“Mormons Just Believe!” (Christians too?)
Many of you have probably heard of The Book of Mormon—not the book itself, but the Broadway musical that garnered nine Tony awards in 2011, including Best Musical, and earned a Grammy as well. It tells the story of two bright-eyed American Mormon missionaries who attempt to bring their good news to a remote village in Uganda racked by war, poverty, AIDS, and famine. (From the summary on Wikipedia). It is a powerful—albeit raunchy—satire of religion from the creators of that epitome of high-brow, cultured entertainment, South Park. I have not seen the musical myself, but I have viewed several segments on YouTube, and found myself (I admit it!) snickering at the delicious lampoon of Mormon doctrine, marveling at the music and vocal performances, and also deeply challenged by the message of the show.
In the segment I have embedded below, the youthful Elder Price experiences a crisis of faith during his Ugandan mission (African warlords can have that affect on you), and he attempts to assuage his doubts by reminding himself, “a Mormon just believes!” The song cleverly juxtaposes run-of-the-mill Christian beliefs (“God sent his son to die for our sins”) with some of the more peculiar elements of Mormon doctrine (I won’t spoil the clip for you!) in order to accentuate that outlandish combination of the sublime and the ridiculous that characterizes Mormon theology.
On the other hand, thoughtful Christians will probably experience some conflicting emotions in watching the clip. They may appreciate the wry parody which tweaks the doctrinal nose of Mormonism. They may empathize with the sincere struggle Elder Price is undergoing as he wrestles with his doubts. Yet they may also harbor a suspicion that this biting satire could just as easily be directed toward them. I think that would be a well-grounded suspicion. After all, we could easily replace the bizarre faith-commitments of Mormons so comically caricatured in this whimsical send up with equally implausible Christian beliefs—talking donkeys, parting seas, virgin births, and so on. The conscientious skeptic would likely regard the more peculiar beliefs of both Mormons and Christians as very difficult to swallow—eccentric religious fare fit only for the gullible.
So, I’m interested to hear what you all think. It seems to me that The Book of Mormon, and this clip in particular, is mocking faith-commitments per se, not simply attacking Mormon beliefs. What do you think? How would you respond to a parodic burlesque of similar Christian faith commitments? Have any of you faced questions from sincere unbelievers along the lines of, “Jonah and the whale? Really?” How have you responded? This brilliantly written and performed show-tune strikes at the core of a Christian world view, and demands, I think, serious reflection. Watch it and let me know your thoughts.*
*Let’s not reduce the discourse to ridiculing Mormon beliefs. The song does that well enough. Thoughtful, sincere comments are what I’m hoping for.
Comments
Matt Sep. 26, 2012 at 10:54 AM
As a Christian Youth Pastor living in Provo, Utah this discussion is particularly relevant to the current religious/cultural dynamics facing my wife and I. In outreach we deal primarily with two distinct groups: religiously devout members of the LDS church, and those who have left Mormonism and largely rejected any form of religious belief (please forgive the gross generalization, these are simply two primary camps amidst an incredibly diverse cultural landscape).
When discussing faith with members of either group I find the same approach to be extremely useful. That is, to be humble and willingly admit the limits of your own understanding, as well as to absolutely focus on the nature and character of God during your conversation. Whether facing the doctrine of eternal progression or questions of "how can you really believe...", both situations find their ultimate resolution in the true character of God. Thankfully He has revealed Himself abundantly to humanity as Romans 1 tells us. It is because of what God has revealed of Himself to be true that we can willingly accept the process of seeking to answer the various question marks of our faith.
Jimmy Prehn Sep. 26, 2012 at 11:10 AM
I suspect that if there is a point being made has to do more with ones own degree or level of personal conviction. The "praise" if you will that is being attributed to the display put forth by Elder Price is what comes across as compelling and powerful.
I'm not sure that I would characterize that as biblical faith, but I have no doubt that it's the strength or power that most people in this world want to harness for themselves regardless of how its grounded or by who or what it might be directed.
This I think is blind conviction, not faith.
I would share what I think your sentiments and observations are regarding many professing christians today, there is a fair number of them that do not have a deeper understanding of their own faith, any more so than what is presented in this clip. That may be enough of a starting point to have a powerful impact on others in a Mission Trip setting, but it is not sufficient to sustain a person through the whole of life in all the peaks and valleys. A Psalm 23 approach to relationship with God seems to be a more integrated reality than what is displayed in this clip.
I haven't seen the musical, but having many friends who are mormons, I think I would appreciate it if I had the chance to see it.
7son Sep. 26, 2012 at 4:57 PM
Before anyone unknowingly stumbles into the play without much background, one should know – despite Matt Stone and Trey Parker's genius social, spiritual, and religious commentary and their play's unbelievable execution (much like their animated show South Park) – The Book Of Mormon is one of the most vulgar and explicit plays that has made this much of an impact (also not unlike South Park).
While ultimately poignant and innocuous, one must endure a fair share of uncomfortable moments, potentially scarring and certainly un-family friendly prose that basically doesn't relent to get to the overall metanarrative for which the play has found its public regard.
And as much as I like The Book Of Mormon, principal suggests I cannot "recommend" it.
Moyer Hubbard Sep. 26, 2012 at 5:09 PM
@7son Yes, this is a widely echoed sentiment, even by secular theater critics. My use of this clip shouldn't be construed as an endorsement, nor a recommendation to see it. I simply offer it as a discussion starter. Thanks 7son.
David Bartosik Sep. 27, 2012 at 10:02 PM
Pretty dang hilarious. Well written. Definitely laughing throughout it and caught myself singing along at times.
Clearly shows some outrageous views distinct about the mormon faith, but cringed as I could see the christian faith roped in as well.
I wouldn't consider these people "sincere unbelievers". Rather, they mock, ridicule and demean faith. Encountering these people I enjoy the laugh and pursue moments (if I have any type of relationship with them) where they are willing to engage rather than mock. However, I don't act like I have a stick up my butt and cannot take a joke. They laugh and mock and joke, but if they have any kind of relationship they'll come around.
To sincere unbelievers----probably some of the best conversations I ever had. Ones who legitimately question the faith but are willing to ask and engage. I wish these were more often, but sadly few and far between. Though when they happen I cherish them and try to humbly articulate the gospel and credibility of the scripture.
Great article and discussion Moyer!
Ben Cunningham Oct. 25, 2012 at 8:40 AM
I wonder if part of the reason that many disciples haven't questioned the more fantastic elements of their faith is because they haven't needed it in the same way that you would if you were going to be shot in the face by an African warlord. It might be helpful for us to consider if our faith is "strong" just because it hasn't been subjected to testing. Quality prod Moyer!