L.D.S. G.C.

10/2023
A Christian Perspective

Select OCT 2023 LDS General Conference Talk Insights by:

M. Tommy Van Tonder

 Introduction
Before we delve into the insights I've gathered regarding the October 2023 LDS General
Conference from a Christian perspective, I want to set the stage for our discussion.

The road to understanding can be challenging, especially when it comes to matters of

faith. Our beliefs are deeply personal and often shaped by a myriad of factors, from
upbringing to personal experiences. It's crucial to approach these conversations with an
open heart, love, and empathy for one another.

In my quest for understanding and growth, I recently encountered a fascinating book

that explores the human brain's role in decision-making. This book delves into the
barriers we all face when seeking to objectively discern what is true and make the best
decisions. These barriers, as the book explains, are our ego and our blind spots.

Our ego, residing deep within our subconscious, often prompts defensive reactions and
oversimplifies things, particularly when our sense of self-worth is at stake. On the other
hand, our logical and conscious selves strive to understand and make sense of the world
around us. This internal conflict reflects the challenges we encounter when engaging in
meaningful conversations with others.

When disagreements arise, our natural instinct is often to become defensive, perceiving
challenges as personal attacks. We may try to explain our viewpoints, but our
subconscious motivations can cloud our ability to convey our thoughts logically. This
pattern of misunderstanding is a common human experience.

The key to more effective dialogue lies in prioritizing our need to discover the truth over
our need to be right. Christ's teachings, which form the foundation of the Christian
perspective, emphasize love, humility, and unity. As the Bible reminds us in Philippians
2:3-4, we should "count others more significant than yourselves" and "look not only to
[our] own interests but also to the interests of others."

In the spirit of love, empathy, and unity, I invite you to explore my insights into the
October 2023 LDS General Conference from a Christian perspective. The aim is not to
convince, but to foster mutual understanding, respect, and open-mindedness. Let us
embark on this journey together, seeking common ground and supporting each other on
our diverse spiritual paths.

With an open heart, Marvin Van Tonder

 Promptings of the Spirit
Gary E. Stevenson

Elder Gary E. Stevenson's address offers valuable insights into the role of the Holy Spirit
in our lives and how to invite and recognize the promptings of the Spirit. He emphasizes
the importance of spiritual gifts and the blessings they bring to our lives. It is indeed
commendable that he encourages all individuals to seek spiritual gifts earnestly, as these
gifts can play a significant role in strengthening our faith and guiding our path.

Firstly, we must recognize and appreciate the universal longing among believers to
experience the promptings of the Holy Spirit. It is a desire deeply embedded in the
hearts of people across different faith traditions. The profound moments when the Spirit
touches our lives, irrespective of our beliefs, are a testament to the divine presence that
can be found within and around us.

It is worth noting the analogy Elder Stevenson uses in comparing the development of
spiritual gifts to honing one's skills or talents. Just as gifted performers refine their
abilities through practice, those endowed with spiritual gifts must exercise these gifts
through spiritual practice and effort. This concept is rooted in the Christian tradition of
discipleship and growth in faith.

The cautionary guidance offered by Elder Stevenson is essential for any believer. It is
crucial to ensure that our spiritual impressions align with the scriptures and the
teachings of the living prophets. This caution mirrors the biblical exhortation to test the
spirits to see whether they are from God (1 John 4:1). It emphasizes the need for
discernment, a fundamental aspect of Christian faith.

The role of the Holy Ghost in The LDS is a central and distinctive aspect of their faith.
However, the experiences of the Holy Ghost are not unique to the LDS faith. Let's
explore the differences between the role of the Holy Ghost in LDS and Christianity,
emphasizing the biblical perspective on discerning truth.

In LDS theology, the Holy Ghost plays a central role in confirming the truthfulness of
the Gospel. It's believed that through sincere prayer and seeking, individuals can receive
personal revelation and witness through the Holy Ghost that the teachings of the LDS
Church are true.
In Christianity, the Holy Spirit also plays a central role, but it differs in how it functions.
The Holy Spirit's primary role is to guide, comfort, empower, and sanctify believers,
rather than confirming the truthfulness of any particular church or religious doctrine. It
is not typically associated with confirming the validity of religious claims.

