A few days ago I was thinking about laws. Because these wacko leftist liberals are always crying about needing better laws. Any time there's a mass shooting they cry about better gun laws. There is a lady running for political office who has put out several advertisements on television. She always makes it a point to mention that she is a pediatrician as if that makes her more qualified to be a lawmaker. Weirdo. But anyway, one thing she said -- which apparently she thought was breaking news to everybody but is something everybody and their dog knows and learned in third grade -- that boys use guns to commit suicide. So she said we need "common sense gun laws". This is how clueless liberals are. First of all, children, by law, cannot own guns. Second, there are already too many gun laws which obviously don't work. People still use guns to kill people. Do these clueless wacko liberals really think that adding more "common sense gun laws" will stop lawbreakers from breaking the law? Even if the wacko leftist legislators made guns illegal, criminals would still obtain guns and shoot people. Our founding fathers had common sense. They understood that arming citizens actually helps protect the population.
By the way, did you notice that all of the recent mass shootings have been committed by wacko leftist liberals? The media won't report that but it's true. The most recent being the guy in Jacksonville Florida who shot up a bunch of people at the mall. He was a Trump hating wacko leftist liberal.
Just because laws are enacted or on the books doesn't mean people will follow them. There will always be criminals who break the law. There will always be evil people who do bad things.
Look at God's laws. God's laws have been around since man has been around. Did God's law stop Cain from murdering his brother Abel? Does the law of chastity stop people from committing adultery, fornicating, or from committing any form of perversion, debauchery or lasciviousness? I think I'm safe in saying that more people break the law of chastity than keep it. What about the 10 Commandments? Do they stop people from breaking the Sabbath, dishonoring their parents, or taking the Lord's name in vain? What about when the 10 Commandments overlap with laws of the land? Do people still murder, commit adultery, or steal?
Laws don't stop people from breaking them. They just provide consequences. People have been breaking God's laws from the beginning. People have been breaking laws of the land from the beginning. Creating new "common sense laws" won't stop people who have no common sense.
The prophet Joseph Smith was a wise man. He said he teaches people correct principles and they govern themselves. That is the only way to stop people from doing bad things. It has to come from within. People have to want to be good and do what's right. If evil people want to do bad things, no amount of legislation will stop them. Everybody has agency.
So to all the wacko leftist liberals who are clueless. Let me clue you in. No amount of legislation will stop evil people from doing bad things. More "common sense laws" will have no effect on those without common sense. Laws don't stop people from breaking them.
That's my two cents.
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Friday, August 24, 2018
Twilight Zone
More and more I'm feeling like I'm living in the twilight zone. I just can't believe the derangement of my fellow man. Sometimes I wonder if I'm the only sane person left on planet Earth. It's just unbelievable what goes on every day.
I will name just a few examples of what I've heard the past few days.
First of all, Elizabeth Warren AKA Fauxcahontas.(She claims to be part Native American based solely upon her mother telling her she has high cheek bones). She is a Democrat senator from Massachusetts. I've heard she has aspirations to run for President in 2020. Nobody in their right mind would vote for her. But then again there are millions of people not in their right mind.
Anyway Senator Warren was asked to share her thoughts on the murder of Mollie Tibbets. Mollie is a 20-year-old college student from Iowa who was out for a run and was murdered by an illegal alien. Elizabeth Warren said that she was sorry for the family. But what's really important about immigration reform is that families who illegally enter our borders should not be separated. Here's the direct quote:
How did the mainstream media treat the story? When they found out that it was an illegal alien who committed the murder they wanted nothing to do with the story.
The Mollie Tibbets story proves Trump right about criminal illegal aliens raping and murdering innocent United States citizens -- amongst other crimes.
Elizabeth Warren crying about mamas being separated from babies not making the country safer is absurd and illogical. The policy created by a Democrat president, Bill Clinton, was not put in place to make the country safer. It is a policy put in place to deal with illegal aliens. It has absolutely nothing to do with the murder of Mollie Tibbets by an illegal alien. Elizabeth Warren is completely void of common sense.
Immigration reform to liberal leftist Democrats is letting every illegal alien into our country and not prosecuting them for anything. Not even murder and rape. As long as they vote for Democrats, they get a pass.
Despite Nancy Pelosi's warped view that illegal aliens should not be prosecuted unless they do something illegal -- they are in this country illegally and therefore, by definition, have already committed a crime. Here's your sign, Nancy.
According to Elizabeth Warren, Illegal aliens who rape and murder innocent US citizens are not "people who pose a real threat". If rape and murder aren't real threats? What is? Apparently according to Elizabeth Warren the real threat is illegal alien mothers being separated from illegal alien babies temporarily. What about Mollie Tibbets being separated from her family for the rest of their lives? How can Elizabeth Warren hold a straight face while spewing so many unbelievable lies? Because she's so deranged she really believes it. Twilight zone!
Oprah Winfrey is evil. She is a wolf in sheep's clothing. She acts like everybody's best friend yet she stands for everything that is wrong and evil. She is the most racist person I've ever "known". She single-handedly tried to destroy this country by getting Barack Hussein Obama elected to the presidency. She promotes promiscuity by example. Just to name a few. And now I understand that in the July issue of her O magazine she is promoting the "Shout Your Abortion" movement. In the inspiration section no less. Apparently the "Shout Your Abortion" campaign urges women to brag about their abortions to try to normalize the murder of innocent babies. Pure evil.
I don't know of anyone who is proud of having an abortion. Most women regret it or at least are sad about it. It pains their heart. At the very most they are indifferent. But proud and happy? That's deranged. Who would be proud and happy about killing their unborn child? Only a mad, insane person. Why would anyone want to "Shout Their Abortion" and brag about it? Sheer lunacy.
On his website, Rush Limbaugh had a picture of a woman -- I didn't recognize her but possibly an actress --wearing a dress with the word abortion and a heart symbol emblazoned all over it repeatedly. She was smiling from ear to ear posing on the red carpet for the paparazzi. A very disturbed individual. Twilight zone!
The next example is Chelsea Clinton. Same topic -- abortion. At a pro-abortion rally called "Rise up for Roe" on August 11 Chelsea said:
Franklin Graham had this to say in response to Chelsea Clinton's statement:
How about Phil Mudd, an ex-CIA official. He was being interviewed on CNN regarding security clearance. A panelist, Paris Dennard, stated that people want to keep their security clearances because they can make more money in contracts and consulting gigs with companies. The poor liberal, Phil Mudd, completely lost it. He started yelling at Paris Dennard telling him to get out. "We're done. Get out." Paris Dennard, who remained calm during the exchange, replied that it wasn't his show -- he was a guest -- and he was not leaving. These people -- leftists, liberals, Democrats -- are completely unhinged. Always angry. They can't have anyone disagreeing with them or they just fly off the handle. Because they have no common sense rebuttal. All they can do is get angry and scream.
Then there's Stevie Wonder claiming that global warming is what caused Aretha Franklin's pancreatic cancer. I read that on Rush Limbaugh.com a few days ago. These people don't know how insane they are. They say all these weird things as if it was normal. Twilight zone.
And then there is all this ongoing nonsense about people's sexuality and gender preferences. With the media, the leftists, liberals, Democrats, (basically all working for Satan) continually telling us, trying to convince us, that all the different perversions, depravity, lasciviousness, debauchery are normal and we need to not only tolerate but embrace the debauchery, lasciviousness, depravity and perversions. And if we don't there is something wrong with us. We can't just let it be, that's not good enough for them. We have to embrace it. If we don't, we are intolerant and judgmental. That's the message we are being sent by society. By society I mean by Satan who controls the media, liberals and all those who fall for his lies.
The sad thing is so many people, unbelievably, actually believe the absurdity and lunacy being spewed constantly at us. It's getting worse and worse everyday. These are just a few examples I've heard in the past few days. Everyday gets more and more like the twilight zone.
To paraphrase Eliza R. Snow, I often feel like a stranger here. Like I don't belong. But I guess that's a good thing considering how far and fast the world is diverting from truth and righteousness.
That's my two cents.
I will name just a few examples of what I've heard the past few days.
