Sheep-The Faith

“We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost”.

The LDS Church teaches that FAITH as the FIRST principle of the Gospel must come before anything else-and that faith must be centered on Jesus Christ and nothing else. This is SUCH an important concept-SUCH a mandatory trait- everything we teach and believe and desire to obtain as Latter-day Saints originates and emanates from it. Because it is so essential, it seems obvious that one of the most important things we can ever do is to make sure we have a correct understanding of what “faith” is, and then do all we can to obtain it.

Faith is defined as trust or confidence in something or someone, so how is it that human beings learn to trust and have confidence in others? Human infants as young as 3-4 months in age exhibit behavior that proves that the most basic element in establishing trust in others is familiarity. Babies respond happily and eagerly to the faces and voices they hear and see the most, and respond warily and hesitantly to those they do not. If they have a positive first experience with a stranger who holds them securely and plays with them happily for a few minutes, they will respond more enthusiastically the next time they encounter that person. Eventually, they throw open their arms and squeal with delight when they see this person that they have come to trust and love.

In the Guide to the Scriptures (GS) section on the LDS.org website under faith it reads:

“As most often used in the scriptures, faith is confidence and trust in Jesus Christ that lead a person to obey him. Faith must be centered in Jesus Christ in order for it to lead a person to salvation.”

We learn to trust and have confidence in Jesus Christ in the same way we learn to believe in or have faith in anyone else. We have positive experiences as we start to learn more about Him and become familiar with His words, thoughts and actions. We learn that we are secure in His care and that He brings joy and happiness to our lives. We learn that when we follow His directions He responds with blessings and those blessings allows us to place more and more confidence in His character and the things He promises. We learn that He doesn’t just say He loves us, He really does. We learn that He doesn’t just say He died to redeem us, He really did and can. We learn to KNOW that if He says He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life-then He is.

Some Latter-day Saints, seem to miss entirely what comes after the words “Jesus Christ” in the GS definition I posted-that when someone HAS faith, trust, or confidence in Jesus Christ-it leads to obedience, and only this kind of faith (and its subsequent obedience) leads to salvation. Clearly stated-people who have faith in Jesus Christ obey Him, and those that obey Him obtain salvation. (Which is not the salvation from death which all mankind has already been given-but here means the exaltation and glory of celestial life)

Could anything be easier to understand or more clearly expressed? Faith=obedience=salvation. Anyone who dedicates even the smallest amount of time to searching the scriptures will find that they bear witness over and over again to this eternal principle in hundreds of ways. For example:

Matthew 7:21-Not every one that saith unto me, Lord , Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

John 7:17- If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God [or of someone else]

Alma 3:27 For every man receiveth wages of him whom he listeth to obey, and this according to the words of the spirit of prophecy; therefore let it be according to the truth.

D&C 130-20,21- There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated—And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.

Someone who has faith has come to know and trust in Jesus Christ in a way that leads to obedience. The more faith someone has, the more obedient they become in their thoughts, words and actions, and conversely the less faith someone has the less obedient they are. This is what so many who profess to be faithful members of the LDS Church fail to realize. Our WORDS and ACTIONS are VISIBLE testimonies of where our thoughts and minds are. The Lord taught us:

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. (Matthew 7:15-20.)

I love the reference He makes here to wolves in sheep’s clothing. The original Hebrew makes the meaning more clear and indicates that these imposters look like sheep of the Lord’s fold (members of the Church) on the outside, but are filled with hypocrisy and guile on the inside. They do not follow the shepherd nor build up His kingdom, and the fruits they produce are contention, strife, bitterness, and doubt. They spend all their time howling and huffing and puffing about the real sheep, but those acts only reveal them MORE for what they really are. Wolves don’t realize that because they don’t sound like real sheep or act like real sheep, they aren’t fooling anyone, including the shepherd.

Real sheep are those who know and love and OBEY the Shepherd.

Mehwage…is wut bwings us togevah todeh!

Marriage-and its definition-has been the ultimate source of bloggernacle fodder for months now. The national elections this year bring with them a tough call for citizens local to the state of California and whether or not they vote to redefine marriage to include the marriages of men to men and women to women.

That issue has been a frustrating one for all Latter-day Saints, because on the one hand we are commanded to love all of our brothers and sisters, and on the other, we are commanded to love God first. Some people cannot seem to grasp how to do both, and it has been interesting and horrifying to see so many of them when faced with choosing between the two, choose mankind rather than God.