The role of the Holy Spirit in Christianity is described in John 14:26 , where Jesus says,
"But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach
you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." Here, the Holy
Spirit is portrayed as a teacher and a reminder, not as a validator of doctrines.

It's common in the LDS faith for individuals to receive what they interpret as spiritual
confirmation, often characterized by powerful, emotional experiences. However, these
emotional experiences can be difficult to tie to objective facts and may not serve as
conclusive evidence of the truthfulness of the LDS faith.

In Christianity, while emotional experiences and feelings of God's presence can be

profound and meaningful, they are generally understood to be a part of a broader
spiritual journey. Christians are encouraged to test spiritual experiences against the
teachings of the Bible, as emotions alone are not a reliable measure of truth.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) advises, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your
own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths
straight." This suggests that faith should not rely solely on personal feelings or
emotions.

Unlike in the LDS faith, Christians generally do not rely on the Holy Spirit to validate
the truthfulness of a specific church or doctrine. Instead, they look to the Bible as the
authoritative source of truth and employ discernment guided by Scripture to evaluate
religious claims. It's a careful, reasoned process of determining what aligns with the
biblical teachings.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) emphasizes the importance of Scripture in discerning truth:

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and
training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for
every good work."

While both traditions place importance on spiritual experiences, the LDS faith relies on
these experiences to confirm the truthfulness of their doctrines. In contrast, Christianity
emphasizes the importance of the Bible and the discernment of religious claims in light
of Scriptural teachings. It's essential to consider these distinctions when examining how
the Holy Spirit operates in these respective faiths.
 For the Sake of Your Posterity
Carlos A. Godoy

Elder Carlos A. Godoy shares a powerful personal experience that underscores the
importance of staying faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ. He tells of his encounter
with a taxi driver named Omar, who had fallen away from the Church but returned due
to the realization that the gospel would bring happiness to his children.

Elder Godoy reflects on the far-reaching consequences of leaving the covenant path for
oneself and future generations, emphasizing the impact of such decisions on posterity.
He urges those who have fallen away to return to the Church and invites active members
to be faithful in their commitment to the gospel.

Importance of Faithfulness: The central message of the talk is the critical importance of
faithfulness to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Elder Godoy uses the story of Omar to
illustrate that returning to the covenant path is essential for the happiness of individuals
and their posterity.

Impact on Posterity: The talk highlights the lasting effects of one's choices on future
generations. Elder Godoy points out that when people leave the Church or become less
faithful, it jeopardizes the spiritual well-being and blessings of their descendants.

Invitation to Return: The talk extends an invitation to those who have fallen away from
the Church to come back and renew their commitment to the gospel. It emphasizes the
idea that it is never too late to return to the path of faithfulness and secure blessings for
one's posterity.

The message in Elder Carlos A. Godoy's talk, while well-intentioned, does contain
elements that are contradictory to Jesus's teachings, especially in the context of
salvation and faith. Here's how certain elements are contradictory to Jesus's teachings:

The talk implies that a person's faithfulness is directly tied to specific actions such as
attending church, paying tithing, and unquestioning agreement with Church leaders.
Jesus, on the other hand, consistently taught that faith and salvation are matters of the
heart, not just outward observance. He criticized the Pharisees for their rigid adherence
to rules while neglecting mercy and love (Matthew 23:23).
The concept of "lukewarm" membership carries a risk of judgment and exclusion based
on an individual's level of adherence to rules and traditions. Jesus, however,
emphasized inclusivity and the value of every soul. He sought out sinners and ate with
them, showing that His message was for all, regardless of their religious observance
(Luke 15:1-7).

In the encounter with the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-30), Jesus did not demand
strict adherence to religious practices but instead asked the young man to sell his
possessions and follow Him. The emphasis was on the condition of one's heart and
willingness to let go of worldly attachments, not merely rule-following.

Jesus's teachings emphasize grace, mercy, and forgiveness. He offered these freely to
those who sought Him, regardless of their past actions or level of religious observance.
The message in the talk, however, seems to tie blessings and salvation to strict
compliance with religious rules, which can be seen as contrary to the concept of grace.

