In addressing the question of whether Latter-day Saint Christians serve their divine self, it’s crucial to analyze the scriptural interpretations and theological assumptions that underpin this inquiry. A blog post by Life After Ministry attempts to critique Latter-day Saint doctrine by employing a selective interpretation of 1 Timothy 6:3-4, juxtaposed against a quote from Rosemary M. Wixom’s October 2015 General Conference address. However, this analysis suffers from fundamental interpretative and logical errors.
Firstly, 1 Timothy 6:3-4, when read in its broader context (1 Timothy 1:1-6:2), clearly aims to caution against diverging from the teachings of Christ which align with godliness. Apostle Paul emphasizes adherence to the sound words of Jesus Christ and those doctrines that shape us towards godliness. This suggests a lifelong pursuit of aligning our will with God’s will, rather than fostering a self-centered "divine self."
The critique further unravels when considering that the interpretation presented in the blog post ignores significant portions of Paul’s epistle which discuss the roles and behaviors befitting a follower of Christ, including prayers, leadership, and community relations—all pointing towards a collective rather than individualistic approach to godliness.
Moreover, the use of a single statement from Wixom’s talk to represent the entirety of Latter-day Saint teaching on divinity within illustrates a cherry-picking fallacy. This selective citation fails to capture the broader Latter-day Saint perspective which views divine nature as part and parcel of a communal journey towards salvation and exaltation, as framed within the overarching plan of salvation which aims for immortality and eternal life of humanity (Moses 1:39).
In the New Testament, Paul teaches that Christians are to be conformed to the image of Christ, who is Himself the express image of the Father (Romans 8:29, Colossians 1:15). Hence, if we are to be molded into Christ's image, and He in the image of the Father, it logically follows that our spiritual journey is about becoming more like the Father, not about serving ourselves.
Drawing from my studies on the doctrine of Theosis, the biblical basis of this teaching is clear. Latter-day Saint theology extends this understanding through the doctrines of Exaltation and Eternal Increase, where we, as joint heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), aspire to receive the same inheritance and glory. This is not about elevating ourselves to a divine status independently of God but rather about participating in the divine nature through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Hence, when examining whether Latter-day Saint Christians serve their divine self, it’s evident that the faith's teachings advocate for a transformative, Christ-centered journey towards godliness that involves serving others, following Christ’s teachings, and seeking to inherit divine glory through His grace. This interpretation aligns with the broader Christian call towards sanctification and glorification through Christ, rather than a self-serving divinization.
Insights from General Conference are a series of inspiring and thought-provoking articles focusing on the messages delivered at the April 2024 General Conference Sessions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Brothers and sisters, I testify that God hears every prayer we offer and responds to each of them according to the path He has outlined for our perfection.
Introduction
President Jeffrey R. Holland, serving as the Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, shared profound insights into the nature and power of prayer. Drawing from personal experiences and the example of the Savior, his message, "Motions of a Hidden Fire," highlights the transformative impact prayer can have on our personal lives and those around us. With empathy and conviction, he invites us to embrace the spiritual discipline of mindful and meditative prayer, assuring us that our Heavenly Father hears every prayer we offer and responds according to His divine plan for our perfection. Holland's message inspires a deeper contemplation of the sacred act of prayer, reminding us of its ability to connect us with the divine and shape our spiritual journey.
What Does it Mean to Ask Amiss?
Asking amiss in our prayers fundamentally refers to the times when our requests are driven by selfish motives rather than seeking alignment with God's purpose and will. Our natural inclinations often are toward self-indulgence and instant gratification as highlighted in the teachings of James 4:1-7 and Ephesians 2:1-3. These cravings can lead us into internal conflicts and external disputes when unmet.
James poignantly notes that our prayers can sometimes be contaminated by such desires, warning us against using prayer merely as a means to fulfill personal lusts or materialistic wants. This concept of "wickedness" in prayer is a stark reminder that the sacred act of praying can be misused if our hearts are not rightly aligned.
From personal experience and deepening my understanding through scripture, I've learned that mindfulness and meditative prayer are vital practices to counter these tendencies. By stilling our minds and focusing on God's presence, we can shift our desires to be more in tune with what He desires for us. Ephesians 2:4-10 uplifts us with the reminder that through Christ, we are transformed, capable of transcending our baser urges to undertake good works set before us by God.
Further reinforcing this, 2 Nephi 4:35 calls us to shed the 'natural man' and embrace a sanctified life through Christ's Atonement.
Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the rock of my righteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen.
This transformative process is supported by the spiritual discipline of mindful prayer, where we not only speak to God but also listen, allowing His spirit to guide and reshape our desires.
To cultivate a prayer life that avoids asking amiss, scriptures like Ephesians 6:18 and the Lord’s Prayer as taught in Matthew 6:9-15 serve as profound guides. They teach us to approach God with a spirit of humility, prioritizing His will and kingdom above our fleeting desires. In my journey, integrating these scriptural principles with personal prayer practices has greatly enriched my spiritual discipline, helping me align more closely with God s vision and purpose.
Therefore, to truly benefit from our prayer life and avoid the pitfalls of asking amiss, it is pivotal that we continuously evaluate our motives in prayer, seek God's will above ours, and embrace the transformative process offered through Jesus Christ. This not only enriches our spiritual life but ensures our prayers are conduits of God's grace and truth, rather than reflections of our own flawed desires.
Prayer is the Anchor of our Faith
Prayer is a profound spiritual practice that fosters personal growth and brings us closer to divine perfection. It serves as the bedrock of our faith, allowing us to receive personal revelation, guidance, and solace throughout our spiritual journey. For devoted Latter-day Saint Christians, prayer is not merely a discipline but an expectation – a sacred duty of true disciples of Jesus Christ.
While some non-conformists, anti-authoritarians, or those with differing religious perspectives may view this expectation as constraining, we who have submitted to the authority of Jesus Christ, the scriptures, and modern prophets and apostles come to understand the will of God. Our prayers align us with His divine plan, transcending the narrow interpretations of critics who may claim we do not pray to the "God" or "Jesus" of the Bible. Through sincere supplication, we forge an intimate connection with our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son, allowing Their love and wisdom to shape our lives.
We all long for goodness in our lives, and as believers, we hold onto the belief that our Heavenly Father desires only what is best for us. It's a comforting thought, one that can provide solace and strength during life's most challenging moments. When we're faced with trials, hardships, or uncertainties, the knowledge that a loving God has a plan for us can be a guiding light, helping us navigate through the darkness. His will may not always be immediately clear, but trusting in His wisdom and timing can bring peace to our troubled hearts. It's a reminder that we're not alone, that there is a greater purpose unfolding, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. By keeping our faith in His goodness, we can find the courage to persevere, the strength to endure, and the hope to keep pressing forward, confident that His love for us is eternal and His desire for our well-being is unwavering.
Jesus Expects us to Faithfully Pray
Our approach to sincere, heartfelt, and genuine prayer should not be viewed as an impersonal requirement or obligation. Instead, we must understand that it is Jesus Christ Himself, with His divine authority and boundless love, who desires and expects us to engage in prayer. The Scriptures, particularly in Matthew 6:5-9, provide profound insights into the nature of how we ought to pray. In Luke 11:9, Christ teaches that prayer is our opportunity to ask, seek, and knock, emphasizing the active and persistent nature of this spiritual practice. Furthermore, in Luke 18:1-8, the Savior shares the parable of the persistent widow, encouraging us to emulate her unwavering determination in seeking our Heavenly Father's guidance and blessings.
These teachings from Christ are not mere suggestions or recommendations; they are His will for us, as if He were to personally appear before us and implore us to faithfully seek the Father's will and His kingdom through prayer. Prayer is not a mere ritual but a profound conversation with our Heavenly Father, an opportunity to draw closer to Him, express our gratitude, seek His guidance, and align our lives with His divine plan. It is through this intimate and heartfelt communication that we can find solace, strength, and a deeper understanding of our purpose in this life.
Scripture Makes it Clear on the Expectation of Prayer
Along with the words of Christ recorded in the Gospels, the unmistakable expectation of God regarding prayer is contained within the scriptures. Colossians 4:2 highlights this, where the Apostle Paul writes that we're to "continue steadfastly in prayer." To continue steadfastly means devoting ourselves to pursuing a Christlike attitude and lifestyle where prayer is an ongoing priority. When we decide to make something a priority, commit to daily sacrifice for it, and give time toward it, we show our devotion. This is our Heavenly Father's expectation – to devote ourselves through personal commitment, personal sacrifice, and making time for mindful, meditative prayer. It's a call to make prayer an integral part of our lives, consistently seeking God's presence and guidance.
In his first letter to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 5:17), the Apostle Paul emphasizes the spiritual discipline of unceasing prayer. This isn't a call for ceaseless verbal prayer, but rather a mindful, meditative state of constant communion with God. It's an invitation to develop a genuine, meaningful relationship with our Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ. Unceasing prayer is the expression of an unbroken connection, a continuous awareness of God's presence in our lives. It's a reminder that we can always turn to Him, share our burdens, and find strength, guidance, and peace. Paul's words encourage us to cultivate a prayerful mindset, where our thoughts and actions align with God's will, and our hearts remain open to His love and wisdom. It's a journey of intimacy, where we deepen our understanding of our Heavenly Father's character and grow in our trust and obedience. Ultimately, unceasing prayer is a transformative practice that draws us closer to the heart of God, shaping us into the people He desires us to be.
In his farewell speech, Samuel, the revered prophet of the Israelites, stood before the people with a heavy heart yet unwavering resolve. As recorded in 1 Samuel 12, he reminded them of their sacred duty to serve YHWH, the Almighty God who had delivered them from the clutches of oppression time and again. With a voice laced with paternal concern, Samuel declared that he would unceasingly lift them up in prayer, beseeching the divine to guide their steps and fortify their faith (1 Samuel 12:19-25). His words carried the weight of a lifetime dedicated to upholding the covenant between God and His chosen people, a bond that transcended the fleeting whims of mortal existence. In that poignant moment, Samuel's farewell became a clarion call, echoing through the ages, reminding generations to come of the unwavering devotion required to walk in the light of the Almighty.
1 Nephi 15:11 (cf. 1 Nephi 15:1-11) serves as a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of faithful obedience in upholding the commandments and divine will of our Heavenly Father. Burdened with a heavy heart from his profound personal revelation concerning forthcoming events, Nephi questions the depth of faith exhibited by his brothers, who persistently inquired about Lehi's teachings concerning the symbolism of the Olive Tree. With profound wisdom, Nephi first questions whether they had earnestly sought divine guidance by taking their disputes, concerns, and queries directly to the Lord. He then astutely recognizes that to truly comprehend spiritual messages and receive personal revelation, faithful obedience and a sincere, contrite heart are essential prerequisites. This poignant passage underscores the necessity of unwavering devotion and humility in our spiritual journey, reminding us that the path to divine understanding is paved with obedience and a willingness to submit to the Lord's will.
Faithful, meditative, and mindful prayer is a profound spiritual discipline that transcends mere ritual or routine. It is a sacred pathway that leads us towards personal revelation, illuminating the path of spiritual growth and perfection. The Doctrine and Covenants, Section 11 (cf. D&C 11:1-13), unveils this profound truth, revealing that through sincere and heartfelt prayer, we can unlock the profound mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven. This personal revelation, coupled with the promise of salvation, stands as a sacred gift bestowed upon those who earnestly seek it through meaningful and intentional prayer.
