Unrealistic models?

Models are used to better understand and predict behavior.  For example, the best known economic model shows how prices interact with how much of something is supplied or demanded.  This can provide interesting insights about why prices change, why businesses enter an industry, and how free trade can increase societal well-being.  The truthfulness of the model rests on several assumptions, such as the assumption that people make choices to maximize their own well-being.

The scriptures also use models.  In 3 Nephi 11:33-34, Jesus says, "And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God.  And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned."  This scripture teaches the necessity of faith and baptism.

Occasionally, people get hung up on the exact details of whether a model works for every situation.  Asking questions about that is necessary in order to understand varying circumstances.  However, the existence of additional details doesn't take away the usefulness of the model.  Models are inherently wrong; they are made to simplify the truth so that the truth is more teachable.

You might ask, "What if someone didn't get the opportunity to accept baptism?", in which case baptism for the dead can help explain (click here for more on baptism).  Or you could ask, "What if someone believes and gets baptized but then abandons the gospel?", in which case explaining how to keep the baptismal covenant can help (click here for more on keeping covenants).  These details don't detract from, but rather enrich the simple truth taught about the importance of baptism and faith.