The Record of Three (Part 1 of 6)

While writing Calleth On My Name, the Lord kept bringing up questions that perplexed me. I would study study study and find an answer to one question only to be presented with other puzzling questions.

I understand why Jesus's disciples would say, “What do these words mean? We do not understand.” Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him to explain what he meant. He said, “Much of what I have said to you may seem like a riddle, but the time will come when you will comprehend my words and they will no longer seem a riddle, and you will understand them plainly.” Testimony of John page 26.

It is almost as if it was written as a riddle on purpose so only those who really want to know will find. I write in the first-person so that as you and I read, it becomes personal for each one of us.

We have been studying 3 Nephi 11 with our family, and I memorized the Doctrine of Christ as one of our mastery scriptures. Why is the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost “bearing record” such a large part of the Doctrine of Christ? Why is this so important? Notice how many times “bear/beareth record” is written in verses 31-41:

Jesus Christ said,

Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, I will declare unto you my doctrine. And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me. And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God. And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned.

Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father; and whoso believeth in me believeth in the Father also; and unto him will the Father bear record of me, for he will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost. And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one. And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and become as a little child, and be baptized in my name, or ye can in nowise receive these things. And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.

Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and whoso buildeth upon this buildeth upon my rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them. And whoso shall declare more or less than this, and establish it for my doctrine, the same cometh of evil, and is not built upon my rock; but he buildeth upon a sandy foundation, and the gates of hell stand open to receive such when the floods come and the winds beat upon them.

Therefore, go forth unto this people, and declare the words which I have spoken, unto the ends of the earth. 3 Nephi 11:31-41 [emphasis added]

How many times does the Father bear record? Three. How many times does Jesus bear record? Three. But notice the Holy Ghost only bears record twice. I wonder if these details and number of times each member of the Godhead bears record means something?

Three symbolizes whole or complete: “And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures” (Corinthians 15:4) “Which Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen.” (Doctrine and Covenants 20:28); the sun, moon, and stars give light to this earth; the telestial, terrestial, and celestial are three degrees of glory; mind, body, and spirit; father, mother, and children make a family; the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon knew of a surety that the work is true; “when three “wo’s” are pronounced upon a people it is a condemnation which will last beyond this life and into eternity” Denver Snuffer Blog March 8, 2010.

I ask, how am I made whole or complete through the Doctrine of Christ? Are the Father and Son whole and complete? Is the Holy Ghost in process of becoming whole and complete? How does the Son bring forth and provide evidence of the Father so He is remembered? How does the Father authenticate evidence of the Son? How can the Holy Ghost let its light shine before the people, that it may bring forth good works and glorify the Father who is in heaven?

Altogether, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost bears record a total of eight times. The number eight symbolizes a new beginning: we are baptized when we are eight (D&C 68:27), there were eight souls on Noah's ark (Genesis 7:13), the Brother of Jared built eight barges (Ether 3:1), a new week starts on the eighth day, a male child is circumcised on the eighth day (Luke 1:59), Joseph Smith showed the gold plates to eight witnesses. I ask then, how is the Doctrine of Christ a new beginning for me?

What does it mean to bear record?

Bear: To show or exhibit; to relate; to carry, to convey; to withstand something difficult or painful, to support or hold up; sustain, cause to be born, bring forth, provide evidence for.

Record: To cause to be remembered; an authentic account of any facts and proceedings

Why does the Father bear record of Jesus and Jesus bears record of the Father, but they do not bear record of the Holy Ghost, yet the Holy Ghost bears record of the Father and Jesus? What does it mean “the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one”? When these three bear record, what does this mean? Is it binding? Is it an ordinance? Is it noticed and recorded in Heaven?

We see this when Jesus sets forth the manner of baptism and he instructs them to baptize in His name.

Verily I say unto you, that whoso repenteth of his sins through your words, and desireth to be baptized in my name, on this wise shall ye baptize them—

Behold, ye shall go down and stand in the water, and in my name shall ye baptize them. And now behold, these are the words which ye shall say, calling them by name, saying:

Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

And then shall ye immerse them in the water, and come forth again out of the water.

And after this manner shall ye baptize in my name; for behold, verily I say unto you, that the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one; and I am in the Father, and the Father in me, and the Father and I are one. 3 Nephi 11:23-27

What does it mean to baptize in His name? What is His name? To do something in His name, would it need to be done “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost”?

Where else have I seen these words before?

Preserving the Restoration by Denver C. Snuffer Jr. begins with the Testimony of Louis Naegle. Louis closes his testimony with these words, “I leave this testimony with you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; Amen.” Keith Henderson's testimony is placed at the end of this book. Keith ends his testimony with these words, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.”

Is this book an ordinance to the gentiles? To the world? What just happened? Did the heavens notice and record something that was almost unnoticed here on earth?

