Our Call to Go Forward with Faith in God

 

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~ Exodus 14:13-15 ~

And Moses said unto the people, fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you today ... The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. And the Lord said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward

As we contemplate the many challenges all of us faced in the past year - there appears to be a call upon the hearts of men to go forward without fear, to stand still, to allow the Lord to fight for us, and hold our peace so that we are able to see the salvation of God unfold. For us, we faced a pandemic, economic shut down. People have lost loved ones, lost employment, experienced natural disasters worldwide. We have also seen an increase in human despondence and desperation.

Even among those who claim to be faithful Christians - we have seen murmurings, complaints, and a movement of deconstructing faith. Challenging religious pious traditions into a more palatable gospel and teaching. And many appear to proclaim the end may be ever progressing nearer to Christ's return. And because of this, there appears to be a continual call of a spiritual awakening and revival that brings people back to the principle truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Our present condition seems bleak, dreary, and unfortunate. Behind us is an army of chaos, violence, and increase in disharmony, injustice, and deconstruction of our values and truths. Before us stretches a sea of uncertainty, fear, doubt, and a fathom of despair. A pandemic that has yet to see an end to where we are able to get back to a place of normal living. Continued increase in political, religious, and social divisiveness.

Moses Parting the Red Sea, by Robert T. Barrett

The condition of the Israelites appeared to be unfortunate. The armies of Pharaoh coming after them and the sea was before them. The command of God was for Moses to call the children of Israel to press forward into the sea. However, what we learn is that God's commands give us assurance, protection, and faith in that he will guide us through any challenge or obstacle.

Nephi commented to his father the following observation:

I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.

1 Nephi 3:7

Today, we have faced the challenge of a pandemic that impacted our world. A pandemic that seems to have changed the course and fabric of the way we live our lives. This came on the heels of the end of chaos, violence, and protests that had occupied our society and culture the previous year. To say the least, we are ever living in times of increasing uneasiness, of uncertainty, and times of groanings and increase in vain imaginations of a man's heart (Genesis 6:5; Psalm 2:1-3, 140:2; Proverbs 6:18, 12:20; Jeremiah 11:8, 13:10; Zechariah 8:17; Acts 4:25; Romans 1:21).

Yet, we are still called to go forward with steadfastness of faith in God. This calls us to be faithfully obedient to the will of God - no matter the obstacles and challenges we may face in this life. Moses obeyed God, raised his rod, and the sea parted for the Children of Israel to cross over. Our willingness to walk in faithful obedience to the will of God is done with humility and without murmuring or dispute (Philippians 2:14).

Murmuring is an act of rebellion and sin

Laman and Lemuel Murmuring and Complaining

In the October 2001 General Conference Address - H. Ross Workman gave a message on the parable of the Nobleman and the Servants (Beware of Murmuring). In this message, he relates his desire to persuade us to listen to the prophets and leaders of the faith. He also warns us of the deceptive tactics of the adversary. This deception comes through our murmuring and disputes.

Workman outlined how murmuring leads to disobedience and potentially apostasy from the truth and light of God.

The first observation is how the servants began to question those instructions given. Workman observes:

They felt to exercise their own judgment upon the instruction given by their master: "What need hath my lord of this tower, seeing this is a time of peace?" they said (D&C 101:48). They questioned first in their own minds and then planted questions in the minds of others. Questioning came first.

The next stage observed is how those servants began to rationalize and excuse themselves from doing what they had been instructed to do. Quoting D&C 101:49, we read: "Thus, they made an excuse for disobedience.

And the third step, accord to Workman's observation, is slothfulness in following the commandment of the Master. Quoting D&C 101:50, we observe: They became very slothful, and they hearkened not unto the commandments of their Lord.

The end resulted in disaster.

Workman also observes:

God has blessed His children with prophets to instruct them in His ways and prepare them for eternal life. The ways of God are not easily understood by man. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord” (Isa. 55:8). Obedience is essential to realize the blessings of the Lord, even if the purpose of the commandment is not understood.

Ibid

And then shares this insight:

The adversary whispers the deceptive invitation to murmur to thus destroy the power that comes from obedience.

Ibid

It is quite unfortunate that within the membership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and in Christianity general - many have given themselves over to murmuring and disputing of what God has declared, taught, revealed, and commanded. This is evident with the rise in the progressive and deconstructing faith movement.

From what one gathers, the idea behind this deconstruction of faith movement ascribes to the idea that one examines their faith to the point of tearing down any old beliefs, identifying any views that may be outdated or intolerant within acceptable social norms, and then reconstruct such faith based on world standards and ideas.

While it is true, we are to examine our faith and scrutinize it - it is done in the sense to examine our thoughts and motivations to see if they are in line with God's will and desire. Unlike the scripture call to examine our faith, the movement calls us to do so outside the guidelines of scripture. Much of this, unfortunately, has gained prominence among many people who have felt abused, neglected, or isolated within their respective faith community. Others do so under the guise of adopting the ideas and beliefs of the social justice movement wherein they change the nature, character, attributes, and understanding of who Christ is. To a person who has undergone deconstruction of their faith - Christ is fashioned as a social justice warrior sent to overthrow what is perceived to be tyrannical oppression of a society that marginalized certain people. They misinterpret passages reflecting Christ's statements concerning the poor and less fortunate.

In one such conversation - I mentioned that Christ never challenged Roman authority, nor Caesar, or even said anything in opposition or judgment concerning Rome. What we do find is Christ constantly focusing on the false and hypocrisy of the religious leaders in how they have corrupted and change the ordinances, laws, and teachings of God.

What this leads us to is to understand that modern deconstruction of faith is the stage and act of murmuring and disputing our faith until it is molded and fashioned after the cares and desires of this world. One questions the commandments and teachings of God. One begins to whisper and converse with others to where they begin to question and challenge the teachings and commandments of our Heavenly Father. Such individuals then begin to rationalize and excuse their behavior, beliefs, and thoughts. Finally, they are led to act out in open rebellion, falling away, and challenge the established truths and principles that now confront their deconstructed faith in God.

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God is calling us to have confidence in Him

The command for us to go forward in faith is a call for each one of us to have a firm and resolved assurance and confidence in obeying all that our Heavenly Father has revealed and taught through his son Jesus Christ. Whether it is through scripture or those whom he has called to lead His Church - we are to believe on such authority all declarations and commands. All warnings, and instructions. When those things appear to be at variance with our views, we are to remember what the Psalmist says: All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies (Psalm 25:10).

Our call, therefore, to go forward. Not to step back. Not to remain stationary. We are to go forward fighting the good fight of the faith (2 Timothy 4:7); where we work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). To do so means we are willing, ready, and committed to do all that the Lord has commanded for he has given no commandment whereby he has prepared a way for us to accomplish it (1 Nephi 3:7).

Go forward with a humble mindset

Humility is not one of many Christian virtues. It is the root of all Christian virtues. Therefore, as we go forward, we do so with a humbleness of mind. Stripping away any pride or vanity. Not acting arrogant in thinking we are wise, worthy, or showing any merit of compassion and mercy in the past year. No, we go forward with contrition of spirit, humble and meekness of repentance and forgiveness. As the Lord taught, we seek forgiveness for our trespasses as we forgive those who have trespassed against us (Matthew 6:12-14).

We go forward with humility in remembering that it is not merely our opportune to worship our Heavenly Father on the Sabbath. We are called to worship and serve God throughout the week as well. While the sabbath is a day of rest for us - we are called to minister, to teach, to call all men and women unto repentance through grace, love and compassion, and to serve in whatever capacity where we show love and kindness daily.

