The source of all problems (and solutions)

In my South American culture class, I recently read in my textbook a section about drug trafficking.  What I found interesting was that drug trafficking didn't really take off as such a booming business until the "drug culture" of the 60's and 70's took off.  Ever since then, the US government has struggled to stem the flow of cocaine, heroine, and marijuana across our border.  But trying to intercept drugs at the border isn't attacking the problem at its source.

Faith and/or Works?

Fewer topics have sparked more religious debate among Christians than the age-old "Faith verses Works" question.  As I understand it, one side believes that faith in Jesus Christ and accepting Him as our Savior is the only thing that is required for Salvation, while the other side believes that certain works, rights, or ordinances must be followed in order to be saved.  This seemingly simple question can get very involved, and there have been many wonderful discussions and talks given on the subject.  Instead of answering the question, "Are we saved by our works, or by faith alone?" I will focus specifically on what members of the Church believe.

The question:
"Do Mormons believe we are saved by works or by faith alone?"

In or At Jerusalem?

This is one of those little details that many anti-Mormons still cling to, despite it having been explained many times:  the Bible clearly states that Jesus was born in Bethlehem (Luke 2, for example).  But in the Book of Mormon, Alma prophesies that "he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers" (Alma 7:10).  Is this a contradiction?  Many claim that it is, but it is not.

The question:
Does the Book of Mormon contradict the Bible concerning the birthplace of Jesus?

Are Mormons Christian?

I've been surprised by the ferocity with which others have attempted to define what I believe in.  It just doesn't make sense to me that someone not even acquainted with me would try to tell me what I do or don't believe in.  This is how I feel when non-members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints claim that we are not Christian.  I think the reason many say this is to attempt to vilify the Church.  After all, many Christian denominations believe that it doesn't matter what Church you belong to as long as you believe in Jesus and accept Him as your Savior; so if they can convince themselves and others that Mormons do not, then in their minds they are free to denounce the Church as false.

Often people confuse the question of "Do you consider yourself a Christian?" with "Do you satisfy my definition of what a Christian is?"  Isn't a person's Christianity a question of his or her own personal convictions and beliefs?  And if that's the case, who really has the right to define those beliefs besides that person and God?

The question:
Are Mormons Christian?