And if thou wilt inquire, thou shalt know mysteries which are great and marvelous; therefore thou shalt exercise thy gift, that thou mayest find out mysteries, that thou mayest bring many to the knowledge of the truth, yea, convince them of the error of their ways.
The act of prayer becomes a transformative journey, a profound dialogue with the Divine, where we open our hearts and minds to receive divine guidance and understanding. It is through this sacred communion that we can access the depths of spiritual wisdom, unveiling insights that guide our steps towards a higher state of being. As we embrace the practice of faithful, meditative, and mindful prayer, we unlock the potential to transcend our limited perspectives and align ourselves with the eternal truths that shape our existence.
Purpose of Prayer
There are three fundamental reasons why we pray: First, it is a divine command (see Moses 5:8, 16), not a mere suggestion or optional activity. Prayer is an eternal decree from God, an obligation we must fulfill. From the beginning, Adam and Eve were instructed to "call upon God," and in our day, we are commanded to "ask" and "knock" through prayer (see D&C 4:7). Failing to observe our prayers is a serious matter that will be judged.
Second, prayer is a means of receiving blessings and guidance from our Heavenly Father. Through prayer, we can seek wisdom, strength, and divine assistance in our lives. It is a channel of communication with God, allowing us to express our gratitude, seek forgiveness, and receive direction. Prayer is a way to invite the Lord's influence and blessings into our lives.
Third, prayer fosters a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. It is an opportunity to draw near to Him, share our thoughts and feelings, and develop a deeper understanding of His love and plan for us. Prayer nurtures our faith, increases our spiritual sensitivity, and strengthens our commitment to follow the Savior. It is a sacred privilege to commune with our Eternal Father, and through consistent prayer, we can cultivate a closer, more meaningful connection with Him.
Prayer is a sacred practice that not only nourishes our spiritual well-being but also bestows upon us countless temporal blessings. When we approach the throne of grace with unwavering faith and a sincere heart, the heavens open wide, and the Lord's righteousness rains down upon us. In times of peril, prayer becomes our shield, preserving us from harm and guiding us through the tempests of life. The earth itself seems to respond to our supplications, yielding its fruits in abundance, allowing us to partake of the Lord's bounty. Moreover, the joys of the gospel find a home within our hearts, filling us with peace, hope, and an unwavering assurance of divine love.
Yet, prayer's significance extends far beyond the temporal realm. It is an essential key to our eternal salvation, for no accountable soul can attain the celestial realms without learning to communicate with the Master of that heavenly domain. How can we claim to know Him whom we have not served, whose thoughts and intents remain strangers to our hearts? (See Mosiah 5:13) Prayer is the bridge that connects us to the Eternal One, allowing us to forge a profound and everlasting relationship with Him who holds the keys to our exaltation.
Power of Mindful, Meditative, and Meaningful Prayer
President Holland's message resonates deeply, underscoring the profound impact of prayer when it emanates from a place of authenticity, sincerity, and alignment with the divine will. It serves as a poignant reminder that true power lies not in hollow recitations or superficial words, but in the earnest outpouring of one's heart and soul.
If we “ask not amiss,” there are no limits to when, where, or about what we should pray. According to the revelations, we are to “pray always.” We are to pray, Amulek said, for “those who are around you,” with the belief that the “fervent prayer of a righteous [people] availeth much.” Our prayers ought to be vocal when we have the privacy to so offer them.8 If that is not practical, they should be carried as silent utterances in our heart. We sing that prayers are “motion[s] of a hidden fire,” always to be offered, according to the Savior Himself, to God the Eternal Father in the name of His Only Begotten Son.
My beloved friends, our prayers are our sweetest hour, our most “sincere desire,” our simplest, purest form of worship. We should pray individually, in our families, and in congregations of all sizes. We are to employ prayer as a shield against temptation, and if there be any time we feel not to pray, we can be sure that hesitancy does not come from God, who yearns to communicate with His children at any and all times. Indeed, some efforts to keep us from praying come directly from the adversary. When we don’t know how or exactly for what to pray, we should begin, and continue, until the Holy Spirit guides us into the prayer we should be offering. This approach may be the one we have to invoke when praying for our enemies and those who despitefully use us.
When we approach the sacred act of prayer with genuine intent, humility, and a desire to harmonize our will with that of the Almighty, our supplications transcend mere utterances and become vessels of transformation. Each heartfelt petition, imbued with purposeful reverence, has the potential to forge an unbreakable connection with the Divine, unlocking the boundless grace and blessings that flow from the wellspring of celestial love. In this sacred communion, we find solace, guidance, and the strength to navigate life's challenges with unwavering faith and resilience.
Preparing Your Heart and Mind for Prayer
Faith in Jesus Christ
The most crucial aspect of communicating with our Heavenly Father is having unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. It's through Christ's teachings and testimonies that we gain a deeper understanding of our Father in Heaven. Faith isn't merely a positive mindset; it's the powerful force that sustains the universe and allows God to work miracles. When we have genuine faith in Christ, we gain access to that divine power. However, we're not just commanded to have faith generally – we must place our faith specifically in the Savior, Jesus Christ. This is why we end our prayers "in the name of Jesus Christ" – we're humbly asking for His grace and intervention on our behalf. If we keep our faith firmly centered on Christ, our prayers become imbued with far greater power than if we lack that foundational trust in Him. Developing this profound faith takes diligent effort, but its rewards in strengthening our relationship with God are immeasurable.
When Nephi was bound with cords by his brothers, who sought to take his life, he cried out in prayer, expressing his faith in the Lord's ability to deliver him. His plea was not rooted in his own strength, but in the power of God: "O Lord, according to my faith which is in thee, wilt thou deliver me from the hands of my brethren; yea, even give me strength that I may burst these bands with which I am bound." (1 Nephi 7:17-18) Remarkably, as soon as he uttered those words, the bonds fell loose from his hands and feet, a testament to the Lord's might when coupled with unwavering faith.
Alma and Amulek found themselves in a similar predicament, bound by cords and facing adversity. Like Nephi, they did not rely on their own abilities but instead turned to the Lord, crying out: "O Lord, give us strength according to our faith which is in Christ, even unto deliverance." (Alma 14:26) Their faith was rewarded, and the cords binding them broke asunder, setting them free.
These accounts underscore the profound truth that true deliverance, whether physical or spiritual, does not stem from our own limited capacities but from the boundless power of Christ. It is faith in Him, nurtured and cultivated, that grants us access to this divine strength, enabling us to break free from the bonds that ensnare us. As we increase our faith in Christ, our prayers become more potent, and the Lord's hand is extended to liberate us from our afflictions, just as He did for Nephi, Alma, and Amulek.
We can build faith by understanding that our prayers are heard and answered by a loving Heavenly Father. The scriptures assure us that God listens to every sincere prayer, providing guidance and blessings in response to our petitions (D&C 98:2-3; 88:2). No matter our age, position, or length of membership in the Church, God desires to answer our sincere requests (Moroni 10:4-5). We are His children, and as servants of the Lord, we can approach Him with the same humble attitude as Samuel: "Speak; for thy servant heareth" (1 Samuel 3:10). If our faith wavers, we can draw strength from the testimonies of others until we develop our own unshakable conviction. God's love for us is unwavering, and He stands ready to respond to our earnest prayers and efforts to build faith.
Humility Before the Lord is Required
In the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord directly connects humility with answered prayers. He instructs, "Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand and give thee answer to thy prayers" (D&C 112:10). When we're humble, we acknowledge our dependence on the Lord, prompting us to seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives, with open hearts and minds to receive it.
Some may argue that we shouldn't trouble the Lord with trivial matters, but this attitude stems from pride – a desire to rely solely on our own abilities rather than aligning our will with His. While the Lord has indeed blessed us with intellect and reasoning, true self-sufficiency and confidence come from humbly recognizing our need for His wisdom and divine assistance.
In a world that emphasizes self-reliance and self-assurance, it's crucial to remember that true empowerment lies in humble submission to God's will. By embracing humility, we open ourselves to the Lord's guidance, enabling us to navigate life's challenges with His divine direction and find answers to our prayers.
Our attitude often takes us away from the spirit of humility and reliance on the Lord. We tend to think we can handle everything on our own, forgetting that true strength comes from seeking divine guidance. Nephi's words resonate deeply, expressing his grief at having to remind his brethren about the importance of prayer. It's a lesson we all need to learn – that we should pray about everything, not just the major events in our lives. Prayer is a constant dialogue with our Heavenly Father, a way to seek His wisdom and draw upon His strength. Yet, we often neglect this sacred privilege, relying solely on our own ability's day after day. Nephi's gentle rebuke reminds us that we should never become so self-reliant that we forsake the divine assistance available through humble prayer. By cultivating an attitude of humility and seeking the Lord's guidance in all aspects of our lives, we can access the spiritual strength and clarity we so desperately need.
In 2 Nephi 32:8, Nephi makes a profound statement about the importance of prayer and the role of the Spirit in guiding us. He contrasts the teachings of the Spirit, which encourages us to pray, with the influence of the evil spirit, which discourages prayer. This verse highlights the constant spiritual battle we face and the need to rely on the Spirit's guidance.
Nephi's statement emphasizes that prayer is not merely a ritual or a routine; it is a vital connection to our Heavenly Father, facilitated by the Holy Spirit. When we hearken to the Spirit's promptings, we understand the necessity of prayer and the blessings it brings. Prayer opens the channels of communication with God, allowing us to receive direction, strength, and peace.
However, Nephi warns that the adversary seeks to undermine our spiritual progress by discouraging us from prayer. The evil spirit attempts to convince us that prayer is unnecessary or ineffective, leading us astray from the path of righteousness. It is crucial to recognize and resist these subtle influences, for they can gradually erode our faith and weaken our relationship with God.
Nephi's counsel reminds us that while the Lord desires our growth and empowers us to do good works, He also expects us to remain humble and dependent on the Spirit's guidance. True spiritual strength comes not from self-reliance but from a constant connection with the divine source of all wisdom and power. By hearkening to the Spirit's teachings and engaging in sincere prayer, we can overcome the adversary's tactics and draw closer to our Heavenly Father.
Satan's ultimate goal is to enslave us by making us dependent on him rather than God. He subtly discourages us from praying, whispering deceiving thoughts like, "It's too trivial to bother God," or "You can handle this yourself," or "You're too tired tonight, skip your prayers." These seemingly harmless justifications gradually distance us from our Heavenly Father, leaving us vulnerable to the devil's influence. Meanwhile, the Holy Spirit gently prompts us to pray, for prayer strengthens our connection to God and fortifies us against Satan's attacks. It's a constant battle between the adversary's cunning tactics to isolate us and the Spirit's loving guidance to draw us closer to divine support and protection.
Now consider the next verse: "But behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always, and not faint." These words emphasize the importance of consistent and persistent prayer. When should we pray? The answer is clear: always! We must make prayer a constant part of our lives, never giving up or growing weary in our petitions to God.
The verse continues: "Ye must not perform anything unto the Lord save in the first place ye shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul." This teaches us that before undertaking any endeavor or action intended as service to the Lord, we must first pray. We must seek the Father's blessing and guidance through the name of Jesus Christ, so that our efforts may be consecrated and ultimately benefit our eternal souls.
These verses underscore the vital role of prayer in our lives as disciples of Christ. Prayer should be our constant companion, guiding our thoughts, words, and deeds. Only through humble, fervent prayer can we align our will with God's and ensure that our efforts bear eternal fruit."