On the night of February 12-13, 2011, I was baptized with fire and the Holy Ghost for the first time. It was in connection with reading excerpts from Denver Snuffer's The Second Comforter Conversing With the Lord Through the Veil. On that night, I knew for myself Denver was giving a truthful testimony. My joy increased until I felt my joy would exceed my mortal strength. It was after this time, that the meaning of scripture began to be unfolded to me in a new and expanded way. There are very few things I claim to know, but this much I do know, Denver Snuffer is telling the truth. For if I would deny this, I would deny the Lord visited me with light from heaven on the night of February 12-13, 2011, and this light filled my soul with exceeding great joy.

I have learned how to distinguish between light and darkness. Light brings joy. Darkness brings misery. Light is comforting yet it is not comfortable. Most often my beliefs and paradigms are challenged and questioned when brought into the light. It takes great strength and focus to stay in the light. Many times it leaves the recipient void of mortal strength (1 Nephi 1:7, Moses 1:9, JSH 1:20). For most it is easier to get distracted and stay in the darkness.

After recognizing the possibility that the testimonies of Louis and Keith sealed an ordinance, I looked at the final page of the The Second Comforter Conversing With the Lord Through the Veil to see if it also closed in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. At first glance it didn't appear to be so, but when I looked at the second to last paragraph, I found these words,

The words of Moroni seem particularly apt as a closing statement: He bids his readers farewell “until we shall meet before the judgment-seat of Christ, where all men shall know that my garments are not spotted with your blood. And then shall ye know that I have seen Jesus, and that he hath talked with me face to face, and that he told me in plain humility, even as a man telleth another in mine own language, concerning these things; And only a few have I written, because of my weakness in writing. And now, I would commend you to seek this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have written, that the grace of God the Father, and also the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost, which beareth record of them, may be and abide in you forever. Amen. Ether 12:38-41”[emphasis added]

Here again we find the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost bearing record of these things. Does this mean something? What is happening? Does it put the world on notice when someone with authority in the presence of the Father bears record of those things given him by the Son?

Notice how Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris seal their testimony of the Book of Mormon,

And the honor be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, which is one God. Amen.

One might assume Ether 5 is only about the testimony of these three Book of Mormon witnesses. But is this the only application for these words? What is the testimony of three? Which three must bear record of all things?

And in the mouth of three witnesses shall these things be established; and the testimony of three, and this work, in the which shall be shown forth the power of God and also his word, of which the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost bear record—and all this shall stand as a testimony against the world at the last day. Ether 5:4 [emphasis added]

When the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost bear record, will it stand as binding testimony against the world? “We understand that when a man works by faith he works by mental exertion instead of physical force: it is by words instead of exerting his physical powers, with which every being works when he works by faith” Lectures on Faith 7:3. What power do these words have?

The entire blog post is quite lengthy so I've divided it into different sections. Here are the titles of the next five blog posts.

Who is the Father?

Who is the Son?

Who is the Holy Ghost?

Sons of God

Heavenly Fathers

By Small and Simple Things Are Great Things Brought to Pass

Over the past couple weeks, I've asked, “Why does such a simple expression of faith mean so much to the Lord? Why is baptism so important?”

A messenger from the presence of God declared this:

“The first time I was visited by the Lord, He showed me just how significant baptism is to abide the day of His return. He showed me baptism is of central importance to preparing for His return.” Denver Snuffer, Doctrine of Christ Conference in Boise, Idaho page 2

“I accepted the invitation to speak here, because the time has come to testify of the things shown me by the Lord in His first appearance on the night of February 12-13, 2003. I saw His return in glory, and recorded what He revealed:

“I was at home lying in my bed when the Lord spoke to me, calling me by name, when it ended I was commanded to write an account. As I wrote, the words were given to me, and I recorded the following:

“On the 13th of February 2003 I saw the Lord coming in His glory. At first a sign appeared in the heavens; a light emanating from a single point, and turning first this way and that, All the world saw it. And men debated over its meaning. At length the light turned upon us, and within it was the Lord, showing His glory, with concourses of angels and the hosts of heaven following in His wake.

“And when we saw that it was the Lord, we rejoiced and were filled with joy. I turned to my wife and said, “Look, it is Christ!” and she said, “Yes, it is!” And we were filled with joy and peace of mind, for the long awaited day of the Lord had come.

“But others were filled with dread. They feared and lamented and wanted the mountains to cover them and hide them from His presence, For He was clothed in red and came in judgment. And Christian ministers knew they had taught falsely and that their faith could not save—and they begged for relief from the Saints.

“This caused me to marvel at how this could be. It was given unto me to understand that without the ordinances of salvation through the authorized ministers of the gospel, it was not possible for men to shed their sins. And they could not look upon a just and Holy Being without being racked with torment and guilt for their sins. And they pled with the Saints to minister to them, but we could not, For we were constrained by the Spirit, and were forbidden to do so. For this was the day of judgment which the Lord had in His heart, and He was now come to preach His own sermon, clothed in red, and to deliver those who waited on Him and to convict and condemn those who had not.

“I write this in my own hand, and bear solemn testimony that it is true, Amen.

“When I had finished recording the foregoing account I replied to the Lord that it was not complete and that I could give a much fuller account.

“The Lord replied, “When the time comes to bear testimony of this, these are the words you shall use.” And many other things were told to me that cannot be written.

