12.30.10

Greetings everyone! I think its about time for Part 3 of our fantastic adventure. Here's where I want to pull everything together and discuss some of the deeper implications of my models. Enjoy:

Discounted discussion

I have shown that current differences in religious doctrines can be traced back to differences in the interpretation of the Garden of Eden narrative. I have also shown that assumptions made to game theory models help us trace and understand some of these differences. It is interesting to note that the differences I have focused on tie into larger questions and perhaps some of the most profound doctrinal themes found in religious dogma. This is outlined in the following table.

OS MODEL DOCTRINE

1. Garden of Eden as paradise

2. Sinful nature of mankind

3. Being of lesser value

LDS MODEL DOCTRINE

1. Celestial Kingdom as paradise

2. Balanced nature of mankind

3. Beings of equal value

LARGER THEME

1. The Nature of God’s plan

2. Our relationship to God

3. Our divine potential

Most fascinating that the small assumptions these games can tie back to the most profound of religious doctrines.

God’s plans

This is the first of the three vast divides I will discuss. This assumption and characteristic in both games ties back to the nature of God’s plan; that is, to the facets of the Plan of Salvation. In the OS model, the Plan of Salvation takes on its characteristics and establishes its laws only after and in response to the Fall of Man. Conversely, the LDS model teaches of a pre-existent state where the Plan of Salvation was outlined and a Savior, Jesus Christ, was chosen for the specific purpose of helping us overcome the penalties of mortality (i.e. sin). This larger theme has implications in response to the mortal question: Where did we come from?

Our divine relationship

The next divide is contingent on the assumption of who we are. The OS model posits that we are sinful creatures continuously subject to the wiles and temptations of the devil. The LDS model, on the other hand notes that we are balanced beings and that opposition is a means to learning who we really are: sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father. This references the purpose of our life of earth and gives two interpretations of the question: Why are we here?

Our divine potential

The last divide is probably the most important: it deals with our eternal potential and purpose. The OS model maintains that the glory of the Garden of Eden is forever lost and that Heaven, though glorious, will always be slightly inferior. The LDS model, however, instructs that our divine potential is limitless and equal to that of our Heavenly Father. This deals with the frequent and essential question: Where are we going after death?

Concluding remarks

As noted, it is fascinating that diving deeper into the Garden of Eden and Adam and Eve’s decision to eat the fruit can provide answers to life’s deepest questions. It is also fascinating to note that small differences in model characteristics lead to vast divides in doctrinal principles. This offers an engaging view of the current religious community and, hopefully, aids in the understanding of different religious viewpoints. I hope that, as different denominations interact and even cooperate, we can use these identifying differences to help us learn so that we may be edified together.

Have a wonderful day everyone. Let me know if you have questions :)