That's not just about praying before undertaking church-related work. It's a call to involve God in every aspect of our lives. Alma's words encourage us to seek divine guidance, direction, and blessings in all our endeavors, thoughts, and affections (see Alma 37:36-37). We're urged to counsel with the Lord in everything we do, trusting that He will direct us toward what is good.
While we have the ability to act independently, Alma reminds us that our very existence is a gift from God – the air we breathe, the lives we live, all belong to Him. On a deeper level, we can't truly do anything on our own because we are His children, sustained by His grace and mercy.
These verses challenge us to cultivate a constant awareness of God's presence and involvement in our lives. They remind us to humble ourselves, acknowledge our dependence on Him, and invite His divine influence into every aspect of our existence. By doing so, we open ourselves to receive the guidance, direction, and blessings that come from aligning our will with His.
Repentance and Forgiveness
Repentance is a crucial step in obtaining blessings from the Lord. It's not just about acknowledging our mistakes; it's about actively seeking to change and align ourselves with God's will. When we repent sincerely, it opens the door to deeper spiritual growth. We become more receptive to fasting, prayer, humility, and studying the scriptures – actions that draw us closer to the divine.
As we shed our sins and allow the Savior to cleanse us, we gain the ability to influence events and people around us through vicarious means. It's a powerful concept, but one that requires sacrifice and a willingness to pay the price of true repentance. When we align our desires with the Lord's will, we can receive what we righteously desire, not because we demand it, but because we've opened ourselves to receive it.
Repentance is a journey, not a destination. It's a continuous process of self-reflection, course correction, and striving to be more like our Savior. As we embrace this journey with humility and determination, we can approach the Lord with confidence, knowing that our prayers will be heard and answered according to His divine wisdom.
Part of repentance involves confession, where we humbly acknowledge our sins to God and, when appropriate, to others. While some serious transgressions may require confessing to a bishop or ecclesiastical leader, virtually all sins should be confessed to the Lord. The words spoken to Martin Harris in the Doctrine and Covenants apply to all of us: "And now, except he humble himself and acknowledge unto me the things that he has done which are wrong, and covenant with me that he will keep my commandments, and exercise faith in me, behold, I say unto him, he shall [not receive the blessing he seeks]." (D&C 5:28)
The act of confession is a deeply personal and often difficult process, but it is essential for true repentance and spiritual growth. By acknowledging our mistakes and shortcomings, we open ourselves to the healing and transformative power of the Atonement. It requires humility, courage, and a sincere desire to change. However, as we confess our sins with a broken heart and contrite spirit, we can find peace, forgiveness, and the strength to overcome our weaknesses. The Lord's love and mercy are boundless, and through confession and repentance, we can draw closer to Him and experience the joy of a renewed and purified life.
Faithful Obedience to the Commandments
King Benjamin's teachings highlight the profound connection between obedience and blessings (see Mosiah 2:41). By keeping God's commandments, we open ourselves to receiving His temporal and spiritual blessings in abundance. This principle extends to the vital matter of receiving answers to our prayers. The scriptures make it clear that our willingness to obey and align our lives with God's will directly impacts our ability to have our prayers answered (see 1 Nephi 15:11 and 1 John 3:22).
When we approach God with humble, obedient hearts, seeking His guidance while diligently striving to keep His commandments, we create the conditions for Him to reveal His will and pour out His blessings upon us. It's a beautiful promise that underscores the love and wisdom of a Heavenly Father who desires to bless His children but also expects our willing obedience in return. Embracing this principle with faith and determination can open the floodgates of divine guidance and favor in our lives.
Committed to Becoming a "Living Sacrifice"
The Apostle Paul's words in Romans 12:1-3 offer profound wisdom for those seeking to live a life centered on God's will. He exhorts us to undergo a transformative renewal of our minds, rejecting the conformity to the world's ways and instead embracing a higher calling as "living sacrifices" unto our Heavenly Father. This radical shift in mindset is facilitated through the powerful practice of prayer, which allows us to connect with the divine and align our thoughts and actions with God's perfect plan.
Through prayer, we open ourselves to the renewing power of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to discern and prove "that which is good and acceptable" before our Creator. It is a journey of surrendering our own desires and willingly offering ourselves as instruments of God's love and grace. As we commit to this process of renewal, our minds are transformed, and we are empowered to live lives that reflect the beauty and truth of our heavenly purpose.
Paul's words resonate with a deep understanding of the human condition and the struggle to resist the world's allure. Yet, through his counsel, we are reminded that true fulfillment lies in the transformation of our hearts and minds, a journey that begins with the simple yet profound act of prayer.
Sacrifice is a powerful act that can amplify the potency of our prayers. Consider a parent whose child has strayed from the path of righteousness. Through fervent prayer, fasting, and repentance from one's own sins, a parent can invite divine intervention into their child's life. It's not about paying for personal transgressions, as Jesus has already atoned for those. Rather, it's about exercising agency and making sacrifices that enable us to receive blessings we couldn't otherwise obtain.
While our prayers cannot override another's agency, sacrifice and earnest supplication can profoundly influence the lives of those we love. Even if our efforts don't bring them fully back to the fold, they can still have a remarkable impact. Without such devotion and sacrifice, we risk losing them entirely. The act of consecrating our sacrifices to the Lord can imbue our prayers with a power that can touch hearts and change lives in ways we may never fully comprehend.
Embracing the Lord's will be a humbling yet profound act of submission and trust. It's an acknowledgment that our desires, no matter how fervent, are subordinate to a higher wisdom and purpose. We can strive for excellence in our prayers, cultivating focus, sincerity, and persistence, but ultimately, the outcome rests in the hands of the Divine.
This realization shouldn't discourage us from pouring our hearts into prayer; rather, it should instill a reverent acceptance that the Lord's plan transcends our limited understanding. By surrendering to His will, we open ourselves to blessings and growth that may initially elude our comprehension. It's a journey of faith, where we entrust our deepest yearnings to a love that knows no bounds, secure in the knowledge that our prayers are heard and answered in ways that align with our highest good.
For years, Modern Evangelical Christianity has directed Anti-Mormon Criticism towards The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, alleging that its members disproportionately focus on the events in the Garden of Gethsemane at the expense of recognizing the significance and power of the Crucifixion. This line of argument forms one of the core Evangelical talking points, but it's worth examining more closely for its reliance on strawman arguments and the cherry-picking fallacy.
At the heart of this debate is a profound misunderstanding or oversimplification of the Latter-day Saints' views on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The accusation suggests a binary that doesn’t fully capture the depth of Latter-day Saint theology, which reveres both the Atonement that began in Gethsemane and was completed with the Crucifixion on the Cross. This framing by some evangelical critics seems more aimed at diminishing the Latter-day Saints' beliefs rather than engaging with them thoughtfully and respectfully.
The focus on the Garden of Gethsemane by Latter-day Saints is not about diminishing the Crucifixion but about highlighting the comprehensive nature of the Atonement. It's an acknowledgment of the immense suffering Christ endured for humanity's sins, beginning in Gethsemane and culminating in His death on the Cross. This perspective enriches an understanding of the Atonement, suggesting a multi-faceted event that encompasses all aspects of Christ's sacrifice.
This is an updated version of the commentary on Paul's Pericope of Galatians 1:6-9. Become a Patreon to support my efforts and download the PDF document.
The Apostle Paul writing a Letter
The Epistle to the Galatians addresses the controversy over the necessity of adhering to Jewish customs for salvation. Paul vehemently opposes the idea that adherence to the Mosaic law is required for salvation, emphasizing that salvation is through faith in Christ alone. The epistle sheds light on the tension between the new Christian movement and its Jewish roots while defending Paul's apostolic authority. Paul's urgency in addressing the Galatians' drift towards a "different gospel" highlights the dangers of false teachings. The epistle serves as a passionate plea for the freedom and universality of the Christian message. It emphasizes that genuine kinship with Abraham requires faithfully following Christ's teachings, transcending mere ancestral ties.
Introduction
One of the most misinterpreted passages in the Bible is Galatians 1:6-9, which Christian apologists frequently use to assert that Mormonism is "another gospel." However, a closer examination of the context in Galatians 1:6-9 reveals that the Apostle Paul was addressing a specific issue faced by the Gentile Christians in Galatia.
Historically, there's a dispute over whether Paul's epistle was written to the northern or southern region of Galatia. This distinction is crucial because it sheds light on the specific circumstances and challenges faced by the recipients. The epistle's context suggests that the Galatian believers were being influenced by Judaizers, who insisted on adherence to Mosaic laws and traditions for salvation. Paul vehemently opposed this idea, asserting that salvation is through faith in Christ alone, not by works of the law.
In this light, Galatians 1:6-9 is a stern warning against those who were preaching a "different gospel" – one that required adherence to Jewish customs and traditions as a prerequisite for salvation. Paul's forceful language was directed at these false teachers, not at other Christian denominations or belief systems that emerged centuries later. To use this passage as a blanket condemnation of Mormonism or any other faith tradition is a gross misapplication of the text and fails to consider its historical and cultural context.
The importance of understanding to whom this epistle was written cannot be overstated when it comes to grasping the actual historical context that led the Apostle Paul to pen his words to specific peoples and groups. A foundational grasp of the epistle's historical backdrop is crucial before delving into its textual intricacies. While the exact recipients remain a matter of debate – whether the churches of Galatia were in the northern or southern region – one thing is clear: the textual context points to Paul addressing "the Churches of Galatia" (Gal. 1:2). This background is pivotal in comprehending the epistle's essence and Paul's motivations for writing it.
The Epistle to the Galatians sheds light on a pivotal moment in early Christianity, where the scope and boundaries of the faith were being defined. Paul's forceful defense of his apostleship and teachings against those insisting on adherence to Jewish rituals and laws reveals the tension between the new Christian movement and its Jewish roots. His urgency in addressing the Galatians' drift towards this "different gospel" (Gal. 1:6) underscores the ease with which early believers could be led astray by false teachings. This epistle stands as a passionate plea for the freedom and universality of the Christian message, untethered from the constraints of Judaic law, and a stern warning against the insidious spread of apostasy within the nascent Church.
The Epistle of Galatians is a profound work that has been misinterpreted by many modern Christian apologists in their efforts to refute the Restored gospel of Jesus Christ. A careful examination of its historical and doctrinal context reveals that using Galatians 1:6-9 as a proof text against the Latter-day Saint Christian faith is fundamentally flawed. This epistle was written by the Apostle Paul to address specific issues within the Galatian church, particularly the controversy surrounding the necessity of circumcision and adherence to Mosaic law for Gentile converts. Paul's stern warning against preaching a "different gospel" was directed at those who sought to impose Jewish customs and traditions on the Galatian believers, distorting the pure message of salvation through faith in Christ alone. To apply this passage as a blanket condemnation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a gross misinterpretation of its original intent and context.
The Apostolic Authority of Paul under Attack
The first aspect of the Epistle is a direct assault on Paul's apostleship. In his work, "A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Epistle to the Galatians," Ernest D. Witt Burton notes that apostolic authority held great significance in the first-century Christian faith communities, as evident in 1 and 2 Corinthians. An apostle wasn't merely a local leader or itinerant missionary; they were divinely commissioned founders of Christian churches with ecumenical jurisdiction within the primitive Christian community. Burton observes that the Judaizers aimed to maintain the Christian movement within a Jewish cultural context, including proselytes from other religions. Thus, they believed an apostle was limited to those appointed by Jesus Christ, undermining Paul's claim to apostleship.