“These are the words I can use to testify of that event. Therefore this is my testimony of that visit in early 2003.” Denver Snuffer, Doctrine of Christ Conference in Boise, Idaho page 3-4

On the night of February 12-13, 2011, I received the baptism of fire and a witness from God that Denver's testimony in The Second Comforter Conversing With the Lord Through the Veil is a true testimony. I know for myself that Denver is a true messenger sent from the presence of God.

It is a simple thing to be baptized. It is as simple as looking upon the brazen serpent and being healed.

And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way. And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread. And the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.

Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord, and against thee; pray unto the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us. And Moses prayed for the people. And the Lord said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.

And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived. Numbers 21:4-9

Nephi gives us added understanding:

And he loveth those who will have him to be their God. Behold, he loved our fathers, and he covenanted with them, yea, even Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; and he remembered the covenants which he had made; wherefore, he did bring them out of the land of Egypt.

And he did straiten them in the wilderness with his rod; for they hardened their hearts, even as ye have; and the Lord straitened them because of their iniquity. He sent fiery flying serpents among them; and after they were bitten he prepared a way that they might be healed; and the labor which they had to perform was to look; and because of the simpleness of the way, or the easiness of it, there were many who perished. 1 Nephi 17:40-41

It might be asked, why isn't living a good life sufficient? If being good was required, only one would meet the demand.

And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. Matthew 19:16-17

Why doesn't God require something great and spectacular from us? Is there something in us that looks for the accomplishment of impressive and notable deeds?

Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the Lord had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper. And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman’s wife. And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy. And one went in, and told his lord, saying, Thus and thus said the maid that is of the land of Israel.

And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto the king of Israel. And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes of raiment. And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this letter is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy.

And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that he rent his clothes, and said, Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy? wherefore consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh a quarrel against me. And it was so, when Elisha the man of God had heard that the king of Israel had rent his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, Wherefore hast thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.

So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariot, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha. And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean. But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper. Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.

And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean? Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.

And he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came, and stood before him: and he said, Behold, now I know that there is no God in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I pray thee, take a blessing of thy servant. But he said, As the Lord liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive none. And he urged him to take it; but he refused. 2 Kings 5:1-16

It is important to note that Elisha refused payment for his priestly service.

He commandeth that there shall be no priestcrafts; for, behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion. 2 Nephi 26:29

When men offer baptism while practicing priestcrafts, it pollutes the ordinance.

Jesus laid out the requirements for an acceptable baptism:

And again the Lord called others, and said unto them likewise; and he gave unto them power to baptize. And he said unto them: On this wise shall ye baptize; and there shall be no disputations among you.

Verily I say unto you, that whoso repenteth of his sins through your words, and desireth to be baptized in my name, on this wise shall ye baptize them—Behold, ye shall go down and stand in the water, and in my name shall ye baptize them.

And now behold, these are the words which ye shall say, calling them by name, saying: Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. And then shall ye immerse them in the water, and come forth again out of the water.

And after this manner shall ye baptize in my name; for behold, verily I say unto you, that the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one; and I am in the Father, and the Father in me, and the Father and I are one. 3 Nephi 11: 22-27

If the requirements for baptism are anything more or less than the doctrine of Christ as taught by Jesus, it also pollutes the ordinance.

Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, I will declare unto you my doctrine. And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me.

And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God. And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned. Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father; and whoso believeth in me believeth in the Father also; and unto him will the Father bear record of me, for he will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost. And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one.

And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and become as a little child, and be baptized in my name, or ye can in nowise receive these things. And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.

Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and whoso buildeth upon this buildeth upon my rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them. And whoso shall declare more or less than this, and establish it for my doctrine, the same cometh of evil, and is not built upon my rock; but he buildeth upon a sandy foundation, and the gates of hell stand open to receive such when the floods come and the winds beat upon them. Therefore, go forth unto this people, and declare the words which I have spoken, unto the ends of the earth. 3 Nephi 11:31-41

Did you hear that? If you add to or take away from the doctrine of Christ, it cometh of evil and gives you no protection against the gates of hell. It is not a valid baptism.

I was baptized into the LDS church on May 2, 1975. I don't remember the questions in the baptismal interview, but I don't believe it included my belief in the doctrine of Christ as stated in 3 Nephi 11. There were many other questions asked that had nothing to do with the doctrine of Christ. These are the current questions asked during a LDS baptismal interview:

1. Do you believe that God is our Eternal Father? Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior and Redeemer of the world?

2. Do you believe the Church and gospel of Jesus Christ have been restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith?
3. Do you believe that [current Church President] is a prophet of God? What does this mean to you?
4. What does it mean to you to repent? Do you feel that you have repented of your past transgressions?
5. Have you ever committed a serious crime? If so, are you now on probation or parole? Have you ever participated in an abortion? a homosexual relationship?
6. You have been taught that membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints includes living gospel standards. What do you understand of the following standards? Are you willing to obey them?
   1. The law of chastity, which prohibits any sexual relationship outside the bonds of a legal marriage between a man and a woman.
   2. The law of tithing.
   3. The Word of Wisdom.
   4. The Sabbath day, including partaking of the sacrament weekly and rendering service to fellow members.
7. When you are baptized, you covenant with God that you are willing to take upon yourself the name of Christ and keep His commandments throughout your life. Are you ready to make this covenant and strive to be faithful to it? How Do I Prepare People for Baptism and Confirmation

This appears to be a good list to get someone off on the right foot in this new religion, but it is found lacking in declaring the doctrine of Christ. A whole bunch of other requirements, not given by the Lord, have been added.