So this matter has been on my mind and in my heart and prayers and it has been absolutely futile for anyone on the “God” side, to try and help those who are solidly on the “mankind” side understand the importance of what is happening, and I’m sure vice versa from the “mankind” side’s point of view. It was tucked in the back of my brain when I casually read through a blog I sometimes frequent and came upon a thread titled “Evil Speaking” by Nate Oman. In it, he offers the analogy of “marriage” and tries to tie it to the idea that we (as Church members) are the “bride of Christ” and if so, then we need to be more respectful of our betrothed spouse-the Savior. As I read through the replies to his thread, something kept setting off the “EGO” alert but I could see their points and wasn’t sure exactly WHY I was getting that signal.

As usual, my most introspective and creative and probably “able to be influenced for good” moments of the day came just as I was waking up and getting ready for the day. In these precious early morning moments, my mind is a blank and inviting canvas for the Lord unless I have some kind of self-imposed agenda already written there. My mind drifts in the shower and I seem to get flashes of brilliance and “spirit” in those soothing minutes before the kids, life, marriage, motherhood, church callings, and duty cave in and bury me for the day.

This morning as I asked God why some people just refuse to engage in the revelation process so they can KNOW, rather than think/feel/hope, Nate’s thread hit the station and my train of thought was off and running. When God whispered moments later, the insight was solid and bright and undeniable in it’s glorious simplicity and truth. WE (as in members of the church) are NOT “the bride”-we are the invited guests of the Groom, and we have set ourselves up on a pedestal of importance that does not belong to us yet. In thinking that “we” are already partners with Christ, or His betrothed, we presume to tell Him what to do, what to direct the Church to do, or act as if we have the right to criticize and argue with Him as many these days think a spouse has the right to do.

In reality we are NOT “sealed” to God yet, and as only invited guests, we are coming across as the meddling, nasty, busy bodied guests that almost every important event seems to attract. You know the ones…they PRETEND to be concerned about the bride and groom and offer advice “in their best interest”, when the truth is they actually think they are wiser and more capable than anyone else. They feel like others NEED to understand how inappropriate certain things are, such as – the decorations, the guest list, the food, the bride’s dress, the invitations etc. They personally know of a better caterer, band, location, and minister. If the other guests are REALLY lucky, these know-betters are even perfectly willing to tell you anything you want to know about the bride’s past, her family, her hobbies, her social views, and flaws. “That poor groom just has NO idea what she’s been doing while he’s been away!” “He’s lucky to have genuinely concerned and intelligent people like us around to make sure His best interests are protected.” “It’s obvious the Groom left His bride in less-than-capable hands!”

So, with that to chew on, I’m off to work on a post about ancient Hebrew marriage rituals and Jewish wedding traditions because MY OH MY…they are like brilliant fireworks against a black sky when pondered upon in relation to the above truths.

What Joseph knew…

After yet ANOTHER endless circular discussion on blacks and the priesthood and gay marriage yada yada until my head aches…I finally decided that it was time to post one of my “weak” little discoveries on my blog for those who truly seek to ponder on. Those who claim to be historical scholars NEVER talk about this article. EVAH. Do they not know about it or do they bury it so that they won’t have to retract all their crap about the whole “Curse of Cain” doctrine NOT starting with Joseph Smith? Too hard to undo all their hard (yet false) work? Embarrassing? Or just one of those “hidden treasures of knowledge” they were denied because they were seeking to tear down rather than support the Church’s position? To the faithful-here ya go.

The Prophet’s Views on Abolition-

Article published in the Messenger and Advocate April 1836 by Joseph Smith- History of the Church Volume 2 chapter 30

Brother Oliver Cowdery,

Dear Sir:—This place [Kirtland] having recently been visited by a gentleman who advocated the principles or doctrines of those who are called Abolitionists, and his presence having created an interest in that subject, if you deem the following reflections of any service, or think they will have a tendency to correct the opinions of the Southern public, relative to the views and sentiments I entertain, as an individual, and which I am able to say from personal knowledge are the sentiments of others, you are at liberty to give them publicity in the columns of the Advocate. In one respect I am prompted to this course in consequence of many Elders having gone into the Southern States, besides there being now many in that country who have already embraced the fulness of the Gospel, as revealed through the Book of Mormon. I have learned by experience that the enemy of truth does not slumber, nor cease his exertions to bias the minds of communities against the servants of the Lord, by stirring up the indignation of men upon all matters of importance or interest; therefore I fear that the sound might go out, that “an Abolitionist” had held forth several times to this community, and that the public feeling was not aroused to create mobs or disturbances, leaving the impression that all he said was concurred in, and received as Gospel, and the word of salvation. I am happy to say that no violence, or breach of the public peace, was attempted: so far from this, all, except a very few, attended to their own vocations, and left the gentleman to hold forth his own arguments to nearly naked walls. I am aware that many, who profess to preach the Gospel, complain against their brethren of the same faith, who reside in the South, and are ready to withdraw the hand of fellowship, because they will not renounce the principle of slavery, and raise their voice against every thing of the kind. This must be a tender print, and one which should call forth the candid reflections of all men, and more especially before they advance in an opposition calculated to lay waste the fair states of the South, and let loose upon the world a community of people, who might, peradventure, overrun our country, and violate the most sacred principles of human society, chastity and virtue.

