tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38806543159433650462024-03-08T12:33:46.787-07:00from the desk of Denver SnufferThe content of this blog presumes you are already familiar with Denver Snuffer's books. Careful explanations given in the books lay the foundation for what is contained here. If you read this blog without having first read his books, then you assume responsibility for your own misunderstanding and misinterpretation of the writer's intent. Please do not presume to judge Mr. Snuffer's intentions if you have not first read his books.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comBlogger1166125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-64539219303126189152015-03-04T19:45:00.000-07:002015-03-04T19:45:18.158-07:00New Website CompletedThe new website is finally completed and hopefully operational. It is located at <a href="http://denversnuffer.com/">denversnuffer.com</a><br />
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The new site will allow you to download mp3 versions of the talks. All 10 talks from the Forty Years in Mormonism are now there. Other recordings are not yet there, but will be added. You will be able to download but not stream in an effort to reduce bandwidth requirements and associated costs.</div>
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All the papers which have been made available through Scrib'd are now also downloadable from the new site as pdf versions.</div>
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The content of this blog has been imported. The old posts from this blog are searchable on the new website. </div>
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This blogger site will remain up, but I will not be adding new material here. Future posts will be made only on the new website.</div>
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I appreciate all of the help I have received from others that have made this new website possible.</div>
Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-40829011148087231712015-03-02T19:05:00.000-07:002015-03-02T19:05:03.096-07:00EquinoxThe earth's orbit is ecliptic and asymmetrical. Science prefers neat divisions and imposes symmetry.<br />
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This Vernal Equinox is set by the calendar for March 20th. But nature is going to put the sun in the spot crossing the plane of the celestial equator on March 18th.<br />
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There are a lot of these differences in nature, planets, star fields that varies from man's desire for even divisions. We have split the Zodiacal constellations into 30 degree increments, despite the fact that some constellations are quite a bit bigger and their star fields occupy much more than 30 degrees (Pisces, Virgo and Aquarius for example) and some are much less than 30 degrees (Aries, Gemini and Cancer for example).<br />
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The incongruities between the mathematical order we prefer in contrast to the "chaos" of nature means something if Genesis 1:14 is to be trusted. Despite mankind's desire to make everything fit neatly, God has decreed events to happen on His time-frame.<br />
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Star fields overlap. We think we know when one age ends and another begins because of the 30 degrees allocated to each of the twelve constellations. But in the heavens above, Leo invades Cancer, and Pisces invades Aquarius. There is no neat division allowing anyone to say with certainty when God believes one age ends and another has begun. God may have one age begin before another ends for His reasons. Very rarely does man see this.<br />
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So you are left to decide if the coming Equinox is March 20th (based on neat divisions of the year) or March 18th (based on the movement of the sun overhead). And also to decide when Pisces ends and Aquarius begins--or if Aquarius has already begun. Many things begin and the world barely notices they are underway. Heaven testifies and men fail to notice.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-16712973014581815312015-02-22T13:20:00.003-07:002015-02-22T13:20:32.765-07:00Jos Smith Letter Sept 1833<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F6EDDF; line-height: 15.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: black;">Below I have copied and
pasted a transcription from the Joseph Smith Papers publication of the LDS
Church Historian Press. The letter is written in September, 1833, while Joseph
was working on a series of lectures which would eventually become scripture.
They would not be published until 1835 as <i>Lectures on Faith</i>. But the thinking
of Joseph in September 1833 shown in this letter to his uncle show how the
analysis of the later published <i>Lectures on Faith</i> came from the mind of Joseph Smith. This version is taken from the website, but a printed version appears in <i>JS Papers, Documents Vol. 3</i>, pp. 303-308.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">________o0o__________</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperSummary/letter-to-silas-smith-26-september-1833#4857968598821189621"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #486fae; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">Kirtland Mills</span></a> Ohio sept 26 1833<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Respected <a href="http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperSummary/letter-to-silas-smith-26-september-1833#14911181940329999357"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #486fae; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">Uncle Silas</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">It is with feelings of deep
interest for the well<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>fare of mankind which fills my
mind on the reflection that all<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>were formed by the
hand of him who will call the same to give <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>an impartial
account of all their works on that great day to <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>which you and
myself in common with them are bound, that I <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>take up my pen and
seat myself in an attitude to address a few <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>though imperfect
lines to you for your perusal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I have no doubt but that
you will agree with me that<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>men will be held
accountable for the things which they have and <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>not for the things
they have not or that all the light and intell<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>igence
communicated to them from their benifficen [beneficent] creator wh<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ether it is much or little by the same they in justice
will be <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>judged, and that they are required to yield obedience
and <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>improve upon that and that only which is given for
man is <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>not to live by bread alone but by every word that
proceeds [p. 228]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">out of the mouth of God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Seeing that the Lord has
never given the world to unders<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>tand by anything
heretofore revealed that he had ceased forever <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>to speak to his
creatures when saught unto in a proper manner <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>why should it be
thought a thing incredible that he should be <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>pleased to speak
again in these last days for their salvation Perhaps <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>you may be surprized at this assertion that I should
say for the <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>salvation of his creatures in these last days since
we have already in <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>our possesion a vast volume of
his word which he has previously given<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>But you will admit
that the word spoken to Noah was not suff<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>icent for Abraham
or it was not required of Abraham to leave <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>the land of his
nativity and seek an Inheritance in a strange <s><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">land</span></s> <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>Country upon the word spoken to Noah but for himself
he obtain<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ed promises at the hand of the Lord and walked in
that perf<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ection that he was called the friend of God Isaac the
promi<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>sed seed was not required to rest his hope upon the
promises <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>made to his father Abraham but was priviledged with the
assu<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>rance of his approbation in the sight of Heaven by
the direct <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>voice of the Lord to him If one man can live upon the
revelat<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ions given to another might not I with propriety ask
why the n<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ecessity then of the Lord speaking to Isaac as he did
as is record<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ed in the 26 chapter of Genesis for the Lord there
repeats or rath<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>er promises again to perform the oath which he had
previously <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>sworn unto Abraham and why this repet[it]ion to Isaac
Why was not <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>the first promise as sure for Isaac as it was for Abraham. <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>Was not Isaac Abraham's son And could he not place
implicit<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>confidence in the word of his father as being a man
of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Perhaps you may say that he
was a very peculiar man and <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>different from men
in these last days consequently the Lord <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>favored him with
blessings peculiar and different as he was <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>different from men
in this age I admit that he was a peculiar <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>man and was not
only peculiarly blessed but greatly bless<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ed. But all the
peculiarity that I can discover in the [p. 229]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">man or all the difference
between him and men in this age is <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>that he was more
holy and more perfect before God and came to <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>him with a purer
heart and more faith than men in this day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The same might be said on
the subject of Jacobs history <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>Why was it that
the Lord spake to him concerning the same prom<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ise after he had
made it once to Abraham and renewed it to <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>Isaac why could
not Jacob rest contented upon the word <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>spoken to his
fathers When the time of the promise drew nigh <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>for the
deliverance of the children of Israel from the land of <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>Egypt why was it necessary that the Lord should begin <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>to speak to them The promise or word to Abraham was
that <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>his seed should serve in bondage and be afflicted
four hun<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>dred years and after that they should come out with
great <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>substance Why did they not rely upon this promise and <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>when they had remained in Egypt in bondage four
hundred [years]<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>come out without waiting for further revelation but
act entirely <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>upon the promise given to Abraham
that they should come <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Paul said to his Hebrew
brethren that God b[e]ing more abu<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ndantly willing to
show unto the heirs of his promises the immu<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>tability of his
council [“]confirmed it by an oath.” He also <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>exhorts them who
throug[h] faith and patience inherit the pro<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>mises.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">[“]Notwithstanding we (said
Paul) have fled for refuge to <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>lay hold of the
hope set before us which hope we have as an an<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>chor of the soul
both sure and steadfast and which entereth <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>into that within
the vail.” Yet he was careful to press upon them <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>the necessity of
continuing on untill they as well as those who <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>inherited the
promises might have the assurance of their salvat<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ion confirmed to
them by an oath from the mouth of him who <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> <s>cannot</s></span> could
not lie for that seemed to be the example an<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ciently and Paul
holds it out to his brethren as an object atta<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>inable in his day
and why not[?] I admit that by reading [p. 230]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">the scriptures of truth
saints in the days of Paul could learn beyond <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>the power of
contradiction that Abraham Isaac and Jacob had <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>the promise of
eternal life confirmed to them by an oath of the <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>Lord but that
promise or oath was no assurance to them of their<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>salvation but they
could by walking in the footsteps <and> continuing <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>in the faith of their fathers obtain for themselves
an oath for <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>confirmation that they were meet to be partake[r]s of
the inheri<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>tance with the saints in light.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">If the saints in the days
of the <a href="http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperSummary/letter-to-silas-smith-26-september-1833#14609368002206533430"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #486fae; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Apostles</span></a> were
priviledged to <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>take the saints for example and
lay hold of the same promises <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>and attain to the
same exhalted priviledges of knowing that <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>their names were
writen in the Lambs book of life and that <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>they were sealed
there as a perpetual memorial before the face <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>of the most high
will not the same faithfulness the same pur<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ity of heart and
the same faith bring the same assurance of eternal <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>life
and that in the same manner to the children of men now <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>in this age of the world[?]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I have no doubt but that
the holy prophets and apostles <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>and saints in
ancient days were saved in the Kingdom of <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>God. Neither do I
doubt but that they held converse and com<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>munion with them
while in the flesh as Paul said to the cori<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>nthian brethren
that the Lord Jesus showed himself to above 500 <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>saints at one time
after his resuretion [resurrection]. Job said that he <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>knew that his Redeemer lived and that he should see
him in <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>the flesh in the latter days. I may believe that Enoch
wa<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>lked with God <and by faith was translated. <s><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">And</span></s> I may [believe] <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>that Noah was a
perfect man in his generation <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>& also walked
with God.> I may believe that Abraham communed with<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>God and conversed
with angels. I may believe that Isaac <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>obtained a renewal
of the covenant made to Abraham by the <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>direct voice of
the Lord. I may believe that Jacob conversed <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>with holy angels
and heard the word of his Maker. that he <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>wrestled with the
angel until he prevailed and obtained a <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>blessing I may believe
that Elijah was taken to Heaven in a<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>chariot of fire
with fiery horses I may believe that the [p. 231]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F6EDDF; line-height: 15.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F6EDDF; line-height: 15.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: black;">saints saw the Lord and
conversed with him face to face aft<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>er his resurection
I may believe that the Hebrew Church came <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>to Mount Zion and
unto the city of the living God the Heaven<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>ly Jerusalem and
to an inumerable company of angels. I <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>may believe that
they looked into Eternity and saw the <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>Judge of all, and
Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant; <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>but will all this
purchase an assurance for me, or waft me <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>to the regions of
Eternal day with my garments spotless, pure, <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>and white? Or,
must I not rather obtain for myself, by <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>my own faith and
dilligence, in keeping the <a href="http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperSummary/letter-to-silas-smith-26-september-1833#2684191710764336425"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #486fae; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">commandments</span></a><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>of the Lord, an assurance of salvation for myself And<span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>have I not an equal priviledge with the ancient
saints? and <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>will not the Lord hear my prayers, and listen to my
cries, <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>as soon [as] he ever did to their’s if I come to him
in the manner <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>they did or is he a respecter of
persons?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I must now close this
subject for the want of time; and I <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>may say with
propriety at the begining; we would be pleased to see <span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span>you in <a href="http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperSummary/letter-to-silas-smith-26-september-1833#14947708222105407887"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #486fae; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Kirtland</span></a> and
more pleased to have you embrace the <a href="http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperSummary/letter-to-silas-smith-26-september-1833#13689859629183726030"><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #486fae; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">New Covenant</span></a>.
