Exercise Faith ... See and Receive

Sometimes the most real things before you are the things you cannot see. Just because you can't see something doesn't mean it doesn't exist. 

Believing is a key to seeing. You must believe something will happen for you before you see it. And, then, have faith, which is not only the principle of action, but of power, also, in all intelligent beings, in the process of getting there!

Here is a message from Moroni concerning faith: (See Ether 12:6-22)

“And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith.

For it was by faith that Christ showed himself unto our fathers, after he had risen from the dead; and he showed not himself unto them until after they had faith in him; wherefore, it must needs be that some had faith in him, for he showed himself not unto the world.

But because of the faith of men he has shown himself unto the world, and glorified the name of the Father, and prepared a way that thereby others might be partakers of the heavenly gift, that they might hope for those things which they have not seen.

Wherefore, ye may also have hope, and be partakers of the gift, if ye will but have faith.

Behold it was by faith that they of old were called after the holy order of God.

Wherefore, by faith was the law of Moses given. But in the gift of his Son hath God prepared a more excellent way; and it is by faith that it hath been fulfilled.

For if there be no faith among the children of men God can do no miracle among them; wherefore, he showed not himself until after their faith.

Behold, it was the faith of Alma and Amulek that caused the prison to tumble to the earth.

Behold, it was the faith of Nephi and Lehi that wrought the change upon the Lamanites, that they were baptized with fire and with the Holy Ghost.

Behold, it was the faith of Ammon and his brethren which wrought so great a miracle among the Lamanites.

Yea, and even all they who wrought miracles wrought them by faith, even those who were before Christ and also those who were after.

And it was by faith that the three disciples obtained a promise that they should not taste of death; and they obtained not the promise until after their faith.

And neither at any time hath any wrought miracles until after their faith; wherefore they first believed in the Son of God.

And there were many whose faith was so exceedingly strong, even before Christ came, who could not be kept from within the veil, but truly saw with their eyes the things which they had beheld with an eye of faith, and they were glad.

And behold, we have seen in this record that one of these was the brother of Jared; for so great was his faith in God, that when God put forth his finger he could not hide it from the sight of the brother of Jared, because of his word which he had spoken unto him, which word he had obtained by faith.

And after the brother of Jared had beheld the finger of the Lord, because of the promise which the brother of Jared had obtained by faith, the Lord could not withhold anything from his sight; wherefore he showed him all things, for he could no longer be kept without the veil.

And it is by faith that my fathers have obtained the promise that these things should come unto their brethren through the Gentiles; therefore the Lord hath commanded me, yea, even Jesus Christ.”

Mighty Miracles through Faith

“And who shall say that Jesus Christ did not do many mighty miracles? And there were many mighty miracles wrought by the hands of the apostles. And if there were miracles wrought then, why has God ceased to be a God of miracles and yet be an unchangeable Being? And behold, I say unto you he changeth not; if so he would cease to be God; and he ceaseth not to be God, and is a God of miracles. And the reason why he ceaseth to do miracles among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should trust. Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth. (Mormon 9:18-21)

 

“For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith.” (2 Nephi 27:23)

“And it came to pass that when Jesus had made an end of praying he came again to the disciples, and said unto them: So great faith have I never seen among all the Jews; wherefore I could not show unto them so great miracles, because of their unbelief. Verily I say unto you, there are none of them that have seen so great things as ye have seen; neither have they heard so great things as ye have heard.” (3 Nephi 19:35-36)

“And he hath said: Repent all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me, and be baptized in my name, and have faith in me, that ye may be saved. And now, my beloved brethren, if this be the case that these things are true which I have spoken unto you, and God will show unto you, with power and great glory at the last day, that they are true, and if they are true has the day of miracles ceased? Or have angels ceased to appear unto the children of men? Or has he withheld the power of the Holy Ghost from them? Or will he, so long as time shall last, or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man upon the face thereof to be saved? Behold I say unto you, Nay; for it is by faith that miracles are wrought; and it is by faith that angels appear and minister unto men; wherefore, if these things have ceased wo be unto the children of men, for it is because of unbelief, and all is vain. For no man can be saved, according to the words of Christ, save they shall have faith in his name; wherefore, if these things have ceased, then has faith ceased also; and awful is the state of man, for they are as though there had been no redemption made.” (Moroni 7:34-38)

“Wo unto him that spurneth at the doings of the Lord; yea, wo unto him that shall deny the Christ and his works! Yea, wo unto him that shall deny the revelations of the Lord, and that shall say the Lord no longer worketh by revelation, or by prophecy, or by gifts, or by tongues, or by healings, or by the power of the Holy Ghost! Yea, and wo unto him that shall say at that day, to get gain, that there can be no miracle wrought by Jesus Christ; for he that doeth this shall become like unto the son of perdition, for whom there was no mercy, according to the word of Christ!” (3 Nephi 29:5-7)

“I came unto mine own, and mine own received me not; but unto as many as received me gave I power to do many miracles, and to become the sons of God; and even unto them that believed on my name gave I power to obtain eternal life.” (D&C 45:8)

“And now it came to pass that according to our record, and we know our record to be true, for behold, it was a just man who did keep the record—for he truly did many miracles in the name of Jesus; and there was not any man who could do a miracle in the name of Jesus save he were cleansed every whit from his iniquity— (3 Nephi 8:1)

“Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings.” (Mosiah 8:18)

Identifying Markers of the Disciples of Jesus

There are those who are called disciples of Jesus Christ. In the broadest sense of the definition the dictionary says “all Christians are called his disciples, as they profess to learn and receive his doctrines and precepts.” Yet, what does it mean to receive the Doctrine of Christ?

Disciple 

1. A learner; a scholar; one who receives or professes to receive instruction from another;

2. A follower; an adherent to the doctrines of another. Hence the constant attendants of Christ were called his disciples; and hence all Christians are called his disciples, as they profess to learn and receive his doctrines and precepts.

In the Book of Mormon there are identifying markers which distinguished the disciples of Jesus from other believers in Christ. Great and marvelous works were wrought by the disciples of Jesus. How did His disciples receive power and authority to work miracles in the name of Jesus?