The letter itself furnishes evidence, which is confirmed by 1 and 2 Corinthians, that the apostolic office or function was clearly recognised as one of great importance in the Christian community, and that the question who could legitimately claim it was one on which there was sharp difference of opinion. An apostle was much more than a local elder or itinerant missionary. He was a divinely commissioned founder of Christian churches, indeed, more, of the Christian church œcumenical. With their effort to keep the Christian movement within the Jewish church, including proselytes from other religions, the judaisers naturally associated the contention that the apostolate was limited to those who were appointed by Jesus or by those whom he appointed. With their denial of the distinctive doctrines of Paul they associated a denial of his right to teach them as an apostle. This denial seems to have taken the form of representing Paul as a renegade follower of the Twelve, a man who knew nothing of Christianity except what he had learned from the Twelve, and preached this in a perverted form. This appears from the nature of Paul’s defence of his independent authority as an apostle in the first two chapters of the letter, and indicates that with their theory of a limited apostolate the judaisers had associated the claim that the apostolic commission must proceed from the circle of the original Twelve.
It's a grave mistake to dismiss the authority of latter-day prophets and apostles based on the flawed reasoning employed by certain Christian apologists. Their arguments mirror the misguided stance of the Judaizers, who sought to undermine the apostleship of Paul and others by limiting true authority to the original Twelve. This tactic of discrediting the messenger to invalidate the message is a dangerous ploy. When evangelical Christians accuse Joseph Smith and subsequent LDS leaders of preaching a "different gospel," they're echoing the same erroneous logic used against Paul. Such charges stem from a narrow, exclusionary view that rejects ongoing revelation and modern-day apostles called to guide God's kingdom on earth. Dismissing authorized servants simply because they didn't walk with Christ disregards the Lord's ability to call whosoever, He will declare His word in every age and dispensation.
However, Burton's perspective isn't an isolated one. Martin Luther, a pivotal figure in the Protestant Reformation, delved into this issue through his commentary on Galatians. The Judaizers, who infiltrated the Galatian churches after Paul's departure, sought to undermine his apostolic authority and ministry. Luther astutely observed that these Judaizers boasted of their lineage as descendants of Abraham, claiming to be true ministers of Christ, trained by the original Apostles themselves. This assertion served as a means to bolster their credibility and sway the Galatian Christians away from Paul's teachings. Luther's insights shed light on the tactics employed by these adversaries, who exploited their heritage to assert their superiority and challenge Paul's apostleship. His analysis offers a profound understanding of the dynamics at play and the challenges Paul faced in countering such claims:
In every way they sought to undermine the authority of St. Paul. They said to the Galatians: “You have no right to think highly of Paul. He was the last to turn to Christ. But we have seen Christ. We heard Him preach. Paul came later and is beneath us. It is possible for us to be in error—we who have received the Holy Ghost? Paul stands alone. He has not seen Christ, nor has he had much contact with the other apostles. Indeed, he persecuted the Church of Christ for a long time.”
Envision the profound experience of encountering the resurrected Christ himself, being transformed from a fervent persecutor of the early believers to a devoted follower, chosen and commissioned by the very disciples who walked with Jesus. Imagine the weight of that calling, the sacred responsibility entrusted to you, to preach the Gospel and establish churches, guided by the wisdom imparted through divine revelations.
Now, picture the anguish and indignation that would arise upon learning that your very testimony, the foundation of your apostolic ministry, is being undermined and discredited. The rage would be palpable, a righteous fury ignited within your soul. You can almost hear the impassioned lament of the Apostle Paul, his voice thundering with holy conviction:
I'm utterly enraged by those defectors and their blatant denial of my divine apostolic calling. Their reasoning is a twisted perversion, stemming from their delusional belief that merely being descendants of Abraham entitles them as the sole heirs of Salvation. They arrogantly proclaim that to be saved, one must not only undergo circumcision but also be forcibly adopted into the Judaic religion. This is an outrageous falsehood that spits in the face of divine truth. How dare they impose such restrictive and misguided conditions upon the path to eternal salvation? Their audacity is a direct affront to the sacred teachings I've devoted my life to spreading. These defectors are leading countless souls astray with their venomous lies, and I cannot allow such heresy to continue poisoning the minds of the faithful. Their twisted ideology must be exposed and eradicated before it can cause further spiritual devastation.
How dare they question the validity of my calling? Do they not comprehend the magnitude of what I have witnessed, the transformative encounter that shattered my former existence? I, who once zealously persecuted the followers of the Way, was struck down by the blinding glory of the risen Christ himself. His voice resonated within my very being, setting me apart for this sacred purpose.
Have I not labored tirelessly, enduring countless hardships and persecutions, to spread the truth of the Gospel? Have I not risked everything, even my very life, to establish and nurture these churches? By what authority do they presume to discount the revelations bestowed upon me by the Lord himself?
Let it be known, with unwavering certainty, that my testimony and teachings are not mere fabrications or misguided interpretations. They are the very words of God, entrusted to me through divine providence. I will not remain silent while those who seek to undermine the truth sow seeds of confusion and doubt among the faithful.
Let my voice resound with the authority granted by the One who called me from darkness into his marvelous light. I will refute every false accusation, every attempt to discredit my apostleship, with the unassailable truth that has been revealed to me. The Gospel I preach is not of human origin, but a sacred trust from the Lord Jesus Christ himself. Let no one dare question the authenticity of my calling or the verity of the doctrines I have imparted.
The argument of the Christian Apologist crumbles when using Galatians 1:6-9 as a proof text against the Latter-day Saint Christian faith for claiming it's "another Gospel" and preaching a different Jesus. Firstly, the Jews of the early Christian era believed they were the "Chosen" people solely based on their ancestral descent from Abraham, contrary to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints inclusive teachings. Secondly, these Jews taught that salvation required adherence to circumcision and literal adoption into Abraham's lineage to be considered part of God's chosen – a doctrine wholly absent in Mormonism. Thus, the context of Galatians 1:6-9 directly refutes the first-century Jews' exclusivist beliefs, not the Restored Gospel's universal message of God's love for all His children.
The False Teaching - or "Another Gospel"
Latter-day Saint Christians firmly reject any claim of exclusive Judaic traditions tied to Abraham. Neither the members nor leaders assert being "Abraham's Seed" as the sole bearers of the true gospel message. Instead, they recognize Christ's and Paul's teachings on who truly constitutes the seed of Abraham, as exemplified in John 8:39. In this passage, a discussion between the Jews and Christ unfolds, where the Jews boast of their Abrahamic lineage (v. 33). However, Christ contrasts their actions with Abraham's works, implying that mere genealogical descent doesn't automatically grant them spiritual kinship. The "works of Abraham" likely refer to his unwavering faith and obedience to God, qualities lacking in those enslaved to sin (vv. 34-37). This context illuminates Galatians 1:6-9, where Paul warns against distorting the true gospel, emphasizing that genuine kinship with Abraham hinges on faithfully following Christ's teachings, not just ancestral ties. Latter-day Saints embrace this principle, acknowledging that spiritual kinship transcends bloodlines.
In his masterpiece, "Commentary on John - Volume 1," the esteemed John Calvin, another father of the Protestant Reformation and the founder of Calvinism, delves into the profound depths of John 8:33-39, offering his invaluable insights and commentary. With unwavering conviction, Calvin dissects the meaning behind verse 39 within the broader context of verses 33-39, unveiling the intricate layers of truth embedded within these sacred words.
39. Abraham is our father. This altercation shows plainly enough how haughtily and fiercely they despised all Christ’s reproofs. What they continually claim and vaunt of is, that they are Abraham’s children; by which they do not simply mean that they are the lineal descendants of Abraham, but that they are a holy race, the heritage of God, and the children of God. And yet they rely on nothing but the confidence of the flesh. But carnal descent, without faith, is nothing more than a false pretense. We now understand what it was that so greatly blinded them, so that they treated Christ with disdain, though armed with deadly thunder. Thus the word of God, which might move stones, is ridiculed in the present day by Papists, as if it were a fable, and fiercely persecuted by fire and sword; and for no other reason but that they rely on their false title of “the Church,” and hope that they will be able to deceive both God and man. In short, as soon as hypocrites have procured some plausible covering, they oppose God with hardened obstinacy, as if he could not penetrate into their hearts.
If you were the children of Abraham, you would do the works of Abraham. Christ now distinguishes more plainly between the bastard and degenerate children of Abraham, and the true and lawful children; (“Entre les enfans d’Abraham qui sont bastars et forlignans, et le vrais et legitimes.”) for he refuses to give the very name to all who do not resemble Abraham True, it frequently happens that children do not resemble, in their conduct, the parents from whom they are sprung; but here Christ does not argue about carnal descent, but only affirms that they who do not retain by faith the grace of adoption are not reckoned among the children of Abraham before God. For since God promised to the seed of Abraham that he would be their God, saying, I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, (Genesis 17:7) all unbelievers, by rejecting this promise, excluded themselves from the family of Abraham.
The state of the question therefore is this: Ought they to be accounted Abraham’s children who reject the blessing offered to them in the word, so that, notwithstanding of this, they shall be a holy nation, the heritage of God, and a royal priesthood? (Exodus 19:6; Joel 3:2.) Christ denies this, and justly; for they who are the children of the promise must be born again by the Spirit, and all who desire to obtain a place in the kingdom of God ought to be new creatures. Carnal descent from Abraham was not indeed useless, and of no value, provided that the truth were added to it. For election dwells in the seed of Abraham, but it is free, so that all whom God sanctifies by his Spirit are accounted heirs of life.
Calvin's analysis is a testament to his profound understanding of Scripture and his unwavering commitment to uncovering its essence. He meticulously examines the dialogue between Jesus and the Jews, shedding light on the nature of true freedom and the inherent bondage that stems from sin. Calvin's exposition highlights the stark contrast between the Jews' physical descent from Abraham and their spiritual alienation from the patriarch's faith, emphasizing the paramount importance of embracing the liberating truth of Christ.
Through his incisive commentary, Calvin challenges the notion of mere genealogical lineage as a guarantee of salvation, asserting that true kinship with Abraham lies in the embrace of his unwavering faith and obedience to God's will. With masterful precision, Calvin unveils the profound truth that those who reject Christ, the embodiment of divine truth, are enslaved by sin, regardless of their ancestral ties.
Calvin's elucidation of John 8:33-39 is a clarion call to all believers, urging them to recognize the liberating power of Christ's truth and to reject the shackles of sin that bind the soul. His words resonate with profound wisdom, beckoning readers to embrace the transformative power of faith and to walk in the footsteps of Abraham, the father of the faithful.
Paul is referring to Genesis 15:6 in the Old Testament, where it states, "And he [Abraham] believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness." This verse highlights Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promises, which was the foundation of his righteousness. Paul uses this scriptural reference to emphasize that true righteousness comes not from works or lineage, but from faith in God's redemptive plan, just as Abraham exemplified. By believing God's promise of a Savior, Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness, setting the precedent for justification by faith – a central tenet of Paul's gospel message to the Galatians and all believers.
While many interpreters point to Old Testament passages as evidence of salvation by grace, a careful reading reveals these verses discuss believing in God's promises and entering a righteous relationship with the Divine, not justification through works. James 2:21 cites Abraham's obedience in offering Isaac, which tested his faith in God's purpose for such a command. This conflicts with Sola Gratia and Sola Fide, as the Bible presents grace, faith, and obedience as intertwined concepts. Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac demonstrated his faith was rooted in obedience to God's will, not mere intellectual assent. True saving faith necessarily produces good works motivated by grace, not as a means of earning salvation but as evidence of genuine conversion and spiritual rebirth. Separating faith from obedience misunderstands the nature of biblical faith as active trust and loyalty to God.
