We celebrated Daylight Savings by neglecting to reset the clocks and missing Sacrament Meeting. Apparently this was a widespread celebration in our ward, with less than half making it to the meeting on time. I sense a family tradition in the making here.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Amos was no prophet's son
In a vision given to Amos, the Lord showed him a plumb line. This was the method used to establish a straight wall. (Amos 7: 7-9.) When Amos delivered the message he received, the king threatened him. Amos' answer was succinct: "I was no prophet, neither was I a prophet's son; but I was an herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit; And the Lord took me as I followed the flock, and the Lord said unto me, go, prophesy unto my people Israel. Now therefore hear thou the word of the Lord: Thou sayest, Prophesy not against Israel, and drop not they word against the house of Isaac. Therefore thus saith the Lord; They wife shall be an harlot in the city, and thy sons and they daughters shall fall by the sword, and they land shall be divided by line; and thou shalt die in a polluted land: and Israel shall surely go into captivity forth of his land." (Amos 7: 14-17.)
Prophets in the past have come from obscure places. They quite often resisted delivering a message which the audience wanted to hear. Instead they corrected the behavior of a fallen people. There were no opinion polls, no focus groups to shape the message they delivered. Their words corrected, jarred, condemned and served as a warning which could allow the faithful to change the path they were on whenever needed. The Apostle Paul coined a term for teachers who taught doctrines that reassured those who ought to be condemned. He said such people "heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears." (2 Tim. 4: 3.) I presume "heap" means they get quite a few of them.
I'm pleased we live in a day of living prophets again, and that we receive stern warnings from time to time from those who know the Lord. Such occasions provide us all the opportunity to be warned, repent, change our ways and approach nearer the mark of the high calling of God, in Christ Jesus. (Philip. 3: 14.)
Prophets in the past have come from obscure places. They quite often resisted delivering a message which the audience wanted to hear. Instead they corrected the behavior of a fallen people. There were no opinion polls, no focus groups to shape the message they delivered. Their words corrected, jarred, condemned and served as a warning which could allow the faithful to change the path they were on whenever needed. The Apostle Paul coined a term for teachers who taught doctrines that reassured those who ought to be condemned. He said such people "heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears." (2 Tim. 4: 3.) I presume "heap" means they get quite a few of them.
I'm pleased we live in a day of living prophets again, and that we receive stern warnings from time to time from those who know the Lord. Such occasions provide us all the opportunity to be warned, repent, change our ways and approach nearer the mark of the high calling of God, in Christ Jesus. (Philip. 3: 14.)
Shepherds of Israel
In Ezekiel 34: 11-12 it is written: "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds: woe be unto the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock."
This description could be applied with several layers of meaning. However, the one I like best is the interpretation which relates "feeding" to teaching truths. Shepherds were given the calling of teaching the "flocks" of Israel higher truths which would exalt them. However, they instead focused their ministry upon things which were trivial, did not raise the inner lives of the "flocks," and stirred up those who followed them into envy and strife. These shepherds were unworthy, condemned with the pronouncement of "woe" upon them and warned by the prophet.
Fortunately, Ezekiel's message goes on to promise that in the latter-days the Lord will "both search [His] sheep, and seek them out. As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day." (34: 11-12.) We are in that latter-day time now. He is seeking. But notice that throughout the description of His latter-day work, He alone takes credit for finding and feeding. (34: 13-17.)
When He has gathered enough to establish again His kingdom, He will then make a new day in which "my servant David" will be the "one shepherd" over them, in that Millennial Day. (34: 22-24.)
We're supposed to be getting gathered now in anticipation of becoming numerous enough for there to be a Millennial King provided for us. We're supposed to be in contact with the Lord as He alone gathers us in this latter-day. It is a glorious vision for which we should rejoice.
Explanation
Just a short word of explanation:
I write all the posts and the reply comments which go onto the blog. However, I do not have time to maintain the site itself. My wife does all the posting, editing, maintaining, etc. She takes the comments I write and puts them into the blog itself. Therefore, when you are reading anything on this site from me, you are reading what she has mechanically put into the site using the forms, etc. required to make it work. I appreciate very much the time she devotes to doing this, because I simply cannot take that time at present to do it myself.
I write all the posts and the reply comments which go onto the blog. However, I do not have time to maintain the site itself. My wife does all the posting, editing, maintaining, etc. She takes the comments I write and puts them into the blog itself. Therefore, when you are reading anything on this site from me, you are reading what she has mechanically put into the site using the forms, etc. required to make it work. I appreciate very much the time she devotes to doing this, because I simply cannot take that time at present to do it myself.
So, when you send comments they go to her at the blog site, as well as a designated email address, then, when appropriate, she forwards them to me. I will respond to her and she will put them up onto the blog.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Concourses of angels
The object of this mortal existence is to develop faith. We need adversity and a sense of isolation from God in order to develop the character necessary to be like God. There is a test underway. But it is conducted by a benign and friendly heavenly host, whose primary purpose is to develop in us a godly character and charity toward one another.
Men and women may see Christ in vision or in an appearance as a solitary personage. But no person has ever seen God the Father without also seeing a host of others. They are referred to in scriptures as a "heavenly host," or "numerous angels," or "concourses of angels." There is a reason that a company is always shown at the appearance of the Father. You should look into the matter. Within the answer lies a great truth about God the Father.
True and living
The Lord's reference to the Church in a revelation received on November 1, 1831 as "the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth" (D&C 1: 30) was true for the following reasons:
First, the Church was established by revelation, visitations from angels, and delegation of authority.
Second, it was "living" because the authority and gifts were present and unfolding; and new scripture and revelations were being received.
Third, it would continue to grow in knowledge, light and truth as further ordinances and rites were restored.
Finally, it was "true" because it taught the doctrines which gave converts the tools with which they could grow in light and knowledge until the perfect day. (D&C 50: 24.)
The Lord's description in 1831 is what we should aspire to have said about us still, today. But, of course, that would require us to also be "true" and "living" in the same way as the Church in 1831.
Different traditions, different interpretations
In Stephen's testimony just prior to his martyrdom in Acts, he gives an account of Moses which does not appear in our version of the Old Testament. In Stephen's explanation, he attributes to Moses the knowledge that he was going to be a deliverer of Israel even before he killed the Egyptian. (See Acts 7: 24-25.) According to Stephen, Moses was frustrated that the Israelites failed to recognize him as their deliverer.
Our account instead tells us that Moses was called by God, to his surprise. When called, Moses responded: "Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?" (Exo. 3: 11.)
This goes to show that there were different traditions reflected in the biblical accounts. Just as there are references to scriptural books which we no longer possess.
The relevance of personal revelation, and the need for continuing revelation, remain apparent even if you want to understand the very scriptures we believe in. Hence the almost immediate reaction of Joseph and Oliver to receiving the Holy Ghost and how scriptures took on new, even previously hidden meanings. (See JS-H 1: 74.)
I was taught from the New Testament all my childhood by a mother who was a Baptist. When hands were laid upon my head after baptism, I re-read the New Testament and thought it was a new book.
Sampson
I teach the Young Men tomorrow and will be discussing Sampson's life and example. He conforms to one of the great patterns of men sent by the Lord to deliver His people. That often repeated pattern includes:
- A couple or woman who cannot bear a child because of some infirmity, age, infertility, barrenness, or lack of marriage.