And there were great and marvellous works wrought by the disciples of Jesus insomuch that they did heal the sick, and raise the dead, and cause the lame to walk, and the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear. And all manner of miracles did they work among the children of men, and in nothing did they work miracles save it were in the name of Jesus. 4 Nephi 1:6-7 

Notice in this next verse there was no contention among all the people but mighty miracles were wrought among the disciples of Jesus. Is there a difference between being a believer in Jesus and being a disciple of Jesus?

And it came to pass that there was no contention among all the people in all the land, but there were mighty miracles wrought among the disciples of Jesus. [emphasis added] 4 Nephi 1:14 

Why couldn't a man do miracles in the name of Jesus save he were cleansed every whit from his iniquity? How can he be cleansed every whit from iniquity? Who has power and authority to forgive sins and cleanse a man?

And now it came to pass that according to our record, and we know our record to be true, for behold, it was a just man who did keep the record for he truly did many miracles in the name of Jesus and there was not any man who could do a miracle in the name of Jesus save he were cleansed every whit from his iniquity. 3 Nephi 2:1 

What was Jesus doing when he knelt to wash His disciple's feet? When the Lord kneels to wash a man's feet does He cleanse him every whit from his iniquity? Is this when he becomes clean from the blood and sins of the world? What are the sins of the world? What does it mean to become clean from the blood and sins of the world?

So after he had washed their feet and replaced his cloak and sat down again, he said to them, Do you understand the example I have just provided to you? You call me Master and Lord. And that is correct to say, for I am. If I am your Lord and Master, and knelt to wash your feet to cleanse you, you should also labor to make each other clean from the blood and sins of the world. For I have given you the example that you should do as I have done with you. Testimony of John 10:17-21 

The claim to be the true Church of Christ, is made by many, but to claim to be Jesus Christ's church, the works of Jesus must be present. What is the power of the word of God in the disciple of Jesus? Would this be the same as Jesus being one in them? Why will the people harden their hearts against the word of the Lord when the markers of true disciples of Jesus are present?

And this church did multiply exceedingly because of iniquity and because of the power of Satan who did get hold upon their hearts. And again, there was another church which denied the Christ, and they did persecute the true church of Christ because of their humility and their belief in Christ. And they did despise them because of the many miracles which were wrought among them, therefore they did exercise power and authority over the disciples of Jesus who did tarry with them. And they did cast them into prison, but by the power of the word of God which was in them the prisons were rent in twain and they went forth doing mighty miracles among them. Nevertheless, and notwithstanding all these miracles, the people did harden their hearts and did seek to kill them even as the Jews at Jerusalem sought to kill Jesus according to his word. And they did cast them into furnaces of fire and they came forth receiving no harm, and they also cast them into dens of wild beasts and they did play with the wild beasts even as a child with a lamb. And they did come forth from among them, receiving no harm. Nevertheless, the people did harden their hearts for they were led by many priests and false prophets to build up many churches and to do all manner of iniquity. And they did smite upon the people of Jesus, but the people of Jesus did not smite again. 4 Nephi1:33-41 

Is there a difference between true believers in Christ and disciples of Jesus? Is there a difference in the degree of faith of these two groups of worshipers of Christ?

Therefore the true believers in Christ and the true worshipers of Christ, among whom were the three disciples of Jesus who should tarry, were called Nephites and Jacobites and Josephites and Zoramites. 4 Nephi 1:46 

Why was it expedient that Jesus go to the Father? Why was it done for their sake? Why did Jesus touch the disciples whom he had chosen with his hand when he gave them power to give the Holy Ghost? Can power to give the Holy Ghost be given in any other way?

And now I go unto the Father because it is expedient that I should go unto the Father for your sakes. And it came to pass that when Jesus had made an end of these sayings he touched with his hand the disciples whom he had chosen, one by one, even until he had touched them all and spake unto them as he touched them. And the multitude heard not the words which he spake, therefore they did not bear record, but the disciples bear record that he gave them power to give the Holy Ghost. 3 Nephi 3:285-287 

Why were the disciples of Jesus the ones who formed a church of Christ? Why were the disciples of Jesus the ones who gave the gift of the Holy Ghost?

And it came to pass that the thirty and fourth year passed away, and also the thirty and fifth, and behold the disciples of Jesus had formed a church of Christ in all the lands round about. And as many as did come unto them and did truly repent of their sins were baptized in the name of Jesus, and they did also receive the Holy Ghost. 4 Nephi 1:1 

What were the works that Jesus did? Why were those that believed on Jesus able to do greater works than Jesus did? Who does Jesus pray for? For what purpose is glory given to those who believe on Jesus? What does it mean to be made perfect in one? How will the world know that Jesus was sent by the Father? When Jesus's disciples are made one with Jesus and the Father, how will they testify of Him?

This clearly sets forth the propriety of the Savior's saying, recorded in John's testimony, 14:12 [John 10]: Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these, because I go unto the Father.- This taken in connection with some of the sayings in the Savior's prayer, recorded in the 17th chapter, gives great clearness to his expressions: He says, in the 20-24 [John 10]: Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also who shall believe on me through their words; that they all may be one, as thou, Father art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I am: that they may behold my glory which thou hast given me; for thou lovedest me before the foundation of the world. Lectures on Faith 7:33-35 

What is the state of the glorified saints? Why were the glorified saints able to do greater works than those which Jesus did among them? Why do the saints need to behold Jesus's glory? Why do they need to behold His glory in eternity? Where is eternity? What does it mean to be one with Jesus and the Father?

All these sayings put together, give as clear an account of the state of the glorified saints as language could give- The works that Jesus done they were to do, and greater works than those which he done among them should they do, and that because he went to the Father. He does not say that they should do these works in time; but they should do greater works because he went to the Father. He says, in the 24th verse [John 10]: Father, I will that they also whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory. These sayings, taken in connection, make it very plain, that the greater works, which those that believed on his name, were to do, were to be done in eternity, where he is going, and where they should behold his glory. He had said, in another part of his prayer, that he desired of his Father, that those who believed on him should be one in him, as he, and the Father were one in each other: Neither pray I for these (the apostles) alone, but for them also who shall believe on me through their words; that they all may be one: that is, they who believe on him through the apostles' words, as well as the apostles themselves: that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me and I in thee: that they also may be one in us. Lectures on Faith 7:36-40 

What did the Savior intend His disciples to understand? Why does Jesus need to give His disciples the glory which the Father gave Him? Because the disciples are partakers in Jesus's glory, are they able to do greater works than those which Jesus did among them? How did they obtain this glory?