I am not familiar with the baptism offered by other ministers, but unless it is precisely what Jesus has declared, it is not a valid baptism.

Being baptized is a simple commandment. Men have made it complicated.

If you have not received a valid baptism, I invite you to be baptized by one who has received authority from Jesus Christ to perform the ordinance. Repent and believe in Christ. He is teaching us what it means to repent, believe in Him. Or in other words, stop not believing in Christ and start believing in Christ. He has already atoned for your past and future mistakes. Face God and be believing.

It's almost too simple. Believe in Christ and be baptized. Can you do that? Believe in Christ with the faith of a child and follow Him.

Come Forth and Be Baptized

Jesus Christ invites everyone everywhere to come unto him and be baptized. The requirements are simple and are not controlled or managed by men or institutions . . . only by God himself.

“Those who believe Christ's doctrine will need to have the baptism you will minister to survive the judgments to come. This is the only way they can face Him when He comes again.” Preserving the Restoration page 21

So what is the doctrine of Christ?

“Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, I will declare unto you my doctrine. And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me. And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God. And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned. Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father; and whoso believeth in me believeth in the Father also; and unto him will the Father bear record of me, for he will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost. And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one. And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and become as a little child, and be baptized in my name, or ye can in nowise receive these things. And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God. Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and whoso buildeth upon this buildeth upon my rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them. And whoso shall declare more or less than this, and establish it for my doctrine, the same cometh of evil, and is not built upon my rock; but he buildeth upon a sandy foundation, and the gates of hell stand open to receive such when the floods come and the winds beat upon them. Therefore, go forth unto this people, and declare the words which I have spoken, unto the ends of the earth.” 3 Nephi 11:31-41

After being taught the doctrine of Christ, this is what Alma did:

“And it came to pass after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord. And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you? And now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts. And now it came to pass that Alma took Helam, he being one of the first, and went and stood forth in the water, and cried, saying: O Lord, pour out thy Spirit upon thy servant, that he may do this work with holiness of heart. And when he had said these words, the Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he said: Helam, I baptize thee, having authority from the Almighty God, as a testimony that ye have entered into acovenant to serve him until you are dead as to the mortal body; and may the Spirit of the Lord be poured out upon you; and may he grant unto you eternal life, through the redemption of Christ, whom he has prepared from the foundation of the world. And after Alma had said these words, both Alma and Helam were buried in the water; and they arose and came forth out of the water rejoicing, being filled with the Spirit.” Mosiah 18:7-14

If this is the desire of your heart, come forth and be baptized :)

“And this I do that I may establish my gospel, that there may not be so much contention; yea, Satan doth stir up the hearts of the people to contention concerning the points of my doctrine; and in these things they do err, for they do wrest the scriptures and do not understand them. Therefore, I will unfold unto them this great mystery; For, behold, I will gather them as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, if they will not harden their hearts; Yea, if they will come, they may, and partake of the waters of life freely. Behold, this is my doctrine—whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church. Whosoever declareth more or less than this, the same is not of me, but is against me; therefore he is not of my church. And now, behold, whosoever is of my church, and endureth of my church to the end, him will I establish upon my rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them. And now, remember the words of him who is the life and light of the world, your Redeemer, your Lord and your God. Amen.” D&C 10:64-70

Some Things Said Just Ain’t So, Part 5 Conclusion

Who are God’s Prophets?

Who claims to be God’s prophets? Has God given them power? Have they come from the presence of God with a message? Have they been ordained priests after the holy order of the Son of God? JST, Hebrews 7:3 If so, by whom were they ordained? Alma 13:1 Have they received the sealing power from God, been given authority by Him to speak in His name, and publicly proclaim a binding message from heaven to His people? Helaman 10:6-11 

Or do they teach the philosophies of men mingled with scripture Colossians 2:8

and change His ordinances? Isaiah 24:5 Do they modify the doctrine of Christ to conform to public opinion so they can fit in with the world? Do they pretend to know Christ, proclaim to speak for Him, and take his name in vain because, in reality, they don’t know Him at all? D&C 112:25-26 Do they really proclaim the mind and will of God? Or do they declare their own mind and broadcast the will of the world? Is there any difference between a son of God speaking with simplicity, precision, and power and an imposter with a continuous flow of useless drivel coming from the mouth?

Before proclaiming the things of God in His name, would it be wise to get His point of view, approval, and endorsement? Is it important for a prophet of God to obtain the keys whereby he may ask God, who is the source of all understanding, and receive clear answers? Joseph Smith acquired it D&C 132:45-50, and Hyrum obtained it too D&C 124:95. Joseph received from God the higher priesthood after the holy order of the Son of God, obtained the voice of Jehovah, and talked with Him. He could ask questions and get direct answers from God.