No one will pretend to say that the people of the free states are as capable of knowing the evils of slavery, as those who hold slaves. If slavery be an evil, who could we expect would first learn it: Would the people of the free states, or the people of the slave states? All must readily admit, that the latter would first learn this fact. If the fact were learned first by those immediately concerned, who would be more capable than they of prescribing a remedy? And besides, are not those who hold slaves, persons of ability, discernment and candor? Do they not expect to give an account at the bar of God for their conduct in this life? It may no doubt with propriety be said that many who hold slaves live without the fear of God before their eyes; but the same may be said of many in the free states. Then who is to be the judge in this matter? So long, then, as the people of the free states, are not interested in the freedom of the slaves, in any other way than upon the mere abstract principles of equal rights, and of the Gospel; and are ready to admit that there are men of piety. who reside in the South, who are immediately concerned, and until they complain and call for assistance, why not cease this clamor, and no further urge the slave to acts of murder, and the master to vigorous discipline, rendering both miserable, and unprepared to pursue that course which might otherwise lead them both to better their conditions? I do not believe that the people of the North have any more right to say that the South shall not hold slaves, than the South have to say the North shall.

And further, what benefit will it ever be to the slaves for persons to run over the free states, and excite indignation against their masters in the minds of thousands and tens of thousands, who understand nothing relative to their circumstances, or conditions? I mean particularly those who have never traveled in the South, and who in all their lives have scarcely ever seen a negro.

How any community can ever be excited with the chatter of such persons, boys and others, who are too indolent to obtain their living by honest industry, and are incapable of pursuing any occupation of a professional nature, is unaccountable to me; and when I see persons in the free states, signing documents against slavery, it is no less, in my mind, than an army of influence, and a declaration of hostilities against the people of the South. What course can sooner divide our union?

After having expressed myself so freely upon this subject, I do not doubt, but those who have been forward in raising their voices against the South, will cry out against me as being uncharitable, unfeeling, unkind, and wholly unacquainted with the Gospel of Christ. It is my privilege then to name certain passages from the Bible, and examine the teachings of the ancients upon the matter as the fact is uncontrovertible that the first mention we have of slavery is found in the Holy Bible, pronounced by a man who was perfect in his generation, and walked with God. And so far from that prediction being averse to the mind of God, it remains as a lasting monument of the decree of Jehovah, to the shame and confusion of all who have cried out against the South, in consequence of their holding the sons of Ham in servitude. “And he said, Cursed be Canaan; a servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren.” “Blessed be the Lord God of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant” (Gen. 9:25, 26).

Trace the history of the world from this notable event down to this day, and you will find the fulfillment of this singular prophecy. What could have been the design of the Almighty in this singular occurrence is not for me to say; but I can say, the curse is not yet taken off from the sons of Canaan, neither will be until it is affected by as great a power as caused it to come; and the people who interfere the least with the purposes of God in this matter, will come under the least condemnation before Him; and those who are determined to pursue a course, which shows an opposition, and a feverish restlessness against the decrees of the Lord, will learn, when perhaps it is too late for their own good, that God can do His own work, without the aid of those who are not dictated by His counsel.

I must not pass ever a notice of the history of Abraham, of whom so much is spoken in the Scripture. If we can credit the account, God conversed with him from time to time, and directed him in the way he should walk, saying, I am the Almighty; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” Paul says the Gospel was preached to this man. And it is further said, that he had sheep and oxen, men-servants and maid-servants, etc. From this I conclude, that if the principle had been an evil one, in the midst of the communications made to this holy man, he would have been instructed to that effect, and if he was instructed against holding men servants and maid-servants, he never ceased to do it; consequently must have incurred the displeasure of the Lord, and thereby lost His blessings; which was not the fact.

Some may urge that the names man servant and maid-servant, only mean hired persons, who were at liberty to leave their masters or employers at any time. But we can easily settle this point, by turning to the history of Abraham’s descendants, when governed by a law from the mouth of Jehovah Himself. I know that when an Israelite had been brought into servitude, in consequence of debt, or otherwise, at the seventh year he went from the task of his former master, or employer; but to no other people or nation was this granted in the law of Israel. And if after a man had served six years, he did not wish to be free, then the master was to bring him unto the judges—bore his ear with an awl, and that man was “to serve him forever.” The conclusion I draw from this, is, that his people were led and governed by revelation, and if such a law was wrong, God only is to be blamed, and abolitionists are not responsible.