Photo by Darshak Pandya from Pexels

Go forward with a grateful heart

The Apostle Paul calls each one of us to not only serve God and others. To minister and show charity. We are called to rejoice and to pray - giving thanks (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) always. And what type of thanks are we to show gratitude for? Gratitude toward his mercies upon us and the salvation through Jesus Christ (Psalm 97:12).

Through Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Father has shown us the grace and mercy of the infinite atonement. Through Christ, we find an eternal purpose and destiny. Through Christ, we are given peace - not the peace of the world (John 14:27). We are also blessed with an abundant life (John 10:10) through Christ and the infinite atonement.

Go forward knowing God provides and fulfills his promises

Those who have humbled themselves and sought God through deep prayer and meditation, walked in humility and faced the challenges of the past year - have done so with the assurance and confidence that God will make way and provide for each of us. This is the promise for those who choose to willingly follow Christ. Those who were willing to walk in faithful obedience to the will and desire of our Heavenly Father, adhering to the teachings and commandments he has given.

Having established our confidence and assurance of faith. Going forward in humility and with contrition and a repentant heart, worshiping God and serving him, and praising and giving thanks - we are firm in our conviction that our Heavenly Father will fulfill his promises. He has declared, I will never leave thee nor forsake the (Hebrews 13:5).

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Go forward with steadfastness in prayer, meditation, and fasting

How are we able to go forward if we neglect the power of prayer, meditation, and fasting? Our souls will be exposed to temptations, to murmurings, and disputing. Instead, when we give over to earnest and constant prayer, we shall experience a deep and enriching love and relationship with our Heavenly Father. We bring every need to His throne of Grace. We make our petitions known (Philippians 4:6).

Go forward with confidence of our divine destiny of immortality and eternal life

Finally, we shall go forward knowing that God's purpose and plan is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man (Moses 1:39). We endure, overcome, and do all that which is in our power, through the grace and will of our Heavenly Father, to lay hold upon the crown of righteousness that awaits us (2 Timothy 4:8).

We are on the cusp of a new year. Make it a year of going forward with steadfast and bold faith in Christ. Go forward with a steadfast humble mindset. Go forward into the new year with a resolve to seek forgiveness as you are forgiving others through grace, love, and compassion. Show kindness and love toward one another. Go forward with a grateful heart, worshipping, serving God, and doing all that he has taught and commanded us. Go forward with the spiritual discipline of prayer, meditation, and fasting to seek God's will continually. Finally, go forward with assurance and confidence in knowing you have a divine destiny of an immortal and eternal life through the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ.

As we go forward, let us also remain still, seek the salvation for which the Lord our God shall shew forth unto us. That as we endure, overcome, and seek to do the will of the Father that we shall lay ahold upon the crown of righteousness for having fought the good fight.

When we put away all the foolish doubts, the questionings, the murmurings, the complaining, and the disputes - we shall open our eyes, hearts, minds, and spirit to the Grace, Truth, Life, and Light that is Jesus Christ. Let us, therefore, go forward with a mindset of being more Christ-like so that our light shines forth unto the darkness whereby men come to know the love and mercy and grace of God.

December 27 - January 2 |Moses 1 - Abraham 3 Study Guide

 

Old Testament Survey – Come Follow Me 2022 – Introduction

The purpose of this introduction is twofold: 1) to provide individuals with a chronological framework for the people, events, and books pertaining to the Old Testament. This includes the Book of Moses and Book of Abraham in the Pearl of Great Price and 2) to glean key lessons for how we can increase our testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and grow closer to our Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ.

Resources: Moses 1; Abraham 3 – “This is My Work and My Glory” The experience and visions of Abraham and Moses tell us that we are children of God and that God’s work is to help us gain eternal life.

Historical Background and Context

Taking its name from the Saviors parable of the Pearl of Great Price (Matthew 13:45-46). According to historical data, Elder Franklin D. Richards, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, presided over the mission in England. He originally published the earliest known version as a compilation of several revelations and texts of scripture by the Prophet Joseph Smith and called this collection the Pearl of Great Price.[1] Elder Richards said that this [2]:

a source of much instruction and edification to many thousands of the Saints, who will by an acquaintance with its precious contents, be more abundantly qualified to set forth and defend the principles of our Holy Faith before all men” (“The Pearl of Great Price,” Millennial Star, July 15, 1851, 217).

The Pearl of Great Price became a standard work, along with the Doctrine and Covenants, of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by the First Presidency at the October 10, 1880, General Conference. President George Q. Canon stated:

“I hold in my hand the Book of Doctrine and Covenants and also the book the Pearl of Great Price, which books contain revelations of God. In Kirkland, the Doctrine and Covenants in its original form, as first printed, was submitted to the officers of the Church and the members of the Church to vote upon. As there have been additions made to it by the publishing of revelations which were not contained in the original edition, it has been deemed wise to submit these books with their contents to the Conference, to see whether the Conference will vote to accept the books and their contents as from God, and binding upon us as a people and as a Church.”[3]

President Joseph F. Smith also stated:

“I move that we receive and accept the revelations contained in these books, as revelations from God to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and to all the world.” [4]

According to the transcripts of the 2:00 pm session on October 10, 1880, the motion was seconded and sustained by unanimous vote of the whole Conference. Since its acceptance as a standard work, the Pearl of Great Price was updated and presented and reaffirmed by vote on in 1890. Again in 1902 when James T. Talmage was given assignment by the First Presidency to divide the Pearl of Great Price into chapters and verses, adding titles, and eliminating some portions – that were published in later editions of the Doctrine and Covenants. This edition was voted on and reaffirmed at the October 1902 General Conference. In 1979, the Pearl of Great Price was again updated and reaffirmed as sacred scripture.[5]

Theophany of Moses and Abraham

Exodus 19 records that Moses ascended Mount Sinai. It is attested that Moses, and the nation of Israel, were at Mount Sinai for approximately 40 days. The Book of Moses, and Exodus 19, contains what is known as a theophany. A visible manifestation to humankind of God. The Book of Abraham also contains a theophany between Abraham and Our Heavenly Father.

While the Book of Moses focuses on the visions seen at Mount Sinai, the Book of Abraham describes the visions given to the great patriarch that differ from what we read in the Book of Moses. The unique theophany of Abraham came by way of the Urim and Thumim, which the Lord my God had given unto me, in Ur of the Chaldees (Abraham 3:1).

What stands out is that the entire Book of Moses and parts of the Book of Abraham give us a panoramic view of the Plan of Salvation.

Revelations of Creation, Origin of Humanity, and God’s Divine Purpose

What is revealed in Moses 1 and Abraham 3 helps us understand several key doctrines.

·         Moses 1 and Abraham 3 describes the origins of Humanity and the creation of our earth

·         Moses 1:1-10, 37-39; Abraham 3:22-26 provides us with insight into our divine destiny

·         Moses 1:12-23 provides us with insight in our ability to resist Satan’s influence and temptations

·         Abraham 3:22-29 describes mortality as our opportunity to grow and follow Christ and all that He commands

Therefore, this study guide will help you navigate your own personal journey through this week Come Follow Me – Old Testament study. Our journey begins with Moses 1 and Abraham 3.

