This lesson is, in my opinion, a particularly joyful one. It does a fantastic job summarizing nearly all the most basic principles of the gospel while additionally instilling a greater hope and motivation for our future. Reminders of what really matter are the backbone to this lesson. Let me just give you the chapter headings...
-We lived as spirits before we came to earth, and our spirits will continue living after we die
-Our purpose here on earth is to prepare ourselves to live with our Heavenly Father
-During this life we should seek after those things that are of eternal worth
-Because of Jesus Christ, we will be resurrected
-Our knowledge of the immortality of the soul inspires, encourages and comforts us
Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where are we going? How do we get there? What a joyous blessing it is to have the answers to all these questions!
Where did we come from?
"Our belief is that we lived before we came here; that which is
intelligence, that which is spirit, did not have its beginning in this
life. We believe that we received a spiritual tabernacle before we came
into this world. That spiritual body was sent to this world, and here it
received a physical tabernacle, the body which we see." (Manual, page 69)
This doctrine and belief that we didn't begin our existence upon our mortal birth, or even upon conception, is of great significance.
What else does this doctrine lead us to believe? What else does this principle help clarify? (That we were male and female before we received our bodies, that we earned the right to come to earth, that we had an understanding of what we would be doing by coming to this mortal existence, that even though our bodies are of the earth, our spiritual tabernacle will always remain in tact etc.)
We know that our spiritual tabernacle "knows no death; it simply passes from this sphere of eternal life , and awaits there the purification of the physical tabernacle, until the time it will be reunited with this tabernacle, which will be glorified..." (page 69)
Additionally, with this knowledge our timeline of life changes. Instead of thinking of our 60-100 years of life as all we've got, or even thinking of mortality and the hereafter as our existence, we know that our timeline is much greater. Our eternity doesn't start after death and it doesn't start here. It started long ago.
The moments of our earthly existence are but a fraction of our eternal timeline.
Doesn't this give you a different perspective on life? For me, this knowledge of our true eternal existence sheds a completely different light on life. It casts shadows on the trials of mortality that are far less severe and scary.
Why are we here?
We know who we are and we know that this life is part of our eternity, part of our journey to become like God. But what express purpose are we here for? What can we do here that can not be done without a body? (the key word here is 'do')
"This life was not given to us as a past time."(page 70) We are not simply treading water or hanging out in the waiting room. We are here to work, on ourselves, with other people.
"We are here to prepare ourselves and develop ourselves and qualify
ourselves to be worthy to dwell in the presence of our Heavenly Father." (70) What my favorite professor deemed "The Sacred Purposes of Life" would likewise describe the reason for our mortal life. We're here to:
1. Become like Christ
2. Build eternal relationships
3. Develop skills of mortality
To me, these tasks seem more than a little daunting. But we can do it!
"We believe that we are here because we kept our first estate and earned
the privilege of coming to this earth. We believe that our very
existence is a reward for our faithfulness before we came here, and that
we are enjoying on earth the fruits of our efforts in the spirit world." (page 70)
We are here BECAUSE we can do it. We have already done hard things. We've already proven ourselves once, now we just have to get to work!
Where are we going?
Why should we work so hard? What are we working towards?
"Eternal life is to us the sum of pre-existence, present existence, and
the continuation of life in immortality, holding out to us the power of
endless progression and increase...What a happy people we should be with the knowledge we have that this probation is not to prepare us to die, but to live" (Page 71)
"Remember that it is the intelligence that you acquire that is eternal,
the truth which you learn here and apply in your lives, the knowledge
and experience you gain and profit by—these you will take with you when
you go home." (page 72)
During this life we should seek after those things that are of eternal worth
What then, are we to DO in this life?
"The things that are eternal, the things that are “worth while,” are
those eternal things that we reach out for, and prepare ourselves to
receive, and lay hold of by the effort that we individually make." (page 71)
What does this quote bring to your mind?
When I read this quote three sayings came to mind:
1. Salvation not a cheap experience
2. Nothing worth having comes easily
3. You get what you pay for
Living is work. Living well, making choices the Lord would have us make, is HARD work. There are many, many things we should do/work on, and there are many things we should NOT do (so many that I'm not going to even attempt to list them). Among those mentioned in this lesson are to learn:
-Not to seek the creature comforts
-Not to seek the honors of man
-Not to seek those things that selfishness puts into our souls
-Not to set ourselves up and prefer ourselves to our Father's other children
(selfishness, pride, and physical comfort)
-"Let us not be lulled to sleep, let us not be deceived by the abundance of good things of this world" (page 72)
-"We will be happier serving our fellows than we could possibly be in any other way" (page 73) (Service to others)
"The Lord cares more about our character than he does our comfort" Mom
"It is not so important how many valuables you may have, how much
property you may possess, and how many of the honors of men you may
acquire, and all those things that are so desirable in the world. The
thing that God has given to you that is worth more than all the rest is
the opportunity to obtain eternal life in the celestial kingdom and have
as your companions, throughout the ages of eternity, sons and
daughters, husbands and wives with whom you have associated here on
earth." (page 73)
Because of Jesus Christ, we will be resurrected
When know where we are going BECAUSE of our Savior. It was the path that He paved that allows us to overcome the grave as he did.