I remain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Yours affectionately<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Cambria; padding: 0in;">Joseph</span></u><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> <u><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">Smith</span></u> Jr [p. 232]</span><!--EndFragment-->
Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-65433471603470578272015-02-21T15:52:00.001-07:002015-02-21T15:52:20.931-07:00Apostles And Assumptions<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A quorum
of twelve apostles did not exist in Mormonism until February 1835. Even though no quorum existed, the term
“apostles” was used and many individuals were identified as “apostles.” The term meant someone sent with a message from God.
The term was used to identify all the missionaries sent to preach the
Book of Mormon and restoration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The
revelations given through Joseph Smith specifically identified the following
men as “apostles” in the following sections and dates:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Oliver
Cowdery and David Whitmer, D&C 18:9 (June 1829)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Joseph
Smith, D&C 20:2 and Oliver Cowdery, D&C 20:3 (April 1830)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Joseph
Smith, D&C 21:1 and Oliver Cowdery 21:10 (April 1830)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Sidney
Rigdon, Parley Pratt and Leman Copley, D&C 49:1, 11 (March 1831)—sending
them forth “like unto mine apostle of old, whose name was Peter”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A series
of revelations likewise referred to “apostles” and included the following
admonitions, instructions, and commandments to the following audiences:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>November 1831 - D&C 1:14: <i><span style="color: #274e13;">“the day cometh
that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord, neither the voice of his
servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles, shall be
cut off from among the people.”</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">This <b><u>did
not, indeed could not</u></b>, refer to a non-existent quorum of the twelve. At that time, it
referred to any of the “disciples” he sent out as missionaries in
the early church as explained in the same revelation, D&C 1:4-9.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">2. March
1830 - D&C 19:8: refers to giving information to Martin Harris because <i><span style="color: #274e13;">“it
is meet unto you to know even as mine apostles.”</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Meaning
that Martin Harris was entitled to have a mystery revealed to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">3.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The language in D&C 27:12 <u><b>is not part of
the original revelation</b></u> given in August 1830. It was added apparently by Sidney
Rigdon sometime between 1834 and 1835.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">4.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>December 1830 - D&C 35:6: informs Joseph
Smith and Sidney Rigdon that they could then give the gift of the Holy Ghost
<i><span style="color: #274e13;">“by the laying on of the hands, even as the apostles of old.”</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">This is
consistent with everywhere else in scripture which associates “laying on hands
for the gift of the Holy Ghost” with the status of “apostle.” See, e.g.,
D&C 20:38, 43; 3 Ne. 18:36-37; Moroni 2:2-3.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">5.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>September 1831 - D&C 64:39: <i><span style="color: #274e13;">“they who are
not apostles and prophets shall be known.”</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Given to
the elders of the church, many of whom were calling themselves “apostles” as is
mentioned two months later in the November 1831 revelation (D&C 1:14,
discussed first above). All the missionaries called themselves “apostles.” The
revelation meant that the unworthy who were sent as missionaries will be exposed
to be unworthy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">6.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>September 1832 - D&C 84:63: <i><span style="color: #274e13;">“you are mine
apostles”</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Given to
the missionaries who were now returning, having been sent out the prior year. All the missionaries were identifying themselves as “apostles” and the Lord was
acknowledging and confirming this was true.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">7.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>June 1833 - D&C 95:4: <i><span style="color: #274e13;">“For the preparation
wherewith I design to prepare mine apostles to prune my vineyard for the last
time,”</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Referring
to the Kirtland Temple the Lord wanted built (and they had delayed commencing).
He said it was necessary to prepare all these “apostles” who were serving
missions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">8.
February 1834 - D&C 102—minutes of a meeting written by Oliver Cowdery which
identifies the “traveling high council composed of the twelve apostles.” This
council would not come into existence for another year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">9. March
1835 - D&C 107:23: The twelve apostles are identified as “twelve traveling
councilors”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">These
particular “apostles” were a traveling council with authority equal to the many
other “apostles” in the church. The apostles in the first presidency, and in
the seventy, and in the other standing high councils are all equal in authority
to these traveling high council apostles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">In 1835,
the three witnesses to the Book of Mormon, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and
Martin Harris, were asked by Joseph Smith to choose the first twelve members of
the newly announced quorum of the twelve. The witnesses made their choices at a
meeting on February 14, 1835. The three witnesses were also the ones who
ordained the twelve chosen men as apostles between February and April 1835.
Ordination was accompanied by a charge given by Oliver Cowdery that explained
their ordination was not complete until they qualified. In part it included: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">“</span><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">It is necessary that you receive a testimony from
heaven to yourselves; so that you can bear testimony to the truth of the Book
of Mormon, and that you have seen the face of God. That is more than the
testimony of an angel. When the proper time arrives, you shall be able to bear
this testimony to the world. When you bear testimony that you have seen God,
this testimony God will never suffer to fall, but will bear you out; although
many will not give heed, yet others will. You will therefore see the necessity
of getting this testimony from heaven. Never cease striving until you
have seen God face to face. Strengthen your faith; cast off your doubts, your
sins, and all your unbelief; and nothing can prevent you from coming to God.
Your ordination is not full and complete till God has laid his hand upon you.
We require as much to qualify us as did those who have gone before us; God is
the same. If the Savior in former days laid his hands upon his disciples, why
not in latter days? . . . The time is coming when you will be perfectly
familiar with the things of God. . . . You have our best wishes, you have our
most fervent prayers, that you may be able to bear this testimony, that
you have seen the face of God. Therefore call upon him in faith in mighty
prayer till you prevail, for it is your duty and your privilege to bear such a testimony
for yourselves. (<i>DHC</i>, 2:192-98.) <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Oliver’s
charge was nothing new. Joseph Smith had already explained to the “School of
the Prophets” that to be an “apostle” required a visit from Christ and the
Father. Oliver was just repeating what everyone already knew. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So when
the language of D & C 1 (</span><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><i><span style="color: #274e13;">“the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord,
neither the voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the
prophets and apostles, shall be cut off from among the people”</span></i>) is put into
context, it really has nothing to do with a non-existent, traveling high council that was formed later. That later group displaced and overthrew church
government, establishing itself as a controlling oligarchy that is
non-scriptural, non-historical. Fortunately, we can know the Lord
intends that “they who are not apostles and prophets shall be known.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> If we compared the claims being made now to the scriptures, </span>I suppose that might be possible to
accomplish even now.</span></span></div>
Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-56248626523899218692015-02-18T07:21:00.000-07:002015-02-18T08:12:09.391-07:00BabylonThe God of Heaven tells me all the world should pray that Baghdad does not fall.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-46157047329582879342015-01-30T11:59:00.001-07:002015-01-30T11:59:27.182-07:00Follow and ReceiveWe should only "Follow" Christ. See, e.g., Matt. 4:19; 9:9; 16:24; 19:21; Mark 2:14; 8:34; 10:21; Luke 5:27; 18:22; John 12:26; 21:19.<br />
<br />
Prophets are not to be followed; only "received" or, in other words, to be heard. See, e.g., Matt. 10:14; Mark 16:11; D&C 76:101. If sent by Him they testify of Him and not of themselves.<br />
<br />
If you will not receive Christ's prophets and apostles, you will be condemned. See John 3:10-11.<br />
<br />
But you are under the burden of determining whether a man is a true or false prophet, true or false apostle, because following a false one will condemn you. Christ will expose the false prophets and apostles. D&C 64:39. But that will be by-and-by, for they must be given their season to claim falsely to be prophets and apostles.<br />
<br />
If you will not hear a prophet, you will be rejected. See D&C 1:14.<br />
<br />
Those who claim you should "follow" them put themselves in the place of Christ. They are, in effect, a false Christ. We were promised they would come in the last days to deceive the "very elect" as false Messiahs. See, JS-Matt. 1:22.<br />
<br />
The trial is underway. The world must choose correctly.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-88627546477250665002015-01-27T17:02:00.000-07:002015-01-27T17:15:59.592-07:00IncompatibleIt is impossible to have religious freedom of expression and protection of gay rights without requiring the religious expression to include endorsement of homosexual conduct.<br />
<br />
Can gay rights be protected without demanding churches stop denouncing homosexuality as "sin" or as "offensive to God" or "evil?"<br />
<br />
If a church believes homosexuality is sinful, offensive to God and evil, but cannot say what it believes because law protects against "discrimination" against such conduct, how are the two reconciled? One must trump the other. One must be given priority over the other. Which? How?<br />
<br />
Can a church be called "hateful" when it expresses its honest view that homosexuality is morally wrong and sinful without any legal protection against the "hate?"<br />
<br />
Should we be free to hate?<br />
<br />
If a Muslim hates a Jew, does he have the right to say it publicly? Advocate for others to likewise hate Jews?<br />
<br />
Should ideas be free from legal control? If they are, will we see KKK rallies, jihadist news broadcasts, black liberation ministers advocating revolution, white supremacists denouncing "mud people?" Is that sort of fall out bad? Bad in an absolute sense, not in a relative sense. Is foolishness portrayed as insight bad in a relative sense? That happens everywhere and all the time. Should the limits of free speech be nearly absolute?<br />
<br />
The Supreme Court set a limit using the analogy of "crying 'Fire!' in a crowded theater" that results in injuries and even death. That analogy has been adopted to limit speech elsewhere by saying "hate" will result in injuries and even death, and therefore it is no different.<br />
<br />
When it comes to freedom, however, there must be absolutes or freedom will continually be eroded and eventually lost.<br />
<br />
We must allow people to say things we disapprove of, disagree with, resent and wish were never said. Tolerance has no meaning if we only permit things we like to be done, said or thought. The meaning of "tolerance" is to permit what I absolutely disagree with to be "tolerated." I don't have to love it, nor do I have to approve it. I only need to "tolerate" it.<br />
<br />
If we "tolerate" it, is there an obligation to leave it unmolested, uncontrolled and uncurtailed by law? Whether that is homosexual conduct or condemnation of homosexuality.<br />