What language can be plainer than this? The Savior surely intended to be understood by his disciples: and he so spake that they might understand him; for he declares to his Father, in language not to be easily mistaken, that he wanted his disciples, even all of them, to be as himself and the Father: for as he and the Father were one, so they might be one with them. And what is said in the 22nd verse [John 10] is calculated to more firmly establish this belief, if it needs anything to establish it. He says, And the glory which thou gavest me, I have given them, that they may be one, even as we are one. As much as to say, that unless they have the glory which the Father had given him, they could not be one with them: For he says he had given them the glory that the Father had given him, that they might be one; or in other words, to make them one. This fills up the measure of information on this subject, and shows most clearly, that the Savior wished his disciples to understand, that they were to be partakers with him in all things: not even his glory excepted. Lectures onFaith 7:41-46 

How does the Savior give His glory to others? After Jesus's disciples are made one with the Father and the Son, what will they do? Why does Jesus wish His disciples to do these great works?

It is scarcely necessary here to observe what we have previously noticed: That the glory which the Father and the Son have, is because they are just and holy beings; and that if they were lacking in one attribute or perfection which they have the glory which they have, never could be enjoyed by them; for it requires them to be precisely what they are in order to enjoy it: and if the Savior gives this glory to any others, he must do it in the very way set forth in his prayer to his Father: by making them one with him, as he and the Father are one.- In so doing he would give them the glory which the Father has given him; and when his disciples are made one with the Father and the Son, as the Father and the Son are one, who cannot see the propriety of the Savior's saying, The works which I do, shall they do; and greater works than these shall they do, because I go to the Father? Lectures on Faith 7:47 http://scriptures.info/Scriptures//dc/lecture/7/?hl=47

What does Jesus mean, “all things are possible to him that believeth”? How did the Savior and the Former Day Saints view the plan of salvation? How did they become the children of promise? Will there always be a performance of things told by the Lord if we believe Him?

And Jesus said unto the man who brought his son to him, to get the devil who tormented him, cast out, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. Mark 9:23 [Mark 8]. These with a multitude of other scriptures, which might be quoted, plainly set forth the light, in which the Savior, as well as the Former Day Saints, viewed the plan of salvation.- That it was a system of faith- it begins with faith, and continues by faith; and every blessing which is obtained, in relation to it, is the effect of faith, whether it pertains to this life or that which is to come.- To this, all the revelations of God bear witness. If there were children of promise, they were the effects of faith: not even the Savior of the world excepted: Blessed is she that believed, said Elizabeth to Mary, when she went to visit her;- for there shall be a performance of the things which were told her of the Lord; Luke 1:45 [Luke 1]. Nor was the birth of John the Baptist the less a matter of faith; for in order that his father Zacharias might believe he was struck dumb. Lectures on Faith 7:57-61 

Why is faith necessary to receive any and all blessings? Why is nothing withheld when faith is sufficient to receive it? What are the fruits of the faith of saints and disciples of Jesus? Are these blessings to be received by both men and women?

And through the whole history of the scheme of life and salvation, it is a matter of faith: every man received according to his faith: according as his faith was, so were his blessings and privileges; and nothing was withheld from him when his faith was sufficient to receive it. He could stop the mouths of lions, quench the violence of fire, escape the edge of the sword, wax valiant in fight, and put to flight the armies of the aliens; women could, by their faith, receive the dead children to life again: in a word, there was nothing impossible with them who had faith. All things were in subjection to the Former Day Saints, according as their faith was- By their faith they could obtain heavenly visions, the ministering of angels, have knowledge of the spirits of just men made perfect, of the general assembly and church of the Firstborn, whose names are written in heaven, of God the judge of all, of Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and become familiar with the third heavens, see and hear things which were not only unutterable, but were unlawful to utter. Peter, in view of the power of faith, 2nd epistle, 1:1-3 [2 Pet 1] says, to the Former Day Saints: grace and peace be multiplied unto you, through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that has called us unto glory and virtue. In the first epistle, 1:3-5 [1 Pet 1] he says, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy, has begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, ready to be revealed in the last time. Lectures on Faith7:62-66 

What is the difference between believing in God and knowing Him? How are we to obtain all things that pertain to life and godliness?

These sayings put together, show the Apostle's views, most clearly, so as to admit of no mistake on the mind of any individual. He says that all things that pertain to life and godliness were given unto them through the knowledge of God and our Savior Jesus Christ. And if the question is asked, how were they to obtain the knowledge of God? (for there is a great difference between believing in God and knowing him: knowledge implies more than faith. And notice, that all things that pertain to life and godliness, were given through knowledge of God;) the answer is given, through faith they were to obtain this knowledge; and having power by faith to obtain the knowledge of God, they could with it obtain all other things which pertain to life and godliness. By these sayings of the Apostle we learn, that it was by obtaining a knowledge of God, that men got the all things which pertain to life and godliness; and this knowledge was the effect of faith. So that all things which pertain to life and godliness are the effects of faith. Lectures on Faith 7:67-73 http://scriptures.info/Scriptures//dc/lecture/7/?hl=67-73

Why does faith bring with it apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, gifts, wisdom, knowledge, miracles, healings, tongues, interpretation of tongues? Is it enough to claim these titles and gifts without the attendant miracles that Jesus did? How does faith lead to knowledge? Why are revelations, visions, and dreams, and other necessary things needed in order that we may be perfected and obtain salvation? How do we obtain eternal life?