First of all, Elizabeth Warren AKA Fauxcahontas.(She claims to be part Native American based solely upon her mother telling her she has high cheek bones). She is a Democrat senator from Massachusetts. I've heard she has aspirations to run for President in 2020. Nobody in their right mind would vote for her. But then again there are millions of people not in their right mind.
Anyway Senator Warren was asked to share her thoughts on the murder of Mollie Tibbets. Mollie is a 20-year-old college student from Iowa who was out for a run and was murdered by an illegal alien. Elizabeth Warren said that she was sorry for the family. But what's really important about immigration reform is that families who illegally enter our borders should not be separated. Here's the direct quote:
"I'm so sorry for the family here and I know this is hard not only for the family but for the people in her community, the people throughout Iowa. But one of the things we have to remember is we need an immigration system that is effective, that focuses on where real problems are.
"Last month, I went down to the border and I saw where children had been taken away from their mothers. I met with those mothers who had been lied to, who didn't know where their children were, who hadn't had a chance to talk to their children.
"And there was no plan for how they would be reunified with their children. I think we need immigration laws that focus on people who pose a real threat and I don't think mamas and babies are the place we should be spending our resources. Separating a mama from a baby does not make this country safer." -- Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-MassachusettsSeriously Elizabeth?! The cold-blooded murder of an innocent young United States citizen by an illegal alien is not a "real threat" or a "real problem"? The "real problem" and "real threat" is mothers being separated from their children when they enter our country illegally? Yeah, that makes a lot of sense. Twilight zone!
How did the mainstream media treat the story? When they found out that it was an illegal alien who committed the murder they wanted nothing to do with the story.
"Oh, you mean that girl up in Iowa everybody at Fox is all upset about? Is that who you mean? That’s exactly what was said on MSNBC. Exactly as I just said it is how what came up on MSNBC. “Oh, that girl in Iowa that Fox is all consumed with?” They didn’t even want to talk about it." -- Rush Limbaugh.com, August 22, 2018They wouldn't even report Mollie's name. They just called her "the girl in Iowa". The media doesn't care about reporting truth. All they care about is promoting their deranged leftist agenda. Their precious illegal alien voters are more important to leftist liberal Democrats than the life of a young innocent United States citizen. The fact that many illegal aliens are hard-core criminals doesn't concern leftist liberal Democrats. All they care about is getting votes.
The Mollie Tibbets story proves Trump right about criminal illegal aliens raping and murdering innocent United States citizens -- amongst other crimes.
Elizabeth Warren crying about mamas being separated from babies not making the country safer is absurd and illogical. The policy created by a Democrat president, Bill Clinton, was not put in place to make the country safer. It is a policy put in place to deal with illegal aliens. It has absolutely nothing to do with the murder of Mollie Tibbets by an illegal alien. Elizabeth Warren is completely void of common sense.
Immigration reform to liberal leftist Democrats is letting every illegal alien into our country and not prosecuting them for anything. Not even murder and rape. As long as they vote for Democrats, they get a pass.
Despite Nancy Pelosi's warped view that illegal aliens should not be prosecuted unless they do something illegal -- they are in this country illegally and therefore, by definition, have already committed a crime. Here's your sign, Nancy.
According to Elizabeth Warren, Illegal aliens who rape and murder innocent US citizens are not "people who pose a real threat". If rape and murder aren't real threats? What is? Apparently according to Elizabeth Warren the real threat is illegal alien mothers being separated from illegal alien babies temporarily. What about Mollie Tibbets being separated from her family for the rest of their lives? How can Elizabeth Warren hold a straight face while spewing so many unbelievable lies? Because she's so deranged she really believes it. Twilight zone!
Oprah Winfrey is evil. She is a wolf in sheep's clothing. She acts like everybody's best friend yet she stands for everything that is wrong and evil. She is the most racist person I've ever "known". She single-handedly tried to destroy this country by getting Barack Hussein Obama elected to the presidency. She promotes promiscuity by example. Just to name a few. And now I understand that in the July issue of her O magazine she is promoting the "Shout Your Abortion" movement. In the inspiration section no less. Apparently the "Shout Your Abortion" campaign urges women to brag about their abortions to try to normalize the murder of innocent babies. Pure evil.
I don't know of anyone who is proud of having an abortion. Most women regret it or at least are sad about it. It pains their heart. At the very most they are indifferent. But proud and happy? That's deranged. Who would be proud and happy about killing their unborn child? Only a mad, insane person. Why would anyone want to "Shout Their Abortion" and brag about it? Sheer lunacy.
On his website, Rush Limbaugh had a picture of a woman -- I didn't recognize her but possibly an actress --wearing a dress with the word abortion and a heart symbol emblazoned all over it repeatedly. She was smiling from ear to ear posing on the red carpet for the paparazzi. A very disturbed individual. Twilight zone!
The next example is Chelsea Clinton. Same topic -- abortion. At a pro-abortion rally called "Rise up for Roe" on August 11 Chelsea said:
“It is not a disconnect fact that American Women entering the labor force from 1970 to 2009 added $3.5 trillion dollars to our economy. The net, new entrance of women, that is not disconnected from the fact that Roe became the law of the land in January of 1973"
“So, whatever it is that people say they care about, I think you can connect to this issue. Of course I would hope that they would care about our equal rights and dignity to make our own choices, but it that is not sufficiently persuasive hopefully some these other arguments you are hearing expressed so beautifully, will be.”I guess no one should be surprised that money is the most important thing to a Clinton. The sheer disregard for human life is despicable. Not only disregard for innocent human life but celebration of murder. It's absolutely unfathomable. Yet that is the world we live in now.
Franklin Graham had this to say in response to Chelsea Clinton's statement:
“Chelsea Clinton, daughter of former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, claims that legalizing abortion added trillions of dollars to the economy. What a lie. Hitler probably also claimed that killing the Jews would be good for their economy. Legalizing abortion hasn’t added anything to our country, it has only taken away. It has cost this nation more than 60 million lives—lives precious to God. Just think of the contribution these people would have made."Franklin has a good point. More than 60 million lives have been taken through abortion -- according to Franklin Graham -- what about the contribution to the economy those people could've made? Chelsea didn't bother to respond to this. She did however respond to a man on twitter:
@ChelseaClinton
"Hi Erick - protecting reproductive health rights is first about protecting women’s human rights and health. From 1973-1985, American women’s deaths from abortion declined 5-fold. And, reproductive rights are about women’s economic rights and agency. It’s ... not the same at all."
@EWErickson
"In the 1800's, slave owners said slavery was about economic rights. Always and without fail the arguments of the abortion movement in the United States mirror the arguments of slave owners. Both are grave evils."Chelsea's lame response proves the depravity of the left. Using the statistic that women's deaths from abortion declined fivefold over the 12 year period from '73 to '85 is ridiculous. First of all a decline means women are still dying from abortions. If abortions were not performed, women would not die from abortions. Duh. Second of all the mortality rate for the baby is still 100% in abortions. So how is that protecting rights and health? And there again she mentions the economy. Money money money. Erick did make a good point about slavery being about economic rights mirroring Chelsea's argument about abortion rights being about economic rights. So Chelsea's rebuttal was absurd. By the way all those trillions of dollars in economic boom from women entering the workforce since 1973 is not all voluntary. Some women have to work to support themselves and their kids because the husband/father chose to leave them without support. These leftist liberals have no common sense whatsoever. Twilight zone!
How about Phil Mudd, an ex-CIA official. He was being interviewed on CNN regarding security clearance. A panelist, Paris Dennard, stated that people want to keep their security clearances because they can make more money in contracts and consulting gigs with companies. The poor liberal, Phil Mudd, completely lost it. He started yelling at Paris Dennard telling him to get out. "We're done. Get out." Paris Dennard, who remained calm during the exchange, replied that it wasn't his show -- he was a guest -- and he was not leaving. These people -- leftists, liberals, Democrats -- are completely unhinged. Always angry. They can't have anyone disagreeing with them or they just fly off the handle. Because they have no common sense rebuttal. All they can do is get angry and scream.
Then there's Stevie Wonder claiming that global warming is what caused Aretha Franklin's pancreatic cancer. I read that on Rush Limbaugh.com a few days ago. These people don't know how insane they are. They say all these weird things as if it was normal. Twilight zone.