<br />
The role of legislation is not to carve out ideas for suppression and punishment. Until someone actually assaults another, shouldn't he be able to think what he wants, and say what he thinks? If anyone assaults another it is a crime. Whether the crime was motivated by hatred of homosexuals, hatred of Jews, or Catholics, or Hindus, or Mexicans or Mudbloods or any other group, no one is allowed to assault another person. The crime consists in the act, not in the thought.<br />
<br />
Thought should be as near to absolutely free as possible. No matter how peculiar or offensive, thought ought to be unrestricted. It is not possible to police thought without losing other freedoms.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-26299773042596678562015-01-23T21:05:00.000-07:002015-01-23T21:05:38.873-07:00Further Thoughts on the Holy GhostThe purpose of the Holy Ghost is to convey truth, understanding and knowledge. Our reaction may be emotional, but the Holy Ghost is informational.<br />
<br />
The information we obtain from the Holy Ghost checks emotions, and produces self-control. Paul explained that our flesh is prone to lusts (Gal. 5:19) and to “hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, …envyings” (Gal. 5:20-21). But the Spirit helps check those through self-control. A healthy appreciation of our limitations leads to “longsuffering, gentleness, …faith, meekness, temperance” (Gal. 5:22-23) which are gifts produced as a byproduct of recognizing our weakness.<br />
<br />
If there is a consistent experience produced by an encounter with God while filled with the Holy Spirit, it would be “dread” or “fear.” Comparing our fallen nature to the purity of God causes shame. (The language used by those who experience this include these accounts: “racked with a consciousness of your guilt”—Mormon 9:3-5; “Woe is me, I am undone”—Isa. 6:5; “a great quaking…they fled to hide”—Daniel 10:7; “an horror of great darkness”—Genesis 15:12.)<br />
<br />
We become meek, temperate and long suffering with others as we comprehend how little we are in comparison to God. We have no reason to boast after we have encountered purity and intelligence. It is a fearful thing to come into contact with the Living God (Heb. 10:31.)<br />
<br />
Intelligence is light and truth (D&C 93:36). Truth is knowledge of things as they are, were, and are to come (D&C 93:24). We clearly see our weakness when in contact with God (Ether 12:27). But the purpose of showing us our weakness is to cause “weak things become strong” (Id.). This “strength” does not produce bragging, assertiveness or boasting. To the contrary, it produces recognition, meekness and fear.<br />
<br />
When an authentic encounter with God happens, the person will be filled with anxiety for the salvation of others. (See, Lehi’s immediate concern for his family: 1 Ne. 8:12; Enos’ desire for his brethren and his enemies, the Lamanites, who he viewed as “brethren” also: Enos 1:9, 11; the Sons of Mosiah, who after their own conversion could not bear to have any soul lost if they could convert them: Mosiah 28:3; and the Apostle Paul, who went from persecuting to proselytizing; among many others.) <br />
<br />
The results are not magic. It is a natural progression based on knowledge and understanding. God shows us something, and we take it into account. We know more, understand more, and have a far more realistic recognition of what is happening here in this fallen world. Then, with that increased understanding, we look to contribute to saving souls (our own included). This is comforting, because it is real.<br />
<br />
The frequent testimonies declaring that a person “knows” something is true because the speaker or writer was stirred with emotion is not enlightening, enlivening, increasing understanding, bestowing knowledge, telling us saving truths, or based upon an actual encounter with God. God awakens us from slumber; which can be distressing and even alarming.<br />
<br />
But we need to awaken. And we ought to be alarmed.<br />
<br />
(I have used the terms Holy Ghost, Spirit and Holy Spirit interchangeably. I have previously explained how I understand the terms are correctly used in scripture.)Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-74940998889496312632015-01-21T20:24:00.002-07:002015-01-22T08:36:44.445-07:00Thoughts on Holy Ghost<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div class="MsoFootnoteText" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
The Holy Ghost can and does speak to
everyone, Baptists, Lutherans, and Catholics included. C.S. Lewis could not
have written and comprehended what he wrote and understood, unless the light of
the Holy Ghost shown upon his mind. He declares the light of eternal truths in
his writings. This is one of the manifestations of the Holy Ghost, or
Comforter. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="color: #274e13;">Therefore it is given to abide in you;
the record of heaven; the Comforter; the peaceable things of immortal glory;
the truth of all things; that which quickeneth all things, which maketh alive
all things; that which knoweth all things, and hath all power according to
wisdom, mercy, truth, justice and judgment.</span></i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(Moses 6:61) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
This is in contrast to the power given
by Christ to lay on hands for the Holy Ghost. For power to do that, Christ
touched<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>(and must touch)</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>the man given that power. When Christ
actually gave power to give the Holy Ghost, the Book of Mormon account stresses
repeatedly that He touched them: There is a difference between a visit by
the Holy Ghost and having its presence always to be with you.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i><span style="color: #274e13;">"A man may receive the Holy
Ghost, and it may descend upon him and not tarry with him."</span></i><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #274e13;"> </span></span>(D&C 130:23.) This difference
accounts for the Holy Ghost being available to all, on the one hand, and the
power to lay on hands to confer the gift given by those upon whom Christ has
laid His hands, on the other hand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Many people believe they have the Holy
Ghost with them when their emotions are stirred, or they are thrilled by some
appealing talk, comment, praise or flattery. However these incidents do not
increase light and truth, comprehension or intelligence and are not the Holy
Ghost. They are only emotional experiences. Emotional experiences can be
replicated in a number of ways. Music, movies, television commercials, general
conference talks, books, testimonies, prayers and any number of physical
experiences can create tears, goosebumps, or other things that we have
incorrectly associated with the Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Very often the truth conveyed by the
Holy Ghost is hard to hear, difficult to follow, and breaks your heart.
Sometimes the truth is bitter. But bitter truth is better than pleasing lies
and flattery. It is a profound misunderstanding of the "Holy
Ghost" when a person concludes it can never convey a message that
condemns, convicts or challenges you. Much of what the Holy Ghost will convey -
light and truth - causes pain, provokes change and repentance because you are
convicted of errors. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Alma was tutored by the Holy Ghost and
it convicted him of his sins. He described it as<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i><span style="color: #274e13;">"my God did rack my soul with
inexpressible horror."</span></i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(Alma 36:14.)<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i><span style="color: #274e13;">"For three days and for three
nights was I racked, even with the pains of a damned soul."</span></i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(Id., v. 16.) He said<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>"</i><i><span style="color: #274e13;">I was thus
racked with torment, while I was harrowed up by the memory of my many
sins."</span></i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(Id., v.
17.) He repented because he received accurate information by the power of
the Holy Ghost showing him exactly where he stood before God. This enabled him
to repent and return to God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
It is a mistake to conclude that only
good feelings, reassurance and praise comes through the Holy Ghost. It is
likewise a profound error to assume a message that challenges you, tells you
bad news about your present mistakes, and warns you to change course is dark,
evil or cannot be from God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
There is no organization controlling the
Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Missionaries quote Moroni 10:4, and
admonish everyone to pray and ask God if the Book of Mormon is true.
Investigators are promised that God will manifest the truth of it unto them
"by the power of the Holy Ghost." These are unbaptized, unwashed, and
uninitiated investigators who are told they can hear the Holy Ghost speak truth
to them. The Holy Ghost does, can, and will speak to anyone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
The claim an organization has a
franchise over the Holy Ghost is hollow. The idea the Holy Ghost can be
controlled is false. The fact LDS Mormons are acquainted with the Holy Ghost
means very little. That acquaintance does not distinguish Latter-day Saints,
and it does not separate others from the Holy Ghost and its ministrations, no
matter who they are.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
The Holy Ghost does not thrill, it
informs. It gives understanding. Thrilling music can rouse you. A great TV show
can give you goose bumps. That is not the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost enlightens
minds, it enlivens senses, it brings light and new and more complete
understanding.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="color: #274e13;">"The first Comforter, or Holy
Ghost has no other effect than pure intelligence."</span></i> <i>TPJS</i>,
p. 149. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="color: #274e13;">"No man can receive the Holy Ghost
without receiving revelations. The Holy Ghost is a revelator."</span></i> <i>TPJS</i>,
p. 328.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
There are some people who have the
Spirit with them in such abundance, that to be in their presence is to
understand things better. Understanding, comprehension, light and truth—these
are the effects of the Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
The word "apostle" means
someone sent. An apostle of Jesus Christ must be sent by<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Him</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to claim to be<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>His</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>apostle.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Christ gave the power to baptize in 3
Nephi 11:19-21 by telling Nephi (and later others) He empowered them: <i><span style="color: #274e13;">"And
Nephi arose and went forth, and bowed himself before the Lord and did kiss his
feet. And the Lord commanded him that he should arise. <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>And he arose and stood before him. And
the Lord said unto him: I give unto you power that ye shall baptize this people
when I am again ascended into heaven. And again the Lord called others, and
said unto them likewise; and he gave unto them power to baptize." </span></i>Christ did not
touch them because it is not required for this authority to be given by Him. He
only said to them, "<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I give you power to
baptize."</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Although the record does not mention any
prior ordination, these disciples in all likelihood had been previously
ordained. But when Christ came to the Nephites, He was renewing His church. All
that was needed for Him to convey the power to baptize was (and is) for Christ
to tell the recipient of the power that it is given.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="color: #274e13;">"And it came to pass that when
Jesus had made an end of these sayings, he<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>touched</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>with his hand the disciples whom he
had chosen, one by one, even until he had<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>touched</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>them all, and spake unto them as he<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>touched</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>them. And the multitude heard not the
words which he spake, therefore they did not bear record; but the disciples
bare record that he gave them power to give the Holy Ghost. And I will show
unto you hereafter that this record is true."</span></i> (3 Ne.