While the talk stresses the potential loss of blessings for one's posterity, Jesus taught
that faith and belief are individual choices (John 3:16). He did not condemn family
members for the unbelief of their relatives. Instead, He encouraged personal faith
(Matthew 10:37).

In summary, while Elder Godoy's message aims to encourage faithfulness and

dedication to the LDS Church, it does carry, however, elements contradictory to the
teachings of Jesus, particularly in regard to the role of faith, grace, and the condition of
the heart in matters of salvation. Jesus's message was one of love, grace, and inclusivity,
and He did not emphasize rigid adherence to religious rules as the path to salvation.
 The Sealing Power
D. Todd Christofferson

The doctrine in question revolves around the sealing authority, the role of temples, and
the practice of vicarious ordinances. While these concepts hold significant importance in
the LDS faith, they bear a unique spiritual danger that warrants thoughtful reflection.

It is of utmost importance to evaluate this doctrine using the teachings of Jesus Christ,
who stands as the ultimate authority and exemplar in the Christian faith. Christ's
teachings, as presented in the Bible, provide a foundation for understanding the true
nature of salvation and the afterlife. Let us delve into the core aspects of this LDS
doctrine and weigh them against the lessons imparted by Jesus Himself.

Firstly, the concept of sealing authority is central to the LDS faith. It is believed that this
authority is necessary for an ordinance to be valid and binding beyond death. While
sealing carries a certain significance, it inadvertently places emphasis on external rituals
and the authority of men.

Jesus, in stark contrast, consistently emphasized the importance of an individual's

relationship with God, stressing love, faith, and repentance as key elements of salvation
(Mark 12:30-31, John 3:16, Luke 15:7). The emphasis on priesthood authority and
ordinances, rather than personal faith and devotion, deviates from Christ's central
teachings.

The doctrine ties the validity of ordinances, including vicarious ordinances, to the place
designated by the Church—the temple. While temples play a crucial role in LDS
theology, they can become symbolic of a perceived spiritual exclusivity. In the teachings
of Jesus, there is a stark contrast. He proclaimed a faith that is inclusive, available to all,
without the need for specific places or elaborate ceremonies. Christ's message was
simple and universal, inviting believers to come to Him, regardless of where they were
(Matthew 11:28, John 7:37).

The focus on sealings and vicarious ordinances, with their complexity and exclusivity,
stands in opposition to the inclusive, accessible nature of Christ's teachings. The path to
salvation, according to Jesus, was marked by faith, humility, and inner transformation.
He never alluded to the necessity of complex rituals or authority structures for one to be
blessed with eternal life.
The central theme of the LDS doctrine is the creation of eternal families and the binding
of generations together through vicarious ordinances. While this concept is
commendable in fostering familial bonds, the peril lies in the unintended spiritual
segregation it may perpetuate. Jesus's teachings, on the other hand, emphasize a
universal brotherhood, where all individuals have the potential to be children of God
and heirs to His promises (John 1:12, Galatians 3:26).

It is essential to approach this doctrine with caution, especially if it leads to afterlife

separation from faithful family members, or places undue emphasis on the authority of
men and the complexity of ordinances. The true teachings of Jesus Christ emphasize
salvation through faith, humility, love, and repentance. It is through these principles,
rather than elaborate rituals or authority structures, that one finds their path to eternal
life. The emphasis should always be on the Gospel of Christ, which is simple, universal,
and open to all, as He promised: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes
to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).
 Kingdoms of Glory
Dallin H. Oaks

The doctrine of the Plan of Salvation, as propagated by The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, is a fascinating and complex theological construct. This doctrine, also
known as the Plan of Happiness, seeks to explain the ultimate purpose of human
existence and the destiny of each individual. It is imperative, however, to carefully study
the veracity of this doctrine by evaluating its alignment with the teachings of Jesus
Christ, as presented in the Bible, and exploring its intriguing historical context.

The foundation of the Plan of Salvation hinges upon the notion that there are multiple
kingdoms of glory, each governed by distinct laws and requirements. The highest of
these is the celestial glory, which is further subdivided into three levels, culminating in
exaltation in the celestial kingdom. This exalted state implies becoming "gods, even the
sons [and daughters] of God" and dwelling "in the presence of God and his Christ
forever and ever." The divine commandments and ordinances given by the LDS Church
are viewed as essential for achieving this highest form of exaltation.