Reading Schedule for this Week:

·         December 27 | Introduction to the Pearl of Great Price; Moses 1:1-5; Abraham 1:1-5

·         December 28 | Moses 1:6-10; Abraham 1:6-10

·         December 29 | Moses 1:11-15; Abraham 1:11-15

·         December 30 | Moses 1:16-20; Abraham 1:16-20

·         December 31 | Moses 1:21-25; Abraham 1:21-25

·         January 1 | Moses 1:26-32; Abraham 1:26-28

·         January 2 | Moses 1:33-42

 

God Revealed Himself to Moses – Moses 1 a Prologue to Genesis

According to Moses 1:1 – we read that “Moses was caught up into an exceedingly high mountain.” The first known theophany is where Moses encounters the burning bush (Exodus 3 – 4:17). The question arises as to what transpired on this mountain. E. Douglas Clark (see the resources link above) mentions that there are several key considerations of what happened:

1.      Moses’ Theophany as an Ascension – namely he was caught up rather than having climbed up the mountain. It is like other theophanies that describe a type of ascension. These theophanies appear to relate that an individual had experienced some form of ascension from the earthly realm to a more heavenly realm to speak directly with God.

2.      Moses was transfigured – citing the Joseph Smith account (Moses 1:2) Moses was transfigured (Moses 1:11)

3.      The Timing of Moses’ Theophany – one of the questions raised is when did this theophany of Moses occur. Did it occur at the burning bush? When Moses and the Israelites camped at Mount Sinai? According to Clark, ancient sources speak to multiple ascensions and theophanies of Moses. One that he mentions is included in the Book of Jubilees.

4.      A Type of Messiah – We learn that Moses is in the similitude of the Only Begotten (Moses 1:6).

5.      Confrontation of Satan – Moses is confronted by Satan. This appears, according to Clark, consistent with rabbinic texts, after Moses receives the Torah…

6.      Vision of All things – Once Moses resisted Satan’s temptation, he saw all things.

7.      Vision of All Generations – not only did Moses see all things, he also saw all the generations of the Earth (from Adam to the end of the Age and Christ’s second coming).

8.      Worlds without Number – My personal favorite is that since the mid-1990’s there are consistently new planetary and solar system discoveries. None of these were understood or available at the time of Joseph Smith – yet it is recorded in sacred records that our Heavenly Father created numerous worlds without end. Not only this, but we also learn that as one world ends, others are coming into existence (Moses 1:38).

9.      Contemplating the Divine Creator and His Grand Purpose – this is the most significant revealed truth of all of scripture – God’s plan and purpose for all of humanity is revealed unto Moses.

10.  Looking Ahead to the Last Days – again, Moses was shown all of history of this earth and record that history.

One key understanding here is that we learn that much of what is recorded in Moses 1 is verified through other ancient documents that have resurfaced concerning Moses and the Prologue of Moses Chapter One. These other texts were not available the time Joseph Smith had written down what our Heavenly Father revealed unto him. This presents a great value unto us Latter-day Saints. As E. Douglas Clark says:

Moses 1 … offers a unique contribution to the vast canon of revealed scripture. The entire absence of Moses 1 from the version of Genesis that has come down to us, along with continuing debates about the authorship of the Pentateuch, certainly ear out God’s revelation to Moses that “the children of men shall esteem my words as naught and take many of them from the book which thou shalt write” (Moses 1:41).

Clark proceeds to quote Hugh Nibley where we have several very ancient and significant parallels to Moses 1, which lie far beyond the reach of coincidence or daydreaming.

God Revealed the Pre-Existence of Humanity and Showed Abraham the Stars

While Moses 1 is a prologue to the Creation account we find in Genesis 1 – Abraham 3 teaches us about the premortal existence and the creation of the stars. Their times and revolutions. From Astronomy to premortal spirits – what we discover is that all of us are spirit children of Heavenly Parents. That we are also eternal beings with varying degrees of intelligences. It is also in Abraham 3 where we begin to learn the nature of the Plan of Salvation.

Another interesting aspect of Abraham 3 is how we learn about the falling away of Satan. His rebellion (that will later cost 1/3 of the heavenly host the opportunity to obtain a mortal body and participate in the plan of salvation).

A third aspect of Abraham 3 centers on the nature of the Divine Council. Much of the time, one encounters the divine council from the various theophany accounts. For instance, Job 1 and 2 references a theophany with the divine council present – Satan being among them. Joseph Fielding McConkie writes a treatise on the Premortal Existence, Foreordinations, and Heavenly Councils (see resource link above). McConkie remarks how much of the apocryphal literature references the premortal existence of the soul. It was not until later Christian tradition and teachings had redacted much of the references to any premortal existence, divine council, and foreordinations. The Old Testament does contain extant and vague mentions concerning such teachings. This, of course, occurred over the years of transmission and translation. McConkie cites the edict known as the Anathemas against Origen, promulgated by the Roman emperor Justinian in 553 CE. Much of this is only referenced in those works that are considered pseudepigraphal or apocryphal.

In one of my earlier studies and essays (now lost) involved the tracing of the idea and teaching of premortal existence to Pythagoras (who invented the Pythagorean Theorem). This idea is also tied into some of Plato’s theories. Even Saint Augustine wrestled with the notion of preexistence. His views changed over time. Despite these changed views, Augustine did hold to the following idea and belief:

Like most ancient philosophers, Augustine thinks that the human being is a compound of body and soul and that, within this compound, the soul—conceived as both the life-giving element and the center of consciousness, perception and thought—is, or ought to be, the ruling part. The rational soul should control the sensual desires and passions; it can become wise if it turns to God, who is at the same time the Supreme Being and the Supreme Good. … After his Platonist readings in Milan had provided him with the adequate philosophical means to think about immaterial, non-spatial reality (Confessiones 7.1–2; 7.16), he replaced this view … with an ontological hierarchy in which the soul, which is mutable in time but immutable in space, occupies a middle position between God, who is totally unchangeable immaterial being (cf. MacDonald 2014), and bodies, which are subject to temporal and spatial change (Letter 18.2). The soul is of divine origin and even god-like (De quantitate animae 2–3); it is not divine itself but created by God …. In De quantitate animae, Augustine broadly argues that the “greatness” of the soul does not refer to spatial extension but to its vivifying, perceptive, rational and contemplative powers that enable it to move close to God and are compatible with and even presuppose immateriality (esp. ib. 70–76; Brittain 2003).[6]

Referring to authoritative works – there is the Babylonian Talmud, Tractate Pesahim 54e [7] where it says:

The Gemara provides sources for the notion that each of these phenomena was created before the world was. Torah was created before the world was created, as it is written: “The Lord made me as the beginning of His way, the first of His works of old” (Proverbs 8:22), which, based on the subsequent verses, is referring to the Torah. Repentance was created before the world was created, as it is written: “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God,” and it is written immediately afterward: “You return man to contrition; and You say: Repent, children of man” (Psalms 90:2–3). The Garden of Eden was created before the world was created, as it is written: “And God planted the Garden of Eden in the east [mikedem]” (Genesis 2:8). The term: In the east [mikedem] is interpreted in the sense of: Before [mikodem], i.e., before the world was created. Gehenna was created before the world was created, as it is written: “For its hearth is ordained of old” (Isaiah 30:33). The hearth, i.e., Gehenna, was created before the world was created. The Throne of Glory and the Temple were created before the world was created, as it is written: “Your Throne of Glory on high from the beginning, in the place of our Sanctuary” (Jeremiah 17:12). The name of Messiah was created before the world was created, as it is written in the chapter discussing the Messiah: “May his name endure forever; his name existed before the sun” (Psalms 72:17). The name of Messiah already existed before the creation of the sun and the rest of the world. This baraita states that Gehenna was created before the world was created and not during twilight before the first Shabbat.[8]

Here, we have the understanding, from a Jewish perspective, concerning things created and having pre-existed prior to the physical creation of earth, humanity, et al. What is interesting to note here is that the belief repentance was created prior to the world. This may very well hint to the revelation given to Moses and Abraham as it pertains to the plan of salvation.