And then there is all this ongoing nonsense about people's sexuality and gender preferences. With the media, the leftists, liberals, Democrats, (basically all working for Satan) continually telling us, trying to convince us, that all the different perversions, depravity, lasciviousness, debauchery are normal and we need to not only tolerate but embrace the debauchery, lasciviousness, depravity and perversions. And if we don't there is something wrong with us. We can't just let it be, that's not good enough for them. We have to embrace it. If we don't, we are intolerant and judgmental. That's the message we are being sent by society. By society I mean by Satan who controls the media, liberals and all those who fall for his lies.
The sad thing is so many people, unbelievably, actually believe the absurdity and lunacy being spewed constantly at us. It's getting worse and worse everyday. These are just a few examples I've heard in the past few days. Everyday gets more and more like the twilight zone.
To paraphrase Eliza R. Snow, I often feel like a stranger here. Like I don't belong. But I guess that's a good thing considering how far and fast the world is diverting from truth and righteousness.
That's my two cents.
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Mormon
The Prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, has released a statement regarding the name of the Church and specifically the use of the term "Mormon". He said:
"The Lord has impressed upon my mind the importance of the name He has revealed for His Church, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We have work before us to bring ourselves in harmony with His will. In recent weeks, various Church leaders and departments have initiated the necessary steps to do so. Additional information about this important matter will be made available in the coming months."From the Official Church Newsroom Style Guide (updated):
The official name of the Church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The full name was given by revelation from God to Joseph Smith in 1838.
- In the first reference, the full name of the Church is preferred: "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints."
- When a shortened reference is needed, the terms "the Church" or the "Church of Jesus Christ" are encouraged. The "restored Church of Jesus Christ" is also accurate and encouraged.
- While the term "Mormon Church" has long been publicly applied to the Church as a nickname, it is not an authorized title, and the Church discourages its use. Thus, please avoid using the abbreviation "LDS" or the nickname "Mormon" as substitutes for the name of the Church, as in "Mormon Church," "LDS Church," or "Church of the Latter-day Saints."
- When referring to Church members, the terms "members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" or "Latter-day Saints" are preferred. We ask that the term "Mormons" not be used.
- "Mormon" is correctly used in proper names such as the Book of Mormon or when used as an adjective in such historical expressions as "Mormon Trail."
- The term "Mormonism" is inaccurate and should not be used. When describing the combination of doctrine, culture and lifestyle unique to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the term "the restored gospel of Jesus Christ" is accurate and preferred.
- When referring to people or organizations that practice polygamy, it should be stated that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not affiliated with polygamous groups.
There seems to be some skepticism and backlash from not only those who don't belong to the Church, but also from within the Church. I., for one, am happy about the announcement. For those of us who have been members for many years, using the full name of the Church has always been encouraged.
Yes, it is a lot easier to use a one-word nickname. And I'm guilty of using the term "LDS Church". I have always tried to avoid using the term "Mormon Church" and calling myself a "Mormon". In recent years it has been a little confusing as Official Church usage of the term "Mormon" seems to be more common. As in, Mormon channel, Mormon newsroom, the "I am a Mormon" campaign, "Meet the Mormons" movie, etc.
Our dear Prophet has received much revelation since he received the mantle of Prophet. It is obvious to me that the Lord is preparing the world for His Second Coming. It's wonderful that we have a prophet who receives direct revelation from the Lord Jesus Christ himself. Jesus Christ directs His Church. President Nelson, the Lord's chosen Prophet, is His mouth piece. Modern-day revelation is something unique to the Lord's true church.
When the Prophet speaks and expresses the Lord's will to us, we should all know that it is the same thing as the Lord speaking to us directly.
Doctrine and Covenants 1:38
Doctrine and Covenants 115:4
For one it's easier to say. But obviously it came from "the Book of Mormon" which is a book of Scripture that the Prophet Joseph Smith translated and which we use in companionship with the Bible. The Book of Mormon is subtitled Another Testament of Jesus Christ. That's what it does, it testifies of Christ.
Why is it called the Book of Mormon? Because Mormon, a prophet historian, is the man who compiled and abridged the plates upon which the record was kept. Similar to the Bible, the Book of Mormon, is a scriptural record kept by many different prophets recorded on gold and brass plates. Because he did the work of compiling and abridging the record, the book is named after the prophet Mormon.
The Book of Mormon itself contains instruction on what Jesus wants His Church to be called. After Jesus was resurrected, He appeared to the Nephites here on the American continent, here is part of what He taught them.
3 Nephi 27:7-8
Because members have been lax in using the full name of the Church and instead use an easier nickname, the term "Mormon" Or "Mormon Church" have become commonplace. Amongst members and nonmembers alike.
Unfortunately, because of this, many people who are not members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and only know us by the name of Mormon, are not aware that we are Christians. Many people have no idea that we follow Jesus Christ. And that He actually heads His Church.
As the Second Coming of our Savior nears, He wants to emphasize His name in His Church. He has made that clear to us through His Prophet, President Russell M. Nelson.
I hope we will all make an effort to follow the will of the Lord in this matter.
That's my two cents.
Yes, it is a lot easier to use a one-word nickname. And I'm guilty of using the term "LDS Church". I have always tried to avoid using the term "Mormon Church" and calling myself a "Mormon". In recent years it has been a little confusing as Official Church usage of the term "Mormon" seems to be more common. As in, Mormon channel, Mormon newsroom, the "I am a Mormon" campaign, "Meet the Mormons" movie, etc.
Our dear Prophet has received much revelation since he received the mantle of Prophet. It is obvious to me that the Lord is preparing the world for His Second Coming. It's wonderful that we have a prophet who receives direct revelation from the Lord Jesus Christ himself. Jesus Christ directs His Church. President Nelson, the Lord's chosen Prophet, is His mouth piece. Modern-day revelation is something unique to the Lord's true church.
When the Prophet speaks and expresses the Lord's will to us, we should all know that it is the same thing as the Lord speaking to us directly.
Doctrine and Covenants 1:38
"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."Jesus himself revealed what He wanted His church to be called to the prophet Joseph Smith in 1838.
Doctrine and Covenants 115:4
"For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints."So why has the term "Mormon Church" or "Mormon" become a preferred nickname for the Church and its members?
For one it's easier to say. But obviously it came from "the Book of Mormon" which is a book of Scripture that the Prophet Joseph Smith translated and which we use in companionship with the Bible. The Book of Mormon is subtitled Another Testament of Jesus Christ. That's what it does, it testifies of Christ.
Why is it called the Book of Mormon? Because Mormon, a prophet historian, is the man who compiled and abridged the plates upon which the record was kept. Similar to the Bible, the Book of Mormon, is a scriptural record kept by many different prophets recorded on gold and brass plates. Because he did the work of compiling and abridging the record, the book is named after the prophet Mormon.
The Book of Mormon itself contains instruction on what Jesus wants His Church to be called. After Jesus was resurrected, He appeared to the Nephites here on the American continent, here is part of what He taught them.
3 Nephi 27:7-8
7 Therefore, whatsoever ye shall do, ye shall do it in my name; therefore ye shall call the church in my name; and ye shall call upon the Father in my name that he will bless the church for my sake.
8 And how be it my church save it be called in my name? For if a church be called in Moses’ name then it be Moses’ church; or if it be called in the name of a man then it be the church of a man; but if it be called in my name then it is my church, if it so be that they are built upon my gospel.This is not Mormon's church. Albeit like Moses, he was a great prophet. But this is not Mormon's church. This is not the church of a man. This is The Church of Jesus Christ. He has told us, through His prophet Joseph Smith, that His Church should be called in the last days, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. That has been the official name of the Church since 1838.
Because members have been lax in using the full name of the Church and instead use an easier nickname, the term "Mormon" Or "Mormon Church" have become commonplace. Amongst members and nonmembers alike.
Unfortunately, because of this, many people who are not members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and only know us by the name of Mormon, are not aware that we are Christians. Many people have no idea that we follow Jesus Christ. And that He actually heads His Church.
As the Second Coming of our Savior nears, He wants to emphasize His name in His Church. He has made that clear to us through His Prophet, President Russell M. Nelson.
I hope we will all make an effort to follow the will of the Lord in this matter.
That's my two cents.