The most remarkable aspect of the Plan of Salvation, and the one that raises questions
about its origin, is the emphasis on eternal marriage as a prerequisite for exaltation.
This unique teaching within the LDS faith suggests that salvation and godhood in the
celestial kingdom are contingent upon the sealing of a man and a woman in the holy
temple through an eternal marriage covenant. It is striking to observe the intricate
nature of this doctrine, the prominence of temples, and the necessity of specific
ordinances to achieve exaltation.

The question that emerges from this context is whether this LDS doctrine was entirely
unique to Joseph Smith and his revelations, or if it had echoes in the spiritual milieu of
his time. Herein enters Emanuel Swedenborg, an 18th-century mystic and visionary
philosopher, whose teachings bear striking resemblances to the Plan of Salvation.
Swedenborg, at a time when most of Christianity held a binary belief in heaven and hell,
introduced the concept of three degrees of glory, comparable to the sun, the moon, and
the stars. The highest, akin to the celestial kingdom, was referred to as the Celestial
Kingdom. What is even more intriguing is that Swedenborg taught that eternal marriage
was an imperative condition for individuals to enter this highest kingdom of glory.
(Swedenborg, Conjugial Love, pg. 155)
The resemblance between Swedenborg's teachings and the Plan of Salvation is not a
mere coincidence. Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS Church, acknowledged his
familiarity with Swedenborg's teachings. In a conversation with a convert from
Swedenborgianism, Joseph said, "I verily believe. 'Emanuel Sweadenburg had a view of
the world to come." (William E. Hunter, Edward Hunter: Faithful Steward, pg. 316,
original spelling). This acknowledgment poses a thought-provoking challenge to the
claim of a universal apostasy and the need for divine revelations to restore truths
already received by another visionary.

The question arises: How unique are Joseph's revelations if similar ideas were already
presented by Swedenborg? While the Plan of Salvation, as articulated by the LDS
Church, encompasses a wide range of teachings, it is vital to recognize the existence of
pre-existing spiritual concepts that bear resemblance to some of its central tenets. This
raises questions about the necessity for a grand restoration and opens the door to a
broader conversation about the continuum of divine revelation throughout history.

It is imperative to analyze this doctrine in light of the biblical perspective on the

afterlife. Moreover, we must address the implications of structuring the kingdom of
heaven in a way that seems to imply salvation through works and covenant-making with
God, often accompanied by Masonic practices, which stands in contrast to the core
teachings of Christ as found in the Bible.

The foundational principle of Christianity, as elucidated by Jesus Christ in the Bible,

centers on salvation by grace through faith, rather than through works. The Bible
consistently emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, and that human effort alone
cannot earn this divine favor. Ephesians 2:8-9 makes this clear.

Jesus' teachings in the New Testament highlight the primacy of love, humility, and faith
in Him as the means of attaining salvation. The concept of eternal marriage or intricate
ordinances to secure one's place in the highest kingdom of heaven is conspicuously
absent from His teachings. In contrast, the doctrine of the Plan of Salvation places
significant importance on temple ordinances, including eternal marriage, and adheres to
a hierarchical structure, which could inadvertently promote a works-based approach to
salvation.

The Plan of Salvation's incorporation of temple ordinances and Masonic practices raises
additional questions. While secrecy and symbols have been integral to various religious
and fraternal organizations, the extensive use of such practices in the LDS Church seems
at odds with the transparency and simplicity that characterize Jesus' teachings.
The Gospel of Matthew (5:33-37) articulates Jesus' stance on oath-taking, suggesting
that anything beyond a simple "yes" or "no" comes from evil. The elaborate nature of
temple rituals and their connection to the highest salvation can appear far removed
from the straightforward teachings of Christ.

The concept of eternal marriage and covenants may inadvertently place individuals in a
position where they feel compelled to earn their way into exaltation. This notion
conflicts with the biblical message of grace and faith. Romans 3:20 reaffirms that "no
one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law," underscoring the
incompatibility of works-based salvation with the Christian faith.