Another interesting source that depicts a sense of preexistence is contained in the Syriac Second Baruch (or The Book of the Apocalypse of Baruch the Son of Neriah):

Dost you think that this is that city of which I said: "On the palms of My hands have I graven you"? 3 This building now built in your midst is not that which is revealed with Me, that which prepared beforehand here from the time when I took counsel to make Paradise, and showed Adam before he sinned, but when he transgressed the commandment it was removed from him, as also Paradise. 4 And after these things I showed it to My servant Abraham by night among the portions of the victims. 5 And again also I showed it to Moses on Mount Sinai when I showed to the likeness of the tabernacle and all its vessels. 6 And now, behold, it is preserved with Me, as Paradise. 7 Go, therefore, and do as I command you.[9]

This is known as the Heavenly Jerusalem. According to this, it was revealed to Adam first (before the transgression and fall), and then unto Moses, and then unto Abraham.

One further finds evidence within the Bereishit Rabah 1 (or Genesis Rabah)[10] concerning the preexistence and creation:

The Torah is saying, “I was the artisan’s tool of Hashem.” In the way of the world, a king of flesh and blood who builds a castle does not do so from his own knowledge, but rather from the knowledge of an architect, and the architect does not build in order to know how to make rooms and doorways,. So too Hashem gazed into the Torah and created the world. Similarly the Torah says, “Through the reishis Hashem created [the heavens and the earth].” And reishis means Torah, as in “Hashem made me [the Torah] the beginning (rishis) of His way”[11]

As we move further into chapter one – we find a familiar passage and commentary to that from the Babylonian Talmud:

In the beginning of God's creating..." - Six things preceded the creation of the world; some of them were created and some of them were decided to be created. The Torah and the Throne of Glory were created. How do we know the Torah was? As it says (Proverbs 8:22): "God made me at the beginning of his way." How do we know the Throne of Glory was? As it says (Psalms 93:2): "Your throne is established as of old etc." The Patriarchs, Israel, the Temple, and the name of the Messiah were decided to be created. How do we know the Patriarchs were? As it says (Hosea 9:10): "Like grapes in the wilderness etc." How do we know Israel was? As it says (Psalms 74:2): "Remember your congregation, whom you purchased from old." How do we know the Temple was? As it says (Jeremiah 17:12): "Your throne of glory, on high from the beginning etc." How do we know the name of the Messiah was? As it says (Psalms 72:17): "May his name exist forever etc. [his name shall be Yinnon as long as the sun]." Rabbi Ahavah said in the name of Rabbi Ze'ira: Even repentance was, as it says (Psalms 90:2): "Before the mountains were birthed," and at the same time (Psalms 90:3), "You turned man to contrition etc." However, I do not know which was first--if the Torah preceded the Throne of Glory or the Throne of Glory preceded the Torah. Rabbi Abba Bar Cahana said: The Torah preceded the Throne of Glory, as it says (Proverbs 8:22): "God made me at the beginning of his way, the first of his works of old." This is before that of which it is written (Psalms 93:2): "Your throne is established as of old."[12]

From this Jewish perspective and authoritative sources – we discover an idea of things having preexisted with God. Not only had they preexisted with God, but these were also revealed to Moses and Abraham respectively.

Turning our attention more toward this distinct doctrine of preexistence, the early Saints and the Church had its own evolution of the teachings that we benefit from today. In his article The Development of the Doctrine of Preexistence, 1830-1844, Charles R. Harrell writes:

Perhaps no doctrine has had great impact on Latter-day Saint theology than the doctrine of preexistence, or the belief in the existence of the human spirit before its mortal birth. Fundamental concepts such as the nature of man as an eternal being, his singular relationship as the offspring of Deity and concomitant brotherhood with all mankind, the talents, privileges with which he is born into the world, and his potential godhood are all inextricably connected to the doctrine of preexistence.[13]

Harrell continues and shares how the early saints, and even the Prophet Joseph Smith, learned this revealed truth line upon line and precept upon precept:

This distinctive LDS doctrine was not immediately comprehended by the early Saints in the more fully developed form in which it is understood today. Like many of the other teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, it was revealed line upon line and adapted to the Saints’ understanding. Moreover, there was a natural tendency to view initial teachings on the preexistence in light of previously held beliefs until greater clarity was given to the doctrine.[14]

Therefore, Abraham 3 blesses us with the most significant and pure doctrine of Christ. Our understanding of Abraham 3 begins when we are humble to seek God’s counsel to receive our own personal revelation to the truthfulness of these teachings and doctrines. Specifically, on the nature of our preexistence, the creation, and the plan of salvation.

Questions to ponder (adapted from the Come Follow Me – Old Testament Manual):

1)      How do you define the Pearl of Great Price to someone with little understanding or misunderstanding of the Book of Moses and Book of Abraham?

2)      How do you contrast these two books with the rest of the Old Testament?

3)      How do you contrast the Old Testament with the New Testament?

4)      What value do we gain from the Book of Moses?

5)      From the Book of Abraham?

6)      What are the more significant manuscripts that are available for the Old Testament?

7)      What truths were revealed to Moses?

8)      What truths were revealed to Abraham?

9)      What powerful influence do these visions have on your personal choices and ability to overcome life’s challenges?

10)  What specific truths do you discover in Moses 1 and Abraham 3?

11)  How does Moses and Abraham’s vision help you understand who you are?

12)  How does Moses and Abraham’s vision help you find a sense of meaning and purpose in this life?

13)  How does Moses and Abraham’s vision help you understand who our Heavenly Father wants you to become?

ENDNOTES

 [1] Seminaries and Institutes of Religion Curriculum Services. (n.d.). The Pearl of Great Price. The Pearl of Great Price Institute Student Manual. Retrieved December 24, 2021, from https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/the-pearl-of-great-price-student-manual-2018/title-page?lang=eng

[2] Ibid

[3] (https://historicalgeneralconferences.weebly.com/1880-october.html)

[4] Ibid

[5] Kenneth W. Baldridge, “Pearl of Great Price: Contents and Publication,” in Latter-day Saint Essentials: Readings from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, ed. John W. Welch and Devan Jensen (Provo, UT: BYU Studies and the Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2002), 70–1.

[6] Tornau, Christian, "Saint Augustine", The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Summer 2020 Edition), Edward N. Zalta (ed.), URL = <https://plato.stanford.edu/archives/sum2020/entries/augustine/>.

[7] The Babylonian Talmud is considered authoritative, second to the Tanakh where it helps guide Jewish religious piety and life today. See: The Babylonian Talmud - Jewish History (chabad.org)

[8] See Pesachim 54a:1 with Rashi (sefaria.org). It is also quoted in the Babylonian Talmud Tractate Nedarim 39b – referencing the same seven things created before the world was (Torah, Repentance, the Garden of Eden, Gehenna, the Throne of glory, and the house of the sanctuary, and the name of the Messiah).