Thursday, August 16, 2018
A Simple Concept
People are more important than things. It's a simple concept. Yet so many people don't seem to get it. So many people spend their lives chasing the almighty dollar while neglecting family and others. Sure, material things are nice to have but like Mark Chesnutt says, "they don't make a hearse with a luggage rack". You can't take it with you when you die.
Alma 39:14
What is the first great commandment? One of the Pharisees asked the Savior that very question.
Matthew 22:36-40
Jacob 2:18-19
The society we live in teaches selfishness. This is not the Lord's way. Yet so many people subscribe to the philosophy of selfish materialism. They believe that life is all about making money and obtaining material possessions. That somehow that's where happiness is found.
In fact, I know of a young man who explained to his mother, in a recent conversation, that someday she would find out that life is all about making money and obtaining riches. Boy, that young man is in for a rude awakening.
Some people seek for riches to impress their fellow man or perhaps to feel superior to others. I, for one, feel sorry for those people. What a shallow, empty life.
Some people value their house or car or any possession above that of their family members. They are so worried about something getting scratched, dented, spilled on, smudged with fingerprints, etc. that they ostracize their family members by excluding them from using, touching, looking at or even getting near their precious possessions.
Things can be replaced, people can't.
People remember how they are treated. People can quickly deduce when you value stuff more than them. Well, guess what? Moth and rust doth corrupt. Things don't last. Relationships do.
Matthew 6:19-21
Riches and material possessions don't make you happy. Yes, they are nice to have and should be taken care of but not to the exclusion of people. People are what really matter not things. Especially family. Moth and rust doth corrupt. You cannot carry them with you.
It's a simple concept. People are more important than things. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. What do you treasure?
That's my two cents.
Alma 39:14
"Seek not after riches nor the vain things of this world; for behold, you cannot carry them with you."But what you can take with you when you die, if you are worthy, are your relationships with people; family and friends.
What is the first great commandment? One of the Pharisees asked the Savior that very question.
Matthew 22:36-40
36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.Nowhere in that scripture does it say anything about seeking riches or gaining material possessions. The Prophet Alma mentioned in the previously quoted Scripture that we should not seek after riches nor the vain things of this world. Jacob elaborated on the subject.
Jacob 2:18-19
18 But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God.
19 And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good—to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and administer relief to the sick and the afflicted.Jacob ties in obtaining riches with the second great commandment. If we are blessed with riches, we should do good by helping those in need.
The society we live in teaches selfishness. This is not the Lord's way. Yet so many people subscribe to the philosophy of selfish materialism. They believe that life is all about making money and obtaining material possessions. That somehow that's where happiness is found.
In fact, I know of a young man who explained to his mother, in a recent conversation, that someday she would find out that life is all about making money and obtaining riches. Boy, that young man is in for a rude awakening.
Some people seek for riches to impress their fellow man or perhaps to feel superior to others. I, for one, feel sorry for those people. What a shallow, empty life.
Some people value their house or car or any possession above that of their family members. They are so worried about something getting scratched, dented, spilled on, smudged with fingerprints, etc. that they ostracize their family members by excluding them from using, touching, looking at or even getting near their precious possessions.
Things can be replaced, people can't.
People remember how they are treated. People can quickly deduce when you value stuff more than them. Well, guess what? Moth and rust doth corrupt. Things don't last. Relationships do.
Matthew 6:19-21
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.I think the Lord makes it very clear how he feels about seeking for riches and what you treasure.
Riches and material possessions don't make you happy. Yes, they are nice to have and should be taken care of but not to the exclusion of people. People are what really matter not things. Especially family. Moth and rust doth corrupt. You cannot carry them with you.
It's a simple concept. People are more important than things. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. What do you treasure?
That's my two cents.
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
Rat Rat Rat!
Dad and I have been watching the Leave It to Beaver series at night. It's interesting to see how language has changed since the 1950s. Some words and phrases don't carry the same meaning today as they did back then. For instance, the word creep had a much more benign meaning back then than it does now. And refreshingly, I have yet to hear one bit of profanity used on the show.
Leave It to Beaver actually teaches morals, etiquette and manners. It's a cool show and I would recommend it. I recommend very little because very little is recommendable. But I will recommend this show. It's entertaining, funny even and exemplifies family values and good family dynamics.
When Beaver feels like someone has wronged him, he calls him a rat. When Beaver gets upset and angry with someone he will yell "rat rat rat!" at them. I find this to be an accurate and descriptive portrayal or depiction of someone who has wronged you.
I wish more people nowadays had as great a command of the English language as little Beaver did. Nowadays when people get upset they just tend to spew nonsensical profanity that has nothing to do with the situation.
When Beaver called someone a rat, they knew exactly how he felt about them and what he thought of them. Now, when people spew profanity at you you just know that they are angry and have no respect for you.
Beaver knew that you could be extremely upset with someone, descriptively express your anger, yet still respect them. Lowering yourself to spewing profanity just shows your lack of communication skills and extreme disrespect to the target of the profanity. Profanity is highly offensive and disrespectful.
Another interesting thing about Leave It to Beaver is the way they dressed. Ward Cleaver, the father, was usually in a suit and tie. June Cleaver, the mother, was always dressed nicely in a dress and pearls. With well set hair. To me this also indicates a level of respect for others. To always try to look your best.
The Cleavers represent idyllic family life, yet each episode portrayed problems that needed to be solved or some kind of conflict that needed to be resolved.
The Cleavers represent the kind of nuclear family that families today should strive to be like. The parents weren't perfect, yet they tried their best to be good parents. The kids weren't perfect, yet they respected their parents and their decisions.
It's amazing how much television depictions of family life have changed over the past 60 years. It's quite sad how families are portrayed now. And how much families have actually changed. I don't know if it's life imitating art or art imitating life. Either way, it's tragic.
By the way, if I ever say "rat rat rat!" to you, you will know I'm extremely upset with you. :-)
That's my two cents
Leave It to Beaver actually teaches morals, etiquette and manners. It's a cool show and I would recommend it. I recommend very little because very little is recommendable. But I will recommend this show. It's entertaining, funny even and exemplifies family values and good family dynamics.
When Beaver feels like someone has wronged him, he calls him a rat. When Beaver gets upset and angry with someone he will yell "rat rat rat!" at them. I find this to be an accurate and descriptive portrayal or depiction of someone who has wronged you.
I wish more people nowadays had as great a command of the English language as little Beaver did. Nowadays when people get upset they just tend to spew nonsensical profanity that has nothing to do with the situation.
When Beaver called someone a rat, they knew exactly how he felt about them and what he thought of them. Now, when people spew profanity at you you just know that they are angry and have no respect for you.
Beaver knew that you could be extremely upset with someone, descriptively express your anger, yet still respect them. Lowering yourself to spewing profanity just shows your lack of communication skills and extreme disrespect to the target of the profanity. Profanity is highly offensive and disrespectful.
Another interesting thing about Leave It to Beaver is the way they dressed. Ward Cleaver, the father, was usually in a suit and tie. June Cleaver, the mother, was always dressed nicely in a dress and pearls. With well set hair. To me this also indicates a level of respect for others. To always try to look your best.
The Cleavers represent idyllic family life, yet each episode portrayed problems that needed to be solved or some kind of conflict that needed to be resolved.
The Cleavers represent the kind of nuclear family that families today should strive to be like. The parents weren't perfect, yet they tried their best to be good parents. The kids weren't perfect, yet they respected their parents and their decisions.
It's amazing how much television depictions of family life have changed over the past 60 years. It's quite sad how families are portrayed now. And how much families have actually changed. I don't know if it's life imitating art or art imitating life. Either way, it's tragic.
By the way, if I ever say "rat rat rat!" to you, you will know I'm extremely upset with you. :-)
That's my two cents
Sunday, August 12, 2018
Greatness
"Greatness is best measured by how well an individual responds to the happenings in life that appear to be totally unfair, unreasonable, and undeserved. …
"Jesus is the Christ. One of His marks of greatness, His endurance, stands as a constant beacon for us to emulate. During His earthly sojourn He endured well as He suffered agony and rejection in their deepest forms. I bear my witness that God will help us to endure as we put forth the effort to live His teachings, seek His guidance, and keep His commandments."
