RelC 431 - Doctrines of the Gospel Final Exercise   Instructor: Dr. Marcus Helvécio T. A. Martins

Feel free to discuss these questions with your roommates, neighbors, and even myself; but keep in mind that the actual writing must be the result of individual work. Any detectable attempt to copy answers from other students will be considered a serious violation of the Honor Code and will subject the perpetrator(s) to appropriate disciplinary action.

Type your answers and print the document in order to turn it in on Wednesday, April 8 (see below).  Limit you answers to no more than four good paragraphs per question, unless you absolutely need to write more. That will require you to be very specific in the exposition of your ideas.  Paraphrase any quotations you decide to use and add the reference so I'll know where you got it.

First Question  -  100 points

Years ago a sister who had been baptized recently started dating a man from another faith, but wondered what she should do about that relationship. Speaking with one of her new friends in her ward, she was told: "It is hard to find guys in the Church. It's much better to be married, even if it is civil marriage, than never get married. Even being divorced is much better than being single forever." This suggestion made her confused. Suppose she would come to you asking what the doctrine states about this matter. What would you say?
 
(Suggested Reading: Check your notes made during our classroom discussions on the priesthood and eternal marriage)

Second Question - 50 points
What is the purpose of the commandments? Do they exist merely to produce guilt in the minds of those who attend churches--and if so, how will they ever produce this guilt in the minds of those who do not attend churches?

(Suggested Reading: Alma 42:15‑28 ‑ D&C 88:33‑43)

Some of my co-workers, who share some negative opinions about our Church, have been asking me about Polygamy.  They told me that Abraham and many other prophets were not polygamists.  Was polygamy in ancient times a commandment from God, or just a practice allowed by God?  I want to give my colleagues an answer that will not only satisfy them but also put this matter to rest.

(Suggested Reading: None.  But check your notes made during our classroom discussions about “basic insights” and revelation)

How can we know whether we are on the “strait and narrow path”?

(Suggested Reading: Check the readings about Faith)

We will grade the exam together in our last class, on Wednesday, April 8, at 1:20pm. At that time you will turn in your final exam so I can take a look at it and record your score.