It is this very reason that some Christian Apologists rely so heavily upon the idea and understanding that because Galatians 1:6-9 talk about a Gospel of Works as being another gospel and therefore cursed by God is reason to condemn the Latter-day Saint Christian faith. However, the reality and truth are, that when we look at the nature of the Gospel of Grace, we see that we're not only called into repentance and embrace the reality of Christ, but that we're to no longer live as we had lived prior to our conversion. Our faith isn't just a belief but a lifelong change to conform our will to following Christ.
The Apostle Paul's warning against a "different gospel" in Galatians 1:6-9 has been used by some Christian apologists to condemn the Latter-day Saint faith. They argue that since the LDS Church teaches the necessity of good works in addition to faith in Christ, it falls under the category of a "gospel of works" that Paul condemns. However, a closer examination of the Gospel of Grace reveals that genuine faith in Christ requires more than mere intellectual assent – it demands a complete transformation of life. True conversion involves not only repentance and acceptance of Christ's reality but also a lifelong commitment to align one's will with Christ's teachings and example. Faith is not just a belief system; it is a daily choice to conform our lives to the path of discipleship.
When we examine the life of Abraham, a profound truth emerges – God's covenant with him extended far beyond the promised heir. It encompassed an innumerable multitude, a spiritual lineage transcending mere physical descent. Christ, confronting the misguided belief of the Jews that Abrahamic ancestry alone secured divine favor, declared that true children of Abraham would emulate his unwavering faith in the promised Messiah, who was none other than Christ himself – the preincarnate Lord of the Old Testament. This revelation illuminates Paul's assertion in Romans: Abram's righteousness stemmed not from ancestry but from his steadfast belief in God's word, a precedent for all who would follow.
What all this means is that when we examine the Apostle Paul's teachings, two fundamental principles emerge: Firstly, salvation does not stem from lineage or ancestral descent. Secondly, salvation cannot be achieved through the performance of any "Works of Righteousness" pertaining to the Law and Circumcision as a means to gain Christ's acceptance. Rather, it is because of Christ's redemption and the saving grace bestowed upon us that we manifest our appreciation and devotion by following in his footsteps. Our faith in Christ bears fruit in the form of good works – a natural outcome of our devotion. As Christ declared, a good tree cannot bear evil fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. The Apostle Paul encapsulated this notion succinctly: "By their fruits, ye shall know them." Works are the tangible manifestation of our faith, not the means to attain salvation.
Hence, it is this very reason that those Jewish-Christians who claimed that because they were descendants of Abraham, they were the "promised and chosen" seed of Abraham. Thereby, perverting the Gospel of Christ and teaching the Galatian believers that in order for them to be saved, they had to not do the works of righteousness, but had to embrace the traditions and rituals of the Judaic rights of circumcision and be adopted into the "family lineage" of Abraham in order to be considered the chosen of God. Something that the LDS Faith, Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon, and the Prophets and apostles of the Church have never; nor, will ever teach and embrace.
This twisted doctrine of salvation through lineage rather than faith in Christ is a grave error that strikes at the heart of the gospel message. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints rightly rejects this heretical teaching, affirming that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not claims of physical descent. By standing firm on the truth of the gospel, the LDS Faith upholds the essential doctrine of how justification by grace, through our faith in Christ, operates - protecting believers from the insidious false teachings that plagued the Galatian church. It is the heart of the first principle of the Gospel - being Faith. Without faith, we are not able to experience the grace of God in our own lives.
Another crucial aspect regarding the Galatian crisis is the direct challenge posed by the Judaizers to Paul's authority as an Apostle of Jesus Christ. By teaching the Galatian Christians that they must adhere to certain Jewish customs and rituals, the Judaizers effectively discredited Paul's teachings and denied his apostolic legitimacy. They successfully convinced the Galatians that Paul's doctrine was a deviation from the true gospel, a distortion of the message preached by the original Twelve Apostles. This direct assault on Paul's credibility struck at the very heart of his ministry and threatened to undermine the foundations of the Christian faith he had so tirelessly propagated. The Galatian controversy, therefore, wasn't merely a theological dispute; it was a battle for the authority and authenticity of Paul's apostleship and the validity of his gospel message. Resolving this crisis was paramount, for if Paul's authority was rejected, the entire edifice of his teachings and the rapidly spreading Christian movement could crumble.
Circumcision and the Jewish Law
Previously, I discussed the nature of what these Jewish-Christians were teaching the Galatian Christians as to what they believed to be a "true gospel" as opposed to what Paul, the Apostle taught. And the more I think about this, the more I'm starting to realize the similarities between these Jewish-Christians and some of the Evangelical Christians that I dialogue with regarding the teaching and the doctrines of the LDS Faith.
The first thing we noticed, and one of the later things I had discussed in the prior section, is that the "works" these Jewish-Christians were teaching where circumcision and adoption into the Abrahamic line. To these people, belief in the Abrahamic covenant still had a hold upon their mindset and belief system. While embracing this, they assimilated the ideals of the older covenant with that of the newer Covenant of Grace. To understand this, we look to the original twelve whom Christ called into discipleship and later became known as the Apostles. These Jewish-Christians struggled to fully embrace the new covenant, clinging to aspects of the old. Their insistence on circumcision and Abrahamic lineage reveals a failure to grasp the revolutionary nature of Christ's teachings – that salvation comes through faith, not works or bloodlines. This parallel with certain Evangelical perspectives on Latter-day Saint Christian belief illuminates the enduring challenge of letting go of entrenched beliefs to fully embrace new revelations.
All twelve men Christ called to follow him were Jews, hailing from the regions of Judea and Jerusalem. The gospel of Grace, preached by these apostles, stood in stark contrast to the long-held religious traditions of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Zealots within Jerusalem. Rooted in Jewish idealism, the Jewish-Christians believed the gospel was meant solely for them – God's Chosen People, as promised to Abraham with descendants as numerous as the stars. This conviction led them to integrate their Jewish ideals into the newfound gospel of Christ, ultimately resulting in the preaching of "a different gospel" – a distortion of Jesus Christ's true message.
The doctrine these Judaizers would use to influence the Gentile Christians centered around the belief that Christianity should be built strictly on the basis of the Abrahamic covenant, with the addition of Jesus as the Messiah. They held conservative notions, believing they shouldn't subtract from the Old Testament religion as they interpreted and defined it. In contrast, Peter and Paul differed in their approach. While Peter initially struggled with the idea of preaching to Gentiles, he eventually accepted it after a vision from God. Paul, on the other hand, was a fervent advocate for preaching the gospel to the Gentiles from the outset.
Despite initial skepticism, the original 12 Apostles eventually accepted Paul's missionary efforts and preaching to the Gentiles. As the effects of Paul's evangelistic activity became more evident, the church in Jerusalem realized the extent of his departure from their current views and practices. Biblical commentators appear to suggest that as Paul's message spread, the serious nature of his divergence from the mother church's beliefs became increasingly apparent.
The dissension between Jewish and Gentile Christians regarding circumcision and adherence to Mosaic Law was a pivotal issue in the early Church. It's most likely this reason that necessitated the Council of Jerusalem (Acts 15:1-16:5), where Jewish Christians accused Paul of denouncing Jewish traditions, teachings, and ritual observance of the Law. This conflict culminated in the incident narrated by Paul in Galatians 2:1-10, where the obligation of Gentile Christians to be circumcised was debated. Initially, the Jerusalem apostles urged Paul to conform, at least in Titus' case, to the ultraconservative element's views. However, they were eventually persuaded to support Paul's approach of winning Gentiles to faith in Christ without insisting on circumcision. This decision was crucial in shaping the inclusive nature of early Christianity and its separation from strict adherence to Mosaic Law.
Biblical commentaries stance acknowledges that the Jewish Christians seamlessly blended their grasp of Jewish customs and teachings with their newfound Christian faith. However, they go further to assert that these Jewish-Christians adamantly clung to the concept of attaining salvation through circumcision, a practice deeply rooted in Judaism. This perspective sheds light on the true essence of Paul's words in Romans 2:24 - 3:1, where he addresses the hypocrisy of those who preach the law but fail to uphold it themselves:
For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written, For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law? For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?
Such interpretation suggests that Paul was likely referring to these Jewish Christians who, despite professing their belief in Christ, remained steadfastly committed to the Jewish rite of circumcision as a means of salvation. This nuanced understanding challenges the conventional view and invites a re-examination of Paul's message within the complex socio-religious landscape of the time.
The understanding of what Paul was relating in Romans 2:2-10 is that salvation is not merely a matter of professing faith, but also living righteously. Paul makes it clear that God will judge people impartially, based on their deeds – whether they've done good or evil. It's not just for Jews, but for Gentiles as well. While grace through Christ saves us from spiritual death, we're still accountable for our actions in this life. A life of righteousness leads to blessings, while a life of unrighteousness leads to anguish and tribulation. Professing Christ as Lord isn't enough; our lives must reflect that profession through righteous living. Paul's message challenges us to embody our faith, not just give it lip service. Our eternal destiny hinges not solely on what we believe, but also on how we live out that belief.
Thus, what we discover is the specific doctrine that Paul is contending against, and that of being circumcised in order to receive salvation and redemption. Yet, Burton is not alone in this understanding of what it was Paul was calling the Galatian believers to turn away from. An understanding of the doctrine that was literally causing the Galatian Christians to apostatize from the gospel Paul preached. The Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Critical Commentary discusses it in this way:
Judaizing teachers had persuaded the Galatians that Paul had taught them the new religion imperfectly, and at second hand; that the founder of their church himself possessed only a deputed commission, the seal of truth and authority being in the apostles at Jerusalem: moreover, that whatever he might profess among them, he had himself at other times, and in other places, given way to the doctrine of circumcision. To refute this, he appeals to the history of his conversion, and to the manner of his conferring with the apostles when he met them at Jerusalem; that so far was his doctrine from being derived from them, or they from exercising any superiority over him, that they had simply assented to what he had already preached among the Gentiles, which preaching was communicated, not by them to him, but by himself to them {Paley}.
Circumcision had been practiced among the Judaizers as essential to salvation. They insisted that without circumcision, the Gentile converts could not obtain justification and sanctification. This doctrine struck at the very root of the gospel of grace. If circumcision was necessary for justification, Christ's gratuitous sacrifice was superfluous. The Galatians were being misled into combining Judaism with Christianity, thereby leaving the gospel of faith for a mixed system of faith and works. Paul's vehement opposition to this error was absolutely crucial to preserve the truth of salvation through faith alone.
Martin Luther's commentary sheds light on the crux of the issue Paul addressed in Galatians: The Judaizers' insistence that Gentile Christians must adhere to the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision, to attain salvation. This objection mirrors the dispute recorded in Acts 15, where some believers demanded Gentile converts be circumcised and observe the Law. The Judaizers' stance contradicted the Gospel's core tenet of salvation by grace through faith alone in Christ. Paul vehemently refuted this notion, asserting that salvific righteousness comes not from works of the Law but through belief in Christ's atoning sacrifice. His impassioned defense of the Gospel's purity underscores its paramount importance: adding legalistic requirements undermines the very essence of God's gracious provision of redemption through Christ's finished work on the cross.