-- Elder Marvin J. Ashton, "Keep Trying", August 2018 Ensign
"Jesus is the Christ. One of His marks of greatness, His endurance, stands as a constant beacon for us to emulate. During His earthly sojourn He endured well as He suffered agony and rejection in their deepest forms. I bear my witness that God will help us to endure as we put forth the effort to live His teachings, seek His guidance, and keep His commandments."
-- Elder Marvin J. Ashton, "Keep Trying", August 2018 Ensign
Saturday, August 11, 2018
Why Are Liberals Always Angry?
Have you ever noticed that liberals/leftists/Democrats are always angry? Why is that? The answer is easy. It's because they don't like themselves. Their lifestyle, their ideals, their skewed thinking, everything about them is contrary to that which is right and good. When people live wicked lifestyles they cannot be happy. Read Alma 41:10 if you don't believe me.
Ironically they try to portray themselves as loving and caring and moral. When in reality they are selfish, callous, carnal and vulgar, always spewing hatred and anger towards those who don't agree with them. They tend to use projection a lot. They try to convince people that the Republicans/conservatives/Christians are racists, bigots, hypocrites, liars etc. when that is exactly what they are. I could name numerous examples but I feel it's unnecessary.
Suffice to say that anyone who promotes murder, sexual sins and deviations, and all manner of lasciviousness and iniquity as normal and good cannot be truly happy while promoting evil. Everyone, born with the light of Christ, knows right from wrong deep down in their core. This is why they are so angry when they choose evil over good. They are conflicted inside and their self-esteem tanks.
They will deny it. They will say they've never been happier nor felt better about themselves. They may even actually have convinced themselves to believe that. But it's a lie.
It's extremely sad that so many people are deceived by the father of lies himself that they actually believe the garbage they spew in anger and hatred. Often times directed at total strangers. They have no common sense -- just listen to Rosie O'Donnell speak or any of them for that matter. They are all hypocrites -- camera Hogg going to NRA headquarters to protest with armed security to protect him! These people are so deranged that don't even see the hypocrisy.
My point is, you cannot do wrong and feel right. It is impossible. This is why the liberals/leftists/democrats are always angry. They call good evil and evil good. They are internally conflicted. Subconsciously (or consciously) they don't like themselves.
That's my two cents.
Ironically they try to portray themselves as loving and caring and moral. When in reality they are selfish, callous, carnal and vulgar, always spewing hatred and anger towards those who don't agree with them. They tend to use projection a lot. They try to convince people that the Republicans/conservatives/Christians are racists, bigots, hypocrites, liars etc. when that is exactly what they are. I could name numerous examples but I feel it's unnecessary.
Suffice to say that anyone who promotes murder, sexual sins and deviations, and all manner of lasciviousness and iniquity as normal and good cannot be truly happy while promoting evil. Everyone, born with the light of Christ, knows right from wrong deep down in their core. This is why they are so angry when they choose evil over good. They are conflicted inside and their self-esteem tanks.
They will deny it. They will say they've never been happier nor felt better about themselves. They may even actually have convinced themselves to believe that. But it's a lie.
It's extremely sad that so many people are deceived by the father of lies himself that they actually believe the garbage they spew in anger and hatred. Often times directed at total strangers. They have no common sense -- just listen to Rosie O'Donnell speak or any of them for that matter. They are all hypocrites -- camera Hogg going to NRA headquarters to protest with armed security to protect him! These people are so deranged that don't even see the hypocrisy.
My point is, you cannot do wrong and feel right. It is impossible. This is why the liberals/leftists/democrats are always angry. They call good evil and evil good. They are internally conflicted. Subconsciously (or consciously) they don't like themselves.
That's my two cents.
Friday, August 10, 2018
Zero Population
One of Satan's biggest lies is the notion that zero population is the answer my friend. Many people fall for this lie and believe that the world is overpopulated and people should limit the number of children they have, if any.
This philosophy is flawed on several accounts. First, the world is not overpopulated. I read a statistic that all of the people on Earth could live in a house with a yard and we would all fit in Texas. Doing the math it equals out to a 33' x 33' piece of land per person. And that's if everybody on Earth lived in Texas. So there is plenty of room on earth for more people. And plenty of land to grow crops to feed everybody.
Second, for society to function properly, the population must remain stable or increase. There must be enough young people of working age to be able to pay taxes and care for the older population. With declining populations economies shrink, stresses on society increase such as increased health care demand and decreased supply of available health care workers, and social programs become unsustainable.
God would not give us a commandment without the means to obey it. Therefore, we need not worry about the earth being able to sustain all of the children who still need to be born to gain a body and experience mortality.
Unfortunately, too many people are subscribing to Satan's philosophy and lie that "zero population is the answer my friend, without it the rest of us are doomed".
Birth rates have been declining in the United States for decades and are now at an all-time low. Replacement level is 2.1 children per woman. We are now at 1.8 in the United States. Below replacement level for the first time. This is troubling news.
Zero population is yet another of Satan's lies aimed at destroying families. He wants everyone to be as miserable as him and the best way to do that is to destroy the family. Zero population doesn't even make sense and is against God's laws.
Zero population is not the answer my friend.
That's my two cents.
This philosophy is flawed on several accounts. First, the world is not overpopulated. I read a statistic that all of the people on Earth could live in a house with a yard and we would all fit in Texas. Doing the math it equals out to a 33' x 33' piece of land per person. And that's if everybody on Earth lived in Texas. So there is plenty of room on earth for more people. And plenty of land to grow crops to feed everybody.
Second, for society to function properly, the population must remain stable or increase. There must be enough young people of working age to be able to pay taxes and care for the older population. With declining populations economies shrink, stresses on society increase such as increased health care demand and decreased supply of available health care workers, and social programs become unsustainable.
"As author Jonathan Last wrote for the Weekly Standard several years ago, the world lost population between A.D. 200 and 600, and again between 1340 and 1400. Neither is remembered as a pleasant period.
“It is impossible to predict with certainty the side effects of population decline,” Last wrote. “But there is good reason to believe it will be bad for us. Innovation will suffer as the demand for nearly everything (save health care) slackens. The welfare state is unsustainable in a contracting, top-heavy population. And instead of producing windfalls of excess supply, economies will probably contract.”" (Deseret News, Why a Dropping Fertility Rate Is Bad News, June 14, 2018)Third, since the time of Adam we have been commanded to multiply and replenish the earth. In a General Conference address given in October 2011, Elder Neil L. Andersen said:
"When a child is born to a husband and wife, they are fulfilling part of our Heavenly Father’s plan to bring children to earth. The Lord said, “This is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” Before immortality, there must be mortality.
"The family is ordained of God. Families are central to our Heavenly Father’s plan here on earth and through the eternities. After Adam and Eve were joined in marriage, the scripture reads, “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.” In our day prophets and apostles have declared, “The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force.”"The commandment to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. As stated by the family proclamation. We know that there are spirits in the pre-mortal existence who are waiting to come to earth to experience mortality. They still need to be born.
God would not give us a commandment without the means to obey it. Therefore, we need not worry about the earth being able to sustain all of the children who still need to be born to gain a body and experience mortality.
Unfortunately, too many people are subscribing to Satan's philosophy and lie that "zero population is the answer my friend, without it the rest of us are doomed".
Birth rates have been declining in the United States for decades and are now at an all-time low. Replacement level is 2.1 children per woman. We are now at 1.8 in the United States. Below replacement level for the first time. This is troubling news.
Zero population is yet another of Satan's lies aimed at destroying families. He wants everyone to be as miserable as him and the best way to do that is to destroy the family. Zero population doesn't even make sense and is against God's laws.
Zero population is not the answer my friend.
That's my two cents.
Thursday, August 9, 2018
The Articles of Faith Conclusion
That concludes the series on The Articles of Faith. It was a lot of work but hopefully you gained some insights and knowledge about the Church and our beliefs.
To complete the series I want to post all of the Articles of Faith together in one post. Again, if you have any questions feel free to e-mail me or post a comment.
The Articles of Faith
of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1 We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.
2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.
3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.
7 We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
9 We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
10 We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.
11 We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.
12 We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
Joseph Smith.