"Jesus Christ
was a man without sin. By reason of His purity, His uprightness and His
virtue, He was able to unlock the doors of the prison, to overcome
death and the grave, and pioneer the way … unto that heaven where we
expect to go." (page 74)
What do we know about our own resurrection? Let's turn to Doctrine and Covenant 88.
-Verse 15 tells us that the soul of man in comprised both of the body and the spirit
-Verse 16 tells us that the redemption of that soul IS the resurrection
-Verse 17 tells us that it is the Lord that makes that redemption possible
-Verse 18 tells us that it is the very same bodies while living on the earth (not some other bodies) that will be resurrected and returned to our spirits
-Verses 29-31 tell us that our bodies will be redeemed to the degree of glory we have earned.
Verses 32 tells us that once we are resurrection we will go to that kingdom which we have earned and will receive (those who have not earned the Celestial kingdom would not receive/want to be there, they wouldn't feel comfortable even if they were permitted to be there)
"...the spirits that possess these tabernacles now will inhabit the same tabernacles after they have been cleansed and purified and immortalized." (page 74)
Again, I think it's important to reiterate that we will be the same people in our resurrected bodies that we are when we die. Hence how imperative it is that we work hard NOW to become the people we WANT to become.
How can we teach our children and those around us about the atonement and resurrection?
The knowledge of the resurrection is so crucial to our understanding of the purpose of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is "to prepare every man, woman and child for the time when all those who have
died will be brought forth from their graves, and when our Heavenly
Father will establish his kingdom upon this earth and the righteous will
dwell there and Jesus Christ will be our King and our Law-giver." (page 74)
"Without that understanding it seems to me there would be little
happiness for those who are living in mature years, waiting for the time
when the spirit leaves the body to go they know not where." (page 75)
So much of our outlook on life/eternal perspective, and direction is guided by our purpose. Without a knowledge of the resurrection one might find them far from that iron rod, lost in the fog. How important it is to first gain our own testimony of the resurrection and then to teach those we love!
Our knowledge of the immortality of the soul inspires, encourages, and comforts us.
How much of what we do is a result of our understanding of eternity? If there was no life after death, what would you do differently? Would you take the same care of your body? Would you work as hard at your relationships? Would you take the time to help build up yourself and others?
"If, when our life's labor on was finished, we had no opportunity to go on developing, there would be little to inspire us to live as we should here. The knowledge that all the good we accomplish here, and all the development we make, will enhance our happiness eternally, encourages us to do our best."
Luckily, the Lord loves us and has made certain we know His plan. We know:
-He lives, has a body and created us in His image
-He is a personal God
-Our spirits are begotten by him
-He gave us the opportunity to come to Earth and receive a physical tabernacle so we can prepare to return to his presence and live eternally with him
-Jesus Christ was the manifestation of God in the flesh
-There will be a literally resurrection from the dead
"these are the truths that are fundamental" (page 76) If we have a testimony of these things, we have our foundation to build our faith upon.
Knowing this, the hardest parts of this life become easier. Death, for instance, becomes less of a tragedy and is instead realized as a step towards "increasing happiness and advantages that we cannot know in mortality." (page 76) We know that the "Lord has not left us without hope. On the contrary he has given us every assurance of eternal happiness, if we will accept his advice and counsel while here in mortality." (page 77) Whatever the current struggle we face, whether it's the death of a loved one, illness, or simple, everyday hardships of life, our eternal perspective allows us to see things a little clearer.
We are so extremely blessed to have endless resources in the gospel. From our scriptures, to conference talks, to lds.org, we have been given more knowledge than one man could ever consume in this life. If we have a desire for an understanding of His plan and for a hope of the future all we need to do is seek it out. The understanding and testimony of these things (and more) will be given to us as we consciously make an effort to find them. It is work, but an eternally rewarding kind of work. Though progress and growth are hard, seemingly impossibly, I know it will be worth it. We will be blessed.