[9] See The Wesley Center Online: The Book Of The Apocalypse Of Baruch The Son Of Neriah Or 2 Baruch (nnu.edu)

[10] Bereshit Rabbah is a talmudic-era midrash on the Book of Genesis. It covers most of the book (excluding genealogies and similar passages) with verse-by-verse and often word-by-word commentary. Written in Hebrew mixed with Aramaic and occasional Greek words, its style is simple and clear.

[11] See Bereishit Rabbah 1 (sefaria.org)

[12] Ibid

[13] Harrell, Charles R. “The Development of the Doctrine of Preexistence, 1830-1844.” Brigham Young University Studies, vol. 28, no. 2, Brigham Young University, 1988, pp. 75–96, http://www.jstor.org/stable/43041367. See also: 28.2HarrellTheDevelopment-c01455fa-7d63-4dc4-8ea5-1be9c1422afc.pdf (byu.edu)

 

[14] Ibid

Scripture Motivation: Lay Hold Upon the Word

 Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

NOTE TO THE READER: The following article is adapted from the 1988 Melchizedek Priesthood Manual: Lay Hold Upon the Word of God – Study Guide #1, 1988. Updated with new information and instruction from leaders and ministers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

We are to Draw upon the Power of Scriptures to Benefit Self and Others

How blessed are those who reject the advice of the wicked, don’t stand on the way of sinners or sit where scoffers sit! Their delight is in Adonai’s Torah; on his Torah they meditate day and night.
They are like trees planted by streams — they bear their fruit in season, their leaves never wither,
everything they do succeeds.
~ Psalm 1:1-3, CJB ~

We gain power from the scriptures by studying them and applying them into our own lives. To benefit from the scriptures, we must do more than merely read them. President Joseph Fielding Smith made the following observation: "It would be well if we would follow the counsel the Lord has given us, which is: 'And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived' [Joseph Smith - Matthew 1:37]. Treasuring up his word is far more than merely reading it. To treasure it one must only read and study but seek in humility and obedience to do the commandments given and gain the inspiration which the Holy Spirit will impart" (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:305).

How Much We Get from Our Study Depends on How Much We put into it

Personal power from the word comes because of our devotion and discipline toward regular daily reading and searching of a particular topic within the scriptures. President Howard W. Hunter (1907 to 1995) made these suggestions for a successful scripture study program:

When we follow the counsel of our leaders to read and stuyd the scriptures, benefits and blessings of many kinds come to us. This is the most profitable of all study in which we could engage. ...

Reading habits vary widely. There are rapid readers and slow readers, some who read only small snatches at a time and others who persist without stopping until the book is finished. Those who delve into the scriptural library, however, find that to understand requires more than casual reading or perusal - there must be concentrated study. It is certain that one who studies scriptures every day accomplishes far more than one who devotes considerable time one day and then lets days go by before continuing. Not only should we study each day, but there should be a regular time set aside when we can concentrate without interference.

There is nothing more helpful than prayer to open our understanding of the scriptures. Through prayer we can attune our minds to seek the answers to our searching's.

Reading the Scriptures: In Conference Report, October 1979, p. 91; or Ensign, Nov. 1979, p. 64

What aspect of your personal study of the scriptures do you find most satisfying? What aspect would you like to change? What suggestions made by President Hunter can help you spend more effective study time in the scriptures? How can prayer help you better understand and apply the scriptures?

Our Invitation to Lay Hold Upon the Word of God and Apply it

There is a real and personal application for each one of us. An invitation to lay hold upon the word of God so that we are equipped and ready with a testimony and response of the Gospel of Jesus Christ:

Oh, my brethren, let us not treat lightly the great things we have received from the hand of the Lord! His word is one of the most valuable gifts He has given us. I urge you to recommit yourselves to a study of the scriptures. Immerse yourselves in them daily so you will have the power of the Spirit to attend you in your callings. Read them in your families, teach your children to love and treasure them. Then prayerfully and in counsel with others, seek every way possible to encourage the members of the Church to follow your example. If you do so, you will find, as Alma did, that 'the word [has] a great tendency to lead people to do that which [is] just - yea, it [has] more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword or anything else, which [has] happened unto them' (Alma 31:5).

Like Alma, I say unto you, 'It [is] expedient that [you] should try the virtues of the word of God' (Alma 31:5), in the name of Jesus Christ, amen"

Power of the Word: Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, May 1986, p. 82

What are your personal goals and commitments for continual scripture study? Specifically, when it comes to the Old Testament Come Follow Me 2022.

As you consider your personal goals and commitments for continual scripture study, and more specifically studying through the Old Testament, take a moment to understand the following process:

• Reading

• Understanding

• Likening

• Applying

When it comes to reading the scriptures, we are able to come to know of their worth and truthfulness. By careful study and understanding of the scriptures, we are able to come to know them. How we liken the scriptures unto ourselves is through visualization of the people, the events, and situations. What is the situation? How does it relate to my own circumstance? By likening the scriptures, we grow, learn, and receive personal insight and inspiration. Nephi shares this with us when he said: I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning” (1 Nephi 19:23). Through likening the scriptures - we also learn the principles and truths from our Heavenly Father. Finally, we want to ponder - or meditate - upon those things that are revealed through our scripture study. By meditating, we ask questions, look for the practical applications and solutions. Are we being convicted and need to seek forgiveness? Do we need to develop more of an attitude toward charity in ministering to others? Are we struggling and need assurance that when we submit our cares and worries over to God - he is faithful and just in meeting us where we are?

Another way of looking at this is to follow the S.O.A.P method to scripture study.

• Scripture: What is the passage? Paraphrase the scripture(s)

• Observe: Who, What, When, Where, How, why?

• Apply: What is the spiritual and practical application here for me?

• Pray: how do I apply those things into my own life?

As we enhance our discipline and commitment over to scripture study, we come to understand that it is not merely what we read. It is what we are taking away from what we are reading. Develop awareness of how to apply those things into our own lives in order to learn and grow in faith. When we read, understand, liken, and apply the scriptures, the power of the Lord's word helps us overcome temptation, influence others for good, and endure the trials within our own lives.

General Conference October 2021 - The Greatest Possession

The Vance Creek Bridge - second highest Railroad arch bridge ever built in the United States - is located in the Olympic Forest outside Shelton, Washington and is 347 feet high and spans 422 feet. It was built by Simpson Timber Company in 1929.

 

Each of us is to come to Christ with uncompromised commitment to His gospel.

Touching on the nature of pure teaching, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation - we turn to the message Elder Jeffrey R. Holland gave. His address opens up with the story of the Rich Young Ruler and the encounter he had with Jesus Christ (See Mark 10: 17-22). Many of us are familiar with this story. A young man, quite wealthy and affluent, comes to the Messiah to seek after wisdom and guidance related to attaining eternal life. His question is the very question many of us are asking. What shall we do. Christ simply responds that one is to keep the commandments. To which the young man replied he has throughout his youth. The Lord challenged the young man with a specific direction - go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. This simple directive caused the young man to possibly hang his head in grave disappointment. He turned and walked away from the Savior. His possessions, wealth, affluence, and all that went with worldly prestige appeared to be more important than what he desired - eternal life.

And there are plethora of messages, sermons, scripture studies, devotions on the nature and application of this story. Elder Holland remarks:

Obviously, this is an important cautionary tale about the uses of wealth and the needs of the poor. But ultimately it is a story about wholehearted, unreserved devotion to divine responsibility. With or without riches, each of us is to come to Christ with the same uncompromised commitment to His gospel that was expected of this young man.