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Thirteenth Article of Faith
13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
In a nutshell, we strive to be good people and seek after good things. Basically we try to pattern our lives after our Savior's life. We believe in being good Christians.
Elder Mark E. Peterson said:
In a nutshell, we strive to be good people and seek after good things. Basically we try to pattern our lives after our Savior's life. We believe in being good Christians.
Elder Mark E. Peterson said:
“Honesty, truth, virtue, and kindness are hallmarks of true Christianity. If we lack them, we can hardly say that we follow Christ. …
“… Professions of piety, without the works of piety, are sheer hypocrisy and are dead—even ‘as the body without the spirit is dead.’ (James 2:26.)” (“We Believe in Being Honest,” Ensign, May 1982, 15).Elder James E. Talmage wrote:
“Religion without morality, professions of godliness without charity, church-membership without adequate responsibility as to individual conduct in daily life, are but as sounding brass and tinkling cymbals. … Honesty of purpose, integrity of soul, individual purity, freedom of conscience, willingness to do good to all men even enemies, pure benevolence—these are some of the fruits by which the religion of Christ may be known, far exceeding in importance and value the promulgation of dogmas and the enunciation of theories” (Articles of Faith, 429).President Hinckley had this to say about the 13th Article of Faith:
“[This] article of our faith is one of the basic declarations of our theology. We ought to reflect on it again and again. Then, whenever we might be tempted to do anything shoddy or dishonest or immoral, there would come into our minds with some force this great, all-encompassing statement of the ethics of our behavior.” -- President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008), “Fear Not to Do Good,” Ensign, Jan. 2000, 2.As members of the Lord's true church we strive to develop Christlike characteristics and live a Christlike life.
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
Twelfth Article of Faith
12 We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.
We should obey the laws of the land wherever we live. When possible we should vote for government officials and for laws that best coincide with God's laws and morals.
When Joseph Smith wrote this Article of Faith, the Latter Day Saints were not treated very well by the government. The Saints were persecuted and forced to leave places they tried to settle. Governor Boggs of Missouri issued an extermination order forcing the Mormons out of Missouri. Even after settling in the Utah Territory, President Buchanan sent Johnston's Army to Salt Lake City to confront the Mormons. So, I imagine this might have been difficult for the Saints to obey, honor and sustain the law In the early days of the Church. Nevertheless this is doctrine that was followed by early church leaders. When asked by President James K. Polk for "a few hundred Mormon's" to join the US military to fight in The Mexican-American war, Brigham Young encouraged volunteers. The Mormon Battalion was formed.
Today we are facing challenges with laws of the land that do not coincide with God's laws. Some examples that come to mind are same-sex marriage, assisted suicide, and legalized marijuana. All three of these are legal in my state of residence.
Elder Oaks explains that man's laws do not change God's laws:
We should obey the laws of the land wherever we live. When possible we should vote for government officials and for laws that best coincide with God's laws and morals.
When Joseph Smith wrote this Article of Faith, the Latter Day Saints were not treated very well by the government. The Saints were persecuted and forced to leave places they tried to settle. Governor Boggs of Missouri issued an extermination order forcing the Mormons out of Missouri. Even after settling in the Utah Territory, President Buchanan sent Johnston's Army to Salt Lake City to confront the Mormons. So, I imagine this might have been difficult for the Saints to obey, honor and sustain the law In the early days of the Church. Nevertheless this is doctrine that was followed by early church leaders. When asked by President James K. Polk for "a few hundred Mormon's" to join the US military to fight in The Mexican-American war, Brigham Young encouraged volunteers. The Mormon Battalion was formed.
Today we are facing challenges with laws of the land that do not coincide with God's laws. Some examples that come to mind are same-sex marriage, assisted suicide, and legalized marijuana. All three of these are legal in my state of residence.
Elder Oaks explains that man's laws do not change God's laws:
"Our twelfth article of faith states our belief in being subject to civil authority and “in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.” But man’s laws cannot make moral what God has declared immoral. Commitment to our highest priority—to love and serve God—requires that we look to His law for our standard of behavior. For example, we remain under divine command not to commit adultery or fornication even when those acts are no longer crimes under the laws of the states or countries where we reside. Similarly, laws legalizing so-called “same-sex marriage” do not change God’s law of marriage or His commandments and our standards concerning it. We remain under covenant to love God and keep His commandments and to refrain from serving other gods and priorities—even those becoming popular in our particular time and place." -- Elder Dallin H. Oaks, "No Other Gods", October 2013 General ConferenceEven though we believe in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law -- man's laws, civil laws, laws of the land, will never change the morality of God's laws. God's laws will always trump those created by man.
Monday, August 6, 2018
Eleventh Article of Faith
11 We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.
Everyone should have religious freedom. People should be able to worship as they choose. Our nation was founded on religious freedom. Now it is under attack and we must fight to preserve it.
In the early days of the Church, the prophet Joseph Smith said this:
Everyone should have religious freedom. People should be able to worship as they choose. Our nation was founded on religious freedom. Now it is under attack and we must fight to preserve it.
In the early days of the Church, the prophet Joseph Smith said this:
"If it has been demonstrated that I have been willing to die for a "Mormon," I am bold to declare before Heaven that I am just as ready to die in defending the rights of a Presbyterian, a Baptist, or a good man of any denomination; for the same principle which would trample upon the rights of the Latter-day Saints would trample upon the rights of the Roman Catholics, or of any other denomination who may be unpopular and too weak to defend themselves. It is a love of liberty which inspires my soul — civil and religious liberty to the whole of the human race." —Joseph Smith, 1843Elder Robert D. Hales said:
"There are four cornerstones of religious freedom that we as Latter-day Saints must rely upon and protect.
"The first is freedom to believe. No one should be criticized, persecuted, or attacked by individuals, or governments either, for what he or she believes about God."...
"The second cornerstone of religious liberty is the freedom to share our faith and our beliefs with others."...
"The third cornerstone of religious liberty is the freedom to form a religious organization, a church, to worship peacefully with others."...
"The fourth cornerstone of religious liberty is the freedom to live our faith—free exercise of faith not just in the home and chapel but also in public places."...
"Some are offended when we bring our religion into the public square, yet the same people who insist that their viewpoints and actions be tolerated in society are often very slow to give that same tolerance to religious believers who also wish their viewpoints and actions to be tolerated. The general lack of respect for religious viewpoints is quickly devolving into social and political intolerance for religious people and institutions."...
"As disciples of Jesus Christ we have a responsibility to work together with like-minded believers, to raise our voices for what is right." -- Robert D. Hales, "Preserving Agency, Protecting Religious Freedom", April 2015 General ConferenceEverybody should be able to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own conscience. Not only is it essential to democracy but it is also essential for our own salvation.
Sunday, August 5, 2018
Tenth Article of Faith
10 We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.
This Article of Faith is about missionary work, the second coming of our Savior, and the Millennium.
I always found the subject of the gathering of Israel and the restoration of the lost Ten Tribes somewhat confusing. So I'm going to spend a little more time on this Article of Faith explaining it.
The prophet Abraham, was promised by the Lord that his seed (descendents) would exceed the number of the sands of the seas. Abraham had a son named Isaac. You're probably familiar with the story of Abraham being asked to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac by the Lord. A ram appeared in the thicket and Isaac was not sacrificed. Isaac had a son named Jacob. Jacob was also known as Israel. Jacob had 12 sons who are the 12 tribes of Israel. You may recall the story of Joseph and the coat of many colors who was sold into Egypt by his brothers. They are the sons of Jacob (Israel).
From LDS.org:
Those who accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ and are baptized into His Church have the opportunity to receive a patriarchal blessing. In a patriarchal blessing an individual's lineage is revealed and we are told to which tribe of Israel we belong.
Zion (New Jerusalem) is a city that will be built in Independence Missouri (see Doctrine and Covenants 57 1-3) that will act as a capital city from whence the Savior will reign over the entire earth during the Millennium.
After the Savior comes to the earth again (The Second Coming) He will reign personally on the earth for 1000 years during the Millennium as the head of government.
When Adam fell so did the earth from its paradisiacal state. The earth was cursed with thorns and thistles. After the earth is burned and cleansed from the wicked, it will return to its paradisiacal state.
