The Truth of the Matter: By Russell N. Greiner

Russell N. Greiner was born in Arcadia, California, and raised a Christian. Russ served in student government and played a variety of sports. In high school he played number-one on the tennis team and was the undefeated league champ. He was awarded a tennis scholarship to the University of Redlands. In 1971 Russ helped his team win the NAIA National Championship and became an All-American. He then received a tennis scholarship to Brigham Young University. While at BYU, Russ was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by his missionary, teacher, mentor, and friend, Ed J. Pinegar. Following his mission to Montana–Wyoming he graduated from BYU and married his sweetheart, Dianne Boden, in the Los Angeles Temple. They are blessed with three married children and twelve adorable grandchildren. Russ taught thirty years in the seminary and institute program of the Church. He has served in a variety of Church callings, including Young Men's President, Elders Quorum President, Ward Mission Leader, Stake Mission President, High Councilman, Bishop, counselor to three Mission Presidents, and Temple Ordinance Worker. He has been a speaker at Especially for Youth, Education Week, the BYU Religion Symposium, and many youth and young adult conferences and firesides.

The Church Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the fastest growing church in the world, and this increased reach has also brought an increase of interest. People want to know about our beliefs and customs. As such, Latter-day Saints need to be prepared to answer all sorts of questions as honest and faithful representatives of God’s Church. Pulling from his thirty years of experience as a Church educator, Russell N. Greiner provides ways you can answer these questions using scriptural and doctrinal evidence. The Truth of the Matter is an essential resource for missionaries and members alike, illustrating possible answers to questions such as:

* Why isn’t the Book of Mormon mentioned in the bible?

* Are Mormons Christian?

* Is Mormonism a cult, as some people say?

* Why do we need Joseph Smith if we already have the bible?

* What is the role of women in the Church?

* What is the purpose of the Book of Mormon?

From answering genuine questions about our faith to rebutting false rumors about the Church, this collection of topics will help Latter-day Saints use the scriptures to effectively share the truths of the gospel.