18:36-37.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
The Book of Mormon does show how it was
given: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="color: #274e13;">"And he called them by name,
saying: Ye shall call on the Father in my name, in mighty prayer; and after ye
have done this ye shall have power that to him upon whom ye shall lay your
hands, ye shall give the Holy Ghost; and in my name shall ye give it, for thus
do mine apostles."</span></i> (Moro. 2:2.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Laying on hands for the Holy Ghost is an
ordinance belonging to an "apostle" or witness to whom Christ has
ministered and empowered. Acts 1:22; see also Oliver Cowdery’s February 1835
charge to the twelve found at<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">DHC</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>2:192-198, reproduced in part below.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
In our own dispensation the laying on of
hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost was likewise an ordinance to be performed
only by an "apostle" upon whom Christ laid hands: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #274e13;">"<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">An apostle is an
elder, and it is his calling to baptize; …And to confirm those who are baptized
into the church, by the laying on of hands for the baptism of fire and the Holy
Ghost, according to the scriptures</i>…"</span> (D&C 20:38, 41.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Section 20 was given in April 1830 when
the term "apostles" was not associated with an organized church
administrative body. At the time the revelation was given, the likely
candidates for properly claiming the title of “apostle” were Joseph Smith,
Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer and Martin Harris. These four previously had the
heavens opened to them. They had seen the plates of the Book of Mormon, and
heard the voice of God declaring a message to them. However, there were many
others in the earliest days who claimed to be "apostles," and the
term had no settled meaning in April 1830.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Today many Latter-day Saints associate
the term “apostles” with a quorum that did not exist in 1830. Reference to this
"quorum" could not have been the meaning used in Section 20. When
this revelation was given, all the elders in the church called themselves
“apostles” of Jesus Christ. That practice gradually changed after the quorum of
twelve had been organized. Reinterpreting the term used in Section 20
because in 1835 there was an organization of a church quorum of twelve is not
justifiable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Arguably members of an administrative
body, even if given the honorific title "Apostles," would still need
to qualify as "apostles" to have the power to confer the gift of the
Holy Ghost.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
The quorum of twelve were chosen by the
Three Witnesses and ordained as Apostles by them. Oliver Cowdery gave them
a charge that imposed the same obligation on the quorum as would be expected of
any “apostle.” Cowdery’s charge told them it was necessary to have Christ lay
hands on them to complete their ordination:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #274e13;">"<i>It is necessary that you
receive a testimony from heaven to yourselves; so that you can bear testimony
to the truth of the Book of Mormon, and that you have seen the face of
God. That is more than the testimony of an angel. When the proper time arrives,
you shall be able to bear this testimony to the world. When you bear testimony
that you have seen God, this testimony God will never suffer to fall, but will
bear you out; although many will not give heed, yet others will. You will
therefore see the necessity of getting this testimony from
heaven. Never cease striving until you have seen God face to face.
Strengthen your faith; cast off your doubts, your sins, and all your unbelief;
and nothing can prevent you from coming to God.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><u>Your ordination is not full and
complete till God has laid his hand upon you. We require as much to qualify us
as did those who have gone before us; God is the same. If the Savior in former
days laid his hands upon his disciples, why not in latter days</u>? . . .
The time is coming when you will be perfectly familiar with the things of God.
. . . You have our best wishes, you have our most fervent prayers, that you may
be able to bear this testimony, that you have seen the face of
God. Therefore call upon him in faith in mighty prayer till you prevail,
for it is your duty and your privilege to bear such a testimony for yourselves</i>."</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(<i>DHC</i>, 2:192-96, emphasis
added.) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
LDS practice does not limit laying on
hands to an apostle Christ has touched and given power. Nor do members of the
quorum of the twelve receive the charge given by Oliver Cowdery to the first
apostles called by the Three Witnesses.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
Many people foolishly conclude that the
Holy Ghost is telling them something is "dark" or "evil" if
it causes discomfort, pain or disappointment. The emotional response should be
separated from deciding whether it comes from the Holy Ghost, or if the message
is truthful. Does<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>it enlighten?
Does it impart knowledge? Does it cause a desire to change? Repent?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
</div>
Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-86428511965871422132015-01-14T09:14:00.000-07:002015-01-14T09:14:20.406-07:00About the Tree of LifeIn response to an email about the Tree of Life in Lehi's dream, and the potential for John the Beloved to be directly involved in latter-day events, I responded with the following:<br />
<br />
__________________________<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>During the time when their natural lives had ended, the ministry of the Three Nephites was not public. They ministered to Mormon and to Moroni, but did not minister openly. This is a type of how John also will minister. I do not expect him to openly minister again. The challenge is for mortals to cope with the mortal condition, aided by ministering angels (one of whom is John, others include the Three Nephites, and the cities of Enoch and Melchizedek, and Elijah). The list in Section 128 includes some of the identities.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>But the point is that Mormon as a mortal ministered to mortals. Moroni as a mortal likewise did so. The Three Nephites ministered to the ministers. This is the pattern we see likewise with Joseph. Christ and various other ministering angels ministered to Joseph, and Joseph ministered to the believers.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br />The challenge is to elevate others without elevating yourself. The idea of having a strong leader with everyone looking to them for salvation is a demonstrably inadequate model. It did not work with Moses. It failed in the New Testament. It failed with Joseph. It will fail if used again now.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>The successes are Enoch's and Melchizedek's. Both of them confined themselves to the role of preaching and teaching repentance. That's it. Repentance and faith in God. The meekness of Moses notwithstanding, he failed to bring Zion. The prophetic and productive work of Joseph the Seer notwithstanding, he failed to bring Zion. </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>The challenge is to get people to take that step of partaking of the fruit. No one fed it to them. No one got the fruit from the tree, took it out to the wandering and wayward people and handed it to them. No one other than the individual themselves could partake.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>We are left with the only approved tools:</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>-persuasion</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>-kindness</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>-meekness</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>-love unfeigned</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>-pure knowledge</i><div>
<i>THESE must typify the ministry of whoever will bring again Zion. Use of any other means will not succeed in allowing the individual to make their own choice to come and partake.</i></div>
</div>
Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-87147659337355761562015-01-07T16:28:00.002-07:002015-01-07T17:03:13.453-07:00Freedom To WorshipI have written over 2 million words explaining my understanding of Mormonism. It has largely been an exposition of the scriptures to show how they anchor all my beliefs. The scriptures are a library of material about Christ, written by those who knew Him and had understanding given to them by Him. The value of scripture is directly related to the writers' proximity to our Lord's mind and words.<br />
<br />
Not all scripture has equal value. The Book of Mormon has the greatest value because of its origin. Its prophecies are more relevant to us than those of the Bible<br />
<br />
Other than the scriptures, the sources I trust most are approved or written by Joseph Smith, or his brother Hyrum, and others that include the earliest contemporary accounts of beginning LDS history. The further away the source is from the actual events, the less reliable they prove. There are some accounts that have become "history" that were not even written by a witness. They were fanciful recreations intended to promote belief in the religious systems that followed Joseph's death. They are not true.<br />
<br />
Lately, more reliable source materials about early LDS history are available to the public for the first time. Older accounts written without using the new source material are unreliable and outdated. Defending LDS historical accounts using unreliable source material no longer persuades those who are well read in new material. I have tried to make a positive statement of what I have learned and how events can be better reconstructed using what is now available.<br />
<br />
The contradictory clutter of post-Joseph contentions advanced by church apologists are neither consistent nor coherent. Those who prize these sources and find virtue in them have courage. I confess I lack the courage to trust myth without searching to discover truth.<br />
<br />
Even after all I've written, I still have venomous critics who attribute to me the opposite of what I believe.<br />
-Although I condemn plural marriage, I'm accused of wanting it.<br />
-Although I abhor concentration of power in church leaders, I'm accused of seeking to establish my own organization to control.<br />
-Although I spend my own money to teach and serve, I'm accused of somehow wanting to profit from these expenses I bear.<br />
-Although I have told people to remain LDS if they are happy with their situation, I'm accused of driving people away from the church. (I really like Latter-day Saints. They are among the best people I know. If they follow their faith, they are upright, decent and moral people for whom I hold high regard. They only bother me when they ignorantly and vocally damn me for things I do not believe or advocate. Apart from that, I have no complaints.)<br />
-Although I harbor no ill-will to any church authority, I'm accused of railing against them.<br />
-Although I recommend we return to the original name for the priesthood, I'm accused of wanting to rename priesthood after myself.<br />
<br />
As the Lord said, "blessed are you when men shall say all manner of evil against you FALSELY for my name's sake..." It seems I qualify. The critics do not bother to say what I actually advocate, choosing instead to spread false accusations suggesting I believe the opposite of what I actually believe.<br />
<br />
The 11th Article of Faith declares:<br />
<br />
<i><b>We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.</b></i><br />
<br />
I believe this. I also claim this right. I appreciate the opportunity claimed by every "Mormon" sect accepting the Articles of Faith as part of their beliefs. When others want to attack this right, let's band together to oppose them. Let everyone be free in their beliefs and worship.<br />
<br />
It should be no concern to anyone what, how or where I choose to worship. If I am wrong, that is between me and God. I am only sharing what I have learned with those who are interested. You are free to reject my beliefs. If you are right, then you should rejoice in the truth you have found and try to persuade others to see the truth as well.<br />
<br />
No one should "own" a religion. It is morally corrupt to claim anyone can dictate what others believe, what they should believe, how they should worship or what they must do to satisfy a man's demand in order for God to offer salvation. If you think a Pope, or Priest or Prophet can save you, then by all means go get yourself saved, as you understand it. If I think only God can save me, and that too by the grace of Christ, then permit me to seek for my salvation at the feet of the Lord whom I worship.<br />
<br />
If we are both deluded then let's permit each other the joy of our delusions without rancor or contention. You revel in what brings you hope and satisfaction, and allow me to do the same. If we are all wrong, the least we can be is accommodating and happy.<br />
<br />
Because of our limited time in mortality, we will all know soon enough the answers to all the questions. While we are here, let's be courteous to one another. When at last we arrive, we can compare notes and see what other insights we can share with one another. <br />