From this we may extend as far as any circumstances may require whether on earth or in heaven, and we will find it the testimony of all inspired men, or heavenly messengers, that all things that pertain to life and godliness are thc[the] effects of faith and nothing else: all learning, wisdom, and prudence fail, and everything else as a means of salvation but faith. This is the reason that the fishermen of Galilee could teach the world- because they sought by faith and by faith obtained. And this is the reason that Paul counted all things but filth and dross- what he formerly called his gain he called his loss; yea, and he counted all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus the Lord. Philippians 3:7-10 [Phil 1]. Because, to obtain the faith by which he could enjoy the knowledge of Christ Jesus the Lord, he had to suffer the loss of all things: this is the reason that the Former Day Saints knew more, and understood more of heaven, and of heavenly things than all others beside, because this information is the effect of faith- to be obtained by no other means. And this is the reason, that men, as soon as they lose their faith, run into strifes, contentions, darkness and difficulties; for the knowledge which tends to life disappears with faith, but returns when faith returns; for when faith comes, it brings its train of attendants with it- apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, gifts, wisdom, knowledge, miracles, healings, tongues, interpretation of tongues, etc. All these appear when faith appears on the earth, and disappear when it disappears from the earth. For these are the effects of faith and always have, and always will attend it. For where faith is, there will the knowledge of God be also, with all things which pertain thereto- revelations, visions, and dreams, as well as every other necessary thing in order that the possessors of faith may be perfected and obtain salvation; for God must change, otherwise faith will prevail with him. And he who possesses it will, through it, obtain all necessary knowledge and wisdom, until he shall know God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, whom he has sent: whom to know is eternal life: Amen. Lectures on Faith 7:74-83 

Miracles follow saints and disciples of Jesus Christ. These blessings are open to all who believe and receive.

Do I Choose the Flesh or Faith?

Why did the Pharisees and Sadducees desire Jesus to show them a sign from heaven? And why did Jesus call them hypocrites saying, “A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign”?

The Pharisees also, with the Sadducees, came, and tempting Jesus, desired him that he would show them a sign from Heaven. And he answered and said unto them, When it is evening ye say, The weather is fair, for the sky is red; and in the morning ye say, The weather is foul today; for the sky is red and lowering. Oh hypocrites! Ye can discern the face of the sky, but ye cannot tell the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign, and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the Prophet Jonas. And he left them and departed. [emhasis added] Matthew 8:107-112 

What is the sign of the prophet Jonas?

And there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas; for as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly, so shall the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Matthew 6:86 

Why do the wicked and adulterous seek after a sign? It may be that many of the wicked and adulterous have never “committed adultery”. The wicked and adulterous are they who are attached to what they can experience with their five senses. They can believe that which they can touch, see, hear, taste, and smell. This is why they ask for signs. They want to be given evidence or proof that they can experience with their physical body. This is all they know to do. They are slaves to addictions, passion, lusts of the flesh, and the things of this world.

The carnal mind cannot work by faith because it will only believe what it sees with its eyes. Faith works by first seeing with an eye of faith. What we see with our eye of faith we will see with our eyes. What is seen in the spirit, manifests itself in the flesh.

And there were many whose faith was so exceedingly strong, even before Christ came, who could not be kept from within the veil, but truly saw with their eyes the things which they had beheld with an eye of faith, and they were glad. [emphasis added] Ether 4:18 


And thus, if ye will not nourish the word, looking forward with an eye of faith to the fruit thereof, ye can never pluck of the fruit of the tree of life. [emphasis added] Alma 13:113 

To believe is to see.

It is not true that "seeing is believing." Rather, believing is to see. Belief will open your eyes. The Voice, three levels removed from us, is regained by your election to remove the veil that bars your hearing and your sight. Proverbs of Denver Snuffer #3

If I do not work by faith, I am being acted upon by the results of some other being's faith? To truly be free I must be able to work by faith.

And because that they are redeemed from the fall they have become free forever, knowing good from evil, to act for themselves and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the law at the great and last day according to the commandments which God hath given.[emphasis added]  2 Nephi 1:93 

We did not even get to this earth except by faith as it existed in ourselves or in some other being, and there will not be a change or a revolution in any of the creations of God unless it is effected by faith.

 In the preceding lectures, we treated of what faith was, and of the object on which it rested; agreeably to our plan we now proceed to speak of its effects: As we have seen in our former lectures, that faith was the principle of action and of power in all intelligent beings, both in heaven and on earth, it will not be expected that we will, in a lecture of this description attempt to unfold all its effects; neither is it necessary to our purpose so to do; for it would embrace all things in heaven and on earth, and encompass all the creations of God, with all their endless varieties: for no world has yet been framed that was not framed by faith; neither has there been an intelligent being on any of God's creations who did not get there by reason of faith, as it existed in himself or in some other being; nor has there been a change or a revolution in any of the creations of God but it has been effected by faith: neither will there be a change or a revolution unless it is effected in the same way, in any of the vast creations of the Almighty; for it is by faith that the Deity works. [emphasis added] Lecture on Faith 7:1 

The whole visible creation, as it now exists, is the effect of faith. Faith is the principle upon which we must act in order to enjoy the blessedness of eternity.

It is only necessary for us to say, that the whole visible creation, as it now exists, is the effect of faith- It was faith by which it was framed, and it is by the power of faith that it continues in its organized form, and by which the planets move round their orbits and sparkle forth their glory: So, then, faith is truly the first principle in the science of theology, and when understood, leads the mind back to the beginning and carries it forward to the end, or in other words, from eternity to eternity.

As faith, then, is the principle by which the heavenly hosts perform their works, and by which they enjoy all their felicity, we might expect to find it set forth in a revelation from God as the principle upon which his creatures, here below, must act, in order, to obtain the felicities enjoyed by the saints in the eternal world, and that when God would undertake to raise up men for the enjoyment of himself, he would teach them the necessity of living by faith, and the impossibility there was of their enjoying the blessedness of eternity without it, seeing that all the blessings of eternity are the effects of faith. [emphasis added] Lecture on Faith 7:6-7 

We must learn how to work by faith or else not work at all. We must learn to act instead of being acted upon.

And now my sons I speak unto you these things for your profit and learning, for there is a God and he hath created all things, both the heavens and the earth and all things that in them is, both things to act and things to be acted upon. 2 Nephi 1:75 

Why does Paul have no confidence in the flesh? Why did Paul count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus ? Why did Paul suffer the loss of all things, and count them but dung, that he might be found in Christ? Why must we be found in Christ through the faith of Christ? What does it mean to know Christ and attain unto the resurrection of the just?