"If those who have passed on could speak to us, they would say, 'Press on, press on, for the goal that will bring us eternal happiness together.' Do the things the Lord would have you do, and you will not miss anything that is worth while; but on the contrary you will be continually laying up treasures in heaven where moth and rust cannot corrupt or thieves break through and steal [Matthew 6:19-20]" (page 77)
“Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more. He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion which polish you for your everlasting benefit. To get you from where you are to where He wants you to be requires a lot of stretching and that generally entails discomfort and pain…To exercise faith is to trust that the Lord knows what He is doing though you cannot understand how He can possible do it…”
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
March Treats
Carmellitos
(Thanks Mom!)
2 cups flour
2 cups oatmeal
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 teaspoon soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups melted butter
1-2 cups chopped pecans (optional-I left them out this time)
1 1/2 cups caramel ice cream topping (I used more like 2 cups)
6 tablespoons flour
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Combine first 6 ingredients. Press 1/2 of oat mixture into a 9x13 baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 min. Remove rom oven and sprinkle chocolate chips on top, then add nuts (if you want them). Combine caramel topping with flour and pour on top of chocolate and nuts. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 of oat mixture on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes. ***Reduce to 325 degrees for glass baking dishes.
Peanut Butter Balls
(Thanks, Sis!)
1 1/2 cups peanut butter
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
4-6 cups powdered sugar (to taste/consistency you like)
4 cups chocolate chips
Melt/soften butter. Mix butter and peanut butter. Add powdered sugar a little bit at a time until you have the consistency you like (I prefer more fluffy than buttery, which equates to more powdered sugar-closer to 6 cups). Roll peanut butter mixture into balls onto a foiled cookie sheet (balls can be whatever size you want). Place cookie sheet in freezer for 15 minutes. Melt chocolate chips on stove or microwave. Take peanut butter balls and dip them in chocolate. After all balls are covered in chocolate, place cookie sheet back in freezer/fridge until ready to serve.
The Holy Priesthood--for the blessing of God's children
When you hear the word 'Priesthood', what words come to mind? Do you think of it's origin? Do you ponder its power? Its purpose, or even validity? Take a second and let yourself ponder on the Priesthood...
(After allowing for a moment of thought, I'll have the sisters shout out a few words or phrases that came to their minds)
I read this lesson over again specifically looking for words describing or referring to the Priesthood. Here is what I found:
Why was it "necessary for the Savior to ... restore divine authority" during His earthly ministry, in addition to teaching the gospel? (my thought was because there were righteous people who wanted/needed/deserved it, so he could give people the chance to grow, so he could hold people accountable, and because it fit the timeline/they were foreordained)
(After allowing for a moment of thought, I'll have the sisters shout out a few words or phrases that came to their minds)
I read this lesson over again specifically looking for words describing or referring to the Priesthood. Here is what I found:
Holy
Serious
Obligation
Obligation
Eternally important
Blessing/Bless (the children of men)
Important
Great Honor
Opportunity
Service
Uplift
Develop
Divine power
Divine authority
Humble/humility
Responsibility
Administer (the ordinances of the Gospel)
Authority to speak in His name
Right to preach/teach the Gospel
Officiate
Servants of the Lord
Calling, ordaining, and setting apart for the work
Conferred upon men
Essential
Qualify (men to teach and officiate)
Priceless
Opens the doors of the Celestial Kingdom
Partners with the Master of Heaven and Earth
Consciousness ("that I am my brother's keeper)
Example
Worthy
Sacred trust
Power of God
Do any of these words/phrases stand out/have a greater impact on you? Why?
Before we move on, let's define the Holy (Melchizedek) Priesthood. The Holy Melchizedek Priesthood is the power of God delegated to man to act in His name (Manual, page 51).
******************
From the life of George Albert Smith we gather that he clearly and reverently understood the great importance, necessity and privilege of the Priesthood.