Joseph connected with heaven, communed with Deity, and was given authority by God to do His work. He spoke in the name of Christ with power and authority, and he knew it, nothing doubting. He presided over the true and living church, dispelled darkness, and pointed others to Christ. Joseph taught others how to rend the veil, be redeemed from the fall, and come unto Christ, who is the only One who has the power to save.

Here is the present claim of modern Mormonism regarding priesthood authority found on the Web:  

“Prior to the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph Smith received priesthood authority at the hands of John the Baptist, Peter, James, and John who received that same “power and authority” from Jesus Christ Himself (Luke 9:1). These men appeared as angels and bestowed the priesthood upon Joseph Smith. The prophet today, Thomas S. Monson, is the authorized successor to Joseph Smith. He and the Church’s other Apostles trace their priesthood authority back to Jesus Christ in an unbroken chain of ordinations.”

If I understand correctly, the current claim of the Church is that the greater priesthood was conferred in an unbroken chain from prophet to prophet as follows: Jesus Christ, (Peter, James, and John), Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith, Heber J. Grant, George Albert Smith, David O. McKay, Joseph Fielding Smith, Harold B. Lee, Spencer W. Kimball, Ezra Taft Benson, Howard W. Hunter, Gordon B. Hinckley, and finally to Thomas S. Monson, the current and 16^th President of the Church.

Joseph Smith obtained the fullness and possessed the greater priesthood. If it were possible for President Brigham Young to receive, by succession, the fullness of the priesthood, then this greater priesthood should have allowed him access to God D&C 84:19-22, but he admitted his access to God was denied. He even lamented sometimes throughout his life that he was unable to obtain audience with the Lord and know His will:

“I have flattered myself, if I am as faithful as I know how to be to my God, and my brethren, and to all my covenants, and faithful in the discharge of my duty, when I have lived to be as old as was Moses when the Lord appeared to him, that perhaps I then may hold communion with the Lord, as did Moses. I am not now in that position, though I know much more than I did twenty, ten, or five years ago. But have I yet lived to the state of perfection that I can commune in person with the Father and the Son at my will and pleasure? No—though I hold myself in readiness that he can wield me at his will and pleasure. If I am faithful until I am eighty years of age, perhaps the Lord will appear to me and personally dictate me in the management of his Church and people. A little over twenty years, and if I am faithful, perhaps I will obtain that favour with my Father and God.” JD 7:243

Brigham reaffirmed he never had any being, angelic or otherwise, from a higher sphere speak with him. “I think it likely that after a while I may be able to so humble myself and become like a little child, as to be taught more fully by the Heavens. Perhaps, when I am eighty years of age, I may be able to talk with some Being of a higher sphere than this. Moses saw the glory of God at that age, and held converse with better beings than he had formerly conversed with. I hope and trust that by the time I am that age I shall also be counted worthy to enjoy the same privilege.” JD 10:23 (As a side note: Brigham Young died at the age of 76. Born June 1, 1801. Died August 29, 1877)

The greatest purpose of the fullness of the priesthood is to have the ability to ask a question and receive an answer from God. From the statements of Brigham Young, we learn that He was never able to commune with heaven or see God. At times, he would ask God a question, but he was unable to receive revelation and could not get an answer.

As recorded, Brigham explained what he did when he was left without revelation and lacked a clear answer from God: “If I do not know the will of my Father, and what He requires of me in a certain transaction, if I ask Him to give me wisdom concerning any requirement in life, or in regard to my own course, or that of my friends, my family, my children, or those that I preside over, and get no answer from Him, and then do my very best that my judgment will teach me, He is bound to own and honor that transaction, and He will do so to all intents and purposes.” JD3:205 

When his access to God was not allowed, he was left without heaven’s direct answer. He did not know the will of the Father, therefore, Brigham used his own judgment and moved ahead. He figured if God did not give an answer of approval or disapproval, then his own way would suffice and must surely be the will of the Lord. He even claimed God was then “bound to own and honor” his (Brigham’s) best judgment and will.

Since the leadership of Brigham Young, most church leaders have used this same method of administration and often have called it inspiration. It has evolved into a style of one’s own and continues to circulate today.

I have personally been caught in this particular false tradition of men. I remember when I was called as the president of a church auxiliary; I had no idea who to choose for my counselors. My mind was blank. I walked through the neighborhood asking for divine guidance.  When no recognized answer came, I just chose two counselors.  I really didn’t know what I was doing, but did the best I could. This idea causes individuals to be less reliant and dependent on Christ, which leads to confusion, uncertainty, and disappointment. Well meaning people many times feel pressured to act like they have an answer from God, when God has not spoken.