The Greatest Possession: Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; General Conference - October 2021.

I agree. The great cost of discipleship. The great cost of picking up our cross and following Christ is a weighty and serious commitment we ought not to take lightly. The directive, as Elder Holland instructs, is to Come completely and wholeheartedly. It is a call for us to take up [our] cross, however, heavy it may be, and follow Him (see Mark 10:21).

Elder Holland also shares this insight where there can be no halfway measures, no starting and stopping, no turning back as it relates to us pondering how we may inherit eternal life. He also shares that when difficult things are asked of us, even things contrary to the longing so four heart, remember that the loyalty we pledge to the cause of Christ is to be supreme devotion of our lives.

The promised blessing is given unto us where God … our Father … is exceptionally good at forgiving and forgetting sins we have forsaken.

Speaking to the mother of the sons of Zebedee - the Savior asks this:

Then came to him the mother of Zebedees children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said to her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my father.

Matthew 20:20-23, KJV

The cup Christ drank from is the bitter cup of suffering. In the beatitudes, we find Christ teaching that those who are persecuted, reviled, and slandered with false accusations will be blessed because of their faithfulness and righteousness in following Christ (See Matthew 5:10-12).

Not only are we taking upon ourselves the name of Christ and suffer with Christ; we are also suffering with others as a commitment to our faith (see Mosiah 5:7-8; Mosiah 18:7-17). This is a covenant made through baptism by immersion for the remission of sins. The Apostle Paul, writing to the Christians at Rome reflects on the nature and covenant of baptism in Romans 6:1-18 as a reminder of their covenant and commitment in following Christ.

The baptismal font at St Bartholomew's Church, Liège is a Romanesque brass or bronze baptismal font made between 1107 and 1118 now in St Bartholomew's church in Liège, Belgium. The font is a major masterpiece of Mosan art, remarkable for the classicism of its style, whose origin has been the subject of great debate among art historians. The Meuse River valley in modern Belgium and France, roughly coterminous with the Diocese of Liège, was the leading 12th-century centre of Romanesque metalwork, which was still the most prestigious medium in art.

Cyril of Jerusalem is probably one of the most interesting patristic church fathers that teaches us the mysteries of baptism:

As soon, then, as ye entered, ye put off your tunic; and this was an image of putting off the old man with his deeds. Having stripped yourselves, ye were naked; in this also imitating Christ, who was stripped naked on the Cross, and by His nakedness put off from Himself the principalities and powers, and openly triumphed over them on the tree. For since the adverse powers made their lair in your members, ye may no longer wear that old garment; I do not mean this visible one, but the old man, which waxeth corrupt in the lusts of deceit. May the soul which has once put him off, never again put him on, but say with the Spouse of Christ in the Song of Songs, I have put off my garment, how shall I put it on? O wonderous thing! ye were naked in the sight of all, and were not ashamed; for truly ye bore the likeness of the first formed Adam, who was naked in the garden, and was not ashamed.

Cyril of Jerusalem continues his lecture on the mystery of Baptism - reminding us of the sacredness and oath of the covenant we take:

Then, when ye ere stripped, ye were anointed with exorcised oil, from the very hairs of your head to your feet, and were made partakers of the good olive-tree, Jesus Christ. For ye were cut off from the wild olive-tree, and grafted into the good one, and were made to share the fatness of the true olive-tree. The exorcised oil therefore was a symbol of the participation of the fatness of Christ, being a charm to drive away every trace of hostile influence. For as the breathing of the saints, and the invocation of the Name of God, like fiercest flame, scorch and drive out evil spirits, so also this exorcised oil receives such virtue by the invocation of God, and by prayer, as not only to burn, and cleanse away the traces of sins, but also to chase away all the invisible powers of the evil one.

After touching upon the anointing of oil and it's power, authority, and symbolism, Cyril continues to describe the ordinance of baptism:

After these things, ye were led to the holy pool of Divine Baptism, as Christ was carried from the cross to the Sepulchre which is before our eyes. And each of you was asked whether he believed in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, and ye made that saving confession, and descended three times into the water, and ascended again; here also hinting by a symbol at the three days burial of Christ. For as our Saviour passed three days and three nights in the heart of the earth, so you also in your first ascent out of the water, represented the first day of Christ in the earth and by your descent the night: for as he who is in the night, no longer sees, but he who as in the day, remains in the light, so in the descent, as in the night, ye saw nothing, but in ascending again ye were as in the day. And at the self-same moment ye were both dying and being born; and that Water of salvation was at once your grave and your mother.

Cyril of Jerusalem: On the mysteries, II; On Baptism (Lecture XX)

Cyril of Jerusalem continues his lecture on the mysteries of the Chrism and the sacramental partaking of bread and wine as related to the covenant of baptism for the remission of sins, covenant of God's divine grace and salvation of humanity.

Christ being baptized by John the Baptist

Coming unto Christ requires Spiritual Transformation - A New Birth

Elder Holland points out the scriptures that reflect a real and significant change that occurs within our hearts and minds. This is evidenced by the conversation Nicodemus (a Pharisee) had with Christ (See John 3:1-21) At the outset of their conversation, Christ reveals that no one can see the Kingdom of God except he that is born again. Perplexed by this statement, the Pharisee asked - how can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb to be born? The Savior answered and said … except a man be born of water and spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. Here, born of water is referencing baptism by immersion for the remission of sins. And being born of spirit is the anointing of the Holy Spirit as a witness that bears record to the Son and the Father that we have made a sacred covenant to take up on ourselves the name of Christ. Without baptism or the gift of the Holy Spirit, one may not be able to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven and be partakers of God's Holy Kingdom.

Upon our baptism, we are given a new heart and a new mind. According to Elder Holland, there is divine help for every one of us at any hour we feel to make a change in our behavior. He also observes that:

• God gave Saul "another heart" (see, 1 Samuel 10:9)

• Ezekiel called upon all of Ancient Israel to cast off her past and "make … a new heart and a new spirit." (see, Ezekiel 18:31; Ezekiel 36:26)

• Alma called for a "mighty change" that would cause the soul to expand (See, Alma 5:9-14)

Along with this, Paul called Christian believers to not be conformed to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind (See, Romans 12:1-3). This spiritual transformation and change occurs as a blessing and gifts of God for our welfare and benefit.

Because of this spiritual transformation - new birth - we are able to put aside all strife, contention, divisions, and strive to live in harmony with family, friends, co-workers, and within the community. The love of God ought to begin dwelling within our hearts. And since we have the love of God dwelling within our hearts, we come to realize the true nature of happiness and sets the tone for our own lives, for our relationships to each other and ultimately our feeling for all humankind …

The heart of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is based on the founding truths of loving God and loving others (See Mark 12:30). Christ said that upon the two commandments (love for God and love for others) hang all the prophets and the law. It is the love of God that transforms us and renews us with a new heart and a new spirit. We truly become a new creation through Jesus Christ. And it is through the love of Christ that we are able to minister to others, call them unto repentance, be reconciled with others, and bring restoration, rest, and new life where there is despair, disappointment, and a sense of feeling lost. It is the ability where we love others in a manner that minister the healing power of Christ upon those suffering.

Ultimately, it is our love for God and others that leads us to where we are able to faithfully endure with patience and long suffering those trials and adversities that may come upon us.