Now, before proceeding any farther, I wish to ask one or two questions: Were the Apostles men of God, and did they preach the Gospel? I have no doubt that those who believe the Bible, will admit that they were; and that they also knew the mind and will of God concerning what they wrote to the churches, which they were instrumental in building up. This being admitted, the matter can be put to rest without much argument, if we look at a few items in the New Testament. Paul says: “Servants be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not with eyeservice as men-pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall be received of the Lord, whether he be bound or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven: neither is there respect of persons with him” (Eph. 6:5, 6, 7, 8, 9). Here is a lesson which might be profitable for all to learn; and the principle upon which the Church was anciently governed, is so plainly set forth, that an eye of truth might see and understand. Here certainly, are represented the master, and servant; and so far from instructions to the servant to leave his master, he is commanded to be in obedience, as unto the Lord; the master in turn, is required to treat him with kindness before God; understanding, at the same time, that he is to give an account. The hand of fellowship is not withdrawn from him in consequence of his having servants.

The same writer, in his first epistle to Timothy, the sixth chapter, and the first five verses, says,—”Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and His doctrine be not blasphemed. And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort. If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; he is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, perverse disputing of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.” This is so perfectly plain, that I see no need of comment. The Scripture stands for itself; and I believe that these men were better qualified to teach the will of God, than all the abolitionists in the world.

Before closing this communication, I beg leave to drop a word to the traveling Elders. You know, brethren, that great responsibility rests upon you; and that you are accountable to God, for all you teach the world. In my opinion, you will do well to search the Book of Covenants, in which you will see the belief of the Church, concerning masters and servants. All men are to be taught to repent; but we have no right to interfere with slaves, contrary to the mind and will of their masters. In fact it would be much better, and more prudent, not to preach at all to slaves, until after their masters are converted, and then teach the masters to use them with kindness; remembering that they are accountable to God, and the servants are bound to serve their masters with singleness of heart, without murmuring.

I do most sincerely hope that no one who is authorized from this Church to preach the Gospel, will so far depart from the Scriptures, as to be found stirring up strife and sedition against our brethren of the South . Having spoken frankly and freely, I leave all in the hands of God, who will direct all things for His glory, and the accomplishment of His work. Praying that God may spare you to do much good in this life, I subscribe myself your brother in the Lord,

Joseph Smith, Jun.

Life Illustrated

There is a propensity today to make life seem so complicated and angst ridden-so that we can then proclaim ourselves victims of all the confusion and chaos…..wo, wo, wo is me. (Ya gotta have THREE wo’s to be considered extremely serious ya know). In my research today I came across the following little gem from Harold B. Lee’s book Decisions for Successful Living and wanted to share it’s simple truth.

Suppose you have a great-hearted friend who calls you in for a consultation and makes the proposition that he has decided to give you the opportunity of going to college to get an education, at his expense, which will give you training to become a competent and well-trained artisan, executive or mechanic. Beyond this you may continue to take post-graduate work and receive higher education after you graduate from the university. If you successfully complete this university course offered you, your generous friend agrees to take you into his business where you will have the opportunity of becoming a partner and joint owner, thus giving you security to the end of your days. But this wonderful opportunity is yours only on certain conditions. You must complete your university education in a limited number of years. You must make passing grades in each course you take, or if you should fail to get a passing grade you must spend extra hours to make up your losses. The courses are so exacting that your mind must be clear and your body strong. If you cloud your mind and weaken your body through the use of substances that are harmful or by practices that sap your vitality, you will fail in your final examinations and will be “washed out,” as they say in the army. You will find plenty of play-boys along the way who will try to persuade you to “sow some wild oats” in disregard of the possible consequences. All your tests will be private. There is no chance to cheat. You can’t make amends for your failures by merely saying, “I’m sorry.” The one who gives the tests will base his judgment not alone on the actual results as written on your examination papers, but will take into account the vital factor as to whether or not you have done all you could have done according to your native ability. Thus even if you are physically or mentally handicapped, you have an equal opportunity with him who seems to have greater physical strength or mental vigor.

What would you think of such a proposition? Is it fair? If you failed to meet the requirements, would you have anyone to blame but yourself as the cause of your failure? If you lose the business partnership promised you and are limited to the position of merely a hired man or servant in the house of the man who offered you a place of ownership in his business, could you blame your friend for your failure? Should you fail he would probably feel as badly as you because he needed you and wanted you in his business and was always ready to give you counsel and advice any time you wanted to go to him and were prepared to listen to his voice.