- A promise made that a son will be sent.
- The woman/couple receive a son despite the infertility problem before.
- The son then comes and plays a role which alters the course of the Lord's people.
This was the case with Abraham and Sarah, to whom Isaac came. Manoah, to whom Sampson came. Elkanah and Hannah, to whom Samuel came. Zechariah and Elizabeth, to whom John was sent. Mary and Joseph, to whom Jesus came.
There have been many others, but their stories are not always recorded or known.
Sampson was a Nazarite, the covenant terms of his dedication to the Lord is set out in Numbers 6. Among other things, a Nazarite was not to cut his hair during the time of the covenant. This was the reason Sampson's hair cutting was so significant. It represented the final break of the covenant.
Sampson was a Messianic figure. He foreshadowed the Lord.
- A couple or woman who cannot bear a child because of some infirmity, age, infertility, barrenness, or lack of marriage.
- A promise made that a son will be sent.
- The woman/couple receive a son despite the infertility problem before.
- The son then comes and plays a role which alters the course of the Lord's people.
This was the case with Abraham and Sarah, to whom Isaac came. Manoah, to whom Sampson came. Elkanah and Hannah, to whom Samuel came. Zechariah and Elizabeth, to whom John was sent. Mary and Joseph, to whom Jesus came.
There have been many others, but their stories are not always recorded or known.
Sampson was a Nazarite, the covenant terms of his dedication to the Lord is set out in Numbers 6. Among other things, a Nazarite was not to cut his hair during the time of the covenant. This was the reason Sampson's hair cutting was so significant. It represented the final break of the covenant.
Sampson was a Messianic figure. He foreshadowed the Lord.
There is a statement in Matthew that Christ was to be called a "Nazarene." (Matt. 2: 23.) That conflicts, however, with the later inquiry of Nathanael recorded in John 1: 46: "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" The more likely statement Matthew was referring to was that the Lord was to be "called a Nazarite" meaning he was under the covenant in Numbers 6.
I've written a parable about the way in which Sampson's life mirrored the Lord's in Ten Parables
. I believe that if we had a full account of the Lord's life we would realize just how much Sampson's life foreshadowed the Lord's. A hint of that is contained in that parable in Ten Parables
.Friday, March 12, 2010
The Lord is in charge
I was asked if there was a day coming when men/women will be required to condemn those in the church whose conduct does not measure up. I responded:
There is certainly a day of separation coming. Angels are already begging to begin that process. The Lord has told them "not yet" but promised them it will happen "by and by" as His preparations continue.
The Lord is in charge. We needn't worry about how His purposes will all be fulfilled. Patience with the larger picture is easier when we realize that for each of us the smaller, individual picture is what is important. We have plenty to do individually to receive our invitation into the Church of the Firstborn. As we do what is necessary to receive that invitation, then we will become more effective ministers of salvation for others. Worrying about the salvation of all others before being saved ourselves is a needless thought.
The evil of this day is sufficient (Matt. 6: 34) because it really is enough to live well one day at a time. Eternity will be composed of living well one day. For God all is as one day. (Alma 40: 8.) When we have done that, we are ready to receive eternity. Until then, worrying about the larger and more chaotic picture of what is going on keeps us from changing the only environment over which we have any influence or control. That is the environment of our hearts.
The Lord is in charge. We needn't worry about how His purposes will all be fulfilled. Patience with the larger picture is easier when we realize that for each of us the smaller, individual picture is what is important. We have plenty to do individually to receive our invitation into the Church of the Firstborn. As we do what is necessary to receive that invitation, then we will become more effective ministers of salvation for others. Worrying about the salvation of all others before being saved ourselves is a needless thought.
The evil of this day is sufficient (Matt. 6: 34) because it really is enough to live well one day at a time. Eternity will be composed of living well one day. For God all is as one day. (Alma 40: 8.) When we have done that, we are ready to receive eternity. Until then, worrying about the larger and more chaotic picture of what is going on keeps us from changing the only environment over which we have any influence or control. That is the environment of our hearts.
Accuser of our brethren
There is really no reason to complain about the church. That is a role I would never want to assume. Satan's title is "the accuser of our brethren" (Rev. 12: 10). Of what does he accuse them? The answer is of all their natural failings, mistakes, shortcomings and errors. We are all ample examples of such shortcomings. No matter how good a life we may lead, we all fall short. The answer to this problem is not to accuse others but to forgive them. We cloak others in a robe of charity, and we in turn merit charity.
This is why Christ requires us to forgive all others. We get forgiveness as we give forgiveness to others. There is an extensive discussion of this in Come, Let Us Adore Him. It is true doctrine.
I think avoiding the role of "accuser" and filling the role of patient forbearance with others' shortcomings is the only wise course in life.
Posted by the moderator (she thinks it important)
I think this is interesting history. I should like to know more of this kind of thing.
_________________________________
Joseph Smith, by revelation, established two presiding offices: The President of the High Priesthood and the Patriarch of the Church. The President (Joseph Smith) presided. But the Patriarch stood by with keys to ordain the next President and provide for orderly transition from one President to the next.
The Patriarchal office is by lineage or descent. That way it cannot be stolen by an interloper; thereby creating a separation of power inside the one Church (or kingdom).
Joseph became President through divine ordination by the Lord and messengers sent by the Lord.
Brigham Young was sustained as President, relying upon his ordination as an Apostle.
John Taylor was also sustained, relying also upon his ordination as an Apostle.
These precedents were relied upon through Joseph F. Smith, who had an ordinance/ordination accompany his assumption of the office of President of the Church. That ordination was performed by his half-brother, John Smith, the Patriarch of the Church.
Heber J. Grant was conflicted about the Patriarch because he considered himself a descendant of Joseph Smith by sealing and the Patriarch was competition to that; and therefore he did not want the Patriarch to ordain him president. He had the Twelve ordain him. He also initiated the name change from "Presiding Patriarch" to "Patriarch to the Church."
The Patriarchal office is by lineage or descent. That way it cannot be stolen by an interloper; thereby creating a separation of power inside the one Church (or kingdom).
Joseph became President through divine ordination by the Lord and messengers sent by the Lord.
Brigham Young was sustained as President, relying upon his ordination as an Apostle.
John Taylor was also sustained, relying also upon his ordination as an Apostle.
These precedents were relied upon through Joseph F. Smith, who had an ordinance/ordination accompany his assumption of the office of President of the Church. That ordination was performed by his half-brother, John Smith, the Patriarch of the Church.
Heber J. Grant was conflicted about the Patriarch because he considered himself a descendant of Joseph Smith by sealing and the Patriarch was competition to that; and therefore he did not want the Patriarch to ordain him president. He had the Twelve ordain him. He also initiated the name change from "Presiding Patriarch" to "Patriarch to the Church."
Heber J. Grant's practice continued thereafter.
Interestingly the term "Prophet" was not applied to a living man holding the office of "President of the Church" until 1955, during the administration of David O. McKay. The term "Prophet" until that time always meant exclusively Joseph Smith, and not the office holder of President. Before then it was "President Young" and "President Taylor" and "President Woodruff" and so on. However, in 1955 the Church News began a new practice of referring to the living President McKay as a "Prophet." It was felt that changing the reference to the living President would result in quicker acceptance of direction from him, and less criticism of the President. (President Grant was the most unpopular Church President in the Church's history, and that was something they hoped to avoid happening again.) It worked. No-one wants to reject counsel from a living prophet of God.