(I will have someone read these two stories)
(Story #1)
“I
wonder sometimes if as fathers we take pains to explain to our boys the
seriousness of the obligation assumed when a boy becomes a deacon. I
wonder if when the boy is ordained a deacon the father lets him feel
that he has something now that is eternally important. …
“I
remember, as if it were yesterday, when John Tingey placed his hands on
my head and ordained me a deacon. I had the matter so presented to me
and the importance of it, that I felt it was a great honor. The re sult
was, it was a blessing to me, and then after awhile other ordinations
came to me. But in each case the foundation was laid in my mind that
here was an opportunity for another blessing.”1
(Story #2)
“Rodney Badger was a teacher in my father’s home for years, and a great man. Whenever he came the family
met and he sat and asked us questions and told us the things that he
thought we ought to understand. And I want to tell you that when he came
into our home he brought the spirit of the Lord with him. And when he
went out we felt we had had a visit from a servant of the Lord.”2
First, I must pose the question, IS it important for men and women to learn about the priesthood? (Yes!) Why? (To understand the impact it has in our lives, to understand how it is we can attain eternal life, to develop our testimonies, to teach our children, to bless the lives of others, etc.) As mothers, what can WE do to help our sons and daughters understand how eternally important the Priesthood truly is? (Teach them historical background, both ancient and latter-day. Share personal stories where the Priesthood power healed, protected, etc. Be an example/point out examples. Talk about both the obvious and not so obvious blessings of the Priesthood seen in the lives of those around you. Be sure to define the Priesthood properly. Place pictures and other tangible items in your home depicting the Priesthood power and the importance of it. i.e. picture of your Priesthood lineage all the way back to Christ). How can we help the young men prepare to be ordained to priesthood offices? (Teach both verbally and by example. Make sure you USE the Priesthood-blessings etc.-and let them see you use it. Bear testimony of it. Read about it. etc.)
Jesus Christ restored divine authority to the earth during His mortal ministry.
To understand the importance of the Priesthood we must first understand where it came from, right?
"When
the Savior came in the meridian of time, He found that great city of
Jerusalem teeming with evil. The inhabitants were living in such a way
that they had lost divine authority, so [God] sent His Son into the
world and began again a Church possessing divine power. … There were
those in His line who were good people, … and there were others who were
still officiating in the Priesthood, but it was necessary for the
Savior to come to restore divine authority. …
…
When He began His ministry, He did not call to His aid the kings and
rulers and priests and those who were high in authority, but He called
the humble fishermen, and the result was that He gathered around Him men
who could be taught, and not men who would not believe Him. He
organized a Church under the direction of our Heavenly Father. He
conferred divine authority upon His associates and directed them as to
what they should do. … He had divine authority, and the righteous ones
recognized Him to be the Son of God. Some think Him only to be a good
man. We believe He came upon the earth not alone to teach the people
what to do, but to confer on His associates divine authority to
administer the ordinances of His Church. …
In
the days of the Savior, He was the presiding authority. Next to Him
came a quorum of twelve men, chosen by Him. When He passed away, the
Quorum of Twelve, not a number of ordinary men who called themselves
disciples, but a quorum of twelve men who possessed divine authority and
had received it from Jesus Christ, became the leadership of the Church." (Manual, page 47)Why was it "necessary for the Savior to ... restore divine authority" during His earthly ministry, in addition to teaching the gospel? (my thought was because there were righteous people who wanted/needed/deserved it, so he could give people the chance to grow, so he could hold people accountable, and because it fit the timeline/they were foreordained)
We know that the Priesthood was once again removed from the earth as people got more and more wicked. At what point did we receive the blessing of the Priesthood? How? By whom?
"When
Joseph Smith was a young man the Lord directed him to translate the
Book of Mormon. On one occasion when Joseph and Oliver Cowdery were
translating, the Lord sent a holy being to answer their questions about baptism.
Who was he that came? John the Baptist, who held the Aaronic
Priesthood. Where did he come from? He came from heaven. … He appeared
to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery as a glorious resurrected being. He
came directed by our Heavenly Father to confer the Aaronic Priesthood
upon Joseph and Oliver, for it was not to be found any place in all the
world. It was necessary that the heavens open and a man who had held the
Priesthood, and still held it, should come and confer it.
Following
that, Peter, James and John, who held the Melchizedek Priesthood,
conferred that Priesthood upon Joseph and Oliver, and the Lord directed
the organization of the Church, with a Presidency, consisting of a
president and two counselors; also a Quorum of Twelve Apostles, a
Patriarch, High Priests, Seventies, Elders, Priests, Teachers and
Deacons; the same kind of an organization that existed in the primitive
church, as far as authority was concerned. (Manual, page 48)
Since the Restoration, "the Gospel and the Priesthood have been made available to all who qualify" to receive it. Why do you think the Lord makes His authority available to all worthy men instead o restricting it to a few men with formal training? (to allow all men the chance to grow, to prevent corruption, to bless more people)
The power and authority of God can be found only in His true Church.
(I will either read an excerpt from this, or have someone else do it)
"I
have had men ask me: “Of what benefit is your church more than some
other church?” I have tried, in a tactful way, to explain to them the
difference. Any organization may band together for worship, but that
does not give them divine authority. Any group of churches may mass
together and organize community churches. That does not confer divine
authority. Men may unite for good purposes, but authority from our
Heavenly Father is only obtained in his way, and his way in former days
was by calling and ordaining men and setting them apart for the work.