Lines in the Cement

• Marion G. Romney-Some members assume that one can be in full harmony with the spirit of the gospel, enjoy full fellowship in the Church, and at the same time be out of harmony with the leaders of the Church and the counsel and direction they give. Such a position is wholly inconsistent. . . . Those who profess to accept the gospel and who at the same time criticize and refuse to follow the counsel of the prophets are assuming an indefensible position. Such a spirit leads to apostasy. CR1983Apr:2Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. (Letter of Jude, brother of James) Jude 1:8

• Joseph F. Merrill-Do the people of the Church want a safe guide to what is well for them to do? It is this: Keep in harmony with the Presidency of this Church. Accept and follow the teachings and advice of the President. At every Conference we raise our hands to sustain the President as prophet, seer and revelator. Is it consistent to do this and then go contrary to his advice? Is anyone so simple as to believe he is serving the Lord when he opposes the President? Of course, the President is not infallible. He makes no claims to infallibility. But when in his official capacity he teaches and advises the members of the Church relative to their duties, let no man who wants to please the Lord say aught against the counsels of the President.
  In the spirit of helpfulness let me give you a key. When in doubt go on your knees in humility with an open mind and a pure heart with a real desire to do the Lord’s will, and pray earnestly and sincerely for divine guidance. Persist in praying in this way until you get an answer that fills your bosom with joy and satisfaction. It will be God’s answer. If obedient to this answer you will always act as the President indicates. You will then be safe. CR1941Apr:51

• Elder Harold B. Lee-Now the only safety we have as members of this Church is to do exactly what the Lord said to the Church in that day when the Church was organized. We must learn to give heed to the words and commandments that the Lord shall give through his prophet, “as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; . . . as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith.” (D&C 21:4-5) There will be some things that take patience and faith. You may not like what comes from the authority of the Church. It may contradict your political views. It may contradict your social views. It may interfere with some of your social life. But if you listen to these things, as if from the mouth of the Lord himself, with patience and faith, the promise is that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name’s glory.” (D&C 21:6) CR1970Oct:152

• George Albert Smith- The only one pathway of safety for me in this day and that is to follow those whom the Lord has appointed to lead. I may have my own ideas and opinions. I may set up my own judgment with reference to things, but I know that when my judgment conflicts with the teachings of those that the Lord has given to us to point the way, I should change my course. If I desire salvation I will follow the leaders that our Heavenly Father has given to us, as long as he sustains them. CR1937Apr:33

• Ezra Taft Benson-Disobedience toward someone in authority usually involves pride: “Disobedience is essentially a prideful power struggle against someone in authority over us. It can be a parent, a priesthood leader, a teacher, or ultimately God. A proud person hates the fact that someone is above him. He thinks this lowers his position.” (EN1989May:5)

EGO Part II

The Priesthood Ban-

Before a core doctrine can be changed, it must first BE a core doctrine. I refer to the above criteria listed in part 1 of this E.G.O.-

Core:the central, innermost, or most essential part of anything

Doctrine:a collection of particular principles, positions, or beliefs taught or advocated

Thus, in LDS terms, core doctrines are principles, positions, or beliefs that are central, innermost, or essential to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Now, historically speaking, it is rather obvious that while many of God’s reveled commandments are unchangeable, God can and does command certain things at various points in history but not in others. For example, God commanded Noah to build an ark, but not all subsequent prophets were commanded to. (God also promised not to destroy all flesh ever again with a flood) Abraham was commanded to sacrifice his son Isaac, Jonah was commanded to preach in Nineveh, Moses to part the Red Sea.

It is possible for God to command certain things at one point, and something else at another, without violating or changing His “core doctrines”? Well, scripture tells us that if God were to violate His own laws, it would make Him a liar and He would cease to be God and everything He has created would end with Him. Since we still exist, God then still exists, which means it is possible.

Has God ever commanded something that humans cannot comprehend as being “good” or “right”? YES. But our ability (or inability) to comprehend or approve of God’s actions is not a determining factor in their inherent rightness or goodness. No matter how difficult what He asks us to do might be, those things are always going to be right and good (in the purest definition of the word) because He is right and good.