<br />
Until you have done what I have done, you cannot possibly fully understand my faith, and likewise, since your experience is foreign to me, I cannot possibly fully understand your faith. We ought to resign ourselves to peacefully allow one another the privilege to worship according to the dictates of our own conscience, and trust that we all take seriously the obligation to search for truth.<br />
<br />
Assuming we all act consistent with our conscience, then why damn each other for our good faith beliefs and efforts? Why not be open, even with disagreements? Why feel threatened when someone understands our history, scripture, and God's will differently? When we allow one another the freedom of belief, an open discussion helps us understand the reason for a different view, and lets us reconsider our own views in a healthy, useful way. Over time we inevitably grow more unified by open discourse.<br />
<br />
It arouses my curiosity when someone offers a new understanding of scripture. Curiosity is a very good thing. It is perhaps the most childlike thing about us; something Christ said was required for us to see His Kingdom. When we react in fear and anger at other religious viewpoints we are really submitting to the enemy of our soul. Fear is ungodly. Faith casts out fear. Can you imagine a child who refuses to consider anything new because they fear to hear about it?<br />
<br />
We should allow everyone to state what they believe and why-- in THEIR own words. Redefining them, attributing motives they do not claim, or questioning their good faith can never lead us to an understanding of one another.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-51047574834808693552014-12-25T13:21:00.001-07:002014-12-25T13:21:08.445-07:00Things Now UnderwayFor the first time since Joseph and Hyrum died, there is actual progress now being made. Instead of the atrophy of three and four generations merely marking time, we now see new life begun. There are two important, interrelated challenges before us.<br />
<br />
The first is remembering the restoration and reclaiming its truths, ordinances and vitality. This began in earnest with the final talk given in Phoenix on September 9, 2014. Since then, hundreds have gone through the simple but necessary process to reclaim authority and obtain the now required sustaining vote to exercise that authority with God's approval.<br />
<br />
Fellowship groups are collecting tithing and using it to assist the poor among them, and when their group's needs are met they support others who are in need. I have received wonderful accounts of how local groups are organizing themselves.<br />
<br />
One group has two boxes when they meet. In one they deposit tithing, all in cash to make it easy to distribute immediately. In the other, those with needs write down their need. Following sacrament, the needs are reviewed and prioritized based on the group's agreement of greatest need requiring the most immediate attention, and then ranking second, third, and so on. After agreement is reached, the tithing money is counted and, if all needs can be met, the funds are given to those in need. If only part of the needs can be addressed, the money is distributed according to the agreed priority.<br />
<br />
In some accounts sent to me, children of the fellowship see the gospel in action and are impressed with the power of faith to bless and care for one another's needs. They see this immediately. They see people ministering to one another as the result of the faith they share in Christ and the effort to obey Him.<br />
<br />
This renewal allows the great financial power of Christ's teachings to be fully devoted to immediate needs. No one administers the tithes, nor does anyone control the resources. Common consent is used to accomplish good and address immediate needs. No one is paid to serve, and nothing is required to support an administrative or professional class.<br />
<br />
In this new pattern the great evil of priestcraft condemned by the Book of Mormon is avoided. No one can profit, and no one can obtain money and earn their living through this system. The poor alone receive the benefit of the tithing collected.<br />
<br />
This pattern mirrors the one commended by the Book of Mormon:<br />
Alma 1:26: <i>And when the priests left their labor to impart the word of God unto the people, the people also left their labors to hear the word of God. And when the priest had imparted unto them the word of God, they all returned again diligently unto their labors; and the priest, not esteeming himself above his hearers, for the preacher was no better than the hearer, neither was the teacher any better than the learner; and thus they were all equal, and they did all labor, every man according to his strength</i>.<br />
<br />
It avoids the practice of priestcraft condemned in that same chapter:<br />
The man Nehor preached in favor of a professional and popular clergy.<br />
Alma 1:3: <i>he had gone about among the people, preaching to them that which he termed to be the word of God, bearing down against the church; declaring unto the people that every priest and teacher ought to become popular; and they ought not to labor with their hands, but that they ought to be supported by the people</i>.<br />
<br />
Nehor was popular because he did not preach repentance. Quite the opposite, he reassured his audience that they would certainly be saved, appealing to their pride.<br />
Alma 1:4: <i>And he also testified unto the people that all mankind should be saved at the last day, and that they need not fear nor tremble, but that they might lift up their heads and rejoice; for the Lord had created all men, and had also redeemed all men; and, in the end, all men should have eternal life</i>.<br />
<br />
In competition with this false priestcraft, there was an unpaid clergy offering an unpopular message. These true priests warned people tot repent and follow God. The Book of Mormon shows in plain simplicity the religion Christ wants mankind to follow.<br />
<br />
The simple but necessary steps have been declared again with God's approval. In response hundreds now have authority and several thousand have returned to the root of the restoration. These will survive the Lord's return, because their authorized and authoritative baptism is the sign now accepted by God as proof of faith by obedience.<br />
<br />
This will continue to roll forward. Even in this cold weather, over the last two weeks there have been baptisms in the Boise River, northern Utah, and elsewhere. It is delicate and vulnerable, but I do not believe it will go backward. The season is upon us.<br />
<br />
This vital new growth from a dead root is a sign heaven told us to watch for in the last days. It is fulfilling the prophecy of Zenos, and the promises given by Christ. This is a new beginning. With this beginning, I think there is every reason to rejoice and take heart.<br />
<br />
The second challenge is to see Zion gathered from among the scattered into a single place in the mountains where an ensign will be built. There the Lord will gather some under His wings, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. However, Zion must wait for strength to develop in the first fellowships.<br />
<br />
Like men in all generations, I too want to see the foundation of Zion built in my day. This desire sometimes leads me to have unreasonably high expectations for others. This is wrong of me, and leads to my disappointment. Disappointment is always a product of expectations. Because I expect more, when I should not, I am led to want more than is possible for others to give or do. That is wrong of me, and I acknowledge my misplaced expectations.<br />
<br />
The Lord is patient, and He knows what will follow and how it all will unfold to fulfill His promises. I have seen the potential of some of you and want that to turn into more than perhaps it ever will or can. For the last few days I have reflected on Sidney Rigdon. He was so important, useful and valuable to Joseph's work as it began. With time, Sidney became a hindrance. So much so that Joseph asked the church to vote him out as a counselor to Joseph--but instead, the church reelected Sidney. Like Sidney, many others of Joseph's inner circle proved themselves incapable of rising up and realizing the opportunity presented to them. In the end, Sidney and others skewed the restoration, and in may ways opposed and hindered what the Lord might have accomplished with more obedient and humble people.<br />
<br />
In the same January 1841 revelation reminding the church it had forfeited the "fulness of the priesthood" (D&C 124:28), the Lord confirmed upon Hyrum "the office of Priesthood and Patriarch" (D&C 124:91). In Hyrum, like the prophets of old, God gave us a "prophet, and a seer, and a revelator unto [God's] church" (D&C 124:94). Hyrum was a man who could "bind on earth, bind in heaven, loose on earth, and loose in heaven" (D&C 124:93). He was the means to preserve the restoration, had he lived. By June 1844, it appears to me only Joseph and Hyrum were equal to fulfilling the Lord's requirements.<br />
<br />
But Joseph and Hyrum were brothers, and therefore both "pure blooded Ephriamites" (JD 2:269; see also <i>Ensign</i>, January 1991, <i>Of the House of Israel</i>). The ancient covenants required this bloodline to bring forth the Book of Mormon and commence the restoration. However, they, and the priesthood line through them, needed to end before other covenants could be fulfilled. Zion will come through both Judah (king) and Joseph (priest), to fulfill the promises of our Lord (D&C 113:5-6; Isa. 11:10). Accordingly, both Joseph and Hyrum were taken, Hyrum the first to fall.<br />
<br />
Hyrum's line was to be kept "in honorable remembrance from generation to generation, forever and ever" (D&C 124:96). Even after the Patriarch's office, held by Hyrum's descendants, was discontinued in 1979, the church still held some tenuous claims. In 1979 Eldred G. Smith was released and never replaced, but he lived on for decades. The office has now altogether ended according to church publications.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Upon his death in April 2013 at 104 years of age, the sign of the passing of the fourth generation was given. By April of the next year the Lord concluded His work through the LDS Church and set His hand to begin something new, now underway.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">The first process of fellowshipping in local groups today is saving souls. It is a required first step, and therefore anyone who claims to have faith in Christ must now come and receive their baptism as a sign of faith in Christ through this required manner. Even if the recipient chooses to continue activity in the LDS Church, or any other church or group, all people of faith must receive the baptism now being offered.</span><br />
<br />
But the second challenge, to have Zion return, is the true object of our Lord's heart. For that to come, the challenge is an order of magnitude greater than fellowshipping, and will require much of us.<br />
______________________________<br />
One word of caution: new things taught using the scriptures always give pretenders, ambitious and cunning men an opportunity to improve their deception. Information can be abused, and there are those who are eager to deceive to get power, popularity and financial gain. <i>You</i> must assume the burden of distinguishing light from darkness, truth from error, and pretenders from those sent by the Lord with counsel from Him. Trust no man. Go to God and ask Him about everyone who teaches and everything taught.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-74849369577775851152014-12-24T16:23:00.000-07:002014-12-24T16:23:19.763-07:00ChristmasWe celebrate our Lord's birth tomorrow.<br />
<br />
What a wonder He was and is. Although He was the greatest and "more intelligent than they all," (Abr. 3:19) He came to serve, kneel and wash the feet of the unworthy, bless, instruct and endure abuse. He was meek and lowly (Matt. 11:29), yet spoke as one having authority (Matt. 7:29).<br />
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He was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.<br />
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He bore our infirmities.<br />
<br />
With His stripes we are healed.<br />
<br />
The world took little note of His arrival on that Spring day. He was born in the springtime to herald new life, resurrection, and rebirth. We celebrate it in the darkness of the winter which can likewise testify of the end of darkness and increase of light--for all things testify of Him. (Moses 6:63.)<br />
<br />
The heavens themselves were stirred at His birth. Stars aligned, signs appeared, heavenly choirs sang, and prophecies, covenants and promises were vindicated through His birth, lowly life, exalted teachings, and sacrificial offering. All this before the eyes of a blind, murderous generation, who would kill their God. (2 Ne. 10:3.)<br />
<br />
He preferred Isaiah and the Psalms to other scripture of His day. He used a small canon of scripture to expound and teach.<br />
<br />
How wonderful.<br />
How mighty.<br />
How meek.<br />
How lowly.<br />
How great.<br />
How kind.<br />
How worthy was the Lamb!<br />
<br />
There is none like Him, dead or alive. We are all lost to the grave and prison without Him.<br />
<br />
His rescue mission extends to all mankind. We will all be rescued from the grave. He intends to work to bring about our immortality and eternal life (Moses 1:39), even if this requires worlds without end (D&C 76:112).<br />
<br />