The similarity between Swedenborg's teachings and the Plan of Salvation, alongside the
potential implications of Masonic practices, prompts us to reflect on the authenticity of
Joseph Smith's revelations. It is essential to question the need for such grand
restorations if the doctrines bear resemblance to earlier ideas. This raises profound
questions about the role of revelation, the universal apostasy, and the continuity of
divine truths.

The Kingdoms of Glory, with their complex structures, temple ordinances, and Celestial
Masonic practices, warrants critical analysis in the context of the teachings of Christ as
found in the Bible. The biblical perspective unequivocally supports salvation by grace
through faith and emphasizes the simplicity of Jesus' message. Let us reflect on the
relationship between Joseph Smith's revelations and earlier visionary ideas, and to
contemplate the nature of divine revelation throughout history.
 Tithing and the Boundless
Blessings of Sacrifice
Neil L. Andersen

In Elder Neil L. In Andersen's talk, he expounds on the principles of tithing and the
promise of blessings that come with this sacred practice within the LDS Church.
However, it is essential to examine the teachings on tithing from a Christian perspective,
address the misuse of certain scriptures, and consider the implications of the vast
financial resources held by the Church.

Tithing, as defined, entails offering one-tenth of one's income or increase. This practice
has its roots in the Law of Moses, which required a tithe of first fruits. It reflects a spirit
of humility, sacrifice, and giving, principles that are not exclusive to the LDS Church but
are deeply embedded in various Christian traditions. This act of giving is an expression
of our gratitude to God for all that He has blessed us with.

One verse frequently invoked by LDS leaders in connection with tithing is found in the
book of Malachi. It is essential to examine the context in which Malachi delivers this
message. The prophet directs his message towards the priests who were mishandling the
tithes, not at the tithe-payers. Misapplying this scripture to obligate members to pay a
specific percentage of their income is a distortion of its intended message. Malachi is
part of the Old Covenant, and its relevance to the modern Christian church is not as
straightforward as it may appear.

In contrast to the Old Covenant, the New Testament teaches a more profound message
of giving, rooted in the teachings of Jesus. Christ emphasized compassion, love, and
caring for those less fortunate. In Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus exhorts us to feed the
hungry, clothe the naked, and care for the sick, with no mention of a mandatory
percentage of income. Christianity invites believers to give from their hearts, guided by
the love of God and concern for their fellow human beings.

The vast financial resources held by religious organizations, including the LDS Church,
raise questions regarding the use of these funds. In the case of the LDS Church,
significant sums are invested in various forms, including stocks, real estate, and
businesses, rather than being primarily directed towards charitable activities. This
distribution of resources has implications for the nature of sacrifice and giving within
the Church.
One striking point is that despite these considerable financial assets, the LDS Church
appears to allocate only a small portion of its income to charitable activities.
Approximately 1% of its annual revenue is directed towards charity, while the majority is
dedicated to the operation of chapels, temples, salaries, and further expanding the
Church's real estate portfolio.

In contrast, many other charitable organizations, often working with significantly fewer
funds, manage to make a substantial impact on alleviating the suffering of the needy and
addressing various social and humanitarian issues. This allocation of resources raises
questions regarding the Church's responsibility to society and whether it is fully
fulfilling its mission of compassion and outreach to the less fortunate.

Tithing embodies the spirit of giving and sacrifice. It is an act of expressing gratitude
and faith in God's provision. The Old Testament, while not explicitly emphasizing a
fixed percentage, encourages giving with a generous heart and a spirit of compassion. In
essence, tithing within Christianity is not solely about a mandatory monetary
contribution but reflects an attitude of selflessness, love, and care for others. It is
directed towards supporting those in need, spreading the Gospel, and contributing to
the welfare of the less fortunate.
 Praise To The Man
M. Russel Ballard

In the world of faith and religion, few stories have captured the hearts of millions quite
like the narrative of Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints. As Latter-day Saints, we have been taught from our earliest days to venerate
and honor the man who is often referred to as a prophet, seer, and revelator. We hold
dear the accounts of young Joseph's search for divine guidance in a grove of trees, his
miraculous translation of the Book of Mormon, and the grand tapestry of revelations
that he claimed to receive. But as we delve into the pages of history, it becomes evident
that there is more to these stories than meets the eye.