The same thing is true in our day. …
People
should be made to understand that just to bow before the Lord in prayer
does not give them divine authority. To live up to the requirements
that are made of honesty, virtue, truth, etc., does not give them divine
authority. … It is not sufficient that we pray, that we attend church.
It is necessary that we possess divine authority, and it is the claim
that we possess that authority that has brought upon this Church much of
the persecution that has followed it from the beginning. But it is the
truth and many of our Father’s children are beginning to observe the
effect of divine authority in this Church. They see the development that
is made in the lives of men and women." (Manual, page 50)
What do you make of that last sentence ("they see the development that is made in the lives of men and women")? (I would think 'development' refers to the development of character/values-both in families and in individuals, testimony and a general understanding of God.) What can we do personally to nurture the power and influence of the priesthood in our lives? (same as nurturing it in our children, I would think) How would you respond if someone asked you "Of what benefit is your church more than some other church?"
I think it can be hard to answer such questions without (unintentional) offending someone. We often fear responding for this reason but President Smith said it well when he said,
"I personally do not desire to be understood to be finding fault and
criticizing the people who belong to the various denominations of the
world. I am thankful that there are in so many of them good men and good
women who believe in him and with the light that they have serve God;
but the fact remains that our Father has established in this world, his
Church. He has conferred upon men in this day his authority, and there
is no other authority in the world that he will recognize but that which
he himself has instituted."
Priesthood ordinances are essential for us to enter the Celestial Kingdom
One of the reasons the priesthood is so priceless is the sheer fact that we can not enter the Celestial kingdom without it. Every good person, doing good things, is blessed. But regardless of how virtuous we are, without the priesthood, we cannot attain that degree of glory we are all striving for.
What would happen if we were denied this blessing of the priesthood? What would our lives be like?
"It would mean that there had been closed to us the doors of the
celestial kingdom. It would mean that the crowning blessing toward which
I have been taught to look since I was a child would not be realized. …
The companionship of my loved ones, … who are dear to me almost as life
itself, could not be enjoyed in the celestial kingdom."
What are some of the "priceless blessings" you have received because of the priesthood? Or, oppositely, what blessings do you feel you missed out on because you didn't/don't have the priesthood in your home? (Mom's story of growing up with a dad who wasn't a member vs. her sisters who grew up with a dad who was) I think of the blessings I received, the examples I saw, and the strong, righteous leadership both in my home and in the ward I grew up in.
Priesthood holders have a responsibility to live exemplary lives and use the priesthood to bless others.
The priesthood is an endlessly powerful blessing and it comes with many responsibilities.
"You cannot go out into the world in any other Church or in all other
Churches and find … men holding divine authority. Do not forget that.
You belong to a choice body of men, … having had hands laid upon them,
and receiving divine authority, making you partners with the Master of
Heaven and Earth. I do not mean that you can’t laugh, smile, and enjoy
life, but I do mean that there should be deep in every soul a
consciousness that “I am my brother’s keeper. I hold authority from the
Lord Jesus Christ—I am a bearer of the Holy Priesthood.” If we will do
this we will not be found trifling with sacred things as some have done
in the past." (Manual page 52)
This makes me think of the phrase "with great power, comes great responsibility." What power on this earth is greater than the priesthood? (I'd say none) Those that hold the priesthood certainly have the responsibility to bless the lives of others and to be an example of the Savior, for their job is to act in His stead. It is not their job to lord over anyone, but to be humble teachers and leaders. "The authority of our Heavenly Father is upon the earth for the blessing
of mankind, not to make those who receive that authority arrogant, but
to make them humble; not to make those who have received special
privileges feel that they are greater than others, but to make us humble
in our souls, prayerful in our hearts, and considerate of all men in
all that we do, and thus exemplify by upright lives that which our
Heavenly Father desires us to teach."(Manual page 53) The power of these priesthood holders comes when they live worthily of that sacred trust and divine authority. As mothers, spouses, sisters, etc. how can we help the men understand both the responsibilities of the priesthood, and the blessings of the priesthood? (study together, express a need for the priesthood, recognize and show gratitude for the blessings that result from the priesthood in your home/life, show a sincere respect for the priesthood both in word and deed) How can we help them stay worthy of their priesthood? (never put them in a position that would compromise their integrity etc., hold them to a high standard, hold yourself to a high standard, etc., point out the blessing you receive from staying worthy, etc.)
The take home message from this lesson, I think, is simply a reminder of the power of the priesthood and it's sacred origin, purpose, and requirements. In homes where membership in the gospel spans generations, the priesthood often becomes common place. What can we do to help our families keep a fresh perspective on the priesthood and keep it the sacred blessing that it truly is? (One of the ideas that comes to mind is to learn about and teach your children what the responsibilities of the priesthood are. And then, of course, make sure you do/participate in them.)