Christ calls the Disciples to follow Him

Come Follow Me - The Cost of Discipleship and Crucified Life

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland concludes his General Conference Address and shares his own thoughts and insights related to the encounter between the Rich Young Ruler and our Savior:

Brothers and sisters, I pray we will succeed where that rich young man failed, that we will take up the cross of Christ, however demanding it may be, regardless of the issue and regardless of the cost. I bear witness that when we pledge to follow Him, the path will, one way or another, pass by way of a crown of thorns and a stark Roman cross. No matter how wealthy our young ruler was, he wasn't wealthy enough to buy his way out of a rendezvous with those symbols, and neither can we. For the blessing of receiving the greatest of all possessions - the gift of eternal life - it is little enough that we are asked to stay the course in following the High Priest of our Profession, our Day Star, Advocate, and King.

Elder Holland also shares that each one of us, as Amaleki taught, are to be willing and committed in surrendering our whole souls as an offering unto him (See, Omni 1:26). This is because the Grace of God is one that is of great Cost.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer observes the following:

Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble; it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him.

Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift which must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock.

Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs it man his life: and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: "ye were bought at a price," and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the incarnation of God.

Cost of Discipleship, p. 45; Dietrich Bonhoeffer

How we take up our cross daily to follow Christ and be transformed by the renewing of our minds is based on our willingness to walk in faithful obedience to God's will. Recognizing the hidden treasure and the great possession of eternal life that is bestowed upon us. When we lose our lives for the sake of Christ and His infinite atonement, we shall find it (See, Matthew 16:24-27).

A. W. Tozer also observed the following:

Many Christians talk about living the crucified life, but nothing in their lives indicates they have even begun the journey. … there is much joy that they have been saved but no anticipation of continuing on the journey toward spiritual perfection. They are so happen they are not what they used to be that they cannot see what God wants them to be.

The Crucified Life: The Foundation of the Christian Experience, pp 23-24

He also observes:

Many are not willing to pay the cost associated with the victorious Christian life. Erroneously, many are taught and believe that the Christian life is a free ride that eventually ends in heaven. After all, Jesus paid it all.

Are we willing to pay the cost of coming unto Christ and following him? Willing to pay the cost of walking in the process of repentance in order to be reconciled? Ready and committed in putting to death our former self? How does the rich young ruler represent you? What are some of the great possessions that you have whereby it may interfere with you committing to immerse yourself in following Christ? And, as Tozer asks - as the only two questions that truly matter in the hearts of men - what are you to think of Christ? Furthermore, what are you going to do with Christ?

How we answer these questions may reflect on our present spiritual condition. There is no other means and no other way. As Christ Himself declared: I am the way, the truth, and the Life (John 14:6)

Meditate and Reflect on Today's Message
Share your Thoughts in the Comment Section Below

Take a moment and reflect on the questions above.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland presents us with a message of hope, a message that challenges us, and a message that provides blessings and truth. Reflecting upon the encounter of the Rich young Ruler and Jesus Christ ought to stir our hearts and minds to reflection and seeking revelation. How do you respond to this challenge? this pure teaching, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation? What areas in your own personal life are you struggling to give up and walk away from? Do you consider the cost of following Christ in these challenging times too much? How so? What prevents you from immersing yourself into a deep and enriching fellowship with Jesus Christ? Please provide any thoughtful response in the comment section. Share this with others on your social media platforms.

General Conference October 2021: A Time of Personal Reflection and Revelation

 

October 2021 General Conference presented us with much blessing and revelation. Twice year members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are blessed with inspiring messages, wise counsel, guidance, and direction. These messages provide a foundation to our growing faith, understanding, and enlightenment of Christ, the plan of salvation, and the infinite atonement. Specifically, these messages come in a time where there is growing upheaval and chaos in our lives. Those whom I have spoken with in private conversations all seem to agree - there is a great sifting occurring in the hearts of men. And for me that sifting begins with deep personal reflection and seeking divine revelation in these difficult and trying times.

In his opening conference address, President Russell M. Nelson shared these words:

During recent weeks I have prayed intently that this conference would be a time of revelation and reflection for all who seek those blessings.

Pure Truth, Pure Doctrine, Pure Revelation - Russell M. Nelson, October 2021 General Conference

One of the greatest counsel's I have ever recalled is that of seeking after personal revelation from our Heavenly Father. Not just a testimony of Christ, the truthfulness of the Restored Gospel, and the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. A much deeper and rich revelation that goes beyond a simple testimony. A revelation that impacts us deeply to move closer to our Heavenly Father.

President Nelson encourages such an understanding with these words:

There has never been a time in the history of the world when the knowledge of our Savior is more personally vital and relevant to every human soul. Imagine how quickly the devastating conflicts throughout the world - and those in our individual lives - would be resolved if we all chose to follow Jesus Christ and His teachings.

Ibid

President Nelson followed up with this challenge:

In that spirit, I invite you to listen for three things during this conference: pure truth, the pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation.

Ibid

He then shares that contrary to the doubts of some, there really is such a thing as right and wrong. And the problem he observes, despite that there really is absolute truth - eternal truth, is a plague where too few people know where to turn for truth.

In the Doctrine and Covenants Section 123:12 we read the following:

For there are many yet on the earth among all sects, parties, and denominations, who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it.

What is this pure truth, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation President Russell M. Nelson is referring too?

The answer is found in The Great High Priestly Prayer of John 17.

These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

John 17:1-3, KJV

The pure truth, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation is based on each one of us to come to know Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Father, and the depth and richness of the infinite atonement. This is the blessing of our reflection and personal revelation - eternal life. All other blessings are appendages to this one truth.

In one of my favorite translations, one reads the same passage as follows:

After Yeshua had said these things, he looked up toward heaven and said, "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, so that the Son may Glorify you - just as you gave him authority over all mankind, so that he might give eternal life to all those whom you have given him. And eternal life is this: to know you, the one true God, and him whom you sent, Yeshua the Messiah

John 17:1-3, CJB (Complete Jewish Study Bible)

Pure truth, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation is the foundation of the Church. There is no other foundation to build upon. It is the basis for all blessings that are bestowed upon us from our Heavenly Father. Pure truth, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation is that which leads us toward the kingdom of God and riches of our eternities (see, D&C 78:17-18, and D&C 84:38) . And these principles are found when we come unto Christ (see, Ether 4:14).

Jesus is the Christ - Son of the Living God

The Prophet Joseph Smith made this observation:

The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it. But in connection with these, we believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost, the power of faith, the enjoyment of the spiritual gifts according to the will of God, the restoration of the house of Israel, and the final triumph of truth

Teachings of Presidents of the Church - Joseph Smith

Throughout Joseph Smith's life, he had experienced multiple visions and revelations of Jesus Christ (See, Teachings of the Presidents of the Church - Joseph Smith; Chapter 3: Jesus Christ, The Divine Redeemer of the World). These visions often included personal and divine revelation that mirror many of the Old Testament and New Testament descriptions of those individuals experiencing theophanies - or Christophanies - and witness to the divine council.

Restoration of the pure teaching, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation formulated the early and young Church of Jesus Christ. Joseph Smith, himself, became acquainted with the truth of what God revealed. Today, we are blessed to receive our own knowledge and truthfulness of who Christ is, what his purpose and mission was, and how it relates to our eternal happiness and well-being.