So since that time the practice has been for living Presidents to continue to be referred to by the title "Prophet" by all General Authorities and other leaders. However, I have noticed that the President never refers to himself as "Prophet" in any declaration I have been able to find. He accepts that term as used by others, but does not apply it to himself.
The recorded times when a Church President was asked if he was "a Prophet" include testimony by Joseph F. Smith when asked by the Senate Committee in the hearings to seat Senator Smoot. His response was "my people sustain me as such." President McKay was asked by a reporter and his response was "look me in the eye and tell me I'm not a prophet." President Lee essentially repeated the same response to a reporter as President McKay. And when he was interviewed by the Press President Hinckley essentially repeated Joseph F. Smith's response, saying in effect: "I'm sustained by the Church as such." There may be others, but those are the ones I recall at the moment.
All of which is, I suppose, interesting history. I of course, sustain as "prophets, seers and revelators" the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve every Ward Conference, Stake Conference, General Conference and temple recommend interview.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
It's YOUR eternal salvation
When it comes to the subject of one's eternal salvation, I can't understand why someone would simply trust others and leave it to them to tell them what is necessary. I should think everyone would study this matter night and day, and reach their own conclusion about what is important, what is not, what will save, and what is simply foolishness.
Joseph said he advised all to go on and search deeper and deeper into the mysteries of God. Alma said about the same thing in Alma 12: 9-11.
When it comes to sacred knowledge, the absence of curiosity and relentless inquiry is evidence of apathy and indifference. Joseph posed the question in the Lectures on Faith
of how we can hope to inherit the same reward as the ancients without following the same path as they did. Great question, that. Brings to mind Abraham's description of his own relentless search to find God in Abraham 1: 2. I think that is the formula. As is also D&C 93: 1.
Joseph said he advised all to go on and search deeper and deeper into the mysteries of God. Alma said about the same thing in Alma 12: 9-11.
When it comes to sacred knowledge, the absence of curiosity and relentless inquiry is evidence of apathy and indifference. Joseph posed the question in the Lectures on Faith
of how we can hope to inherit the same reward as the ancients without following the same path as they did. Great question, that. Brings to mind Abraham's description of his own relentless search to find God in Abraham 1: 2. I think that is the formula. As is also D&C 93: 1.
Judgment
Since the Lord reserves to Himself alone the final judgment (3 Ne. 27: 27) I think we overstep our privileges when we presume our judgment of others is our right. In fact, the irony of judging while holding priesthood office is that the one judging may be the one really on trial. They hold office, are given "keys" and are upheld by other saints to see whether they will execute the assignment in conformity with D&C 121, using gentleness, meekness, persuasion, kindness and love unfeigned. If they don't, they fail the test, and in the process establish the criteria and means by which they will be judged.
Ironically, the one judging is the one really on trial, and the one being judged will be a witness against (or for) them.
Things are different than we think. And that is as it should be. Otherwise the hearts of men could not be put on display here in this life, and the proving that this estate was designed to accomplish would fail.
We should be afraid to hold office over others. We should have pity or compassion for those who are called to these positions. Instead, we envy those who hold offices in the church. Nephi counseled against this. (2 Ne. 26: 21.)
Now is the great day of deception when darkness covers so much of the social order that madness reigns. If you just turned the light on and saw our day as clearly as Nephi did you'd marvel at the abundant foolishness, vanity and errors we entertain. To do that you only need to read what Nephi wrote and realize he's talking to and about US; not those who will never read the book.
We're being tested. More importantly, I'm being tested. So I need to "work out my salvation with fear and trembling before the Lord" just as Paul suggested. (Philip. 2: 12.)
Things are different than we think. And that is as it should be. Otherwise the hearts of men could not be put on display here in this life, and the proving that this estate was designed to accomplish would fail.
We should be afraid to hold office over others. We should have pity or compassion for those who are called to these positions. Instead, we envy those who hold offices in the church. Nephi counseled against this. (2 Ne. 26: 21.)
Now is the great day of deception when darkness covers so much of the social order that madness reigns. If you just turned the light on and saw our day as clearly as Nephi did you'd marvel at the abundant foolishness, vanity and errors we entertain. To do that you only need to read what Nephi wrote and realize he's talking to and about US; not those who will never read the book.
We're being tested. More importantly, I'm being tested. So I need to "work out my salvation with fear and trembling before the Lord" just as Paul suggested. (Philip. 2: 12.)
Do we have a guarantee?
I've been thinking about the "guarantee" we have as Latter-day Saints that God takes peculiar delight in us. We're His "chosen" and He looks down from heaven and grins broadly when He considers our enlightened advantage over our fellowman. I'm not sure I can reconcile that happy view of our circumstances with His frank assessment of us in D&C 112: 23-26.
I'm thinking that the first order of the day for me is repentance.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Patriarch
When I first joined the church we sustained the Patriarch of the Church, along with the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve as a "Prophet, Seer and Revelator." I would expect that at some point Patriarch Smith will be succeeded by his oldest, direct, descendant, unless there is still a living sibling of his upon whom the office would devolve (which I doubt).
When the office was established, it formed an independent line of priesthood authority. This line was not be dependent upon selection by temporary office holders drawn from many family lines. Instead the Smith family, through whom the church was restored, would hold this hereditary office forever. It will be interesting to see how this office is handled in the future.
Seriously
There's an article which estimates that 16% of the population (teens to 49 yrs.) of the United States has genital herpes. You can read it here:http://www.reuters.com/
Now there's an advertisement for the law of chastity....
or anti-itch Gold Bond...
or a wire hair brush to scratch with....
The woman/man has not been born who is worth forfeiting what is lost by breaking covenants with the Lord.
Powerful doctrines
I've been reading Alma's teachings on priesthood in Alma 13. There are some startling things in there. We underestimate the depth of doctrine preserved in the Book of Mormon. Pre-earth life is unmistakably taught there.
Ordination to the high priesthood reckons from before the foundation of the earth. Power in that priesthood is derived from heaven (as D&C 121 teaches).
These powerful doctrines are not even imagined by other faiths or traditions. Among us it is hardly understood, and we possess the scriptures that teach it.
These powerful doctrines are not even imagined by other faiths or traditions. Among us it is hardly understood, and we possess the scriptures that teach it.
Patriarch Smith
The Patriarch of the Church is Eldred G. Smith, now aged 103 years. His office used to ordain the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints using the hereditary priesthood line running back to Father Smith, Joseph and Hyrum.
Eldred G. Smith was made Emeritus in 1979, but continues to have an office in the Church Office Building.
a little leaven
Sometimes it is the thinnest of threads which keeps a people from judgment. A "little leaven" or a "little salt" can save a whole lump. The want of "five righteous" has and can destroy a whole city. When you consider so thin a thread as that, you must surely realize there are no private sins. Each life has cosmic meaning.
Christ's victory
Christ's great victory was won by this simple formula: "He suffered temptations but gave no heed unto them." (D&C 20: 22.)
