To summarize my stance, I believe that Abraham exhibited a lack of faith in the promises
of the Lord when he took Hagar to wife, and that he learned from this mistake to become the
'perfect' man he eventually was. Abraham's polygamy is not to be a model to be emulated but
an example of what not to do. Galatians 4 bears this out. The Mormon adoption of
polygamy in its early history was likewise assented to by God because that was the desire of their
hearts. He allowed it that they might stumble and eventually learn from their mistake.
The catch is that most "remnant" types, awakening from the backslidden state of the
LDS church and other restoration movements, tend to look at polygamy as an example of where
Mormons have strayed -- giving up the practice.
The ultimate test in learning the ways of God, however, is to be able realize that the early
founders of Mormonism may have erred on this point and yet still have been able to be instruments
in the hands of God, for God uses us despite our weaknesses. It is not man we are to worship
anyway, but God. This discernment is part of nurturing a nation of kings and priests.
By this, I am not saying that there is never an instance where individuals are commanded of God
to enter into the practice, for Jacob 2 states clearly that in some instances God commands it
"to raise up seed unto the Lord." The problem is in turning it into a dogma so
that it is presented as though anyone who wishes to reach the highest heaven must live it in order
to attain that glory. The prerequisite to God's glory is obedience to God, whether that
means living polygamy or not.
Ultimately, though, the most glorious relationship is between one man and one
woman. Yin, yang, joined as one.
More later.
Sterling D. Allan
http://www.greaterthings.com
Studies @ Greater Things