So, now that we’ve established that God can (and does) command different things at different times and that doing so does not violate His divine truths or the “core doctrines” of the gospel of Jesus Christ, let’s consider the issue of the Priesthood Ban. At various times through out history, God has withheld the Priesthood from various cultures and races of people, and there is no established doctrine stating that He cannot do such a thing. In fact, quite the opposite seems to be true, and regarding the revelation given in 1978, E. Dale LeBaron, Professor of Church History and Doctrine at BYU noted “As far as we know, this [is] the first time since Cain and Abel that all the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ were made available to all people of all races living upon this earth. And it was the first time that temple ordinances could be performed for all people back to the beginning of time…From the beginning, the Lord has sent the gospel to people according to his priorities, and the priesthood has been given selectively. During the fourteen centuries from Moses to Christ, only the house of Israel had the gospel.”

While several prophets and apostles speculated about WHEN the blessings would be extended to all worthy males, and many disagreed about the reasons behind why God instituted it, ALL of them agreed that it was a commandment from God and that it would require a revelation from God to end it. The LDS Church never took the position that God had declared that members of the Black race would never receive the priesthood or were doomed for eternity to go without it, nor was this position or belief ever taught or advocated at all, let alone as an essential and central part of the gospel of Jesus Christ -which means it doesn’t qualify as a “core doctrine” in the first place.

Today’s E.G.O. Alert

The purpose behind threads that bear the title E.G.O. (Erroneous Gospel Opinion) Alert is to examine whether or not specific arguments being presented in the LDS Blogging community as “TRUE” actually ARE “TRUTH”. If they are, they will harmonize with the “eternal and everlasting knowledge, wisdom and principles revealed by God through His authorized channels and can be verified and understood through the influence and power of the Holy Ghost. If they do not harmonize with God’s version of the truth, then we’ll know they are nothing more than carefully crafted and popularized theories and personal interpretations of those who are a “hinderment to the prosperity of the church of God; stealing away the hearts of the people; causing much dissension among the people; giving a chance for the enemy of God to exercise his power over them.” (Mosiah 27:9)

Today’s EGO is taken from a lively discussion involving same-sex marriage, but it pops up in all sorts of discussions. In a nutshell it is this:

Core LDS doctrines have changed over the years. Examples given in the above discussion involved the practice of Polygamy and the ordination of members of the black race to the Priesthood.

Huh…that’s news to me, and probably to The First Presidency as well. Let’s see if that’s true.

First, we must establish a definition of what the term”core doctrine” means.

Core:the central, innermost, or most essential part of anything

Doctrine:a collection of particular principles, positions, or beliefs taught or advocated

Doctrinal treatises are extensive in the LDS tradition and anyone who is worthy and inviting of the Holy Spirit that takes the time to read and ponder upon the things taught by them is promised by the Lord that they will be enlightened and gain knowledge and wisdom. The Holy Ghost is the revealer of all truth, and without his influence and power, natural man-ie human beings-cannot comprehend or understand spiritual things.

So because both examples mentioned in today’s EGO are said to have changed since the Church was restored in 1830, using the doctrinal works of the modern Church, is it possible to establish proof that either doctrine has or was changed?

First-Polygamy (or more correctly-polygyny)

The practice of plural marriage was not committed to writing until 1843, but there is quite a bit of evidence that Joseph Smith was given the revelation itself early in 1831 as he studied the lives of Biblical prophets and patriarchs who were polygamists. According to the Encyclopedia of Mormonism (EoM) “He then learned that when the Lord commanded it, as he had with the Patriarchs anciently, a man could have more than one living wife at a time and not be condemned for adultery. He also understood that the Church would one day be required to live the law (D&C 132:1-4, 28-40).”

Again quoting the EoM-“The Book of Mormon makes clear that, though the Lord will command men through his prophets to live the law of plural marriage at special times for his purposes, monogamy is the general standard (Jacob 2:28-30); unauthorized polygamy was and is viewed as adultery. Another safeguard was that authorized plural marriages could be performed only through the sealing power controlled by the presiding authority of the Church (D&C 132:19).”

So, in the earliest days of the restored Church, the Lord has made it clear that MONOGAMY is the general standard UNLESS (during specific times for His purposes) God commands men to live the law of plural marriage through His authorized Prophet. Anyone attempting to live it without being commanded by God through His chosen servant is guilty of adultery.

Did the Manifesto delivered to the Church in 1890 “change” the doctrine on plural marriage?

According to EoM-while the Manifesto is often referred to as a revelation, is was actually a press release to inform society and the US Government that the Church would no longer be performing plural marriages after Wilford Woodruff received personal direction from God to discontinue the PRACTICE of plural marriage at that time.

In an Official Statement on Plural Marriage dated June 17, 1933 (that was later printed as a pamphlet) the existing First Presidency referenced D&C 124:49 which states: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, that when I give a commandment to any of the sons of men to do a work unto my name, and those sons of men go with all their might and with all they have to perform that work, and cease not their diligence, and their enemies come upon them and hinder them from performing that work, behold, it behooveth me to require that work no more at the hands of those sons of men, but to accept of their offerings.”