For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more; circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord; for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, and be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith; that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the just. Philippians 1:41-45 

How is the flesh contrary to the Spirit? What are the works of the flesh? What is the fruit of the Spirit? What does it mean to crucify the flesh? Why must I crucify my flesh? Can I have faith in God while I am attached to my five senses? How does the flesh veil me from the things of God?

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these, Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like; of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another, envying one another. [emphasis added] Galatians 1:113-120  

What is the veil? What is inside the veil? Where do I see? Do I see within the veil? Or do I see with my natural senses? How does this veil affect my faith? Can I have faith in things outside the veil?

Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh, and having such an high priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. [emphasis added] Hebrews 5:38  

What does Paul mean “when I was under the law, I was yet carnal”? Why when spiritual do I do that which I am commanded to do? Why does no good thing dwell in my flesh? Why is that which is good under the law, not good? How could something which is evil under the law be good in Christ? Where is the law of God written? Where is the commandment of Christ written? Why does the fleshy or carnal serve the law of sin? But the spiritually minded cannot sin?

For we know that the commandment is spiritual; but when I was under the law, I was yet carnal, sold under sin. But now I am spiritual; for that which I am commanded to do, I do; and that which I am commanded not to allow, I allow not. For what I know is not right, I would not do; for that which is sin, I hate. If then I do not that which I would not allow, I consent unto the law, that it is good; and I am not condemned. Now then, it is no more I that do sin; but I seek to subdue that sin which dwelleth in me. For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing; for to will is present with me, but to perform that which is good I find not, only in Christ. For the good that I would have done when under the law, I find not to be good; therefore, I do it not. But the evil which I would not do under the law, I find to be good; that, I do.

Now if I do that, through the assistance of Christ, I would not do under the law, I am not under the law; and it is no more that I seek to do wrong, but to subdue sin that dwelleth in me. I find then that under the law, that when I would do good evil was present with me; for I delight in the law of God after the inward man. And now I see another law, even the commandment of Christ, and it is imprinted in my mind. But my members are warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. And if I subdue not the sin which is in me, but with the flesh serve the law of sin; O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord, then, that so with the mind I myself serve the law of God. [emphasis added] Romans 3:56-70 

The war to be won is between the Spirit and the flesh. Which one will govern me? Which one controls and directs the other? Does my flesh govern me? Or does my Spirit govern me? Why are the carnally minded dead? What is it about being Spiritually minded that brings life and peace?

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are after the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, though the body shall die because of sin, yet the Spirit is life, because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead, dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. [emphasis added] Romans 3:71-81 

Here is another way of saying it. The flesh or the son of God must be subjected to the will of the Father or the Spirit.

And now Abinadi said unto them, I would that ye should understand that God himself shall come down among the children of men and shall redeem his people. And because he dwelleth in flesh he shall be called the Son of God, and having subjected the flesh to the will of the Father, being the Father and the Son - the Father because he was conceived by the power of God and the Son because of the flesh, thus becoming the Father and Son, and they are one God, yea, the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth. And thus the flesh becoming subject to the Spirit or the Son to the Father, being one God, suffereth temptation and yieldeth not to the temptation, but suffereth himself to be mocked and scourged and cast out and disowned by his people. [emphasis added] Mosiah 4:179-181 

Why can't I have faith unto life and salvation while I am still attached to earthly things? How does my attachment to my five senses or my flesh destroy my faith?

Let us here observe, that a religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things, never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation; for from the first existence of man, the faith necessary unto the enjoyment of life and salvation never could be obtained without the sacrifice of all earthly things: it was through this sacrifice, and this only, that God has ordained that men should enjoy eternal life; and it is through the medium of the sacrifice of all earthly things, that men do actually know that they are doing the things that are well pleasing in the sight of God. When a man has offered in sacrifice all that he has, for the truth's sake, not even withholding his life, and believing before God that he has been called to make this sacrifice, because he seeks to do his will, he does know most assuredly, that God does and will accept his sacrifice & offering, & that he has not nor will not seek his face in vain. Under these circumstances, then, he can obtain the faith necessary for him to lay hold on eternal life. [emphasis added] Lectures on Faith 6:15-17 

Does this give greater meaning to Nephi's words? “cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm.”

O Lord I have trusted in thee and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh,for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm. Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me if I ask not amiss. Therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee. Yea, I will cry unto thee, my God the rock of my righteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen. 2 Nephi 2:56-64 

Why must I choose between God and mammon? Can I enjoy the things of the Spirit while still holding on to the things of the flesh? What is the focus of my eye? Is it the eye which governs all things?

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth where moth and rust doth corrupt and thieves break through and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness. No man can serve two masters for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. 3 Nephi 3:119-125 

Where is joy to be found? How is this to be received?

Joy cannot be found by subordinating the spirit to the flesh. Joy, peace and freedom come only by subordinating the flesh to the spirit. Proverbs of Denver Snuffer #19

How are the disciples of Jesus an epistle of Christ to be read of all men? Where is the law of Christ written? Why does the letter kill but the spirit gives life?

Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men; forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart. And such trust have we through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the Spirit; for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life. 2 Corinthians 1:36-38 

Are signs and mighty works important in pleasing God? Do signs come before I exercise faith or after I exercise faith? What purpose do signs serve for the unbelieving and rebellious? How will signs and wonders follow believers in Jesus Christ and be used to glorify God and for the good of men?

Behold, I the Lord uttereth my voice and it shall be obeyed, wherefore verily I say, Let the wicked take heed and let the rebellious fear and tremble and let the unbelieving hold their lips, for the day of wrath shall come upon them as a whirlwind and all flesh shall know that I am God, and he that seeketh signs shall see signs, but not unto salvation. Verily I say unto you, There are those among you who seeketh signs and there have been such even from the beginning, but behold, faith cometh not by signs, but signs follow those that believe. Yea, signs cometh by faith, not by the will of men nor as they please, but by the will of God. Yea, signs cometh by faith unto mighty works, for without faith no man pleaseth God. And with whom God is angry He is not well pleased, wherefore unto such He sheweth no signs, only in wrath unto their condemnation. Wherefore I the Lord am not pleased with those among you who have sought after signs and wonders, and not for faith and not for the good of men unto my glory. D&C 18:3-8 

If miracles have ceased, what does that say about my faith? Why are miracles wrought among the disciples of Christ?