The more one delves into this epistle, it becomes evident that the context (both historically and textually) does not revolve around the denial of accountability and obedience to the Gospel of Christ. Instead, it centers on the rejection of promoting and preaching circumcision as the ordinance for securing one's salvation. In other words, the Apostle Paul specifically refers to the doctrine of circumcision as "another Gospel." Through this lens, the accusation that The Latter-day Saint Christian Faith is "Another Gospel" according to Galatians 1:6-9 is a fallacious argument lacking foundational support. It further exposes the error of critics who use Galatians 1:6-9 as a proof text against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. Ironically, Galatians 1:6-9 actually supports the Latter-day Saint position more than the modern Evangelical Christian would presume it to support their own stance.
Many Christian believers today mistakenly assert salvation comes solely through verbal confession and mentally accepting Christ - a dangerous oversimplification. Mere belief alone, even demons possess that, cannot grant salvation. Nor can good works by non-believers suffice, as redemption fundamentally requires Christ's atonement. Salvation hinges on fully embracing Christ - confessing with sincere commitment, being baptized to enter His church, receiving the Holy Ghost's transformative power, and obediently following Christ's commandments. Anything less dishonors Christ's sacrifice and rejects His authorized plan. Only by humbly submitting to all Gospel requirements can fallen mankind access the redemptive grace enabling exaltation. Verbal lip-service rings hollow; souls won't inherit eternal life without demonstrating true discipleship through action and obedience.
Yet, once redeemed from his sins, man has an obligation to turn from his natural tendencies, former beliefs and subjugate them to follow after Christ and live in a manner where the power of redemption is manifested through them. Christ, Paul, and the scriptures consistently emphasize that individuals will be judged, not solely on their faith, but upon their deeds in this life. This concept, often dismissed by Christians when discussing the differences between Latter-day Saint Christian faith and modern Evangelical Christian teaching and dogmatics, is ironically embraced as evidence of one's faith and the reason for the hope of Salvation that lies within the follower of Christ.
The contrast between professed beliefs and actual practices is a stark reality that cannot be ignored. While faith is undoubtedly essential, it is the tangible manifestation of that faith through righteous deeds that truly reflects the depth of one's commitment to Christ's teachings. The scriptures unequivocally assert that faith without works is dead, and it is the combination of both that will ultimately determine one's eternal destiny.
This principle challenges individuals to examine their lives critically, ensuring that their actions align with their professed beliefs. It is a call to authenticity, to live out the transformative power of redemption in every aspect of one's existence. Only then can the hope of Salvation be truly realized, as the evidence of a changed life bears witness to the genuine nature of one's faith.
Galatian Epistle - Evidence of Apostasy
A serious inquiry into the Epistle to the Galatians reveals a sobering reality – doctrinal apostasy was a grave concern for the early Church. Paul's impassioned defense of his apostolic authority and the authenticity of his gospel message wasn't mere posturing; it was a desperate attempt to safeguard the Galatian believers from corrupting influences. His vehement opposition to the Judaizers, who insisted on incorporating Mosaic law into the Christian faith, underscores the insidious nature of false teachings. By asserting that his gospel aligned with that of the original apostles in Jerusalem, Paul sought to quell any doubts about its legitimacy. His call for the Galatians to repent and return to the true gospel of Christ wasn't a mere rhetorical flourish; it was a clarion call to abandon the path of error and embrace the unadulterated truth of the gospel. This epistle serves as a sobering reminder that even in the apostolic age, the threat of doctrinal deviation loomed large, necessitating unwavering vigilance and a steadfast commitment to the uncompromised truth of the gospel.
The Epistle to the Galatians stands as a powerful testament to the early onset of doctrinal apostasy within the primitive Christian church. Paul's impassioned rebuke of the Galatian believers for embracing the heretical doctrine of circumcision as a prerequisite for salvation underscores the grave danger posed by false teachings creeping into the fold. His vehement defense of his apostolic authority and the pure gospel message he received directly from Christ himself highlights the urgent need to combat the insidious spread of corruption and deviation from the truth. This epistle serves as a clarion call, warning of the encroaching apostasy that would ultimately lead to the loss of priesthood authority and the complete subversion of Christ's original teachings. While Christian apologists may dispute this interpretation, the Latter-day Saint perspective finds in Galatians a sobering affirmation of the Great Apostasy foretold, necessitating the restoration of the fullness of the gospel through modern prophets.
While some would agree that this observation is specific to the reference of those churches in Galatia, the reality is that we lack any definitive historical source confirming whether the Galatian Christians ultimately returned to the true Gospel of Christ or completely abandoned it for a more Judaic perversion. Nevertheless, Paul clearly recognized these believers were straying from the pure gospel.
This apostasy stemmed from three primary factors: First, doubts concerning Paul's apostolic authority; second, assertions that Paul's preached gospel contradicted the Jewish-Christians' accepted version, purportedly derived from the original Twelve Apostles, with Paul merely an emissary; and third, the lingering influence of the Galatians' own cultural, ethnic, and previous pagan belief systems. Paul's urgent epistle sought to rectify these deviations and reaffirm the authentic gospel he received directly from Christ. The Galatian situation exemplifies the constant need to guard against distortions and persevere in true biblical doctrine.
The overall historical and textual context of the Epistle to the Galatians reveals that Paul's reference to "Another Gospel" was directed at the Judaizers who insisted that Gentile converts must adhere to certain Mosaic laws, particularly circumcision, to be saved. This false doctrine contradicted the true gospel of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul vehemently opposed this heresy, as it undermined the sufficiency of Christ's atoning sacrifice and added works of circumcision and adoption into the lineage of Abraham to the path of salvation. Rather than alluding to future events like the Restoration, Paul was combating a present threat to the purity of the gospel within the early Church. His epistle serves as a clarion call to reject any teachings that corrupt or dilute the simple truth that we are justified by faith in Christ, not by adherence to the Law where we are required to be circumcised. The true gospel Paul preached is the good news of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, providing forgiveness of sins and eternal life as a free gift to all who believe. The doctrine of individual accountability, the universality of Christ's Atonement, and the fundamental principles and ordinances of the gospel form a profound and empowering belief system. Rejecting the notion of inherited guilt, we affirm that each person will be judged solely on their own merits and actions, not condemned for the transgressions of ancestors. This principle upholds the inherent dignity and agency of every individual.
Moreover, we proclaim that through the infinite and merciful Atonement of Jesus Christ, all humanity can be saved—not through blind faith alone, but by actively embracing and living the laws and ordinances of the gospel. This path to salvation is open to all, regardless of circumstance or background, offering hope and redemption to every soul.
The first principles and ordinances serve as the gateway to this transformative journey. Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of our belief, inspires us to trust in His divine power and follow His example. Repentance, a process of profound change and course correction, enables us to shed our mistakes and emerge renewed. Baptism by immersion, a sacred ordinance, washes away our sins and marks our entry into the covenant path. And the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost provides us with a constant companion, a source of guidance, comfort, and revelation.
These beliefs, when embraced and lived with conviction, offer a powerful framework for personal growth, spiritual enlightenment, and lasting peace. They inspire us to become our best selves, to contribute positively to society, and to forge an unbreakable connection with our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.
Nephi, the son of the prophet Lehi and his wife Sariah, recorded the ancient records known as 1 Nephi on small metal plates as commanded by the Lord. This book, part of The Book of Mormon, chronicles the remarkable journey of Lehi's family as they fled Jerusalem and traversed the wilderness, ultimately reaching the promised land across the ocean. Nephi's purpose in writing these sacred annals was to bear witness of God's tender mercies towards those who demonstrate faith (1 Nephi 1:17, 20), and to persuade all people to come unto the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, finding salvation (1 Nephi 6:4). The calling of a prophet, Lehi's visions, and the family's arduous travels are detailed in 1 Nephi, spanning approximately 600-588 B.C., a period of around 13 years.
We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: First, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ ... ~ Fourth Article of Faith of the LDS Church
Nature of Faith - The predominating sense in which the term faith is used throughout the scriptures is that of full confidence and trust in the being, purposes, and words of God. Such trust, if implicit, will remove all doubt concerning things accomplished or promised of God, even though such things be not apparent to or explicable by the ordinary senses of mortality; hence arises the definition of faith given by Paul: "Now faith is the substance [i.e., confidence, or assurance] of things hoped for, the evidence [i.e., the demonstration or proof] of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1) It is plain that such a feeling of trust may exist in different persons in varying degrees; indeed, faith may manifest itself from the incipient state which is little more than feeble belief, scarcely free from hesitation and fear, to the strength of abiding confidence that sets doubt and sophistry at defiance.
Articles of Faith by James E. Talmage
Articles of Faith is considered one of the classics in Latter-day Saint literature. It is the outgrowth of a series of lectures in theology given by Dr. James E. Talmage, commencing in 1893. At that time Dr. Talmage was serving as president of the LDS College in Salt Lake City. The First Presidency of the Church invited Dr. Talmage to prepare a text for use in Church schools and religion classes.
First published in 1899, Articles of Faith has since been published in thirteen foreign languages and has been through more than fifty English editions. This volume, together with Jesus the Christ, sets forth Elder Talmage's testimony of the Savior and of the Church which bears his name.
Introduction
Faith is integral to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without faith, there is no inheritance or spiritual blessing. There is no mercy or grace. And there is no peace of the soul when times of adversity comes upon us. It is the very reason it is the foundational principle of truth laid out throughout all of scripture. Without faith, the ordinances of the Gospel of Jesus Christ become meaningless and without purpose. They are mere mechanical rituals performed with no evidence of transformation and change. Faith gives us the reason to walk in obedience to the teachings of the Gospel of Christ, living out the will of God daily, and to enter into an intimate relationship with our Savior and our Heavenly Father.
Prior to describing the armor of God that every Christian is to put on, the Apostle Paul requests that one become strong in the Lord and in the might of his strength (Ephesians 6:10). What does it mean to become strong in the Lord and in the might of His strength? Through our faith in Christ, we strengthen the inner man in order to stand firm during times of adversity and personal battles. Through faith, we gain courage to face life on life terms and endure in a way to overcome as Christ overcame.
Our mortality brings with it corresponding duties where it requires vigor and resolution in satisfying them. No matter the situations we may find ourselves facing, we are not to rely on our own strength and understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Paul also exhorts us to arm ourselves with the power and might of Christ. True religious piety and conviction relies on this type of faith in satisfying our spiritual duties and callings as well. Therefore, we are not called to be weak and vulnerable. We are called to be strong, resilient, and overcome what may cause us to perish.
No wonder Paul exhorted the Christians at Ephesus, and us today, to take up the shield of faith so that we are able to extinguish the fiery darts of the adversary (Ephesians 6:16).
Today, spiritual strength and courage is needed to continually live out the principle truths of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Genuine faith requires us to prove our loyalty and allegiance to God so that we are able to continue to receive those spiritual blessings and grace that come from our Heavenly Father. Without faith in Christ - we are not able to withstand the adversities of life. With faith, we stand in the strength of Christ because he is our source of spiritual strength.
Thus, faith begets our duty to be strong and courageous. To stand with hope. Strong in love toward our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as well as others. Strong in courage to endure life and face all challenges. Otherwise, to be weak means we miss the mark. Miss out on the blessings. Miss out growing spiritually unto perfection. We eventually drift from our intimate fellowship with Christ and are vulnerable to the wiles and sophistries of the world.