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Ordinances
Oddly, ordinances were intended to communicate an inner message of redemption and holiness. Instead, they get looked upon as credentials. They aren't. Possession of ordinances without inner holiness is meaningless. On the other hand, D&C 137 shows that possession of inner holiness, while lacking the ordinances, will not be an impediment. (We can send anyone with a card to the temple to take care of the ordinances. But how infrequent it is that we produce a redeemed and acceptable soul to our God and Father.)
All things bear tesimony
In reflecting back on John Pratt's recent article on Venus and its tie to the Lord's life, I have concluded that the phrase "under the earth" as used in Moses 6: 63 is referring to the cycles of the "wandering stars" or planets. It does not refer to the subterranean composition of the earth's mantle.
Venus disappears on the horizon, taking it "under the earth." Then it reappears again, symbolizing the resurrection of the Lord. Venus being the great symbol of Christ, as John Pratt has shown.
As Val Brinkerhoff has also shown in his The Day Star - Reading Sacred Architecture
volumes, the orbit of Venus tracks a pentagram in the sky over it's eight year cycle.
volumes, the orbit of Venus tracks a pentagram in the sky over it's eight year cycle. Toyotas and light beer are of more interest to us than the procession of the equinoxes through the zodiac. All things do bear testimony of God. But we prefer the billboards on the side of the highway.
Reincarnation
Yesterday at lunch I heard a great line from the Maharaja: "Reincarnation is only for the ignorant." Made me laugh.
Equinox
The Vernal Equinox is Saturday, March 20th. It is that moment that arrives every year where everything is in balance, light and dark are balanced and nature everywhere from pole to pole is showered equally with the light and life of heaven. It occurs twice a year, and not again until the Autumnal Equinox in the Fall.
The First Vision aligned with the Spring, the date of which is not recorded. However, as Michael Quinn noted in his work (using borrowed research), the Smith family in general and Joseph in particular, would have associated power with the event. It is not unlikely that the First Vision occurred on the Vernal Equinox, just as Moroni's visits always coincided with the Autumnal Equinox.
For our day, the Autumnal Equinox is the more significant. The Vernal is associated with life, birth, beginnings, restoration and newness. The Autumnal is associated with death, closing, judgment and endings. We live on the cusp of the end times. Though there remain a great many things to be done, our era is the time when history is about to close out.
Observing the Vernal, Autumnal and Solstices was something done from ancient times, in ceremony and in ritual. Whole cities were built aligned to the cardinal directions of the compass and the lights of heaven. The lights of heaven were given to us first as "signs" and secondly as "seasons."
Observing the Vernal, Autumnal and Solstices was something done from ancient times, in ceremony and in ritual. Whole cities were built aligned to the cardinal directions of the compass and the lights of heaven. The lights of heaven were given to us first as "signs" and secondly as "seasons."
Don't let them pass by unnoticed. Otherwise you note less than even the plants and the animals whose life cycles and behavior acknowledge the passing of such events.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Raising the Bar
The name of the policy which eliminates a large population of desirous young men from serving a mission was really unfortunate. "Raising The Bar" implies that these young men do not measure up.
Repentant young men who have been involved with serious sexual transgressions during their teens are by and large denied the opportunity to serve. So, also, are young men with medical conditions which require significant treatment or medications.
As a result of this program, there have been tens of thousands of young men who have not served. The missionary force dropped from the high 60,000's to the low 50,000's and has remained there. Those who have been excluded who wanted to serve have quite often felt judged and alienated as a result. Many have either left activity or left the church altogether. They form a body numbering now in excess of 100,000, and as they marry, have children, and raise their posterity outside the church they will eventually number in the millions.
Calling this program "Raising The Bar" has essentially precluded a change. You can't "Lower The Bar" without seeming foolish, or to invite 'ner do well's.
I've seen what this program has done to young men who wanted to serve, and who would have been allowed to serve before the program was announced. I've tried to overcome their sense of rejection by the church, and have succeeded in only one case. The others have essentially all told me that the church had rejected them and therefore they intended to stay away.
Nadab and Abihu
I was asked about the relationship between Nadab and Abihu's death and the Day of Atonement ceremony. I responded as follows:
Remember that these two saw the Lord in sacred space (on top of Sinai with Moses) earlier in their lives. (Exo. 24: 9-11)
Despite their earlier audience with the Lord, they were not authorized to enter the Holy of Holies. Only the chosen High Priest, and then once an year, only on the Day of Atonement. (Lev. Chapter 16; 23: 26-32.)
They entered into the Holy of Holies when they were not authorized, and burned incense contrary to the Day of Atonement ceremony. They were not authorized to be there nor to do what they did. Therefore they were struck down. (Lev. 10: 1-3.) The Lord reminded Moses after their death that those who are going to enter into that place must be "sanctified" before entering, hence the Day of Atonement ceremony being a prerequisite for entry.
Later Jewish tradition required the High Priest to have a rope tied to his ankle when he entered the Holy of Holies, so that his body could be recovered if he were struck down without the necessity of others entering the room.
Genius
Joseph Smith was the first, great restorer of lost light in this Dispensation. He restored doctrine, authority, ordinances, scriptures and the organization for the Church. His ministry was one of the greatest among men in any age.
The second great restorer was, in my view, Hugh Nibley. He shed light on antiquity using the scholar's tools while calibrating the recovery of ancient truth using the restored doctrine, authority, ordinances and scriptures which Joseph had bequeathed him. Hugh Nibley's legacy as a restorer of lost truth from the past is second only to Joseph Smith's.
Joseph's genius was unique and inspired. So was Hugh Nibley's. In the case of Hugh Nibley, he inspired a whole generation of students and produced a small army of those who intended to follow his example. It is not as easy as it seems, however. From scholarly disciples, to FARMS to now the Maxwell Institute, the effort has produced some good fruit. but you cannot institutionalize genius. The great contribution of Brother Nibley is simply something that cannot be replicated or continued.
Genius will always be (as Will Durrant put it while intending to be derisive): "isolated and unruly." It could not be tamed in the schools of Greece, nor can it be captured in the halls of BYU. Credentials will never become a substitute for inspiration.
Amber Dubois
The body of missing 14-year old Amber Dubois was found and positively identified Saturday. Her body was placed in a shallow grave. The morning she disappeared she went to school with a check to pay for a young lamb she intended to raise as part of her membership in the Future Farmer's of America. Her remains were identified using dental records.
During law school we studied sociopathic behavior as part of criminal law. Sociopaths are incapable of empathizing with others and are not at all affected by the harm or pain they cause to others. When you combine sociopathic personalities with sexual disorientation and violence, the lethal combination produced is simply beyond reformation. I do not think it wise to ever release a violent sexual predator back into society. It is still too soon to know, but it appears Amber was the victim of the same sexual offender who was charged with another young woman's murder about a week ago. Amber's body was found by searching the same area as his last known victim. He was out on parole from earlier violent sexual offenses.
I not only mourn Amber's death, but also the incapacity of the criminal system to have protected her and perhaps many other unknown victims yet to be discovered. Release of sociopathic sexual predators from prison should never occur.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
With respect to the leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
I balance my deep respect for these men, and profound awareness that no-one is really equal to the burden which WE impose upon them, with the knowledge that I alone am responsible for confirming through revelation all truth. Now, I say "the burden which WE impose upon them" to distinguish between what the Lord and scriptures says are their duties on the one hand, and the mythological duties which we have put upon them. The scriptures and the Lord do NOT make them omniscient. As a group the Saints do. That is the first great error, and it is not the leader's error but the saints'.