Elder Bruce R. McConkie stated:
This Article of Faith is about missionary work, the second coming of our Savior, and the Millennium.
I always found the subject of the gathering of Israel and the restoration of the lost Ten Tribes somewhat confusing. So I'm going to spend a little more time on this Article of Faith explaining it.
The prophet Abraham, was promised by the Lord that his seed (descendents) would exceed the number of the sands of the seas. Abraham had a son named Isaac. You're probably familiar with the story of Abraham being asked to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac by the Lord. A ram appeared in the thicket and Isaac was not sacrificed. Isaac had a son named Jacob. Jacob was also known as Israel. Jacob had 12 sons who are the 12 tribes of Israel. You may recall the story of Joseph and the coat of many colors who was sold into Egypt by his brothers. They are the sons of Jacob (Israel).
From LDS.org:
These are the twelve tribes: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun (the sons of Jacob and Leah); Dan and Naphtali (the sons of Jacob and Bilhah); Gad and Asher (the sons of Jacob and Zilpah); Joseph and Benjamin (the sons of Jacob and Rachel) (Gen. 29:32–30:24; 35:16–18).
"Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob’s first wife, Leah, lost his birthright blessing and double portion of inheritance because of immorality (Gen. 49:3–4). The birthright then went to Joseph, who was the firstborn son of Jacob’s second wife, Rachel (1 Chr. 5:1–2). Levi, whose tribe the Lord had chosen to serve as His priesthood ministers, did not receive an inheritance because of their special calling to minister among all the tribes. This allowed Joseph’s double portion to be shared by Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh (1 Chr. 5:1; Jer. 31:9), who were counted as separate tribes of Israel (JST, Gen. 48:5–6 [Appendix])."
"Members of the tribe of Judah were to be the rulers until the Messiah came (Gen. 49:10; JST, Gen. 50:24 [Appendix]). In the last days the tribe of Ephraim has the privilege of carrying the message of the Restoration of the gospel to the world and gathering scattered Israel (Deut. 33:13–17). The time will come when through the gospel of Jesus Christ, Ephraim will have a leadership role in uniting all the tribes of Israel (Isa. 11:12–13; D&C 133:26–34)."To better explain the gathering of Israel, we should understand the scattering of Israel. President Russell M. Nelson gave an excellent talk in October 2006 General Conference entitled "The Gathering of Scattered Israel" from which I will now quote:
"As descendants of Abraham, the tribes of ancient Israel had access to priesthood authority and blessings of the gospel, but eventually the people rebelled. They killed the prophets and were punished by the Lord. Ten tribes were carried captive into Assyria. From there they became lost to the records of mankind. (Obviously, the ten tribes are not lost to the Lord.) Two remaining tribes continued a short time and then, because of their rebellion, were taken captive into Babylon. When they returned, they were favored of the Lord, but again they honored Him not. They rejected and vilified Him. A loving but grieving Father vowed, “I will scatter you among the heathen,” and that He did—into all nations."President Nelson continued and explained the gathering of Israel:
"As prophesied by Peter and Paul, all things were to be restored in this dispensation. Therefore, there must come, as part of that restoration, the long-awaited gathering of scattered Israel. It is a necessary prelude to the Second Coming of the Lord.
"This doctrine of the gathering is one of the important teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Lord has declared: “I give unto you a sign … that I shall gather in, from their long dispersion, my people, O house of Israel, and shall establish again among them my Zion.” The coming forth of the Book of Mormon is a sign to the entire world that the Lord has commenced to gather Israel and fulfill covenants He made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We not only teach this doctrine, but we participate in it. We do so as we help to gather the elect of the Lord on both sides of the veil.
"The Book of Mormon is central to this work. It declares the doctrine of the gathering. It causes people to learn about Jesus Christ, to believe His gospel, and to join His Church. In fact, if there were no Book of Mormon, the promised gathering of Israel would not occur."...
"Here on earth, missionary work is crucial to the gathering of Israel."...
"The choice to come unto Christ is not a matter of physical location; it is a matter of individual commitment. People can be “brought to the knowledge of the Lord” without leaving their homelands."...
"Zion is wherever righteous Saints are."...
"Spiritual security will always depend upon how one lives, not where one lives. Saints in every land have equal claim upon the blessings of the Lord." -- Russell M. Nelson, "The Gathering of Scattered Israel", October 2006 General ConferenceThe gathering of Israel will be through missionary work. It is more of a spiritual gathering than a physical gathering. Members of the lost tribes are gathered by listening to the missionaries message and choosing to accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ by being baptized into His Church, and then choosing to follow Him throughout their lives.
Those who accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ and are baptized into His Church have the opportunity to receive a patriarchal blessing. In a patriarchal blessing an individual's lineage is revealed and we are told to which tribe of Israel we belong.
Zion (New Jerusalem) is a city that will be built in Independence Missouri (see Doctrine and Covenants 57 1-3) that will act as a capital city from whence the Savior will reign over the entire earth during the Millennium.
After the Savior comes to the earth again (The Second Coming) He will reign personally on the earth for 1000 years during the Millennium as the head of government.
When Adam fell so did the earth from its paradisiacal state. The earth was cursed with thorns and thistles. After the earth is burned and cleansed from the wicked, it will return to its paradisiacal state.
Elder Bruce R. McConkie stated:
"All things when first created - the earth and all forms of life -- were paradisiacal in nature and were pronounced by their Creator as "very good." (Moses 2:31.) There was no sin, no sorrow, and no death in that day. And the Great Creator blessed the earth and all things on its face. Then came the fall, and the earth which God had blessed was cursed. "Cursed shall be the ground for thy sake," he said to Adam; "in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life. Thorns also, and thistles shall it bring forth to thee, and thou shalt eat the herb of the field." (Moses 4:23-24.) To Cain the Lord said: "When thou tillest the ground it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength." (Moses 5:37.) And later, with reference to all men, the divine account says: "And God cursed the earth with a sore curse, and was angry with the wicked, with all the sons of men whom he had made." (Moses 5:56.) That curse now prevails; it is in full operation, and it will continue so to be until the millennial day. Then the earth and all things that remain after the day of burning will return to a paradisiacal state, a state in which all things will be blessed and prospered as they were in the primeval day. A thing cannot be renewed unless it was new in the first instance. The earth was paradisiacal once, and it will become so again." -- Bruce R. McConkie, The Millennial Messiah, pp.613-616, 1982
Saturday, August 4, 2018
Ninth Article of Faith
9 We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
We believe in revelation. Past, present, and future. We know that God revealed things to prophets of old. Many of these revelations are contained in the Scriptures. What many people don't know is that God continues to reveal things to prophets and apostles today. Not only does He reveal things to His prophets but we as individuals can also receive revelation from God.
Our current Prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, said in his most recent General Conference talk:
We believe in revelation. Past, present, and future. We know that God revealed things to prophets of old. Many of these revelations are contained in the Scriptures. What many people don't know is that God continues to reveal things to prophets and apostles today. Not only does He reveal things to His prophets but we as individuals can also receive revelation from God.
Our current Prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, said in his most recent General Conference talk:
"One of the things the Spirit has repeatedly impressed upon my mind since my new calling as President of the Church is how willing the Lord is to reveal His mind and will. The privilege of receiving revelation is one of the greatest gifts of God to His children."
"As a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, I prayed daily for revelation and gave thanks to the Lord every time He spoke to my heart and mind.
"Imagine the miracle of it! Whatever our Church calling, we can pray to our Heavenly Father and receive guidance and direction, be warned about dangers and distractions, and be enabled to accomplish things we simply could not do on our own. If we will truly receive the Holy Ghost and learn to discern and understand His promptings, we will be guided in matters large and small."
"Does God really want to speak to you? Yes!" -- Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives", April 2018 General ConferenceThe heavens are open. God speaks to Prophets and apostles. God speaks to us. God has revealed things in the past, God reveals things now, and He will continue to reveal things in the future.