And now my beloved brethren, if this be the case that these things are true which I have spoken unto you, and God will shew unto you with power and great glory at the last day that they are true, and if they are true, has the day of miracles ceased? Or have angels ceased to appear unto the children of men? Or has he withheld the power of the Holy Ghost from them? Or will he so long as time shall last or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man upon the face thereof to be saved? Behold I say unto you, Nay. For it is by faith that miracles are wrought. And it is by faith that angels appear and minister unto men. Wherefore, if these things have ceased, wo be unto the children of men for it is because of unbelief, and all is vain. For no man can be saved, according to the words of Christ, save they shall have faith in his name. Wherefore, if these things have ceased, then has faith ceased also; and awful is the state of man, for they are as though there had been no redemption made. [emphasis added] Moroni 7:51-60 

Do I ask for signs so that I might believe? Or do I do the works that Jesus did because I have faith in Him? Can you see the difference between asking for signs from God on the one hand, and performing miracles in the name of Jesus on the other hand? One brings condemnation and the other brings life and salvation.

“Measuring Stick” for Faith

I have been reading and reflecting upon the word of God as recorded in Moroni 7:29-39. As a result, a number of questions have come to mind and caused me to more seriously consider His message to me about belief, faith, works, action, repentance, baptism, hope, charity, miracles, angels, and redemption. I felt to share, at least in part, the following:

29 And because he hath done this, my beloved brethren, have miracles ceased? Behold I say unto you, Nay; neither have angels ceased to minister unto the children of men.

Miracles? Angels? Do I see, acknowledge, or experience miracles? What are they? Do angels minister to me? What do angels talk to me about? What do they teach me? What do they claim or assert? What is the message they bring?

What is an angel anyway? Spirit being? Mortal individual with flesh and blood? Resurrected personage with flesh and bone? Translated being? Other? All of the above? Would it seem reasonable to consider the possibility of encountering diverse angels, who come with different characteristics and for various purposes and reasons? Good? Bad? Right? Wrong? Light? Darkness? Truth? Error? Enlightenment? Deception? From Heaven? From Hell? Angels of God with His message of truth? Angels of the Devil with his message of lies? How about the devil deceiving me and appearing to me as an angel of light, but lacking glory? How about the Lord appearing to me as an angel of light with glory?

What would be my experience to look upon Satan in the natural man? Would it be possible to be in the presence of Satan without having glory come upon me and being transfigured before him? Why or why not? On the other hand, what would be the result of looking upon God in the natural man? Would it be possible to look upon God, except his glory should come upon me, and I should be transfigured before Him? Is there a difference between God and Satan? If there is a difference, how is it discerned? How can I accurately distinguish between the two? (Moses 1:13-16)

Therefore, having these extremes placed before us in the scriptures, would it be likely that angels do indeed appear with varying degrees of light, glory, knowledge, authority, and power? If that is in fact true, would it be sensible to correctly identify angels and distinguish between verity and deception. Would it be wise to receive the angels of God, embrace the message, and live according to it? Therefore, should the angels of darkness be dismissed and the attendant lies discarded? 

“And thus the Gospel began to be preached, from the beginning, being declared by holy angels sent forth from the presence of God, and by his own voice, and by the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Moses 5:58) I think I would be very interested and anxious to hear from an angel like that. If one came along, I think I would want to listen and give heed to His word. Are there any angels available today that fit this description? Where can one be found in these latter days? What does God require of an individual to be such and receive the assignment to be an angel of God sent from his presence? 

30 For behold, they are subject unto him, to minister according to the word of his command, showing themselves unto them of strong faith and a firm mind in every form of godliness.

Angels of God are subject to whom? Angels of God minister according to the word of whose command? To whom do angels of God show themselves? If angels of God appear unto those of strong faith and a firm mind in every form of godliness, what can I do to recognize and receive an angel? If angels, in fact, minister according to the word of His command, do angels of God freelance according to their own agenda? Would they ever teach for doctrines the commandments of men? Do they have a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof? Do they get paid to preach? Are they receiving $$$ in any amount, form, or fashion? Or do angels of God have different motives for teaching the word of God?

Who are the angels of God today? Could a mortal angel of God come in the form of a prophet, seer, revelator, and translator with an authorized message from heaven? Whose message is delivered by angels that come from the presence of God? Does God vouch for His messages sent through His angels? Knowing the message comes from God, should I take the message more seriously? Therefore, would it be highly important for me to find and identify a true messenger sent from the presence of God? Would it be essential for me to heed the message delivered by God's authorized angel? What would be the consequences of giving heed to the message? What if I do not give heed to the message of God delivered through His angel? Does it matter?

31 And the office of their ministry is to call men unto repentance, and to fulfil and to do the work of the covenants of the Father, which he hath made unto the children of men, to prepare the way among the children of men, by declaring the word of Christ unto the chosen vessels of the Lord, that they may bear testimony of him.

What does it mean that the chosen vessels of the Lord may bear testimony of Him? What is the ministry of an angel? Who ministers according to the word of Christ at His command? What do angels do? What do they say? What do they declare? Do they give praise and approval and say smooth things that are pleasing to men? Or do they call repentance with clarity, accuracy, and power? Are they more interested in the salvation of my soul than becoming popular among men? Is an angel sent from the presence of God the same thing as a prophet sent from the presence of God?

Do we find angels, who are true messengers of God, well liked, praised, honored, found on corporate boards, occupying high seats in religious leaderships, or given special treatment and accommodations in our society? Or does the world mistake the true prophets as the false prophets because the guilty “taketh the truth to be hard, for it cutteth them to the very center”? And in turn, does society erroneously view the false prophets as the true prophets because they preach that which is pleasing to the carnal man? 