I've seen many, many mistakes made by the Brethren. But I loved them and sustained them and have refrained from being overtly critical of them.
It is not an institution which will be saved. Indeed, the institution is doomed to be confined to this world, and not pass into the next. But, it is the individual who will be saved. Individuals, however, must receive what the institution offers to obtain salvation. Therefore respect for the church is necessary. It's role is essential. It's authority from the Lord.
It is not an institution which will be saved. Indeed, the institution is doomed to be confined to this world, and not pass into the next. But, it is the individual who will be saved. Individuals, however, must receive what the institution offers to obtain salvation. Therefore respect for the church is necessary. It's role is essential. It's authority from the Lord.
My Scriptures
I have several sets of scriptures. The one I prize the most used to be my every-day set. Into this copy I have added only additional cross-references and footnotes. There are no other marks. I suspect that I have added between 11,000 and 15,000 additional cross references and footnotes in red pencil to this set. It has become so valuable a study set that I do not take it out of my home.
I have a "retired" set which is literally falling apart. I used that set to teach from 1980 to 2000. It is tattered, and has very little, if anything, marked or added to it. I keep that set in my desk drawer at work.
I have a "retired" set which is literally falling apart. I used that set to teach from 1980 to 2000. It is tattered, and has very little, if anything, marked or added to it. I keep that set in my desk drawer at work.
Then I have a new set which has become my every-day set. I take it to Church with me.
None of these sets have thumb-indexing on the pages. I HATE that stuff. It distracts me when I use the scriptures. Both of the first two sets were "Type A" sets which Deseret Book used to publish without thumb-indexing. You can't get a "Type A" set like that anymore. I tried. Even talked with the management at Deseret Book. Can't be done.
So I bought a "Type B" set, which is the same paper as a "Type A" but just not genuine leather bound. Much cheaper set. Then I took that set to Schafer Bindery in Salt Lake and had them bind it with a real leather cover. So I have a "Type A" set, without thumb indexing, and it only cost in total about $20 more than if Deseret Book made a proper set and sold them.
Alma 41:15
Alma 41: 15 includes this thought: "For that which you do send out shall return unto you again." Profound thought. I do not believe you have to await the afterlife or Judgment Day to realize the truth of this statement.
Therefore, I try to take care what I "send out" for fear of how it may return unto me again.
IMO (in my opinion)
I think that Alma 41: 8 should be cross referenced with D&C 130: 7.
The footnote at Alma 41: 10b should also include Deuteronomy 32: 8-9.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Wo, wo, wo
Enoch's powerful testimony to his condemned contemporaries included this question: "why counsel ye yourselves , and deny the God of heaven." (Moses 6: 43.) Men in that day preferred to have the counsel of men instead of the word of God, from God.
Nephi spoke of the "Zion" of our time and said: "Wo be unto him that hearkeneth unto the precepts of men, and denieth the power of God, and the gift of the Holy Ghost." (2 Ne. 28: 26.)
Now having one "wo" pronounced upon a people is a warning of condemnation in this life. Their ways do not prosper and they suffer setbacks because they listen to the precepts of men. They fall back. More concerning is when three "wo's" are pronounced upon a people. The connotation being a condemnation which will last beyond this life and into eternity. So I take the following statement with some considerable seriousness:
"[T]hey have all gone astray save it be a few, who are the humble followers of Christ; nevertheless, they are led, that in many instances they do err because they are taught by the precepts of men. O the wise, and the learned, and the rich, that are puffed up in the pride of their hearts, and all those who preach false doctrines, and all those who commit whoredoms, and pervert the right way of the Lord, wo, wo, wo be unto them, saith the Lord God Almighty, for they shall be thrust down to hell." (2 Ne. 28: 14-15.) Three "wo's" pronounced and three names of God used to make that warning. False doctrines and whoredoms are an equivalent in this passage. That is, you are "whoring" after other false gods, and betraying the true Lord God Almighty, when you preach false doctrines which assure you, in your pride, that you are safe, elect, chosen and better than others. Such teachers are condemned three-fold.
What an interesting problem we have in front of us. No-one can trust in any man or men. All of us are required to hear God's voice, and follow Him.
Angels
There is a system by which men learn the mysteries of heaven and are saved. That system is set out in Alma 12: 29-30:
-First, angels are sent to prepare men/women.
-Second, they are allowed to behold the Lord's glory.
-Then they converse with the Lord, at which point they are taught the things which have been prepared from the foundation of the earth for their salvation.
-All of which is driven by the man/woman's faith, repentance and holy works.
-All of which is driven by the man/woman's faith, repentance and holy works.
This is in keeping with Joseph Smith's revelation about those chosen to become a member of the Church of the Firstborn. They are chosen by the holy angels to whom the keys of this power belong. (D&C 77: 11.)
If this isn't happening, then faith does not exist on the earth any longer. (Moroni 7: 37.)
Ministering angels are an indispensable part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That is why those keys were restored so early on in this dispensation, and are so widely disseminated into the Church membership. (See D&C 13 and D&C 107: 20.)
You just never know
Went to baseball practice this morning. My youngest daughter plays on a boy's team (she's the only girl). Today in a scrimmage she was the only one to hit a double.
Institutional charisma
There was an article in the Church News about a symposium at BYU dealing with the "Organization and Administration of the LDS Church." The article can be found here: http://www.ldschurchnews.com/
From the two thousand year example of the Roman Catholic Church, I fear presumptions like these. There is a profound difference between actual revelation and an "expectation of divine revelation ... built into the very administrative structure and offices of the Church." He uses comments from Joseph Smith to support the assertion, while ignoring the revelation in Section 121 cautioning that while many may be called, few are chosen. He ignores the revelation that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority as they suppose they begin to immediately exercise unrighteous dominion. Without confirming revelation given to every member of the Church, as a constant check on abuse, the destiny of Mormonism will be a repeat of the history of Catholicism. A Holy American Empire will replace the Holy Roman Empire, both of which have or will resort to blood and horror as the means to reign over mankind. The bedrock of the Gospel is the testimony of Jesus. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. (Rev. 19:10.) That is the charisma the scriptures tell us to trust.
There is absolutely no historical precedent we can point to which confirms that charisma can be safely institutionalized. There are an abundance of examples, however, of men abusing religion to gain control over others to satisfy their pride, to exercise control and dominion over others, and to gratify their vain ambition. The only check against this are the individual testimonies of the few, humble followers of Christ. Nevertheless, we are told that in our day even they are going to be led into error oftentimes by those who teach them the precepts of men. (2 Ne. 28: 14.)
From the two thousand year example of the Roman Catholic Church, I fear presumptions like these. There is a profound difference between actual revelation and an "expectation of divine revelation ... built into the very administrative structure and offices of the Church." He uses comments from Joseph Smith to support the assertion, while ignoring the revelation in Section 121 cautioning that while many may be called, few are chosen. He ignores the revelation that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority as they suppose they begin to immediately exercise unrighteous dominion. Without confirming revelation given to every member of the Church, as a constant check on abuse, the destiny of Mormonism will be a repeat of the history of Catholicism. A Holy American Empire will replace the Holy Roman Empire, both of which have or will resort to blood and horror as the means to reign over mankind. The bedrock of the Gospel is the testimony of Jesus. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. (Rev. 19:10.) That is the charisma the scriptures tell us to trust.