By trusting in and declaring one’s own agenda, thoughts, ideas, attitudes, values, beliefs, and traditions, while claiming them to be of God, a man takes the name of the Lord in vain and leads himself and others astray. Without being led or supported by God, people tend to be disoriented, disconnected, and lost. They are inclined to seek approval from the world, be persuaded by peers, “tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness.” Ephesians 4:14

Nephi saw our day, warned of false prophets who pervert the right way of the Lord, and gave them three wo’s. “O the wise, and the learned, and the rich, that are puffed up in the pride of their hearts, and all those who preach false doctrines, and all those who commit whoredoms, and pervert the right way of the Lord, wo, wo, wo be unto them, saith the Lord God Almighty, for they shall be thrust down to hell!” 2 Nephi 28:15

After all, the Lord did say, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”Matthew 7:21-23  

What is the difference between false prophets who pervert the right way of the Lord and His true messengers authorized by Him? How do we distinguish and tell the difference between the two? Why did Jeremiah rebuke latter day prophets?

Are disciples of Christ humble men of sound understanding who are waxing strong in the knowledge of the truth? Does it have something to do with searching the scriptures diligently that they might know the word of God? How about afflictions and suffering much, both in body and in mind, such as hunger, thirst and fatigue? What about performing much labor in the spirit? Is giving themselves to much prayer and fasting, having the spirit of prophecy, and possessing the spirit of revelation characteristics of a true and living prophet, who communes with Jehovah? By the power of their words, are there people brought before the altar of God to call on his name and confess their sins before him? When they teach, do they teach with authority of God or do the spoken words fall to the ground without power or effect? Alma 17:2-5 

Do true messengers point others to Christ, the Redeemer? Or do they seek to draw attention to themselves and receive the honors of men?  Do they clearly set Christ up as the light of the world and the only possible source of salvation for mankind? Do they teach and practice the doctrine of Christ and seek the welfare of Zion? Or do they engage in priestcrafts, preach the precepts of men, and “set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion?” 2 Nephi 26:29

Why does doctrine seem to change so often, today? Why do teachings of churches ebb and flow? Why does the variance of doctrines depend heavily upon public opinion, traditions, popularity, who you listen to, and when you happen to hear it? What source can be relied upon to declare true, constant, unpolluted, and sure doctrine of salvation that actually works? Institutions? Organizations? Clubs or associations? Men? Women? Churches? All churches? Any church? Church leaders? Some leaders? Others? Are all “modern day prophets” a reliable source of truth? If so, why do they teach doctrines that contradict each other? What gives? If not, which prophets can you count on? Any? How can you be sure? True Messengers? Angels? God? 

Who teaches and shows us the way to live the doctrine of Christ and personally demonstrates the blessings that flow there from? Who is the perfect prototype of salvation? Who is the only One who has the power to save another? D&C 76:41-44 Why is there a famine in the land of hearing the words of the Lord? Amos 8:11 Why do many wander from sea to sea, from the north even to the east, run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and not find it? Amos 8:12

Is it really necessary to connect with heaven to be able to receive unwavering, steadfast, and correct doctrine with surety? Is every individual required to know God and commune with the heavens to know His doctrine, receive the fullness of His gospel, and to obtain authority to declare the mind and will of God to His people?

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to know the truth, the whole truth, and the Lord, God, Omnipotent? Wouldn’t it be useful to have the ability to discern between truth and error, differentiate doctrines, and know the source from whence they come?

Elder Christofferson quoted J. Reuben Clark Jr., and I think he is right: “… The Church will know by the testimony of the Holy Ghost in the body of the members, whether the brethren in voicing their views are ‘moved upon by the Holy Ghost’; and in due time that knowledge will be made manifest.” (J. Reuben Clark Jr., “Church Leaders’ Words,” 10)

Who is declaring the word of the Lord? “What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.” D&C 1:38

Some Things Said Just Ain’t So, Part 1

Who Trumps, God or Man?

In the Sunday morning session of the April 2012 General Conference, Elder Christofferson delivered a message entitled, “The Doctrine of Christ”.  He addressed the issue of persisting doctrinal confusions, talked about correcting doctrinal deviations, spoke concerning the overall power and authority of the President of the Church, and reaffirmed the teaching that a prophet is a prophet only when he is acting as such. He stated in part the following:

. . . We have seen of late a growing public interest in the beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is something we welcome because, after all, our fundamental commission is to teach the gospel of Jesus Christ, His doctrine, in all the world (see Matthew 28:19–20; D&C 112:28). But we must admit there has been and still persists some confusion about our doctrine and how it is established. That is the subject I wish to address today. . .

We value scholarship that enhances understanding, but in the Church today, just as anciently, establishing the doctrine of Christ or correcting doctrinal deviations is a matter of divine revelation to those the Lord endows with apostolic authority. . .

In 1954, President J. Reuben Clark Jr., then a counselor in the First Presidency, explained how doctrine is promulgated in the Church and the preeminent role of the President of the Church. Speaking of members of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, he stated: “[We] should [bear] in mind that some of the General Authorities have had assigned to them a special calling; they possess a special gift; they are sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators, which gives them a special spiritual endowment in connection with their teaching of the people. They have the right, the power, and authority to declare the mind and will of God to his people, subject to the over-all power and authority of the President of the Church.