They indicate that Church leaders up until the time the Manifesto was issued did everything they could humanly do to live the law of plural marriage and that when enemies outside of the Church made it virtually impossible to continue that work-the Lord required it no more.

Because God no longer required members to live the law of Plural Marriage (polygamy), according to His revealed DOCTRINE, the Church then reverted to living His regular standard of marriage which is, and always has been, one man married to one living wife at a time.

Verdict-God’s revealed doctrine regarding celestial marriage clearly encompasses both monogamy (as the standard) and plural marriage (as commanded) and while which is PRACTICED can change when directed by God, the doctrine itself has not changed. So-called “scholars” who say that the doctrine itself has changed are either uninformed or misleading others on purpose.

Up next-The Priesthood Ban

Fresh Fruit

I’m not one of those people that blogs every day and records every family event, personal trial, or joke-my blog is not my life’s journal. I’m not one of those people that feels a blog is the perfect place to flesh out my own scriptural or doctrinal doubts or display my personal and painful burdens and trials. I don’t care about readership numbers or vast numbers of replies as if those things somehow make me a better person, writer, believer or person. My only real purpose is to share what I have learned or KNOW to be true online so that others who are seeking knowledge and wisdom might have a small place to rest in the shade, refresh their perspectives or find a kindred spirit if they need assurance that there are “others” out here just like them. I don’t seek to validate anything that doesn’t uplift or support the Truth- I just want to add my voice to the chorus of those who want more than anything to know God and submit to His will for me.

But the problem is that there is so much truth available, so many doctrines and principles to discuss or learn more about or share insights on-where do we start? Besides being a busy mother and wife and someone who is always attempting to develop a business of her own-quite honestly, it is the overwhelming and all encompassing wisdom of the gospel and the vastness of its resources that I most often allow to keep me from blogging when and if I find the precious time to do it.

But more and more I’ve been plagued by a recurring thought/prompting/idea that the most urgent place to start would be with the issues and topics that seem to be getting the most internet air time currently. I’ll be working with the material I gather from the handful of blogs that I frequently read because they seem to represent what all the rest of them are discussing. I only comment on a few of these blogs because I’ve come to realize that there are only a couple of praiseworthy or valid reasons to participate at all. One is to offer support to those bloggers who are doing all they can to live and teach the gospel, and desire to share real testimony about the Church with others and the other is to correct or share a more accurate representation of the gospel or one of its doctrines/principles (when I feel I can) when those discussing it seem to be working from an incorrect or untrue position. Some might consider me arrogant or self-righteous in doing so, but if I let what others might think of me affect whether or not I respond to a prompting, I’d be a pretty ineffective disciple wouldn’t I?

So-I hope to begin offering up regular installments of what might become a running series or even the ‘theme’ behind what seems to drive me. I’ve decided to call these offerings “E.G.O. Alert” which is a tongue-in-cheek acronym for Erroneous Gospel Opinions, and the function I’d like to see it serve would be to provide a venue for exploring and exposing the accuracy (or falseness) of some of the controversial information out there. I have long hoped to find a forum where regular, every-day Saints who have been enlightened on various topics could share what they have learned without feeling like they need a Ph.D in religious theology or Church History or an I.Q. that registers in the Mensa area to participate. Lately I’ve heard that same desire voiced by others so perhaps we should give it a try. Post if you wish or just read-feel free to submit questions or topics or not, we’ll just play it as it happens.

For David

This post is dedicated to someone I’ve never met, but hugely respect. He makes me laugh, he makes me think, and if we were in high school together we’d probably geek around together and he’d make me pass notes to his girlfriend for him. And I would.

David, has a gift with words, and was asked to be a guest blogger on a popular LDS blog and was brave enough (or sleep deprived enough) to post his thoughts on same-sex marriage and how he faced a difficult request by his local Priesthood authority and obeyed it, only to be blessed immediately afterward.

Enter the clowns. Anti-mormons, gay mormons, uppity mormons, and scripturally ignorant mormons teemed out of the woodwork like the spiders in the movie Something Wicked This Way Comes along with several mormons that agree with David or found his experience to be faith promoting and sincere. My-oh-my how some people just love a good brawl in the streets.

David shared his chagrin with me via email and yet withstood the verbal assaults and unrighteous indignations tossed his way with grace and style. It’s one of the things I admire about him. And I wanted to share part of what I told him after the fact here to keep him humble via public embarrassment if nothing else.