A Roman centurion and his cohort said it best: "Truly this was the Son of God." (Matt. 27:54.)Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-73442885208721504712014-12-23T21:22:00.000-07:002014-12-23T21:22:06.784-07:00Answers/EmailI received an email that refers to some specific people, events, places and individuals. Therefore I will not put the email up. But the response has a broader application and it is copied below for anyone who is interested to consider.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><i>The reference to the "light winning over darkness" on the Winter Solstice is based on natural ebb and flow of sunlight on this planet. The longest night and shortest day are the day before the Solstice. The beginning of light returning, and lengthening daylight, is the Solstice.</i></span><br />
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<i>I understand the dilemma you mention. I also think that Joseph rushed in to correct errors and preserve the group too quickly, and with too much centralized control. Had he allowed others to wander away, the restoration may have included fewer people, but they would have had a greater chance of achieving Zion. For Joseph, the mission was global and he wanted to have the entire human family reached by his ministry. It is apparent, now in hindsight, that the world will never qualify to be gathered. Now the focus must be to find only the very few who, by their patience and heed can qualify to be true, faithful, patient, meek, humble and willing to allow the Lord's timing and not their own control the events.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>I know of all the things you mention. I am acquainted with the various things underway, and have some understanding of the errors of each of these various groups. I have not, and will not intervene. They must be allowed to take their own course. In the end, there will be only a few gathered. Those who qualify will have proven themselves true and faithful in all things and prepared to converse with the Lord through the veil.</i></div>
<i style="font-size: small;">________________________________________________</i>
<i style="font-size: small;"><br /></i>
<i style="font-size: small;"><br /></i>
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: large;">In response to a question about God not presently having a house on earth, it should be clear this is not a reference to men as the temple of God. God does dwell with some now living.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Nor is it a reference to the various synagogues, cathedrals, chapels, temples and religious facilities constructed by all the various religions in which men practice their rites and devotions to God. Some of those are lovely, quiet and filled with reverence and beauty.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">It is a reference to a House God will visit and accept as His. He will appear there, send His messengers (angels) to visit and open a fiery corridor between heaven and earth. Or, in other words, a place where a pillar of fire will dwell. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">This was not a criticism of places of worship used by men today. It is an observation of present conditions and a description of what will need to be built and accepted prior to the Lord's return. It will need to be constructed strictly, in accordance with the pattern God requires, and not something men presently construct as their places of worship. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Everything from the location to the details of the design must be according to God's instructions. It will be proof on the earth for heaven to behold, showing to the Powers of Heaven that mankind (however few) are listening to Him and are now willing to do what He asks. God will control if and when it will be done, and who will be permitted to construct His House. This will not be a volunteer project. God alone will bring it to pass, using means determined by Him.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">There must be a site prepared, and an invitation extended, before the Lord's return. That place must be hallowed. It is a necessary precondition for His return. It is from that site the sanctification of the earth will proceed. Eventually the whole earth will be renewed. </span></span></div>
Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-53239886945569294702014-12-23T10:12:00.002-07:002014-12-23T10:12:27.738-07:00MP3sWith help from a volunteer the <i>40 Years in Mormonism</i> has now been converted into a downloadable MP3 format. We hoped to release those before Christmas (and still may). This blog site is not equipped to handle that kind of service. Therefore, we have secured a new website from which all the papers and the recordings will be made downloadable. There remain some technical details to coordinate on that website, and so we may not make the Christmas target. But it is coming, and as soon as we can solve the issues of uploading and authorizing the downloading, a link will be put here on this blog.<br />
<br />
I appreciate all the work done by everyone involved to record, copy and preserve the talks. I also appreciate the work done to convert the material so it can be made available.<br />
<br />
I am working to produce a book based on the talks and some other material from the blog and the Sunstone paper delivered this year. The book will be different than the talks. It a different and more extensive project involving thousands of additional hours of editing and writing to add additional scriptural and historical support to the topics discussed. It is the most work I have ever invested into a single volume. There is no projected completion date. At present I am only finished through the Las Vegas talk in a first edit. It will go through approximately 3 edits. Completion of the book will likely be sometime mid-2015, at the earliest.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-62470585612896851412014-12-22T15:33:00.000-07:002014-12-22T15:33:46.941-07:00Strange IncenseLight won the annual battle with darkness yesterday on the Winter Solstice. I wish light could win the battle in mankind's dark heart.<br />
<br />
God requires holiness and cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance, as explained in D&C 1:31.<br />
<br />
If we fail to keep God's ordinances exactly as prescribed, they are broken and no longer effective. (Isa. 24:5.)<br />
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God's House is always to be built for His presence. When accepted by Him it must remain exactly as He ordered it, or there are only two results:<br />
1. If the ordinances are not kept, He withdraws and the house is no longer His. Men are then free to do what they choose within the temple because God neglects it.<br />
2. If He still claims it, then those who offend within His House offend God, and they will die.<br />
<br />
Nadab and Abihu were the oldest sons of Aaron, Nadab being the oldest. (Num. 3:2.) They had been in God's presence with Moses on the Mount. (Exo. 24:9-10.)<br />
<br />
Despite their standing, they chose to practice a rite within God's House (at that time it was a temporary tabernacle) without God's sanction or approval. God had commanded what was to be done, how it was to be done, and who was to perform the rites. These two were apparently worthy and qualified to have seen God and enter His presence. Despite this, they apparently thought of some additional way to honor God, perhaps by incorporating what they sincerely thought was a worthy act of devotion. They were, after all, within the tabernacle and "before God" when they acted.<br />
<br />
Since they came out of Egypt, it is probable the offering they made was taken from the Egyptian practices with which they were acquainted. No doubt they thought some particularly impressive portion of the Egyptian rites would evidence their sincere admiration and veneration for God.<br />
<br />
The problem is that the Lord's House is His, not theirs. They are not justified when they presume they can take just any impressive rite and practice it before God to earn His respect. They were showing disrespect, even rebellion, by incorporating into their rites a foreign idea not commanded by Him.<br />
<br />
When they went into God's House and offered before Him a rite He did not command to be done within His House, they were trespassing and rebelling. They took Telestial behavior within a site hallowed by God to be His, requiring a Terrestrial law. Like those who will be unprepared for His presence at His return, they were killed by the "fire" or glory of God's presence. (Lev. 10:1-3.) Moses reminded their father, Aaron, that those who come to God must be "sanctified" by the means He prescribes, and no other.<br />
<br />
There is no accepted House on earth today wherein God dwells. We are therefore free to observe whatever we think will please God in our individual houses of worship. But when He establishes a House and His presence is to be found there, nothing can be done apart from what He commands to be done, when He commands it to be done, and in the manner He commands it to be observed. If anything varies, then the results will be:<br />
1. He withdraws and it is no longer His House; or,<br />
2. Those who violate the conditions for entering His House will pay with their lives for their rebellion; even if they have been in His presence before.<br />
<br />
Given the vanity and pride of mankind, it seems unlikely there will ever be people who are willing to strictly observe only what He asks as He asks it. It is a mistake to think we can improve on what He gives us, and yet we do.<br />
<br />
When there is a House built for God (and some future people will build one), it will necessarily be through people of restraint, meekness, humility and patience who take no credit and think themselves no better than their fellows. It will be an undertaking requiring a heart like our Lord's, full of the virtues He displayed. There will need to be a priest, like Moses, who was the meekest of all men. (Num. 12:3.) There will need to be someone, at last, who knows the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the Powers of Heaven, and when the heavens are offended, they withdraw. When withdrawn, other false spirits rush in to please and reassure us in our vanity and pride.<br />
<br />
There have been so many generations of disappointment for heaven. Even if God sent another like Joseph Smith, it is doubtful anything more could be accomplished today than was done in Nauvoo. Like Nadab and Abihu, we stray, offering up our strange incense rather than strictly observing what God asks, how He asks it to be done, when He asks it of us.<br />
<br />
Moses took Israel out of Egypt because God knew the traditions of that culture were corrupt. A new and more correct pattern was revealed to Moses. But Nadab and Abihu took it upon themselves to bring Egypt with them, and thought they could please God with their pleasant, but unauthorized, worship. They died.<br />
<br />
Why are many called and so few chosen? Why can we not learn from past failure enough to avoid repeating it in our day?<br />
<br />
Vanity, pride, looking beyond the mark, self-will, arrogance, and reckless enthusiasm all proceed from a lack of gratitude to God for what He gives us. Instead of accepting in gratitude and practicing it with patience, we demand more, insist we can improve on His ways, and charge ahead into the pass to be destroyed by the beast. The chosen of God remain scatterlings, unable to dwell in the House of God with Him, because it cannot be built with the unclean hands of a wayward generation. <br />
<br />
We have moved into a season of increasing light now. But I do not think mankind has yet reached its winter solstice. From all I have seen, darkness continues to hold sway among even the very elect.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-31447774722948252352014-12-14T17:24:00.003-07:002014-12-14T17:24:29.914-07:00Received EmailI received the following email, which I believe worth sharing:<br />
<br />
___________________________<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>This is as good a spot, and manner, as any to thank you for staying aloof recently, and for resisting the urge to be a strong man. In the last month, I have had a vision and have been led by God in several ways. I now feel that I have a calling in life. I thanked you because, after the vision, one of my first thoughts was to send it to you and ask what you thought. If I'm being honest, I still would like to know your thoughts...but I instead went to the Lord, and have received much more than just that initial opening. There have been other experiences (like after my recent rebaptism) where I reached out to my friends to share the experience. It was harder than going to a 'strong man,' but both they and I have been strengthened by exercising those spiritual muscles. Keep going strong brother. May enough of us arise from the dust to actually see Zion brought about in our lifetime! </i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>_______________________________</i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i><br /></i></span>
I rejoice in the strength of others. All who rise up to know God will understand the source of the words I have spoken and written.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-62110670422672932842014-12-01T11:51:00.000-07:002014-12-01T11:51:43.899-07:00Patience and FaithI received an email from a fellow struggling with a spouse who opposes his understanding of the institutional church and the present state of the restoration. What can be done when one person views the present circumstances (and these will continue to change), the church and needed preparations differently from their spouse or other family members?<br />
<br />