The President of the Church may announce or interpret doctrines based on revelation to him (see, for example, D&C 138). Doctrinal exposition may also come through the combined council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (see, for example, Official Declaration 2). Council deliberations will often include a weighing of canonized scriptures, the teachings of Church leaders, and past practice. But in the end, just as in the New Testament Church, the objective is not simply consensus among council members but revelation from God. It is a process involving both reason and faith for obtaining the mind and will of the Lord.

At the same time it should be remembered that not every statement made by a Church leader, past or present, necessarily constitutes doctrine. It is commonly understood in the Church that a statement made by one leader on a single occasion often represents a personal, though well-considered, opinion, not meant to be official or binding for the whole Church. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that “a prophet [is] a prophet only when he [is] acting as such.”

President Clark, quoted earlier, observed: “To this point runs a simple story my father told me as a boy, I do not know on what authority, but it illustrates the point. His story was that during the excitement incident to the coming of [Johnston’s] Army, Brother Brigham preached to the people in a morning meeting a sermon vibrant with defiance to the approaching army, and declaring an intention to oppose and drive them back. In the afternoon meeting he arose and said that Brigham Young had been talking in the morning, but the Lord was going to talk now. He then delivered an address, the tempo of which was the opposite from the morning talk. …

“… The Church will know by the testimony of the Holy Ghost in the body of the members, whether the brethren in voicing their views are ‘moved upon by the Holy Ghost’; and in due time that knowledge will be made manifest.”

Does being sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators by the members of the church automatically give men a special spiritual endowment in connection with their teaching of the people? Does the sustaining vote of church members by common consent give the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve the right, the power, and authority to declare the mind and will of God to his people? How does a man become a prophet of God? What kind of servant does God ordain? D&C 50:26-29, D&C 18:31-38 

What is required to become a servant of God who speaks His word, which “shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same?” D&C 1:38 Is there a difference between a “holy man” and a “natural man”? If so, what? Is it necessary for a servant of God to first be redeemed from the fall, brought back into His presence, and become a holy man?

If God ordains and speaks through holy men, are God’s words subject to the overall power and authority of the President of the Church, who is sustained by the members of the church? Has God called, chosen, and ordained the President of the Church? Are the First Presidency and members of the Quorum of the Twelve all holy men who have been ordained by God? If not, why? If so, how did they become such? Would holy men ordained by God and acting in His name ever contradict each other?

Would it be necessary for a chosen servant, who is declaring the mind and will of God, to entertain council deliberations, which often include a weighing of canonized scriptures, the teachings of Church leaders, and past practice? In the light of knowing that not every statement made by a Church leader, past or present, necessarily constitutes doctrine, would the weighing of teachings of Church leaders and past practices be reliable and valid?

Would it be useful to know when a prophet is speaking as a prophet of God? Would it be valuable to know when the words of a prophet only represent a personal, though well-considered opinion, not meant to be official or binding for the whole Church? Would it be helpful to be able to recognize, discern, and know the difference between binding prophecies of God and the mere opinions of men? Would it be fundamental and essential to know when a man is talking nonsense versus when God is speaking with clarity and power?

Can those who claim to be endowed with apostolic authority change doctrine that was established before the foundation of the world? Can any natural man establish the doctrine of Christ? Can any council of men change it? Hasn’t the doctrine of Christ already been established? Many prophets have spoken plainly on this subject 2 Nephi 31 & 32. Can a man or group of men vote and, with authority, modify God’s ordinances or doctrines? Isaiah 24:5 Would God change the ordinances because he discovered he didn’t quite get it right the first time? Are altered ordinances valid? What ordinances have been changed in our day? Is the doctrine of Christ unchangeable, consistent, and reliable? Are there laws, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated?  D&C 130:20

To be continued . . .

The Church Restored Through the Prophet Joseph Smith – Part 2

We are surely in an awful situation with threatening minefields lurking about. This is especially daunting with the realization that the gentiles are in a state of unbelief, under condemnation, without the fullness of the gospel, disconnected from heaven and, therefore, without power. This sounds similar to what Joseph was experiencing when he followed the admonition he found in James 1:5 and asked God which of all the sects was right and which to join. God answered his plea.

“I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt; that: “they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof.” Joseph Smith—History 1:19

Paul was describing the apostasy and perilous times of the last days and said, “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” 2 Timothy 3:5

Nevertheless, it is encouraging to remember that despite the condemnation, Jesus still claims “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” to be his church in the last days, D&C 115:4 I am grateful for the preserved truths still available and the restored gospel offered today. It may call for additional sincere searching to find the original restored gospel and require personal sacrifice to live it. However, His church plays a very important role as the end of the world approaches. He watches over his church and blesses individuals who love Him and keep His commandments.

I am a firm believer of the gospel of Jesus Christ that Joseph Smith restored. When the accounts written prior to Joseph’s death are read, taken at face value, and carefully considered, one begins to realize that the church and its doctrines have changed dramatically. 