"Wherever
you go, keep in mind the fact that you represent him who is the author
of our being. The priesthood that you hold is not the priesthood of
Joseph Smith, or Brigham Young, or any other men who have been called to
leadership of the Church at home or abroad. The priesthood that you
hold is the power of God, conferred upon you from on high. Holy beings
had to be sent to earth … in order to restore that glorious blessing
that had been lost to the earth for hundreds of years. Surely we ought
to be grateful for our blessings.23
I
pray that the Lord will bless us all, that we will be worthy to bear
the priesthood that He has offered to us and conferred upon us, that
wherever we go people will be able to say, “That man is a servant of the
Lord." (page 53)
I absolutely know that the power of the priesthood is endless, that the Lord gave us the priesthood to bless us, and that the priesthood unlocks the keys to the celestial kingdom. It is my prayer that we continually ponder the blessings of the priesthood, that we choose to utilize them in our homes, and that we strive to help the priesthood holders around us prepare for and remain worthy of the privilege and responsibility of bearing the priesthood.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Our Testimony of Jesus Christ
I would venture to say that the core doctrine of our religion is indeed our belief in and testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Without Him we are nothing, and so is our doctrine. President George Albert Smith knew this well.
"I have been buoyed up and, as it were, lifted out of myself and given
power not my own to teach the glorious truths proclaimed by the Redeemer
of the world. I have not seen Him face to face but have enjoyed the
companionship of His spirit and felt His presence in a way not to be
mistaken. I know that my Redeemer lives and gladly yield my humble
efforts to establish His teachings. … Every fiber of my being vibrates
with the knowledge that He lives and some day all men will know it."
"In
his travels as a General Authority, George Albert Smith occasionally met
those who thought that the Latter-day Saints do not believe in Jesus Christ.
This misconception amazed and worried President Smith, and he tried to
correct it by sharing his personal witness of the Savior.
On one occasion he spoke at a Church meeting in Cardston, Canada, about the life and mission of Christ.
The next morning he went to the railway station to buy a train ticket.
While he waited in line, he overheard a conversation between a woman and
the ticket agent. The woman mentioned that the evening before she had
decided to attend a Latter-day Saint worship service.
The ticket agent looked surprised. “My goodness,” she said. “You do not mean to say you went to church there.”
“Yes, I did,” the woman answered. “Why not?”
The ticket agent said, “They do not even believe in Jesus Christ.”
Then
the woman replied, “Only last night I listened to one of the elders of
the Church speaking of the life of Jesus of Nazareth, and I have never
heard anybody who seemed more profoundly impressed with a knowledge that
Jesus was indeed the Christ, than the speaker on that occasion.”1
Why would someone's personal opinion that Mormons do not believe in Christ bother any member of the church (not just the prophet)? Easy, right? Because, again, it is our core doctrine. So let me ask you this, what have you done, or will you do when you come across someone who truly doesn't understand our belief in Jesus Christ?
(Ideas: ask he/she what gives them that impression, simply bare a powerful testimony and leave it at that, share a quote/testimony from a prophet/apostle, share "The Living Christ" with them start a discussion, go over doctrine etc., walk away if it looks like something that will only end in Bible bashing, hurt feelings, etc.)
If you're anything like me, you'll simply state your testimony in a logical manner. In doing so, you'll likely define who Jesus is (The Christ, our resurrected Savior and brother). In doing so you'll probably reference the testimonies given in (a.) the Bible and (b.) Book of Mormon (and Doctrine in Covenants), (c.) the testimonies of modern day prophets, and/or (d.) a private, personal witness directly given to you from the Holy Ghost.
(a.) We Accept the Bible's testimony of the divine mission of Jesus Christ
President George Albert Smith addresses each of these testimony building resources. In regard to the Bible, he described how wonderfully definitive it is in describing and determining who Christ is; we believe all it teaches in reference to Him and we accept the testimonies of all the evangelists in the New Testament ("with reference to the resurrection of the Redeemer of mankind").
-Are there any particular scriptures/stories/principles in the Bible that have had a profound impact on your testimony of Christ?
-Which story do you think best describes Jesus Christ's character and divinity? (example: Christ's baptism, the dove and the voice of God Matthew 3:13–17)
(b.) The Book of Mormon and the testimony of (c.) Joseph Smith give us additional evidence of Christ's divinity
In John 10:16 Jesus promised, "Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold and one shepherd." The Book of Mormon testifies to the truthfulness of this statement. It bears witness that Jesus did indeed fulfill the promise he made in Jerusalem. "He came in his resurrected body to bring them the information he had predicted should be given to those to whom he now ministered." (Teachings Of George Albert Smith)
Additionally, The Book of Mormon is just like the Bible in the sense that it is full of prophets and apostles testifying of Christ. Whether they saw Him, heard His voice, were visited by angels, or had the Holy Ghost testify to their hearts, these righteous men testify of Him. They describe generations of people who both followed Him and rebelled against Him.