Belief, Faith, and Knowledge
Talmage presents the idea that while the terms faith and belief are sometimes regarded as synonyms; nevertheless each of them has a specific meaning in our language ... He further illustrates that there was little distinction between faith and belief in early usages. This includes when one faithfully comes to read and study the scriptures. Regarding the differences between faith and belief, Talmage writes:
Belief, in one of its accepted senses, may consist in merely intellectual assent, while faith implies such confidence and conviction as will impel to action. Dictionary authority justifies us in drawing a distinction between the two, according to present usage in English: and this authority defines belief as a mental assent to the truth or actuality of anything, excluding, however, the moral element of responsibility through such assent, which responsibility is included by faith. Belief is in a sense passive, an agreement or acceptance only; faith is active and positive, embracing such reliance and confidence as will lead to works. Faith in Christ comprises belief in Him, combined with trust in Him. One cannot have faith without belief; yet he may believe and still lack faith. Faith is vivified, vitalized, living belief."
Talmage presents an interesting observation regarding one being able to have belief, yet, lacking faith. Whereas Faith cannot exist without belief. Faith, repentance, baptism, and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost constitute the core teachings of the Savior's Gospel (See, Acts 2:37-38; 3 Nephi 27:20-21). And these are the core principles of the Gospel of Christ that gives us the ability to begin our spiritual journey and growth that leads to immortality and eternal life (2 Nephi 31:17-18).
Faith, therefore, begins when we have a desire to believe (Alma 32:26-43) and such desire - if we take the time to cultivate it, nourish it, - grows into a perfect knowledge of Christ, His infinite atonement, grace and mercy unto salvation and eternal life. However, if we do not nourish our faith, cultivate it, are motivated unto obedience to the will of our Heavenly Father, one will never come to a perfect knowledge of Christ, experience the blessings of God's grace and mercy, and end up becoming spiritually stagnant and dead. It is this reason that genuine and true faith in the Godhead is requisite to salvation; it is indeed a saving power, leading its possessor in the paths of godliness, whereas mere belief in the existence and attributes of Deity is no such power (Talmage, Articles of Faith).
Referencing James 2, Talmage makes this statement:
Mark the words of James (James 2:14-26) in his general epistle to the saints wherein he chided his brethren for certain empty professions. In substance he said: You take pride and satisfaction in declaring your belief in God: you boast of being distinguished from the idolaters and the heathen because you accept God; you do well to so profess, and so believe; but, remember, others do likewise; even the devils believe; and so firmly that they tremble at thought of the fate which that belief makes plain to them. Satan and his followers believe in Christ; and their belief amounts to knowledge as to who He is, and as to what constitutes His part, past, present, and to come, in the divine plan of the human existence unto salvation.
Today, Evangelical Christians continue to challenge Latter-day Saint understanding of what James meant when he said that faith without works is dead. This rests upon the conflict with what Paul taught regarding Faith in Christ is what justifies humanity unto salvation and not of works - lest any person should boast (See, Romans 3:28; 4:1-3; Galatians 2:16; 3:6-7; Ephesians 2:8-9). Both Apostles use Abraham as an example of how faith works (Genesis 15:6) where this patriarch believed in the Lord. Abraham's belief was counted unto him for righteousness. For the Apostle, such righteousness, or justification, came because of Abraham's faith and not that by any works of the law. However, James appeals to Abraham's faith was accounted unto Him because of his obedience to the command of the Lord, and therefore was justified by his obedience.
What our critics of the restored Gospel, and therefore some of the members of the Church, miss is a balanced view between faith and works that harmonizes the teachings of Paul and that of James. This is due to the fact that Latter-day Saint teaching expounds upon the interrelated roles faith and works play in salvation and redemption of humanity. Our appeal is to the nature of scriptural teaching and prophetic commentary that brings clarity to the apparent problem between James and Paul.
Mark D. Ellison addresses this issue in his paper Paul and James on Faith and Works published in the Religious Educator Vol. 13 N. 3 - 2012:
Much of the difficulty in understanding Paul and James stems from asking the wrong questions. The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “If we start right, it is easy to go right all the time; but if we start wrong we may go wrong, and it will be a hard matter to get right.” This principle can apply to understanding the scriptures. We start right by approaching the scriptures with the right questions. When it comes to understanding Paul and James, the question is not, “Which one was right—Paul or James?” or “Which one saves us—faith or works?” These questions are wrong from the start because they contain flawed assumptions. Perhaps more productive questions would be “What circumstances might have led both Paul and James to write about faith and works, using the example of Abraham and appealing to Genesis 15:6?,” “What exactly did Paul and James mean by the terms faith and works?,” and “How does understanding these terms in context clarify the doctrines Paul and James taught?”
Ellison, further, points out that there is an assumptive and implied problem when it comes to Paul and James. This assumptive implied problem appears to focus on utilizing how one term is defined and then using that definition to establish other passages meaning and understanding where the same word is used. Another issue is the problem of eisegesis compared to that of exegesis. In other words, one reading into the specific passages their own bias and prejudicial viewpoints so that the verses conform to their assumptive beliefs. Whereas exegesis focus more on critically examining the text in order to allow the passage to reveal the writer's message.
Regarding the Apostle Paul and his frame of reference on faith and works we find that the historical background involved a growing controversy that the Apostle confronts in the Epistle to the Galatians. This controversy centered around the Jewish ritual of circumcision. Jewish Christians appeared to influence Gentile Christians into believing they were not saved until they observed circumcision and observe the ritual requirements of the Mosaic law. It was because of this controversy where there was an apostolic council held in Jerusalem.
Ellison shares this insight regarding this historical background and Peter's vision that is found in the Book of Acts:
The book of Acts refers to similar teachers, providing helpful historical background about what apparently was not an isolated controversy. Prior to the events recorded in Acts 10, probably most, if not all, members of the Church were Jewish. Either they were Jews by birth, or they were proselytes—Gentiles who had converted to Judaism by being circumcised and committing to live the law of Moses. But in Acts 10, Peter, the senior Apostle, received a revelation that Gentiles who had faith in God and followed his teachings were “accepted with him” (Acts 10:35) and were to be received into the Church by baptism, without first having to convert to Judaism by undergoing the rite of circumcision (see Acts 10:43–48). Peter then taught and baptized Cornelius, “probably the first gentile to come into the Church not having previously become a proselyte to Judaism” (Bible Dictionary, “Cornelius,” 650).
Acts 15 provides us with the understanding of the nature of this controversy and the influence of the Judaizes:
And certain men which came down [to Syrian Antioch] from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.
Ellison points out the following understanding regarding Acts 15:24-29:
Council of Apostles and Elders rejected the teaching of the Judaizers
Affirmed Gentile members of the Church did not need to be circumcised or observe other Jewish rituals
Exhorted Gentile Christians to live moral teachings of the law, specifically, avoiding idolatry and sexual sin
Recommended Gentile Christians observes kosher dietary restrictions so as not to offend Jewish communities
It is this controversy and situation where Paul sternly warned the Galatian Christians the strict requirement, and the consequences thereof, in committing to circumcision and obligation to observe all aspects of the Mosaic law.
Failure to keep just one commandment was failure to keep the whole law (see Galatians 5:3), and no one successfully kept them all: “That no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith,” Paul wrote (Galatians 3:11). By the strict teaching of the law itself, everyone was accursed: “The scripture hath concluded all under sin” (Galatians 3:22; see also Romans 3:9–20, 23). Therefore, for Gentile Christians, choosing to be circumcised amounted to deliberately placing oneself “under the curse” (Galatians 3:10) or “under sin” (Galatians 3:22).
It is this reason many Evangelical Christians attempt to criticize Latter-day Saints and say that members of the Chruch are cursed andcondemned. This is because they view the Restored Gospel as a works-based salvation that Paul preached against. Another Gospel that is not consistent with the Bible.
Ellison points out that what one misses is the nature in how Paul refers to works in Galatians 2:16. He observes:
It was in this context that Paul wrote to the Galatians about faith and works. His main point is found in Galatians 2:16 (the passage cited above that appears to be contradicted by James). Notice that in this verse, Paul used the term works three times, but never once by itself. Each time it was part of the phrase “the works of the law” [ergōn nomou]: “A man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, . . . we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified” (Galatians 2:16; emphasis added). Throughout Paul’s discussion of faith and works in Galatians, every time he used the term works [ergōn], he consistently used it as a part of the phrase “the works of the law.”
What is also interesting is that Ellison points out that Paul uses Abraham being justified by faith alone because the Law of Moses came long after Abraham. There was no law that Abraham was subjected to and therefore Abraham was justified by his faith in God.
Ellison argues that in Paul's later epistles, he shifts from focusing on how one is justified by Faith alone and not by the works of the Law of Moses to that of faith, grace, and works and how they play in the nature of salvation and redemption of humanity. This is found later in Romans and the epistle to the Church in Ephesus. He observes:
Briefly, two important characteristics of these passages need to be recognized. First, Paul was using different terms to make a different comparison, juxtaposing “works” and “grace,” not “works of the law” and “faith in Christ.” The difference in terminology and usage signals a difference in doctrinal teaching. While Paul’s teachings about faith and works of the law in Galatians and Romans3 dealt with the gospel of Christ (the new covenant) and the law of Moses (the old covenant), Paul’s teachings about grace and works change the subject to that of God’s role compared with ours in the salvation process. Works in this context does appear to refer more broadly to our acts of religious devotion in general. Paul’s statement in Ephesians that we are saved “by grace” and “not of works” teaches the doctrine that ultimately, even our faith-driven efforts to live the gospel do not save us—it is Jesus Christ who saves us. Christ’s Atonement, and all the saving blessings it brings, constitutes the great manifestation of God’s grace toward us (see John 3:16; Romans 3:24;5:6–11). Without it, we would be forever lost (see 2 Nephi 2:8–9; 9:7–9; Alma 34:9; D&C 76:61,69). On the basis of our works, we all fall short.
What is also interesting is that as one carefully reads and studies the Pauline epistles, as Ellison points out, one discovers how Paul's thought and teachings evolved over time. Specifically, regarding the nature of Grace through the atonement of Jesus Christ. So much so that it brought about another controversy within the first century church - and that focused on misrepresenting Paul's teaching on how the law exposed sin it did not have the power to bring salvation through its observance. The Apostle actually held respect for the Law and the purpose it was given. Despite this, some held to the notion that he spoke out against the law. Something that was deemed quite blasphemous to the First Century Jews.
Because of this, Ellison appears to argue that James wrote to dispel the hostile and persistent misrepresentation of what Paul actually taught. This is based off an examination of Acts 21 when Paul had returned from his third mission and met James and the elders of the Church in Jerusalem. What was the issue of this controversy?
James and the elders of the Church told Paul that the members of the Church in Jerusalem, who were “all zealous of the law,” had heard that Paul had been teaching Jews “to forsake Moses” and “not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs” (Acts 21:20–21). This, of course, was not true; Paul and the other Apostles taught that Gentile members of the Church did not need to live the law of Moses. James and the elders acknowledged this (see Acts 21:25) but asked Paul to go to the temple and publicly undergo rites of purification (as observant Jews did after they had traveled in Gentile countries), so that “all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law” (Acts 21:24).
Paul was a pharisee and a devout Jew who converted to the way - became a faithful follower of Jesus Christ and an Apostle who brought the message of the Gospel to the Gentile Nations. Paul was arrested when he attended the temple to undergo the rites of purification.
Since Paul's teaching on Faith, works of the law, justification, and the Grace of God focused on addressing the reality that the Gentile Christians are not saved by circumcision and observance of the Law of Moses. James appeared to focus more on what true saving faith accomplishes in light of how Paul's teachings were misrepresented in the first century (and still today).