There is absolutely no historical precedent we can point to which confirms that charisma can be safely institutionalized. There are an abundance of examples, however, of men abusing religion to gain control over others to satisfy their pride, to exercise control and dominion over others, and to gratify their vain ambition. The only check against this are the individual testimonies of the few, humble followers of Christ. Nevertheless, we are told that in our day even they are going to be led into error oftentimes by those who teach them the precepts of men. (2 Ne. 28: 14.)
Friday, March 5, 2010
Heeding the warning
There is an interesting article in Meridian Magazine about the Chilean earthquake. The Mission President and his wife went about preparing the missionaries for the earthquake before it happened. This was because they had received a prior warning. The article can be read here: http://www.ldsmag.com/
What is most interesting to me is that the warning came to the wife, not the husband. He respected her revelation, and they went together to proclaim the warning. Meridian Magazine, which is a Church-owned website published this article. It delights me when there is recognition of the entirely democratic way in which revelation comes to us. And when we find a married couple without jealousy about such things.
What is most interesting to me is that the warning came to the wife, not the husband. He respected her revelation, and they went together to proclaim the warning. Meridian Magazine, which is a Church-owned website published this article. It delights me when there is recognition of the entirely democratic way in which revelation comes to us. And when we find a married couple without jealousy about such things.
A lifetime of service
I do not know President Monson personally. But his history is well known to all of us. He was a Bishop while in his 20's, a Stake President shortly thereafter, and then called in his late 30's to be a member of the Quorum of the Twelve. He worked for Deseret News before becoming a full time General Authority. Essentially his entire life has been church service, both in his profession and in his calling.
If you want to see what The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints would produce if a life were entirely the product of the institution and experiences derived from serving in and under that institution, you have that in President Monson.
It is clear to me that he absolutely trusts the system which produced all his significant life experiences. The last two vacancies in the Twelve were filled by the senior president of the Seventy. This would make Elder Ron Rasband the next one in line to fill a vacancy in the Twelve. He (Elder Rasband) is a member of my stake.
An emphasis on doctrine
In addition to what I posted earlier about baptism rates, there is another number which is somewhat misleading. The total member numbers reported in General Conference never deducts for those who are excommunicated or who voluntarily ask to have their membership terminated. There is likely a doctrinal reason for that. When a person is excommunicated they are re-baptized to return to membership, but they are not re-ordained to the priesthood. They are given a blessing to reinstate their covenants and blessings, including authorization to begin using priesthood again. But they are not re-ordained. Although they are excommunicated, they retain some affiliation despite the severance. Nevertheless, most people do not assume someone who has been excommunicated would be counted in the number of total members, but it is my understanding that they are.
Also, I've heard estimates from as little as 25% to much more than that as the percentage of members for whom the Church has completely lost contact. That is, there is some significant number of members whose membership is so tenuous that the Church has nothing but a record. There is no address, no way to contact them, and no information about whether they are living or deceased. These people continue to be counted in the total membership number despite their complete absence of contact with or from the Church.
With the significantly lower fertility rate, and an aging population, the Church's future will not be anything like the projections of Professor Stark. That is, unless something changes.
I agree that there may be many reasons for the decline. However, the most prominent of reasons in my view is the de-emphasis on doctrine. As a convert to the Church I know what attracted me to become a Mormon. It had nothing to do with the formulaic discussions of the missionaries, slick marketing or good arguments. It had to do with doctrine. I DIDN'T WANT to be a Mormon. Quite the contrary. But I knew I should become a Mormon because their doctrines came from God and answered questions other faiths could not begin to answer.
I'd like to see the trend return to a dramatic increase of numbers. In fact, I think there are many millions in the United States alone who are only kept from the truth because they do not know where to find it. (D&C 123: 12.) We won't attract them to the Church until we begin again to emphasize doctrine.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
True blue, through and through
I've been thinking about an incident in the young life of Joseph F. Smith. He was outside a camp gathering firewood when a group of Mormon-haters rode into camp and scattered all the men. Joseph F. considered running for a moment, but then decided to go confront them. He walked with his armful of firewood back into the camp, right up to an armed man who was cursing the Mormons.
The man bellowed at Joseph F.: "Are you a Mormon?"
The man bellowed at Joseph F.: "Are you a Mormon?"
Joseph responded: "Yes siree; dyed in the wool, true blue, through and through."
The man was so disarmed that he grabbed Joseph F.'s hand and told him he was the "pleasantest man I ever met!" (with a few obscenities mixed in.)
I like that story. I consider myself a "true blue, through and through Mormon." Despite that, I know we have problems and many flaws. The scriptures foretell our many deficiencies. But human weaknesses and shortcomings are no impediment to the Divine origin of Mormonism; nor its ultimate destiny.
I think it is an error to have an unreasonably high opinion of ourselves. Conversely, it is an error to conclude that all is lost because of our shortcomings. We are full of sins and errors, slogging along making institutional and individual errors daily. But we are also, institutionally and individually, called to be involved in God's work to redeem His children. He loves us all, with a love which can overcome our many failures.
How beautiful upon the mountains
The feet of those who walk upon the mountains crying peace are beautiful (Isa. 52:7) because they are clean from the blood and sins of their generation.
In the ancient ceremonies involving animal sacrifice, blood was shed upon the ground and the feet of those involved in the rites became bloody. The blood of the sacrifice upon the feet became a symbol of the sins for which the sacrifice was offered.
The feet of those who walk upon the mountains crying peace are cleansed from that blood. Christ's washing of His Apostles' feet was to symbolize this cleansing which He alone could provide. He employs no servant to provide such a cleansing. (2 Ne. 9: 41.) These feet, washed by Him are, therefore, beautiful because they connote the sanctity of the one crying peace.
"Crying peace" because the only thing which stills the mind of man, and brings rest from the trouble of this world, is the atonement of Christ. That is why it is called "the rest of the Lord." When cleansed, it becomes the consuming desire of those who are clean to bring others to partake. Just like Lehi's dream, when those who had eaten of the fruit of the tree of life ate, they immediately invited others to come and join them.
"Upon the mountains" because the mountain is nature's symbol of the ascent to God. The climb represents repentance and purification of the soul. When a person stands upon the top of the mountain, she appears to be part of heaven itself and no longer earthbound. Her profile is with the sky, symbolizing the completion of the ascent back to God.
It is beautiful. All of it is beautiful. All of it is a reflection of the purity and intelligence of God, whose ways are higher than man's ways as the heavens are higher than the earth. (Isa. 55: 8-9.)
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Repent and Come Unto Me
There is this interesting statement by the Lord found in D&C 10:67-68: “Behold, this is my doctrine—whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church. Whosoever declareth more or less than this, the same is not of me, but is against me; therefore he is not of my church.”
The statement requires us to
1. Repent, and then
2. Come unto Christ.
Repentance is a lifelong process. As we get further light and knowledge we have to incorporate it into our lives and change behavior. Over a lifetime, this should be dynamic, not static.