The Book of Mormon clarifies questions many have argued for centuries. For example, there are those that refute Jesus' divine origin because "He was born as a little child, cradled in a manger, His mother being Mary and his reputed father Joseph the carpenter. Many have admitted that He was a great and good man, but they have desire to rob Him of the divinity of His birth." (T.O.G.A.S.) This thought is refuted and proved false in the Book of Mormon. In it, we read of Jesus gloriously descending in the clouds heaven, this time as a man, not a little child. As we read accounts of Jesus Christ and his doctrine in the Book of Mormon we clarify who He was/is and what His doctrine is all about.
-Is there any particular example of this in the Book of Mormon that has bolstered your testimony?
(One of my examples would probably be Jesus' love for and understanding of the little children. How He treated them says nearly everything I need to know about our Savior and the love He truly has for us all)
Referring to the Book of Mormon people and their experience with Christ, President Smith said, "Those were not hallucinations, but experiences of such marvelous character as to be remembered forever by those who experienced them. As Latter-day saints we accept this record as evidence of the resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord."(T.O.G.A.S)
We are also buoyed up by the the powerful testimony of Joseph Smith and subsequent prophets and apostles. Joseph Smith in particular "saw God the Father standing in the clouds of heaven, clothed with glory and Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of the world, exalted at His right hand, and he heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'This is My Beloved Son, hear Him.'" [ Joseph Smith—History 1:16–17.] President Smith convincingly argues, "To my mind, one of the strongest testimonies of the divinity of the life of our Savior is the testimony of Joseph Smith who laid down his life as a witness of the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ."
-Has your testimony of Christ been strengthened by something you heard (or read) a prophet say?
(My example would be the same of President Smith's. Nothing has spoken more powerfully to me than the words of Joseph Smith and the life he so willingly gave as a martyr.)
(My example would be the same of President Smith's. Nothing has spoken more powerfully to me than the words of Joseph Smith and the life he so willingly gave as a martyr.)
Though not specifically mentioned in this lesson, the Doctrine and Covenants certainly fit in the category of testimony building when it comes to our Savior.
-Can anyone share an example of a scripture/story in the Doctrine and Covenants that has spoken to their hearts and built their testimonies?
(My little sister will share her "life changing" scripture)
(My little sister will share her "life changing" scripture)
I also want to remind you (as my sister reminded me) of the amazing document we have from the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles, the Living Christ. Reading it leaves no question in my mind who Christ is and where his doctrine will take us. (I've added the Living Christ to the bottom of this lesson)
(d.) Each of us can gain a personal testimony that Jesus is the Christ
Perhaps one of the more distinguishing characteristics of our faith is our belief in modern revelation. We believe in a prophet who receives revelation for the word but just as important, we believe in receiving personal revelation. It is our right and privilege to receive a witness from the Holy Ghost of whatsoever things are true...including whether or not Jesus is the Christ.
"My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself." (John 7:16–17)
This personal testimony is arguably the most powerful as it is "burned into our souls by the power of the Holy Ghost, when we have performed the work that the Lord has said must be performed if we would know that the doctrine be of God or whether it be of man." (T.O.G.A.S)
-What are these things President Smith refers to when speaking of the work that must be performed?
(faith in God, repented of sins, been baptized by immersion and received the Holy Ghost by someone with authority)
(faith in God, repented of sins, been baptized by immersion and received the Holy Ghost by someone with authority)
What a gift we have been given! In a world where anyone can publish a book, compose a website, broadcast "news" etc., we don't have to wonder if we're hearing the truth. We have the Holy Ghost to personally witness to us what is true and what is the cunning of the devil. The Bible, Book of Mormon, and witnesses of the prophets and apostles are all solid, amazing evidences and testimonies of Jesus Christ. BUT we can find our own witness down on our knees, alone, in an intimate conversation with the Lord.
Our mission is to share with all people what we know about Christ
With so many resources for information (with reference to the divinity of the Savior) and opportunities to hear of Christ, we are a minority. Very few of our brothers and sisters have the opportunity to learn as we do. And, it's like every action movie says, "with great power comes great responsibility." It is not only our pleasure, but our duty, our mission to share this Gospel and our testimonies of our Savior Jesus Christ with those around us.