One may ask themselves, who is Jesus Christ? A question the Savior himself asked of his disciples:

And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou Simon Barjona: For flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say unto thee, That thou art Peter, and up on this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Matthew 16:16-18, KJV

Turning to the same passage in the Complete Jewish Study Bible we read:

Shim'on Kefa answered, "You are the Mashiach, the Son of the Living God." "Shim'on Bar-Yochanan," Yeshua said to him, "how blessed you are! for no human being revealed this to you, no, it was my Father in heaven. I also tell you this: you are Kefa," [which means 'Rock'] "and on this rock I will build my Community and the gates of Sh'ol will not overcome it.

Matthew 16:16-18, CJB

Hebrew for Sheol is death and the grave. What we read here is that Peter's confession came by divine revelation. It is the same divine revelation and knowledge that Christ will build his Church upon. Revelation that even death and the grave will not hold power over. Simply put, it is the pure teaching, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation that Jesus is the Christ, redeemer of humanity, and the Resurrection and the life (see, John 11:25).

In these latter-days, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is restored with the pure teaching, pure doctrine of Christ, and pure revelation given unto humanity as a blessing toward eternal life.

When we read Matthew 16:19, we find something else interesting:

And I will give unto thee the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Here, Christ is talking about divine authority by which he empowers the disciples. Keys of the kingdom of Heaven is the priesthood authority and power of God to administer within the Church. It is fitting that after Christ pronounced blessings upon Peter, he confers upon them the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Regarding these keys of the kingdom of Heaven, Wilford Woodruff shares the experience he had with Brigham Young. Recollecting the last meeting they had with Joseph Smith. Woodruff says this:

I say to the Latter-day Saints the keys of the kingdom of God are here, and they are going to stay here, too, until the coming of the Son of Man. Let all Israel understand that. They may not rest upon my head but a short time, but they will then rest on the head of another Apostle, and another after him, and so continue until the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ in the clouds of heaven to “reward every man according to the deeds done in the body

The Keys of the Kingdom - July 2004 Ensign

In The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, we find the following teaching as well:

What is the priesthood for? It is to administer the ordinances of the gospel, even the gospel of our Father in heaven, the eternal God, the Eloheim of the Jews and the God of the Gentiles, and all he has ever done from the beginning has been performed by and through the power of that priesthood, which is “without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life,” and the administration of his servants holding this priesthood is binding, being the savior of life unto life or death unto death.

Teaching Concerning Priesthood Keys

Thus, we see how the Keys of the Kingdom of God correlate with the pure teaching, pure doctrine, and pure revelation of Jesus Christ. All power and authority has been restored in these last days to assist us in drawing closer to our Heavenly Father, to come to know Jesus Christ, and to be blessed to have revelation on the infinite atonement that leads us back to our Heavenly abode.

Pure Doctrine of Christ is Powerful and Life Changing

Russell M. Nelson addresses the power associated with the pure doctrine of Christ. He remarks how it changes the life of everyone who understands it and seeks to implement it in his or her life. He further observes that:

The doctrine of Christ helps us find and stay on the covenant path. Staying on that narrow but well-defined path will ultimately qualify us to receive all that God has. Nothing could be worth more than all our Father has!

Pure Truth, Pure Doctrine, and Pure Revelation - October 2021 General Conference

What is the pure doctrine of Christ? Brian K. Ashton shares his thoughts on what the scriptures reveal:

The scriptures define the doctrine of Christ as exercising faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repenting, being baptized, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end.

The Doctrine of Christ - Ensign, November 2016

One of those scriptures is 3 Nephi 11:21-39. In this passage we find Christ giving authority and teaching on the administration of Baptism by immersion. It is when we come to verses 32-33 that we find Christ saying to the inhabitants:

And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of men, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me. And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God.

3 Nephi 11:32-33

And this doctrine of Christ ... is the means - the only means - by which we can obtain all of the blessings made available to us through Jesus's Atonement. Furthermore, it is the power that allows us to access the spiritual power that will lift us from our current spiritual state to a state where we can become perfected like the Savior (See, 3 Nephi 27:13-21).

What I love about Brian K. Ashton's message is how he breaks down the doctrine of Christ:

• First, faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement

• Second, Repentance

• Third, baptism and the sacrament

• Fourth, the gift of the Holy Ghost

• Fifth, enduring to the end

He expounds on each of these principle truths. Not only are they important, and powerful, in our own lives - we are admonished to apply these principles. It is by applying the doctrine of Christ in our lives where we experience temporal and spiritual blessings. Even blessings that come because of adversity. And the important reason we must apply the doctrine of Christ in our own lives?

But more importantly, we must apply the doctrine of Christ in our lives because it provides the only path back to our Heavenly Father. It is the only way to receive the Savior and become His sons and daughters. In fact, the only way to be redeemed from sin and progress spiritually is to apply the doctrine of Christ in our lives.

Ibid.

Those who do not abide in the doctrine of Christ do not have God. They are spiritually bankrupt, lost, confused, and lack any direction (see, 2 John 1:9).

Pure Revelation comes through the ministering of the Holy Spirit

Since the pure truth establishes that Jesus is the Christ. And pure doctrine of Christ involves our faith in him, humble and sincere repentance, and our willingness to be baptized for the remission of sins. Pure revelation comes through the ministering and witness of the Holy Spirit.

President Russell M. Nelson says this:

If you have not yet sought for the ministering of the Holy Ghost to help you hear what the Lord would have you hear ... I invite you to do so now.

There are three distinct ways we receive the ministering of the Holy Spirit.

• Reflection and prayerful meditation upon the scriptures

• Reflection and meditation on messages delivered through the Leaders of our faith

• Personal ministry and fellowship with others

John 16:13 gives us this insight about the ministering power and authority of the Holy Spirit:

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

John 16:13, KJV

The ministering authority of the Holy Spirit is to reveal unto us Jesus Christ. Convict us of our need to repent. Assist and guide us toward all truth. By the ministering of the Holy Spirit, we are comforted in times of sorrow and distress. Because of the ministering of the Holy Spirit, we are guided in times of confusion and stand in need of direction. And it is because of the ministering of the Holy Spirit that we are able to receive our own personal revelation of who Jesus Christ is, and the pure doctrine of Christ and how it impacts and influences our lives for the better. Through the ministering of the Holy Spirit, we are able to endure to the end.

As the days seem to grow more and more tumultuous, let our hearts not fail us. Let us root ourselves in the pure truth that Jesus is the Christ, Son of the Living God. For it is on that firm foundation we are built up in resilient and bold faith. Let us lay hold and apply the pure doctrine of Christ that leads us toward a broken heart and contrite spirit (see Psalm 51:17, Acts 2:37-39, and 3 Nephi 9:20). For when we do this, we are blessed and receive pure revelation concerning Jesus Christ, the divine plan of salvation, and the authority and empowerment to endure to the end.

Meditate and Reflect on Today's Message - Share your Thoughts in the Comment Section Below

As President Russell M. Nelson provided his opening remarks to the October 2021 General Conference - we learn that the focus of our attention is to understand three things: Pure Teaching, Pure Doctrine of Christ, and Pure Revelation. Reflecting on this message, how have you come to understand these three principle truths? What are you struggling with when it comes to your faith in Christ? Faith in the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ? and where do you feel lacking when it comes to revelation and the ministering of the Holy Spirit? Knowing that personal revelation comes through our daily commitment to scripture study, prayerfully reflecting and meditating on teachings from Church Leaders and those within our own community, and through personal fellowship and service toward others: how does this help build up your faith and testimony? Please share your comments, thoughts, and feel free to ask any questions in the comment section below. Share this with others through your social media platforms as well.