The more difficult explanation is to "Come unto Him." It is my view that this includes fully receiving Him into your life as did the brother of Jared, Nephi, Enos, Enoch, Abraham, Moses, Joseph Smith, Daniel, Isaiah, Jacob, Mormon, Moroni, Alma the Younger, Paul, and so many others who have testified of Him. That is a subject so great that the entire body of scriptures exist to help us accomplish it.
Significant, too, is that whatever is "more or less" than this is not "of my church" according to the Lord. So we have to take great care to not overstate or understate this doctrine of His. Adding endless requirements by the commandments of men is "against Him." Similarly, any failure to declare the essential nature of coming to Him is also "against Him." I think the first verse of D&C 93 is a formula for coming to Him. That formula declares that, when it is followed, you will see His face and know that He is.
Declining Numbers
There was an article on Mormon Times about the declining baptism rate the Church is experiencing. The article can be found at: http://www.mormontimes.com/
The prophecy of Daniel was that the stone cut out of the mountains without hands would roll forth, grind to dust the prior world orders, become a great mountain, and fill the whole earth. (Daniel 2: 34-35.) Daniel's interpretation included that God will establish a kingdom in the latter days which shall never be destroyed, nor left to other people. It will break into pieces and consume all other kingdoms and stand forever. (Id. verses 44-45.)
To the extent the Church claims to be this kingdom, or rock rolling forth, it should be expected to increase in size, and momentum, as it rolls forth to fill the earth.
The Church ceased to distinguish between baptisms for "children of record" and "converts" some years ago. Numbers are given in April General Conference. Last April's conference statistical report included this statement: "Converts Baptized: 265,593." There was a separate category for "Children of Record." but there was no separate category for "Baptisms of Children of Record." That used to be a separate category. Since it's elimination, I have had the impression that "Converts Baptized" included all numbers, including baptisms of "Children of Record." If that is so, then for the last recorded numbers of baptisms you would need to go back to eight years earlier, take the number of Children of Record, and subtract that number from the "Converts Baptized number to get the actual number of Converts. Eight years earlier from the number given in last General Conference, the statistical report announced that there was an increase of 81,450 Children of Record. So the actual number of baptisms of Converts alone would be 184,143. That appears to me to be the real number of Converts, exclusive of baptisms of Children of Record.
Now the Church hasn't provided this separate number for Children of Record for about a decade now. And I can't be certain that the "Converts Baptized" category is actually an amalgamation of the two. But I think it is. If so, the decline from the time of President Kimball to today is more than significant, it is catastrophic.
I believe the only reason to convert to our faith is our doctrine. Since the Church has de-emphasized doctrine, the trend of lowering missionary success has confirmed my belief in the necessity of teaching doctrine. Not just in the Teach My Gospel program, but in every aspect of the Church, from Sunday School and Primary to Stake and General Conferences. Doctrine is what distinguishes us.
Deseret Book has actually told me that "doctrine books do not sell." They are interested in fiction, which can be read in one or two settings.
The prophecy of Daniel was that the stone cut out of the mountains without hands would roll forth, grind to dust the prior world orders, become a great mountain, and fill the whole earth. (Daniel 2: 34-35.) Daniel's interpretation included that God will establish a kingdom in the latter days which shall never be destroyed, nor left to other people. It will break into pieces and consume all other kingdoms and stand forever. (Id. verses 44-45.)
To the extent the Church claims to be this kingdom, or rock rolling forth, it should be expected to increase in size, and momentum, as it rolls forth to fill the earth.
The Church ceased to distinguish between baptisms for "children of record" and "converts" some years ago. Numbers are given in April General Conference. Last April's conference statistical report included this statement: "Converts Baptized: 265,593." There was a separate category for "Children of Record." but there was no separate category for "Baptisms of Children of Record." That used to be a separate category. Since it's elimination, I have had the impression that "Converts Baptized" included all numbers, including baptisms of "Children of Record." If that is so, then for the last recorded numbers of baptisms you would need to go back to eight years earlier, take the number of Children of Record, and subtract that number from the "Converts Baptized number to get the actual number of Converts. Eight years earlier from the number given in last General Conference, the statistical report announced that there was an increase of 81,450 Children of Record. So the actual number of baptisms of Converts alone would be 184,143. That appears to me to be the real number of Converts, exclusive of baptisms of Children of Record.
Now the Church hasn't provided this separate number for Children of Record for about a decade now. And I can't be certain that the "Converts Baptized" category is actually an amalgamation of the two. But I think it is. If so, the decline from the time of President Kimball to today is more than significant, it is catastrophic.
I believe the only reason to convert to our faith is our doctrine. Since the Church has de-emphasized doctrine, the trend of lowering missionary success has confirmed my belief in the necessity of teaching doctrine. Not just in the Teach My Gospel program, but in every aspect of the Church, from Sunday School and Primary to Stake and General Conferences. Doctrine is what distinguishes us.
Deseret Book has actually told me that "doctrine books do not sell." They are interested in fiction, which can be read in one or two settings.
Judging
When Christ made His Twelve Disciples in the Americas "judges" over those people in the great Day of Judgment, He did not empower them to use their own discretion to reward or punish others. He said they would judge others "according to the judgment which I shall give unto you, which shall be just." (3 Ne. 27: 27.) That same standard would apply to His Twelve Apostles in the New Testament. (See Matt. 19: 28.) Christ Himself will provide the decision for us all; those Twelve will have the honor of announcing it.
I've often thought that with the standard set by the Lord in the Sermon on the Mount ("Judge not, that ye be not judged, for with what judgment ye judge ye shall be judged" - Matt. 2: 1-2), that any time a person is given the opportunity, they should forgive others, just as Christ admonished us. (See Matt. 6: 14-15.)
Those who think presiding over a ward or stake gives them an opportunity to dominate others are taking an extraordinary risk against their own eternal interests. My counsel would be to err on the side of forgiving, and never on the side of condemning. Even the woman taken in the act of adultery was told by the Lord: "neither do I condemn thee." (See John 8: 1-11.)
Christ's teachings were meant to be applied internally to check our own behavior. Not externally as a means to judge or condemn others. If you see something amiss in other's conduct, then persuade them by your example to be better. Lectures are almost always useless. An example is compelling.
I've often thought that with the standard set by the Lord in the Sermon on the Mount ("Judge not, that ye be not judged, for with what judgment ye judge ye shall be judged" - Matt. 2: 1-2), that any time a person is given the opportunity, they should forgive others, just as Christ admonished us. (See Matt. 6: 14-15.)
Those who think presiding over a ward or stake gives them an opportunity to dominate others are taking an extraordinary risk against their own eternal interests. My counsel would be to err on the side of forgiving, and never on the side of condemning. Even the woman taken in the act of adultery was told by the Lord: "neither do I condemn thee." (See John 8: 1-11.)
Christ's teachings were meant to be applied internally to check our own behavior. Not externally as a means to judge or condemn others. If you see something amiss in other's conduct, then persuade them by your example to be better. Lectures are almost always useless. An example is compelling.
Temple Work
In relation to the world's population there are statistically fewer LDS each year. Our birth rate is declining and our baptism rate does not even begin to keep up with world population growth. In other words, each year there is far more temple work to be done than there was the year before.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Conference on Chiasmus
Yvonne Bent has been researching sacred geometry for over ten years. As a result of her research, she submitted an art project that was displayed in the Church's 8th International Art contest at the LDS Conference Center in Salt Lake City. A photo of her work was in the Ensign magazine, as well.