Although true prophets may be among the most honorable men of the earth, do the children of men almost always cast out true messengers as apostates, while they cherish, honor, and support hypocrites, impostors, and the basest of men? Do men generally enjoy being called to repentance? Why or why not? Do men even see a need to repent? Or do they choose to firmly believe that all is well in Zion and therefore, no change is needed? When an angel preaches repentance with authority, what is the common reaction of the children of men? Do they like it? Or do they firmly conclude that the angel is a stupid idiot? Mad? Unbalanced and crazy? Deluded and deceived? Apostate? A wild man? What is the outcome of failing to recognize an angel from God and giving heed to the message? On the other hand, some few may actually turn and face God, hear the word of Christ with a soft and open heart, recognize the truth, acknowledge personal error, and repent. What would be the result of that?

32 And by so doing, the Lord God prepareth the way that the residue of men may have faith in Christ, that the Holy Ghost may have place in their hearts, according to the power thereof; and after this manner bringeth to pass the Father, the covenants which he hath made unto the children of men.

For what is the Lord preparing the way when He sends an angel with an authoritative message? What is made available? Repentance? Baptism? Receiving the Holy Ghost? Windows of opportunities? In order for the children of men to obtain faith in Christ, is it necessary for a messenger to be sent forth with a true message? Why or why not? Is the Lord preparing the way for covenants to be fulfilled? What else?

33 And Christ hath said: If ye will have faith in me ye shall have power to do whatsoever thing is expedient in me.

If I have faith in Christ, shall I have power to do whatsoever thing that is expedient in Christ? Anything? All things expedient? What things are expedient in Him? What does it look like to have faith in Christ? Is faith something beyond just believing He exists? Does exercising faith in Christ require something more than being slightly familiar with His teachings? Would faith without works be acceptable? What works would be necessary to be accomplished on my part? What actions would be required to show faith in Christ? What efforts must be put forth? Mental? Physical? Other?

34 And he hath said: Repent all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me, and be baptized in my name, and have faith in me, that ye may be saved.

Would it be expedient in Christ that I be saved? Does this verse become a personal commandment from God to me? Is this His invitation to me? If it is, would it seem reasonable for me to repent, come unto Christ, be baptized in His name, and have faith in Him? What does it mean to repent? Could repentance mean to abandon false and vain and foolish traditions of men and turn and face God? Could it mean that any beliefs, traditions, or ways of living found in me, which are contrary to God, must be discarded? Based on my current view and present understanding, what if my beliefs seem to be true but are false? What if I think I am right, but in actuality, I am blinded by the traditions of men and fail to recognize that my practices are done in vain? What if I am unwilling to consider the foolishness of my position? Consequences? Would I be willing to ask God about my paradigms and His perspective and seek to reconcile the two? How about asking for help to correct my misunderstanding and to make the necessary changes in my paradigm to match His?

What if I were told by an angel that baptism, whether Catholic, Protestant, or LDS is not valid and is not accepted by Christ, and therefore, authoritative re-baptism is necessary? If I were clearly instructed by an angel and understood what Jesus really means by saying that “you must be baptized in my name, and have faith in me, that ye may be saved”, what would be my reaction? How does this new information match up with my current beliefs, traditions, and religious practices? Does it matter to me? To God? What shall I do about it?

If the word of God and His instructions delivered by an angel were in obvious and distinct contradiction to my current religious beliefs and traditions, how would I feel? How would I act? What would I do? Would I tend to blow it off? Ignore it? Think about it? Pray about it? Seek and obtain an authorized baptism? Would agitation or anger set in? If so, at whom or what would I be angry? The messenger? The church? God? Myself? Would I demonize the angel, the church, or God? Would I be tempted to cast out the messenger? Stone the prophet? Slander the church? Reject and curse God? What would I actually do? How would I deal with truth that contradicts my current paradigms and ways of life?

If the word of God proves to run contrary to society, religious instruction, and traditions, what should I do? Consider it? Reject it? Which would I reject, and which would I accept? If the word of God, coming through His angel, fails to reconcile with “church doctrine” and does not match or support the teachings of church leadership, what shall I do? Trust God, consider the new paradigm, and act accordingly? Or “sweep it under the rug” and pretend it doesn't exist? Which would be best? Why?

If an angel provided instructions and I obtained assurance by the power of the holy ghost that an authoritative re-baptism is necessary for me to be saved, what should I do? If this commandment of God to me concerning re-baptism contradicts the LDS narrative, which it does, should I still be baptized again? I wonder if those in “my world” would approve of that? How about my family? Friends? Peers? What if I asked questions to my family, peers, and church leaders? Would they entertain my sincere questions about this and other issues, which seem to contradict the teachings I hear at church? I wonder if my religion would approve of that? 

Would my bishop, priest, president or clergyman accept me as I am and consider my sincere questions? Why or why not? Would my religious leaders address my questions by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned? Or would I be persecuted and cast out in one form or another? Really, how would I deal with the contradictions I find between the word of God and the many institutions, religions, professors, priests, and leaders that “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.”? (JSH 1:19)

Would it be of value for me to correctly identify true messengers, verify the truthfulness of the messages delivered, obtain the word of God, and apply those truths in my life?

35 And now, my beloved brethren, if this be the case that these things are true which I have spoken unto you, and God will show unto you, with power and great glory at the last day, that they are true, and if they are true has the day of miracles ceased?

Great Question !!

36 Or have angels ceased to appear unto the children of men? Or has he withheld the power of the Holy Ghost from them? Or will he, so long as time shall last, or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man upon the face thereof to be saved?

More key questions worth considering !!

37 Behold I say unto you, Nay; for it is by faith that miracles are wrought; and it is by faith that angels appear and minister unto men; wherefore, if these things have ceased wo be unto the children of men, for it is because of unbelief, and all is vain.

Have miracles ceased in my life? Have angels ceased to appear to me? Or have I ever seen, recognized, or entertained an angel? If I have not witnessed miracles or if miracles have not been wrought as a result of my faith or if angels have not appeared or ministered to me by faith or if angels have not been noticed, recognized, or received by me or if angels have not ministered to me, then what's up? If these things have ceased or haven't even begun, what is the reason? What are the consequences? “Wo be unto the children of men, for it is because of unbelief, and all is vain.” What would that mean regarding me and my state and standing with God? What is unbelief? And how can I discard it?