President Smith begs us not to hide our candle under a bushel. "Do not conceal the knowledge God has bestowed upon you from your fellows. Do no annoy them, but do not be unwise enough as to hide from the the gospel of Jesus Christ. That is the only power of God unto salvation in the celestial kingdom." (T.O.G.A.S)
Hard as it may be, I think it's important for us to turn our agitation into urgency and excitement when we hear of those who do not think we believe in Christ. And when we come upon someone who is unfamiliar with our Savior, I would hope we'd cautiously, optimistically, and gladly take the time to teach him. When our testimonies are solid, our hearts are full. And when are hearts are full, we are happy. That happiness is ours to share.
"The
happiest men and the happiest women that you know in the world are
those who are conforming their lives to the teachings of the gospel of
Jesus Christ. They are those who have the assurance of eternal life;
they are those who understand the purpose of our being. … As I have
traveled to and fro in the world bearing this message, my soul has been
filled with joy, and my eyes have been dimmed with tears, when I have
seen how perfectly men’s lives may be transformed by the gospel of Jesus
Christ. I have seen those who were discouraged, those who were in
darkness, those who questioned the purpose of their being, and when they
have had taught to them the glorious truths of the gospel of Jesus
Christ, they have changed, they have learned to be happy, to be
contented, to be satisfied, to be enthusiastic in believing and teaching
the gospel that was proclaimed by Jesus Christ when he dwelt upon this
earth and traveled in Galilee.
Brethren
and sisters, the world does not understand that, but it is our mission
to assist them to understand it, and it is not with egotism, it is not
with arrogance, but with charity for all, with loving tenderness, that
this message is sent forth. …" (T.O.G.A.S)
Mine is not nearly as influential or as compelling as President Smith's (I hope you'll go back and read this chapter, he has a very clear and powerful testimony that simply needs to be read word for word) but I will leave you my testimony that Jesus is the Christ. That he is the Son of God, and our brother. He is both he who died on Calvary and He who rose three days later. Jesus Christ is the only name by and which we will be saved. How grateful I am to be one of the small in numbers who was born into this knowledge. I know He loves me, and I love Him.
(Below is the Living Christ)
The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles
"The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles," The Living
Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles, (2000)
As we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ
two millennia ago, we offer our testimony of the reality of His matchless life and the
infinite virtue of His great atoning sacrifice. None other has had so profound an influence
upon all who have lived and will yet live upon the earth.
He was the Great Jehovah of the Old
Testament, the Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, He was the creator of
the earth. “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was
made” (John 1:3). Though sinless,
He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. He “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38), yet was despised
for it. His gospel was a message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow His
example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and
raising the dead. He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence,
the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential for the sons and daughters of God in the
life to come.
He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of
His great atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on spurious charges, convicted to
satisfy a mob, and sentenced to die on Calvary’s cross. He gave His life to atone for the
sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in behalf of all who would ever live
upon the earth.
We solemnly testify that His life, which is
central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was
the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the
world.
He rose from the grave to “become the
firstfruits of them that slept” (1
Corinthians 15:20). As Risen Lord, He visited among those He had loved in life. He
also ministered among His “other sheep” (John 10:16) in ancient America. In the modern world, He and His
Father appeared to the boy Joseph Smith, ushering in the long-promised “dispensation of the
fulness of times” (Ephesians
1:10).
Of the Living Christ, the Prophet Joseph
wrote: “His eyes were as a flame of fire; the hair of his head was white like the pure snow;
his countenance shone above the brightness of the sun; and his voice was as the sound of the
rushing of great waters, even the voice of Jehovah, saying:
“I am the first and the last; I am he who
liveth, I am he who was slain; I am your advocate with the Father” (D&C
110:3–4).
Of Him the Prophet also declared: “And now,
after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all,
which we give of him: That he lives!
“For we saw him, even on the right hand of
God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the
Father—
“That by him, and through him, and of him,
the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters
unto God” (D&C
76:22–24).
We declare in words of solemnity that His
priesthood and His Church have been restored upon the earth—“built upon the foundation of …
apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Ephesians 2:20).
We testify that He will someday return to
earth. “And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together”
(Isaiah 40:5). He will rule as
King of Kings and reign as Lord of Lords, and every knee shall bend and every tongue shall
speak in worship before Him. Each of us will stand to be judged of Him according to our
works and the desires of our hearts.
We bear testimony, as His duly ordained
Apostles—that Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God. He is the great King
Immanuel, who stands today on the right hand of His Father. He is the light, the life, and
the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal
life in the world to come. God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son.
The First Presidency
January 1, 2000
The Quorum Of The Twelve
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