Families are and must be a priority. Children are owed a duty by both parents. Spouses and children deserve our unconditional love, support, and encouragement. The most important arguments are never won by words, but by our deeds. Live true principles and the example, not your words, will convert others.<br />
<br />
The changes will continue apace. There are many reasons for this. The LDS church is not the same today as it was 10, 20, 30 or 40 years ago. The church makes decisions using models based on business and political theories. This is ill-fitted for a religious movement. The result is that changes are made hastily and without careful consideration given to doctrine or how abandoning doctrine affects members.<br />
<br />
The LDS church sells the product "Mormonism" to a target market of the unconverted or non-members. Their present customer base (members) have been put through jarring changes. These include changes in temple rites, exclusion/inclusion of blacks for priesthood, stripping women of control of their own organization through correlation, and others. Despite these dramatic changes, the institution has largely managed to keep their loyal customer base. This gives the leadership confidence that the greatest part of their customer base is secure and will never leave. Therefore, their adaptation is tailored to their target market. This includes a demographic who are in large part younger, liberal, progressive, self-centered, emotional, and noticeably lacking in the ability to think critically. This is the future Mormon consumer or target audience.<br />
<br />
To make this work, the church pares down its teachings, and reassures the loyal customer base that the radical changes are okay because the church cannot lead its customers into error or apostasy. There are two important tenets that have superceded all others: the church is led by a "prophet" and the leaders "cannot lead you astray." These MUST emerge as the primary themes. Any dedicated study of doctrine and history shows the church is riddled with contradictions, mistakes, missteps, changing and untrue claims regarding history and non-scriptural dogma. This is excused and rationalized by the propounding of the two mandatory teachings of a "prophet" who "cannot lead you astray."<br />
<br />
Inadequately prepared young men and women are now shouldering the missionary burden. As the older ones cycle through, and the youngsters fully man the missionary effort, the numbers of missionaries out will decrease back to the pre"hastening" numbers. (<span style="background-color: white;">The math is simple: The population of prospective missionaries was expanded one time. Those who would have waited another year were able to leave a year earlier because of the change in age eligibility. Those already serving, who had gone out at the older age were in the mission field at the time the policy changed. So an additional year's missionaries were immediately eligible and added to the ranks. Within three years, all the older missionaries who were serving when the change was made will be back home. Those who were able to serve a year younger will also return, leaving at that time only the younger population as missionaries. The willing and available number within any given two-year block is about 50,000. Within three years the temporary increase to 88,000 will subside back to the pre-change number. However, when that happens the maturity and commitment problems caused by the younger missionaries will remain.)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br />The timing of the age change was to increase the missionary force for the Mitt Romney Presidency. The age change was announced in October general conference before the election in November. Presidents are sworn in in January. By January the policy-change surge in missionaries was well underway, but Romney lost. The surge is not repeatable, unless, of course another age-lowering change is adopted. </span><br />
<br />
Historically the Lord sends a message. Then He awaits the reaction of the people to the message He sent. After an appropriate amount of time has passed, and a fair chance has been given for people to heed or ignore the message, the Lord will preach His own sermon. His sermon is in the gift of tribulation and calamities to afflict us and refocus our attention onto more important, even eternal things.<br />
<br />
In our patience we possess our souls. So be patient. Be steady. Be believing and do what you believe God bids you to do. You will not be disappointed. Those who judge the truth through you need your example to show them what faith looks like, what faith acts like, and what faith truly is. Display it in meekness and they will be persuaded far more than through any sermon you can deliver. Sermons are for the believing. Your life lived becomes the means to persuade others.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-38883149004614986052014-11-25T14:41:00.000-07:002014-11-25T14:41:24.592-07:00LDS Church Not ExclusiveIn a Press Release by the LDS Church on their website on April 18, 2008 titled <a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/respect-for-diversity-of-faiths" target="_blank">Respect for Diversity of Faiths</a>, this church has explained how God works with others outside the limited membership of the LDS faith:<br />
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<i>“We honor and respect sincere souls from all religions, no matter where or when they</i><br />
<i>lived, who have loved God, even without having the fullness of the gospel. We lift our</i><br />
<i>voices in gratitude for their selflessness and courage. We embrace them as brothers</i><br />
<i>and sisters, children of our Heavenly Father. … He hears the prayers of the humble</i><br />
<i>and sincere of every nation, tongue, and people. He grants light to those who seek and</i><br />
<i>honor Him and are willing to obey His commandments.”</i></div>
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<i><br /></i>
<i>The late Krister Stendahl, emeritus Lutheran Bishop of Stockholm and professor emeritus </i><br />
<i>of Harvard Divinity School, established three rules for religious understanding:</i><br />
<i>(1) When you are trying to understand another religion, you should ask the adherents of</i><br />
<i>that religion and not its enemies; (2) don't compare your best to their worst; and</i><br />
<i>(3) leave room </i><i>for "holy envy" by finding elements in other faiths to emulate. These</i><br />
<i>principles foster </i><i>relationships between religions that build trust and lay the groundwork</i><br />
<i>for charitable </i><i>efforts.</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>The spiritual and physical needs of the world require goodwill and cooperation among</i><br />
<i>different faiths. Each of them makes a valuable contribution to the larger community of</i><br />
<i>believers. In the words of early Church apostle Orson F. Whitney, “God is using more</i><br />
<i>than one people for the accomplishment of his great and marvelous work. The Latter-day</i><br />
<i>Saints cannot do it all. It is too vast, too arduous, for any one people.” Thus, members of</i><br />
<i>the Church do not view fellow believers around the world as adversaries or competitors,</i><br />
<i>but as partners in the many causes for good in the world. For example, the Church has</i><br />
<i>joined forces with Catholic Relief Services[.]"</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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Krister Stendahl's three rules for religious understanding are ones we all should apply.<br />
In particular, LDS members should accept them when viewing others who do not share their understanding of latter-day history, scripture or doctrine. Tolerance for differences is a<br />
customary courtesy. But, increasingly, tolerance for a different view of LDS history is met<br />
with closed minds, open mouths, and insulting questions about motives and ambitions. It is<br />
just possible that a difference in viewpoint can be the product of sincere inquiry, humble<br />
acceptance, and broken hearts by those seeking.<br />
<br /></div>
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Similarly, the acknowledgement that "God is using more than one people for the<br />
accomplishment of his great and marvelous work" should limit LDS criticism of all others,<br />
including those who believe in the restoration and accept Joseph as a prophet of God.<br />
This certainly allows for the possibility God will do something more with someone else. </div>
Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-52628215630300305662014-11-24T09:41:00.001-07:002014-11-24T09:41:34.283-07:00I Post HereI do not post on other blogs either in my own name, using an avatar, or anonymously. Someone has posted using my last name on another blog, the blog owner inquired and I responded that it was not me. This morning I checked and he clarified on his blog that the comment wasn't mine.<br />
<br />
Also, I was told some stake president now claims I advocate killing children or wives, or some other such nonsense as part of his effort to deter people from reading anything I've written. When I stopped laughing about it last evening, I thought about our Lord's blessing upon us when all manner of false things are said about us. Inadvertently this ill-motivated stake president has invoked the Lord's blessing upon me once again. (And the Lord's ire upon himself.)Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-24237324112841497312014-11-21T20:04:00.000-07:002014-11-21T20:04:02.352-07:00God's Great WorkThere are many great things underway. I want to encourage and reassure those involved. The greatness of the gospel has nothing to do with our human weakness and limitations. Our weakness is a given, and anticipated by God. His plan requires only a willing and penitent heart. He can do great things with the penitent. In some ways our weakness stands as proof this is God's work.<br />
<br />
Those who are now suffering rejection and persecution should rejoice, for so persecuted they the prophets who went before.<br />
<br />
To the South American missionary sent home 37 days early for having an inadequate testimony of Thomas Monson: Rejoice in the Lord. Know that the district leader, mission president and area authority seventy will mourn for what they have done.<br />
<br />
To the parents in Boise, who after their meeting re: excommunication, are waiting to hear from the twelve whether their 9 year old and 14 year old children will be excommunicated for their rebaptism: Rest assured God hears your prayers and knows the goodness of your heart. Nothing can separate you from His love.<br />
<br />
To the man whose excommunication was recently announced in sacrament, relief society and priesthood meetings where your children and grandchildren attend: Know that this violated the church's policies and makes a sham of the appeal process, but you are nevertheless now better acquainted with our Lord. Those who hope to be like Him must endure some of what He endured from His fellow man.<br />
<br />
To the tithing groups who have blessed the lives of the needy among them with thousands of dollars of assistance monthly: Many have heard of this and know if there were more doing likewise the world would be a better, healthier place to live. Children in your group see these acts of devotion and have more confidence in Christ's Gospel.<br />
<br />
To those who meet over the internet because there are not enough of you in an area to meet personally: Be patient. This is just beginning.<br />
<br />
To the thousands who have been rebaptized: This is a sign you are not an idolator and will not be destroyed at the Lord's coming.<br />
<br />
To those who are informed by your fears: The Lord works through love, not fear. When you allow your fears to inform your choices, the distance between you and God widens.<br />
<br />
To the former Mormon fundamentalists who have always been willing to endure difficulty for what you believe: You will bring a great wealth of information into any of the fellowship groups you may join. Plural marriage shouldn't be practiced, but your families should be kept together.<br />
<br />
The spiritual experiences many people are receiving for the first time are what the restoration was intended to produce.<br />
<br />
Proceed in faith. Practice the principles of the Gospel in your individual lives. Leave the rest in God's hands.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-54505094069457253562014-11-06T12:42:00.002-07:002014-11-09T15:45:29.113-07:00Mysteries And TruthJoseph Smith taught that it is critical for us to know the mysteries of God. "Knowledge saves a man; and in the world of spirits no man can be exalted but by knowledge." <i>TPJS</i>, p. 357.<br />
<br />
"A man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge, for if he does not get knowledge, he will be brought into captivity by some evil power in the other world." <i>TPJS</i>, p. 217.<br />
<br />
Joseph understood we are saved by gaining knowledge about God’s mysteries. When we are ignorant of them, we cannot be saved. No one can be saved in ignorance. It is not possible.<br />
<br />
Joseph's knowledge mirrored what is taught and reflected in the Book of Mormon:<br />
<br />
Alma 12: 9-11 explains:<br />
“<i>It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him. And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full. And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell</i>.”<br />
<br />
The definition of being taken captive by the devil is to “know nothing concerning [God’s] mysteries.”<br />
<br />
When a person knows nothing concerning God’s mysteries, they are then “led by his [the devil’s] will down to destruction.”<br />
<br />
When they are taken captive by their ignorance, they are then bound “by the chains of hell.”<br />
<br />