I should probably first explain that David is a movie nut/fan/film expert of sorts and always titles his blog posts with either a movie quote or song lyrics that pertain to the issue he’s writing on-usually in some hilarious light-so you’ll understand why I used both in my reply to him. Content also edited to flow better and spell the word “Orc” correctly so my husband can sleep tonight. Sheesh…..
You did good. You were a brave and fabulously uplifting example, and plenty of people posted that so it’s not just me patronizing or patting your head and you know it. Hold fast to the experience you had with your sweet wife and the house. Teach that to [your daughter] and emphasize it often. Everything good in my life is a gift from God, I refuse to deny it, and I have a strong testimony that the more SINCERE I am in my worship and the more HUMBLY I consecrate myself to God, the more my family prospers.

Always be a light David, no matter how many people attempt to extinguish that light. Those who wish to remain in the dark always will, but there are many who are lost in the darkness who are seeking a way out, and without people like you, what hope do they have?

It reminds me of one of my favorite movie scenes-a treat for ya! The one in Lord of the Rings-Return of the King where the fellowship believes that Frodo has failed and yet they stand in a circle back to back and prepare to die on the side of righteousness rather than submitting to capture (and then probable death). Tired, wounded, heartsick, defeated, hopelessly outnumbered…yet warriors to the end. In my opinion, in the moment Aragorn shouts “For Frodo!” comes victory regardless of what might or might not happen on Mt. Doom. Ring or no ring, orcs or no orcs…they were victorious because of what was born in their hearts and minds in that moment.

So my brother, hitch up your drawers, snap on the chain mail, sharpen your sword and prepare to stand with the like minded when someone cries out “For Christ”…because…because….(the things I do for you)…

I see the bad moon arising.
I see trouble on the way.
I see earthquakes and lightnin.
I see bad times today.

Chorus:
Dont go around tonight,
Well, its bound to take your life,
Theres a bad moon on the rise.

I hear hurricanes ablowing.
I know the end is coming soon.
I fear rivers over flowing.
I hear the voice of rage and ruin.
Chorus
All right!

Hope you got your things together.
Hope you are quite prepared to die.
Looks like were in for nasty weather.
One eye is taken for an eye.

(Bad Moon Rising-Creedence Clearwater Revival)

The Big Picture

I love puzzles, and not just the mysteries-treasure hunt-seeking for answers type. I like the jigsaw kind too. A few years ago, I started putting one out during Thanksgiving day and while dinner cooks, various members of the family will sit down and work on it here and there. My oldest daughter is the soldier though, she views them as some kind of personal challenge and like those monks that can slow down their bodily functions to near death for months on end, she will sit for days almost without food and drink until it is finished.

This same daughter (D) dated a young man in high school that became part of the family and he LOATHES puzzles. He would show up and see what she was doing and turn his big, brown puppy dog eyes on me as if to ask “WHY??????” Reluctantly he would join her and once he stuck it out until the wee hours of the night just to finish one so she would leave the house on a “real date” the following night. As an act of revenge, when he left on his mission to Peru, one of his last gifts to her was a box which proudly bears the label “Worlds Most Difficult Puzzle”.

In case the link doesn’t work, let me explain why this puzzle is so challenging by quoting the website:“This 529-piece puzzle is double-sided, depicting the same artwork on both sides rotated 90° with respect to each other. Buffalo Games then die cuts the puzzle once from each side so the top and bottom are identical! puzzle: 529 pieces, 15 x 15 inches.”

Now, what that doesn’t tell you is that the image is a collage of black and white spotted Dalmatians, and the pieces are all exactly the same size AND shape-completely identical and thus interchangeable. Because the backside of each piece is not blank, and they are cut twice (which means there is no “flat side” vs “beveled side” to distinguish up from down-top from bottom) until the entire puzzle is assembled and then flipped over, you can not be sure you’ve put it together correctly! My friends, it is insanity in a box!

I was thinking about puzzles today in reference to life as we know it. We gather pieces of truth or knowledge throughout our lives and begin to piece together an understanding of why we are here, where we are going, and what it is all supposed to mean. For some people, the pieces seem to fit together neatly and the image seems to emerge in an orderly and pleasing fashion, and for others, the pieces don’t seem to fit anywhere or it seems impossible to determine what it is supposed to look like when it’s finished. Most of us probably fall somewhere in the middle, but I think most of us wonder if we’ll even be given all of the pieces to complete it and perhaps like my daughter’s friend, sometimes we just get frustrated with the puzzle and just don’t really care to work on it at all.

The puzzle I described above came to mind and I wondered if maybe God sees the image from one side and we see it from another, and we’ll only know if we’ve put all the pieces together correctly when we pass through the veil and can view it from the opposite side…