38 For no man can be saved, according to the words of Christ, save they shall have faith in his name; wherefore, if these things have ceased, then has faith ceased also; and awful is the state of man, for they are as though there had been no redemption made.

This appears very serious to me! If these things have ceased or do not exist in my life, what does that mean concerning my salvation? What does it mean according to the words of Christ? If these things have ceased or do not appear in my life, and therefore, faith has ceased also and awful is the state of man, for they are as though there had been no redemption made, what is my current state and standing with God? Is it awful? Would it be wise for me to remain in an unredeemed state, as though there had been no redemption made? Is this a way to reject Christ's redemptive offering to me? What do you think?

39 But behold, my beloved brethren, I judge better things of you, for I judge that ye have faith in Christ because of your meekness; for if ye have not faith in him then ye are not fit to be numbered among the people of his church.

What is a determining characteristic of those who have faith in Christ? What is meekness? What are some examples of those who possess meekness? Christ? Enoch? Moses? Others? What does meekness look like?

What could make you unfit to be numbered among the people of His church? What is His church anyway? (D&C 10:67-68)

In these few verses, much truth has been revealed about belief vs. unbelief, faith, works, action, repentance, baptism, hope, charity, miracles, the ministry of angels, and our redemption through Christ. We are given a “measuring stick” to measure our faith. Having faith in Christ, we can expect miracles, the appearance of angels, the word of God delivered through true messengers, and to be redeemed from the fall as did the brother of Jared, Nephi, Moroni, and many others as manifested and recorded in the Book of Mormon.

If Christ didn't mean what He said, why did Christ teach and make the promises recorded here in these few verses? On the other hand, if He does indeed mean what He says, vouches for His words with power and authority, and keeps His promises, would it make sense to pay close attention to His words, understand His message, and act upon it with faith? Would it be worth it to precisely obey His directions and thereby claim what He promises?

“Explain God” - From a Child’s Point of View

“Explain God” was written by Danny Dutton for his third grade homework assignment. Danny is from Chula Vista, California and was eight years old when he wrote this. I suppose children remember and understand more about heaven and God than most adults. I really enjoyed reading about God from the perspective of a child. The simple words of a child can give us some valuable insights. Enjoy!

"Explain God"

"One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the ones that die so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth. He doesn't make grown-ups, just babies. I think because they are smaller and easier to make. That way He doesn't have to take up His valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and fathers.

"God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times besides bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because of this. Because He hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of noise in His ears, unless He has thought of a way to turn it off. "God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting His time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have.

"Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I don't think there are any in Chula Vista. At least there aren't any who come to our church.

"Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard work like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of Him preaching to them and they crucified Him. But He was good and kind, like His Father and He told His Father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and God said O.K.

"His Dad (God) appreciated everything that He had done and all His hard work on earth so He told Him He didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So He did. And now He helps His Dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important for God to take care of and which ones He can take care of Himself without having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important.

"You can pray anytime you want and they are sure to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all the time.

"You should always go to Church on Sunday because it makes God happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God. Don't skip church to do something you think will be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong. And besides the sun doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway.

"If you don't believe in God, besides being an atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere with you, like to camp, but God can. It is good to know He's around you when you're scared in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown into real deep water by big kids.

"But you shouldn't just always think of what God can do for you. I figure God put me here and He can take me back anytime He pleases.

"And that's why I believe in God."

Work We Must, but the Lunch is Free

John has been a general contractor for most of our married life. With so many people loosing their homes, the demand for new homes is not what it used to be. The slump in the economy is turning into a blessing that we never anticipated.

We don’t have the money to do what we used to do, but we like this new life. John has more time to spend with the children and with me. We have time to talk about what really matters in life, and we’re able to study and learn.

This last year we’ve seen a miracle in our family. When we look back at our income in 2011, we realize that we earned as much this last year as we used to earn in a month. How can you raise a growing family on that? I don’t know. That’s why we call it a miracle.

This much I do know. We’re happier than we’ve ever been and have sufficient for our needs. We still have plenty to do, but we don’t have much money to think about.

Work We Must, but the Lunch is Free

Two employers are competing for the services of the man Adam and his posterity . . . “the devil inviteth and enticeth continually” to work for him, while on the other hand, “God inviteth and enticeth continually” to work for him. Moroni 7:12-13

The first employer offers us lunch, and since lunch is something everybody must have, he is in a powerful position to bargain. He explains that this glorious earth is his private estate and that it all belongs to him. He is willing to make a deal with anyone who has money. To have merely sufficient for your needs, however, is not what he has in mind – that would be the equivalent of the free lunch. The shrewd employer must never cease reminding one and all in his domain that there is no free lunch. It is that great teaching which keeps his establishment going.

So let us go across the road for an interview with the Other Employer. To our surprise, he answers our first question with an emphatic: “Forget about lunch! Don’t even give it a thought!” “Take no thought of what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink or wherewith ye shall be clothed!”

We have been permitted to come here to go to school, to acquire certain knowledge and take a number of tests to prepare us for greater things hereafter.

While we are at school our generous patron has provided us with all the necessities of living that we will need to carry us through.

Imagine, then, that at the end of the first school year your kind benefactor pays the school a visit. He meets you and asks you how you are doing.

“Oh,” you say, “ am doing very well, thanks to your bounty.”

“Are you studying a lot?”

“Yes, I am making good progress.”

“What subjects are you studying?”

“Oh, I am studying courses in how to get more lunch.”

“You study that? All the time?”

“Yes. I thought of studying some other subjects. Indeed I would love to study them – some of them are so fascinating! – but after all it’s the bread-and-butter courses that count. This is the real world, you know. There is no free lunch.”

“But my dear boy, I’m providing you with that right now.”

“Yes, for the time being, and I am grateful- but my purpose in life is to get more and better lunches; I want to go right to the top – the executive suite, the Marriott lunch.”

“But that is not the work I wanted you to do here,”

The Lord asks us to forget about lunch, and do his work, and the lunch will be taken care of. (Excerpts taken from Hugh Nibley Approaching Zion pages 209-212)

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also . . . Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? . . .

And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? . . . for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. Matthew 6:19-34

Do you really think God means what he says? If we seek first His kingdom, will he take care of us? I wonder if a slumping economy really matters. What do you think?