The result of ignorance of God’s mysteries is “destruction” and “captivity.” The ignorant will remain devoted to falsehoods, blinded leaders, and guides who give no truthful accounts of the awful situation faced by the ignorant because they do not understand truth.<br />
<br />
D&C 93: 24-25: “<i>And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come; And whatsoever is more or less than this is the spirit of that wicked one who was a liar from the beginning</i>.”<br />
<br />
We must know the truth. The truth informs us how things are (now, today, in the peril we presently face–unvarnished and in all its terrible meaning).<br />
<br />
The truth informs us of how things were (by accurate history, revealing exactly what happened, without mythical or political overlay, with its disappointments and tragedies candidly depicted).<br />
<br />
The truth informs us of the things to come (even if the prophecies and promises dash our hopes, crush our vanity and expose our foolishness).<br />
<br />
Truth can be startling, but it is necessary. Without the truth it is impossible to repent. We will never change while trusting a lie. But we will never fail to repent when the truth is laid bare before us.<br />
<br />
In order to take people captive, all that is required is for people to be content with their ignorance. The greatest threat to salvation does not come from teaching false doctrine, but instead comes from ignoring doctrine altogether. Substituting platitudes and truisms for careful, ponderous and solemn investigation of the deep things of God will suffice to keep people in the chains of captivity. It isn't necessary for the devil to convince you of lies, only for him to make you content in your ignorance, or fearful of the search for truth.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-65332158202904929052014-11-03T19:54:00.000-07:002014-11-03T19:54:11.320-07:00History Is Not A SinI have provided a link to the FAIR website where they amalgamate criticism of me. The criticism is fine, but there is one point where I believe they crossed a line. It needed a response.<br />
<br />
I have said I was worthy of a temple recommend when I was excommunicated. FAIR has denounced this as “false” and "dishonest" and included their analysis which I copy below:<br />
_______________________________________________________________________<br />
<i>Snuffer's claim is false—by his own description of his behavior, he was not "worthy of a temple recommend." He either does not understand the temple recommend questions, or he is being dishonest with his readers, the First Presidency, and perhaps himself.</i><br />
<i>He also says:</i><br />
<i>"I had a current temple recommend at the time of the disciplinary council. I was not asked to return it before the council, nor asked to return it even after the council’s decision. It expired in March, 2014, six months after excommunication."</i><br />
<i>Snuffer's recommend would have been automatically deactivated upon his excommunication; this is done electronically, and should not be interpreted to mean—as Snuffer implies by raising it—that he was known to be worthy and no one dared say otherwise.</i><br />
<i>Snuffer's letter from his stake president (published on his website) makes it clear that he may not wear temple garments or exercise priesthood functions: both prerequisites for entering the temple:</i><br />
<i>You should not engage in activities which require an exercise of priesthood power. You should not <u>pay tithing or wear the temple garment.</u>____________________________</i><br />
<a href="http://en.fairmormon.org/Criticism_of_Mormonism/Online_documents/Denver_Snuffer/Excommunication/Temple_worthiness_claims">http://en.fairmormon.org/Criticism_of_Mormonism/Online_documents/Denver_Snuffer/Excommunication/Temple_worthiness_claims</a><br />
<br />
This point of criticism by FAIR should be withdrawn from their website because:<br />
1. They do not grant or deny temple recommends. That is the responsibility of bishoprics and stake presidencies.<br />
2. My bishop and stake president at the time considered me worthy, as did I.<br />
3. From the time the disciplinary council was noticed until the decision was made there was never a request for me to return my recommend. I could have attended the temple up to the day of the council.<br />
4. The interview questions were put to me, and I answered truthfully, fully, candidly and without any dissimulation. The bishop and stake president accepted my answers and issued the recommend.<br />
5. On the day of the council, one of the two whose opinions mattered (my stake president) agreed I was worthy of a temple recommend at the time of the council. As astonishing as this may seem to the people at FAIR, I believe he was correct. I spent three hours with the entire stake presidency a few weeks before the disciplinary council in the High Council room. I used the whiteboard to lay out my understanding, the scriptures, my testimony and various experiences. It was very clear to those three members of the stake presidency that I was a devoted convert to the faith.<br />
<br />
I was not dishonest, as FAIR suggests. It is foolish and wrong for anyone to label another as “apostate” because of disagreements about Mormon history. It is offensive for FAIR to declare that I am “dishonest." These sound bite arguments and labels damage open and healthy discussion about remarkably important issues. We should be deeply involved in carefully re-examining Mormon history to see why the present state of Mormonism is so markedly different from where it began.<br />
<br />
Incremental changes do not startle people as much as contrasting the beginning with the end/now. The contrast between what Joseph was doing with the religion and what we are now doing with the religion is important. The LDS curriculum hides these things from average members. They need to be revisited. It is not a sin to study and search for the truth of events.<br />
<br />
The idea that history is not a sin would make a good bumper-sticker to respond to the bumper-sticker mentality that consigns study to apostasy. Indeed, understanding things differently is <i>never</i> a sin. A bumper-sticker stating "History is Not a Sin" will be available through the Publishing Hope website and Confetti Books. I do not receive anything from the sales, but I support the idea expressed on the sticker. Study and discussion of LDS history is not sinful.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-80163692837216211442014-10-15T08:21:00.000-06:002014-10-15T10:30:42.541-06:00BaseballBaseball, like life, makes improbabilities seem like inevitabilities.Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3880654315943365046.post-44453671687585390012014-10-09T20:13:00.000-06:002014-10-09T20:13:10.009-06:00What's Wrong<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">An email. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My wife and I, with some other believers, were baptized recently. I fully expected that now I could receive the power of the Holy Ghost. I believed what you said, that "today is once again a day of salvation, and He has set His hand again." If today is a day of salvation then surely He will now hear my prayers and pour out his Spirit upon us who are striving, with all our hearts, to come unto Him.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It has been over two weeks since my baptism. The entire time I have been pleading with the Lord to forgive my sins and allow me to enter in at the gate. I have felt nothing. I talked to one of the other couples that were also baptized that day. They told me that they had felt their baptism was pleasing to God, as they saw a white dove fly by their car as they drove to the chosen spot that day. Yet, they likewise have received no outpouring of the Spirit. This has been very discouraging for them and for me. The husband of that couple remarked to me that he has been thinking, "Is this just another pantomime? Have we been following another illusion?". I have also read the experiences of others on forums, Facebook, etc. who have been similarly baptized since your last lecture. There seems to be a lack of outpourings of the Spirit or baptism of fire experiences. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your words from your books and your recent talk speak to me, as they do to others. I'm willing to accept that they come from God. I just don't understand why He isn't following through with His promises. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I desire to receive the baptism of fire and to take the Holy Spirit as my guide. I've tried to keep the commandments to the best of my knowledge and I believe others have as well. I don't know what we are doing wrong.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">______________________</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I gave this response:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Holy Ghost has as the primary effect giving intelligence to man. It is true there are many "gifts" from the Holy Ghost, but the first, most important and clearest effect is to increase intelligence, or in other words light and truth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Holy Ghost "grows" in light as we give heed and diligence to the light. (These are all paraphrases of TPJS and D&C.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ask yourself:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Do you believe you understand better now than before your journey began?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Do you believe you can see more clearly what you need to do next?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Do the scriptures reveal more to you now than before you began this process?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Is there any more "intelligence" or light and truth in your life today than before?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you can answer any of these "yes" then do not doubt, but press on. I have labored decades to learn what I have learned, and I spend some time daily now studying, praying, contemplating and pondering. Although I have had remarkable experiences, I continue to study because the the things of God are deep, and require careful, patient, solemn and ponderous thought to acquire some of what He has made available.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I believe He will not give an original revelation to reveal what He has already revealed to us in scripture. Instead He requires us to first study His words, then when scripture becomes unable to answer the inquiry, He shows us by revelation how to see what is there before us. Some of the greatest things I have beheld by revelation I have then found to be already described in scripture. I just did not have the eyes yet to see it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Trust God, but follow His pattern.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If on the day of His resurrection Christ spent the day expounding scripture; </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And if Moroni spent the night teaching and reteaching from the scriptures;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And if I spent a year on an assignment expounding scripture;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">THEN look to your scriptures. See if you have any assistance studying them. Let them prove to your satisfaction the Holy Ghost can and will speak to you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">____________________________</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I reflected further on this email and my response I thought of Oliver Cowdery's effort to translate the Book of Mormon. The Holy Ghost does not relieve us of great effort, but instead equips us to obtain truth as the yield from our effort.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joseph Smith proved the pattern true. He investigated all the religions. He attended their meetings, spoke with the ministers, and paid attention to their claims. He could not determine the truth. Then he "labored" over the scriptures. "At length" he finally decided to do as James asks and prayed. His prayer was answered because he did the preliminary work, the required study, and put in the necessary labor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For three decades I studied and taught the scriptures. Each week between 10 and 40 hours were invested as I prepared to teach a 50 minute class. I labored, the scriptures yielded to study, and I learned more and more about God. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Vision of the Redemption of the Dead found in Section 138 was likewise obtained by study and prayer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The scriptures are a Urim and Thummim designed to provoke revelation. You cannot divorce the process of getting revelation from necessary scripture study. God made no such thing known to Laman, Lemuel or us when we do not search the scriptures and invest our heart and mind in learning His ways.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have studied the scriptures for years. By now, they inform most every thought. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fill yourself with scripture and see what the Holy Ghost can do then. Read them now and see how they open to you. If you take no thought except to ask and expect God to do the work, you do not understand the difference between "magic" and salvation. We are saved no quicker than we gain knowledge. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Study the scriptures. Include the Lectures on Faith as part of that curriculum. Study Joseph Smith. Prepare your mind first, then see what God will reveal to you.</span></div>
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Denver Snufferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13850530477432070456noreply@blogger.com