Ellison points this out:
James next turned, as Paul did, to the example of Abraham. Again, Paul’s teachings about Abraham may well have been in circulation when James wrote, whether that was before or after Paul wrote Galatians and Romans. Since Paul’s preaching typically involved quoting from the scriptures of the Old Testament (see Acts 17:2–3, 10–12; 28:23), it is reasonable to expect that as he taught about justification by faith rather than by the law (see Acts 13:38–39), he appealed to some of the same scriptures he later quoted in his epistles—including Genesis 15:6 and the example of Abraham. It is plausible, therefore, that James could have heard distorted versions of what Paul had taught about Abraham and felt impelled to reassure his readers and correct doctrinal misunderstandings. We know that pious, law-abiding Jewish Christians complained to James of rumors they heard about Paul’s teachings (see Acts 21:18–21). If at some point such complaints included the charge that Paul’s converts spoke simplistically of “faith without works” and defended themselves by invoking Genesis 15:6, James could hardly have clarified what true faith is more effectively than he did in James 2:21–24: “Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with [sunērgei, “worked with”] his works, and by works was faith made perfect [eteleiōthē, “made complete”]? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.”
While the Apostle Paul focused on how we are saved by Faith in Jesus Christ, James appears to focus on what constitutes this genuine and true faith. Specifically, the fruits associated with saving faith in Jesus Christ. And the fruits of genuine and saving faith is that of obedience to the will and desire of our Heavenly Father.
It is this pure and genuine truth of Faith that the Latter-day Saint Christian appeals to. And to some extent, Evangelical Christians even teach the idea that true faith is transformative in the life of a believer due to the fact that the fruit of faith begets the good works we produce. Faith, therefore, becomes a living and transformative ordinance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Mere belief is not transformative nor salvific. Nor is knowledge and understanding.
Talmage utilizes the scriptural evidence of how the demons had belief in and knowledge of Jesus Christ - it did not transform them from their nature. It is the same with us. If all we have is belief and knowledge of who Christ is, the attributes of God, and yet are not compelled to change our mindset and attitude - we will continue in the same way of living life. And sadly, there are those who go through the rituals and motions, believing and having some knowledge that they are saved and faithfully obedient without any significant transformation occurring in their life.
Foundation of Faith
According to James E. Talmage he states this: primarily, and in a theological sense, we are considering faith as a living, inspiring confidence in God, and an acceptance of His will as our law, and of His words as our guide, in life. He further observes that faith in God is possible only as we come to know that He exists, and moreover, that He is a being of worthy character and attributes. Faith is key to eternal life in that it leads us to come to know the Father and Jesus Christ whom the Father has sent (See John 17:3). This understanding of faith surpasses mere belief in and knowledge of God and Christ. It is the principle of power of Christian truth.
Foundation of faith as a principle power in the Christian life is not asking the question What do you think of Christ? It is asking the question What are you willing to do because of Christ? See, anyone is capable of answering the question about what they think of Christ. Whether or not they are Christian. Here is what Talmage teaches:
In its broad sense, faith—the assurance of things for which we hope, and the evidence of things not discernible through our senses—is the motive principle that impels men to resolve and to act. Without its exercise, we would make no exertion the results of which are future; without faith that he may gather in the autumn, man would not plant in the spring; neither would he essay to build, did he not have confidence that he would finish the structure and enjoy its use; had the student no faith in the possibility of successfully following his studies he would not enter upon his courses. Faith thus becomes to us the foundation of hope, from which spring our aspirations, ambitions, and confidences for the future. Remove man's faith in the possibility of any desired success, and you rob him of the incentive to strive. He would not stretch forth his hand to seize did he not believe in the possibility of securing that for which he reaches. This principle becomes therefore the impelling force by which men struggle for excellence, ofttimes enduring vicissitudes and suffering that they may achieve their purposes. Faith is the secret of ambition, the soul of heroism, the motive power of effort.
Articles of Faith - Talmage
One draws from the scriptures how impactful saving faith is on the life of those who have fully given their trust over to God. Not that faith itself is the very source of power in our lives. Our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ is the effectual source of divine aid faith invokes into the heart and mind of the Christian. This is evident when we consider the reality that our Heavenly Father appears to be bound by established and eternal laws that are dependent upon our own faith and obedience.
Let's consider Christ and his mortal ministry. According to Mark 6:5, Christ came into the city of Nazareth. He was not able to perform any miracles, outside of healing a few sick people, because of the unbelief. In other areas where Christ declared, thy faith made the whole, interposition the healing of those individuals because of what they did due to their faith in Christ. In other words, active and effectual faith brings us to draw on the strength and power of Christ. Whereas a lack of faith in our Heavenly Father, and his Only Begotten limits and prohibits us from drawing on their power and strength.
A Condition of Effective Faith
We now turn our attention over to the conditional element of effective faith. Here is what Talmage observes:
A condition essential to the exercise of a living, growing, sustaining faith in Deity is the consciousness on man's part that he is at least endeavoring to live in accordance with the laws of God as he has learned them. A knowledge that he is wilfully and wantonly sinning against the truth will deprive him of sincerity in prayer and faith and estrange him from his Father. He must feel that the trend of his life's course is acceptable, that with due allowance for mortal weakness and human frailty he is in some measure approved of the Lord; otherwise he is restrained from supplicating the throne of grace with confidence. The consciousness of earnest effort toward godly conduct is a power of itself, strengthening its possessor in sacrifice and under persecution, and sustaining him in all good works. It was this knowledge of assured communion with God that enabled the saints of olden time to endure as they did, though their sufferings were extreme. Of them we read that some "were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth." As in former days so in the present, the saints have been sustained through all their sufferings by the sure knowledge of divine approval; and the faith of righteous men has ever grown through a consciousness of their sincere and devoted endeavor.
Articles of Faith - Talmage
Our faith in Christ binds us in unity with Him and the Father. Which in turn, binds us to the eternal laws that Deity is bound by. And these eternal laws and principles that bind us to Christ and our Heavenly Father is effectual when we maintain our covenants we have willingly entered into. Covenants we made at the time of our baptism. Covenants we make when entering into the Temple and take out our endowments and faithfully execute our duties in service to God. Furthermore, when we walk in faithful obedience to all that God has commanded us to do, living out the principle truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ - Our Heavenly Father is bound to the promise of blessing us and enriching our lives. Yet, if we do not walk in faithful obedience to our covenants we have made, our Heavenly Father is bound by eternal laws to chasten us appropriately. And if we are unwilling to yield to the enticing's of the Holy Spirit, we shall suffer condemnation and judgment for our disobedience (See, Mosiah 3:19). In this sense, we become carnally minded.
Scriptures, as well as modern day prophets, reveal that we either become spiritually minded or become carnally minded. The latter references selfishness, pride, foolishness. It is the seat of pride and ego. And it dwells more on the idea of nurturing and satisfying our own personal desires, lusts, and trusting in our own efforts. The object of faith is no longer on God and the desire to obey Him - it is on our own intuition and willingness to obey our own will and desire. On the other hand, a spiritually minded person commits themselves over to following Christ by putting to death the old man (See Romans 6:6-23). It is the act of taking up our cross every day and losing our life for the sake of Christ and the Kingdom of God (See Matthew 16:24-26).
Faith Essential to Salvationand Exaltation
Talmage explains that inasmuch as salvation is attainable only through the mediation and atonement of Jesus Christ, and since this is made applicable to individual sin in the measure of obedience to the laws of righteousness, faith in Jesus Christ is indispensable to salvation. Our faith in the Godhead is just as essential to our salvation and eternal life. What we are to understand from this is the assurance of our salvation that is mediated through the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ is centered on coming to know the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Believing that we shall receive blessings and rewards when we exercise our faith by obeying the requirements that such faith has made quite plain.
Not only is faith essential to salvation. It is also essential to exaltation and the greatest reward and inheritance our Heavenly Father has prepared for those who shall receive it. Establishing our faith in God, knowing who He is, knowing and understanding Christ, and the Holy Spirit provides the motivation to exercise our faith toward spiritual perfection. Again, it unites and binds us to Christ through covenants we faithfully make of our own volition.
Our faith in the Godhead unlocks the power of Christ to perfect us. This is because faith leads to hope and hope leads to charity (Moroni 10:20). And if there is no charity - there is no salvation in the kingdom of God because of a lack of faith and hope (Moroni 10:21). And since our faith in God unlocks the power of Christ in our lives, so that we are perfected in Him, Our Heavenly Father's grace abounds to where we are not able to deny the very power of God (Moroni 10:32).
Thus, through God's divine grace whereby we are perfected in Christ, not able to deny the power of God, we grow in faith toward spiritual perfection because of the efficacy and power of the infinite atonement of Jesus Christ. And it is this covenant whereby we are united and bound to the Father through Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and become spotless before Him (Moroni 10:33).
Faith a Gift of God
The ultimate origin of faith is that as a divine gift of God. There is no other way to attain genuine faith. How one comes by receiving this divine gift is conditioned upon a spirit of humility, sincerity of intent, and being found worthy of it whereby one is given promise to abide by its dictates. What this means is that an individual has a spiritual experience where they are pricked in their heart (See Acts 2:37). A mighty change of heart that compels them to (Mosiah 5:2) desire that which is good. To exercise their faith in doing that which is required of them. And with any gift, we have the volition to either receive it or reject it. There is no excuse.
Here is where the role of the Holy Spirit fulfills the will and purpose of our Heavenly Father. The Saviors promise to the disciples, and by extension to us, is that we shall receive the spirit of truth whereby we will be guided into all truth (John 16:13). This may involve:
Declaration of truth to our hearts and minds of the realty of Jesus Christ and the atonement
Declaration of truth of our state of sinfulness and need of redemption
Declaration of truth to the reality of God and the power of His authority over our lives
Bearing testimony and illuminating the truth to our hearts and minds - we receive the gift of faith to trust in Christ and seek to do that which is required of us.
Faith and Works
The reality and testimony of the scriptures cannot be ignored. By asking the right question - What are you to do with Christ? The answer is simple: Follow Him. It is the Savior's call to come unto him. It is the call of the apostles to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins. It is the call to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit as a constant companion and guide in order to grow in faith, become perfected in Christ, and to receive the blessings of salvation and eternal life.
Here is what Talmage says:
Faith in a passive sense, that is, as mere belief in the more superficial sense of the term, is inefficient as a means of salvation. This truth was clearly set forth both by Christ and the apostles, and the vigor with which it was declared may be an indication of the early development of a most pernicious doctrine—that of justification by belief alone. The Savior taught that works were essential to the validity of profession and the efficacy of faith.
The Articles of Faith - Talmage
This pernicious doctrine of justification by faith alone is not a true Biblical doctrine. As Talmage points out:
Christ declared that only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 7:21)
Those who keep the commandments loves Christ and shall be loved of the Father and of Christ - who will manifest himself unto them (John14:21)
Dead Faith does nothing to effect the power and strength of Christ nor bring healing and salvation (James 2:14-26)
A true disciple comes to know God and Jesus Christ by keeping the commandments (1 John 2:3-5)
Along with these scriptures, one may add those teachings found in the Book of Mormon and modern-day Prophets and Apostles. All affirming the spiritual truth and reality of Faith and the necessity of works in the life of a true disciple of Jesus Christ. Per Talmage, this counters the current and prevailing doctrines and dogmas of men that have promulgated to the effect that by faith alone may salvation be attained, and that a wordy profession of belief shall open the doors of heaven to the sinner. Such idea and doctrine give false assurances and denies the power and efficacy of true faith.
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