Added to her study of the Articles of Faith and sacred geometry, a milestone connection was made to demonstrate the same pattern as we see in the Hebrew literary style called chiasmus appearing in other fields and even in nature itself.
Yvonne Bent has organized a conference on May 15, 2010 at the Rose Wagner Auditorium in downtown Salt Lake City to have various presenters address conference attendees on the widespread sacred patternism, including chiasmus. She invited me to speak, and I will be among those who will participate in the program.
Yvonne Bent has organized a conference on May 15, 2010 at the Rose Wagner Auditorium in downtown Salt Lake City to have various presenters address conference attendees on the widespread sacred patternism, including chiasmus. She invited me to speak, and I will be among those who will participate in the program.
The conference will consist of lectures from persons who have discovered remarkable chiastic patterns in art, literature, architecture, science and math. In the evening there will be a concert to demonstrate the chiasm pattern in music.
I do not yet have the final information about the event, but thought I'd put this brief announcement on the blog for those who may be interested.
His Words are Commandments
A great resource for understanding how to gain eternal life is found in D&C 1: 38. The Lord's word is law. What He says will not return void. It will all be fulfilled.
Immediately following his father's death, Moroni writes concerning the plates his father had made, which he was then completing. He recorded that the plates are "of no worth" in an economic sense, because of the Lord's "commandment." (Mormon 8: 14.) He says the Lord had spoken the words: "no one shall have them to get gain." (Id.) This means that since the Lord had spoken that the gold plates could not be obtained for economic gain, this meant the Lord had "commanded" that the plates could not give a person any economic gain. The only gain to be had was "of great worth" to the soul.
Moroni equates the Lord's remark on the plates' lack of economic value to a "commandment." This is exactly how it works. This is what D&C 1: 38 is affirming, as well: "What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same."
Salvation consists in getting the word of the Lord spoken to you as a promise of eternal life. When you obtain that word, it cannot be broken. It becomes a "commandment" of the Lord's which cannot fail. This is the kind of commandment we should seek.
I've tried to answer questions about "commandments" and I've tried to discuss the subject more fully in The Second Comforter: Conversing with the Lord Through the Veil
. Instead of focusing on a list of things to do or not do, I would commend to you the idea of getting from the Lord those words which will assure you eternal life. Not His words spoken to others found in scripture, but words spoken by Him to you. If you obtain this from Him, then you have a sure promise, though the heavens and earth pass away. This more sure word guarantees you, by covenant from Him whose words cannot fail, that you will be granted life with Him.Monday, March 1, 2010
The Sacrifice
Abraham's great test in sacrificing his son Isaac was all the more difficult when you consider he was nearly sacrificed when he was younger, by his father, on an altar, in a false religious practice. When the true God whom he worshiped asked him to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac, Abraham was put in the exact position he knew from his own past experience to be evil.
Despite this, Abraham complied.
Then God Himself provided a sacrifice. (Gen. 22: 8.)
Not the ram found in the thicket on that day, but a living Son, later-- in a direct corollary to what had first been asked of Abraham.
Many have stood back in amazement and considered the task given to Abraham to be outrageous, inexplicable and offensive. It was. But it was designed to make us realize how outrageous, inexplicable and offensive the sacrifice of God's Only Begotten was on our behalf. Abraham was one of the few men whose experience allowed him to identify with God the Father.
Cool Change
I think Cool Change was Little River Band's greatest song. I found this video on YouTube which couples the song with video of swimming dolphins and whales.
These are mammals in the video. They are warm blooded and breathe air. Because they must breathe they are required to return to the surface. But in the video they seem to be playing, jumping, enjoying the jump into the heavens and out of the waters where they live. One of the dolphins leaps and twists like one of the Olympic events we just finished watching.
The upward leap seemed a symbol to me of what all life here was intended to do: reach up joyfully to that God who gave us life. Hope you enjoy the video and song as much as I did as I watched it with a daughter last night.
Keep the Commandments
I was asked about a list of "commandments" to keep. The person was sincerely trying to keep the commandments, but lacked a comprehensive list of them.
It is not possible to list all commandments. In one sense there are only two: Love God. Love you fellow man. All others are extensions of those.
If you love God you will do what He asks of you. Whenever something comes to your attention He would have you do, you do it. For example, Christ was baptized and said to "Follow Him." So because of your love of God, you follow Him.
But Christ also showed repeatedly, that the second commandment was greater than the rules. Keeping the Sabbath day holy, for example, was subordinate to loving and freeing His fellow man. He freed men from sin on the Sabbath by forgiving sins. He freed them from physical injury or disease by healing on the Sabbath. Both were considered work, and therefore an offense to the commandment to keep the Sabbath day holy.
Your individual path back to God will begin with following the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. At some point, however, you will find that individual service and obedience to God's will for you will create disharmony between you and others. Can't be avoided. If you're following Christ, you will find the same things He found. Helping someone in need will take you away from Church meetings on occasion. You can't make a list and keep it, because as soon as you do the list will interfere with loving God and loving your fellow man.
So the whole matter can be reduced to this: Follow Christ, receive the ordinances, accept the Holy Ghost, who will teach you all things you must do. Any list beyond that will inevitably result in conflicts and contradictions.
It is not possible to list all commandments. In one sense there are only two: Love God. Love you fellow man. All others are extensions of those.
If you love God you will do what He asks of you. Whenever something comes to your attention He would have you do, you do it. For example, Christ was baptized and said to "Follow Him." So because of your love of God, you follow Him.
But Christ also showed repeatedly, that the second commandment was greater than the rules. Keeping the Sabbath day holy, for example, was subordinate to loving and freeing His fellow man. He freed men from sin on the Sabbath by forgiving sins. He freed them from physical injury or disease by healing on the Sabbath. Both were considered work, and therefore an offense to the commandment to keep the Sabbath day holy.
Your individual path back to God will begin with following the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. At some point, however, you will find that individual service and obedience to God's will for you will create disharmony between you and others. Can't be avoided. If you're following Christ, you will find the same things He found. Helping someone in need will take you away from Church meetings on occasion. You can't make a list and keep it, because as soon as you do the list will interfere with loving God and loving your fellow man.
So the whole matter can be reduced to this: Follow Christ, receive the ordinances, accept the Holy Ghost, who will teach you all things you must do. Any list beyond that will inevitably result in conflicts and contradictions.
Elder Oaks
My wife also suggested I add something about Elder Oaks' talk at Harvard, since some readers may not have access to the information:
When discussing our beliefs he explained that personal revelation is fundamental to Mormon beliefs. "some wonder how members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints accept a modern prophet's teachings to guide their personal lives, something that is unusual in most religious traditions. Our answer to the charge that Latter-day Saints follow their leaders out of 'blind obedience' is this same personal revelation. We respect our leaders and presume inspiration in their leadership of the church and in their teachings. but we are all privileged and encouraged to confirm their teachings by prayerfully seeking and receiving revelatory conformation directly from God."
When asked by a Divinity School student why Joseph Smith was any more reliable than Mary Baker Eddy, he responded: "If you want to know go to the ultimate source. The answer to that question can only come from God himself. That's what I encourage anyone who asks me about it. I can't promise when it will happen with anyone, but I can promise it will happen."
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