Friday, August 3, 2018
Eighth Article of Faith
8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
This one is fairly straightforward. We use both the Bible and the Book of Mormon as Scripture. They complement each other in teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I just watched a series about the coming forth of the King James Bible, "Fires of Faith". Did you know that it was illegal in England to possess a Bible during the Renaissance? People would actually hide pages of the Bible in barrels of beans and smuggle them in to the country. Much like people do with drugs now. But it was the Bible! In fact, Many people were burned at the stake for heresy because they wanted to translate the Bible into English for people to be able to read for themselves. William Tyndale was one of them. He was a scholar who knew several different languages and translated the Bible into English. In fact most of the King James Bible we use today is the result of William Tyndale's work.
Now we have the Bible at the tip of our fingers whenever we want it, but how many people actually read it? People gave their lives for us to have this privilege.
I have a deep respect for those who translated the Bible into English. For my benefit. They were certainly men of God. They did the best they could in translating the Bible for us. And for the most part did an excellent job.
Although we know that through translation some of the plain and precious truths of the Bible were lost.
1 Nephi 13:23, 28
The apostle Paul said:
2 Corinthians 13:1
The Bible and the Book of Mormon both teach us and help us understand the gospel of Jesus Christ.
This one is fairly straightforward. We use both the Bible and the Book of Mormon as Scripture. They complement each other in teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I just watched a series about the coming forth of the King James Bible, "Fires of Faith". Did you know that it was illegal in England to possess a Bible during the Renaissance? People would actually hide pages of the Bible in barrels of beans and smuggle them in to the country. Much like people do with drugs now. But it was the Bible! In fact, Many people were burned at the stake for heresy because they wanted to translate the Bible into English for people to be able to read for themselves. William Tyndale was one of them. He was a scholar who knew several different languages and translated the Bible into English. In fact most of the King James Bible we use today is the result of William Tyndale's work.
Now we have the Bible at the tip of our fingers whenever we want it, but how many people actually read it? People gave their lives for us to have this privilege.
I have a deep respect for those who translated the Bible into English. For my benefit. They were certainly men of God. They did the best they could in translating the Bible for us. And for the most part did an excellent job.
Although we know that through translation some of the plain and precious truths of the Bible were lost.
1 Nephi 13:23, 28
23...The book that thou beholdest is a record of the Jews, which contains the covenants of the Lord, which he hath made unto the house of Israel; and it also containeth many of the prophecies of the holy prophets..."
28... there are many plain and precious things taken away from the book, which is the book of the Lamb of God.It's wonderful that we have another Testament of Jesus Christ -- the Book of Mormon -- to help restore some of those plain and precious doctrines that were taken from the Bible. It's a blessing to have a second witness of Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon.
The apostle Paul said:
2 Corinthians 13:1
"In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established."From the introduction to the Book of Mormon:
"The Book of Mormon is a volume of holy scripture comparable to the Bible. It is a record of God’s dealings with ancient inhabitants of the Americas and contains the fulness of the everlasting gospel."
"Concerning this record the Prophet Joseph Smith said: “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.”"The Book of Mormon is the most correct book on earth!
The Bible and the Book of Mormon both teach us and help us understand the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Thursday, August 2, 2018
Seventh Article of Faith
7 We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.
This Article of Faith is about Gifts of the Spirit. Elder L. Tom Perry said, "We are given spiritual gifts to guide us as we follow the Lord’s teachings and to protect us from evil. "
The Prophet Moroni talks about Gifts of the Spirit a couple times in the of the Book of Mormon.
Mormon 9:7-8
I will just elaborate a bit on the gifts mentioned in the seventh Article of Faith.
The gift of tongues. The gift of tongues is given to missionaries to help them learn to speak foreign languages. So they can share the gospel message with the people who they are called to teach.
Prophecy. Prophets are able to foresee things that will happen in the future and tell us of such events. This has happened numerous times in the scriptures and continues today.
Revelation. We believe the heavens are open. Not only can Prophets receive revelation for the Church. But we can receive personal revelation through prayer.
Visions. Visions or dreams are ways to receive revelation. The ancient prophet Lehi had a vision of The Tree of Life in the Book of Mormon. Of course Joseph Smith received The First Vision when he was visited by God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ in answer to prayer.
Healings. Just as in ancient times when people were miraculously healed, the same happens today through the power of the priesthood.
Interpretation of tongues. This goes hand-in-hand with the ability to speak a foreign language with the gift of tongues. Missionaries are also blessed with the gift of interpretation of tongues to be able to understand the foreign language of those who they are called to teach.
This Article of Faith is about Gifts of the Spirit. Elder L. Tom Perry said, "We are given spiritual gifts to guide us as we follow the Lord’s teachings and to protect us from evil. "
The Prophet Moroni talks about Gifts of the Spirit a couple times in the of the Book of Mormon.
Mormon 9:7-8
7 And again I speak unto you who deny the revelations of God, and say that they are done away, that there are no revelations, nor prophecies, nor gifts, nor healing, nor speaking with tongues, and the interpretation of tongues;
8 Behold I say unto you, he that denieth these things knoweth not the gospel of Christ; yea, he has not read the scriptures; if so, he does not understand them.Moroni 10:8, 17-18
8 And again, I exhort you, my brethren, that ye deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God. And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh all in all; and they are given by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men, to profit them.
17 And all these gifts come by the Spirit of Christ; and they come unto every man severally, according as he will.
18 And I would exhort you, my beloved brethren, that ye remember that every good gift cometh of Christ.There are many Gifts of the Spirit mentioned in Scripture. Everyone is given different Gifts of the Spirit. If we live righteously, we are able to use those gifts for good.
I will just elaborate a bit on the gifts mentioned in the seventh Article of Faith.
The gift of tongues. The gift of tongues is given to missionaries to help them learn to speak foreign languages. So they can share the gospel message with the people who they are called to teach.
Prophecy. Prophets are able to foresee things that will happen in the future and tell us of such events. This has happened numerous times in the scriptures and continues today.
Revelation. We believe the heavens are open. Not only can Prophets receive revelation for the Church. But we can receive personal revelation through prayer.
Visions. Visions or dreams are ways to receive revelation. The ancient prophet Lehi had a vision of The Tree of Life in the Book of Mormon. Of course Joseph Smith received The First Vision when he was visited by God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ in answer to prayer.
Healings. Just as in ancient times when people were miraculously healed, the same happens today through the power of the priesthood.
Interpretation of tongues. This goes hand-in-hand with the ability to speak a foreign language with the gift of tongues. Missionaries are also blessed with the gift of interpretation of tongues to be able to understand the foreign language of those who they are called to teach.
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
Sixth Article of Faith
6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the same church today that existed in ancient times -- organized by Jesus Christ. It is His church.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized on April 6, 1830 in the state of New York. There were six original members as per New York State law. The Church was organized by the Lord Jesus Christ himself through the prophet Joseph Smith by priesthood authority.
Elder L. Tom Perry said in October 2013 General Conference:
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the same church today that existed in ancient times -- organized by Jesus Christ. It is His church.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized on April 6, 1830 in the state of New York. There were six original members as per New York State law. The Church was organized by the Lord Jesus Christ himself through the prophet Joseph Smith by priesthood authority.
Elder L. Tom Perry said in October 2013 General Conference:
"Under the direction of the Lord, Joseph Smith organized the Savior’s Church using priesthood authority—the power of God. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the same organization that Christ organized and directed while He was on the earth."
The Lord's church today is led by a prophet, currently the prophet is Russell M. Nelson. The Lord has also called 12 apostles, as He did anciently. Those men are: Dallin H. Oaks (President of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles) [currently serving as First Counselor in the First Presidency], M. Russell Ballard (Acting President of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles), Jeffrey R. Holland, Henry B. Eyring [currently serving as Second Counselor in the First Presidency], Dieter F. Uchtdorf, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson, Neil L. Andersen, Ronald A. Rasband, Gary E. Stevenson, Dale G. Renlund, Garrett W. Gong, and Ulisses Soares.
In the Church today we don't use all the same terminology as was used in Christ's ancient church. For example, the term pastor is not used in the Church today but is the equivalent to Bishop or Stake President. Similarly, we don't use the term evangelist but instead use Patriarch.
Here is a fun statistic about the Church: In the 188 years since the Church was organized, membership has grown from 6 to 16,118,169 (from the April 2018 statistical report).
Here is a fun statistic about the Church: In the 188 years since the Church was organized, membership has grown from 6 to 16,118,169 (from the April 2018 statistical report).
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