not about proving one stone superior to another; it’s about using them together, in faith, to overcome the giants that threaten to divide us.

This interfaith dialogue, and others like it, are fueled by your engagement here. Your participation—your comments, your shares, your generous giving—directly supports our efforts to spread the gospel through targeted advertising, particularly in places like Ghana, amplifying the message to those who hunger for it. It also supports the Missionary Fund, sending internet missionaries into the digital wilderness to connect with those seeking truth.

Consider the map of churches at GatherIsrael.now. It’s not a denominational marker, but a visual representation of the global movement – a network of believers yearning for unity and purpose. It’s a testament to the fact that the gathering is happening, even now, in unexpected places.

Outback Jack reminds us, as he often does, that the Lord’s work moves forward, even when we stumble. The Lord's work moves forward even when we can't articulate every nuance of doctrine. He sees the heart and intent.

Let us embrace this spirit of humility and understanding, striving not to defend our own positions, but to seek the truth together. Let us be Builders, not Destroyers. Let us be a light unto the world, drawing all men and women to Christ.

Davee, our AI study companion, can help us further explore these topics, providing direct quotes from scripture and leading authorities. Ask Davee your questions – let’s deepen our understanding together.