The outward appearance of the church looks more like mainstream religion, praise and acceptance from the public arena has increased, and some restored key doctrines (i.e., calling and election made sure, receiving the Second Comforter, and individual connection with heaven to obtain power) have been buried and are seldom taught anymore.  It may be a surprise and even a bit disturbing to some when they discover that modern Mormonism differs greatly from the church restored through Joseph, the prophet, more than 180 years ago.

Here are just a few of these restored key doctrines:

“The other Comforter spoken of is a subject of great interest, and perhaps understood by few of this generation. After a person has faith in Christ, repents of his sins, and is baptized for the remission of his sins and receives the Holy Ghost, (by the laying on of hands), which is the first Comforter, then let him continue to humble himself before God, hungering and thirsting after righteousness, and living by every word of God, and the Lord will soon say unto him, Son, thou shalt be exalted. When the Lord has thoroughly proved him, and finds that the man is determined to serve Him at all hazards, then the man will find his calling and his election made sure, then it will be his privilege to receive the other Comforter, which the Lord hath promised the Saints, as is recorded in the testimony of St. John, in the 14th chapter, from the 12th to the 27th verses.” TPJS Page 150

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” John14:16-18,21,23

“John 14:23—The appearing of the Father and the Son, in that verse, is a personal appearance; and the idea that the Father and the Son dwell in a man’s heart is an old sectarian notion, and is false.” D&C 130:3

“Now what is this other Comforter? It is no more nor less than the Lord Jesus Christ Himself; and this is the sum and substance of the whole matter; that when any man obtains this last Comforter, he will have the personage of Jesus Christ to attend him, or appear unto him from time to time, and even He will manifest the Father unto him, and they will take up their abode with him, and the visions of the heavens will be opened unto him, and the Lord will teach him face to face, and he may have a perfect knowledge of the mysteries of the Kingdom of God; and this is the state and place the ancient Saints arrived at when they had such glorious visions--Isaiah, Ezekiel, John upon the Isle of Patmos, St. Paul in the three heavens, and all the Saints who held communion with the general assembly and Church of the Firstborn.” TPJS Page 150 

“That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.” D&C 121:36

“And thus, having been approved of God, he was ordained an high priest after the order of the covenant which God made with Enoch, It being after the order of the Son of God; which order came, not by man, nor the will of man; neither by father nor mother; neither by beginning of days nor end of years; but of God; And it was delivered unto men by the calling of his own voice, according to his own will, unto as many as believed on his name.” JST Genesis 14:27-29 

Does one have to connect with heaven in order to have the fullness of the priesthood? Does one have to be righteous to be able to use the powers of heaven? Where does the fullness come from? Who confers it? God? Angels? Prophets? Men? Others?

Are there people on this earth today that personally commune with heaven? Are there those who have obtained redemption and heavenly promises? Who has received an audience with Jesus Christ? Are there individuals living today that possess the fullness of the holy priesthood as did Joseph Smith, Adam, Noah, Enoch, Lehi, Nephi, Enos, and many others?

How about the rest of us? Do we believe we can see God face to face in mortality? Can this really happen today? Has it happened? Can it happen to common imperfect folk? Even you and me? Is it important to consider this promise from God? Does it matter? If it is available in mortality, how is it accomplished? What sacrifice is required? What is the path to be taken? Does the doctrine of Christ help answer these questions? 2 Nephi 31 How about Nephi’s account of his journey? Does it give additional understanding?

Nephi’s first recorded experience with the Lord is when his heart was softened to believe the Lord’s message Lehi relayed to the family. He didn’t rebel against his father, but went and made known unto his brothers the things which the Lord had manifested unto him by his Holy Spirit. 1 Nephi 2:16-18 Then he received stronger impressions. He listened. He obeyed. His impressions continued. He acted consistent with them. He was able to hear the Lord as he continued on the path. Angels ministered to him and prepared him to receive an audience with the Lord. For a sufficient period of time, he consistently remained true and faithful . After having been prepared and proven, he received an audience with the Lord.

After having experienced what it takes to come into the presence of the Lord, Nephi endeavors to show us the path.  At the end of his life, he again teaches the doctrine of Christ 2 Nephi 31. Seeing our response to his words, he is left to mourn and cannot say more. His utterance is stopped because of our unbelief, wickedness, ignorance, and stiffneckedness. 2 Nephi 32:6-7 

As I was reading these things, my heart was touched deeper than perhaps ever before. I am persuaded to believe and act in faith upon His promise. He personally ministers to all those who obey the laws required to come into his presence. D&C 130:20-21 

Jesus revealed the law, and it pertains to every soul. “Verily, thus saith the Lord: It shall come to pass that every soul who forsaketh his sins and cometh unto me, and calleth on my name, and obeyeth my voice, and keepeth my commandments, shall see my face and know that I am;” D&C 93:1

Anyone can obey His voice and receive the attached blessing to see His face and know Him. It’s just a matter of who truly wants to. Who really desires to make the necessary and acceptable sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit? D&C 59:8 Who is willing to submit their personal will to obey His will? Luke 22:42 Who has sufficient faith to act upon the laws of God and put his word to the test? Who seeks eternal life and is willing to lay everything required on the altar, watch it burn, be cleansed, not look back, and partake of the Heavenly Gift?