The story of Joseph Smith's First Vision, a pivotal event in the history of The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is an intricate narrative marked by variations,
complexities, and questions that merit thoughtful exploration. This foundational event,
in which Joseph claimed to have seen God the Father and Jesus Christ, has been
recounted through different versions, each offering unique details and perspectives.

One of the notable aspects that invite careful study is the question of when exactly this
vision took place. The Church initially lacked clarity on the date of Smith's First Vision.
In fact, Joseph did not specify the 1820 date until eighteen years after the event.
Furthermore, Joseph vacillated on his age at the time, alternately stating that he was
between the ages of fourteen and sixteen during the vision. Scholars suggest that he may
have relied on affidavits in the book "Mormonism Unvailed" to approximate the year
and season. However, this is bolstered by conflicting ages Joseph provided in different
accounts. Notably, affidavits from Palmyra neighbors attest that the Smith family was
deeply engaged in treasure-digging in 1820, raising questions about the veracity of this
specific date.

Over time, Joseph Smith offered four primary versions of the First Vision, each with
differing details, and each seeming to grow in complexity and grandeur. Some historians
view these variations as potential embellishments, as Joseph began to use these stories
to assert his divine authority for the establishment of a new religion. The presence of
multiple accounts, both first-hand and second-hand, leads to inconsistencies in crucial
aspects, including Joseph's age, the identity of those he claimed to have seen, and his
motivations for seeking God.
It is worth noting that the Church describes this event as a vision rather than a
visitation. This distinction is significant in relation to other foundational religious
experiences, which were understood to occur solely within the mind of the beholder. The
role of the Holy Ghost in this episode is a matter of debate, especially in light of John
14:26 and official LDS instruction that the Holy Ghost is meant to "bring all things to
your remembrance."

Surprisingly, the First Vision was not a focal point of discussion in the nineteenth-
century LDS Church. Prophets, apostles, and leaders seldom referred to it, and many
believed that God did not physically descend to Joseph or that he saw an angel instead.
It is telling that none of the anti-Mormon publications of the time even mentioned the
First Vision, suggesting that it was not widely known or discussed until decades later.

It is essential to approach these aspects of Joseph Smith's life and the first vision
accounts with a discerning mind. While we cherish the spiritual teachings and stories
associated with Joseph, we should also acknowledge that history is often more complex
than we might initially assume. The journey of faith is not one without its share of
challenges and questions, and claims Joseph Smith made, like any other prophetic
claim, should be subject to careful study and examination.

As Christians, we are reminded by the Bible to "test the spirits to see whether they are
from God" (1 John 4:1, NIV). This is an enduring principle that encourages us to
question and evaluate religious claims, regardless of their source. It is an invitation to
ensure that our faith is grounded in truth, for the Bible also instructs us to "examine
everything carefully" (1 Thessalonians 5:21, NASB). It is with this perspective that we
approach Joseph Smith's first vision accounts, the Book of Mormon, and the origins of
our faith.

It is our duty to seek understanding, ask questions, and diligently explore the
complexities of our history. In doing so, we draw closer to the heart of our faith and
ensure that our beliefs are firmly rooted in a foundation of truth.
 Think Celestial
Russel M Nelson

In his address titled "Think Celestial," President Russell M. Nelson articulates a

perspective central to the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
(LDS). As a Christian, I respect different faith traditions and their doctrines while also
offering a loving, reasoned response to certain aspects of this message. It is important to
remember that this response is offered in the spirit of understanding and not
condemnation, with the hope of promoting unity among believers.

President Nelson's assertion that the LDS plan of salvation provides a sense of
knowledge is seen as a departure from Christian teachings. Christianity emphasizes the
importance of faith, with Scripture reminding us that "faith is the substance of things
hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). Jesus, in His divine wisdom,
left certain details of the afterlife veiled, encouraging His followers to act in faith, not
merely rely on knowledge. This distinction underscores the fundamental difference
between the faith-based approach of Christianity and the knowledge-driven aspect of
the LDS plan of salvation.

President Nelson's message implies that our eternal destiny and who we will spend
eternity with are determined by our actions and choices. This concept introduces the
idea of salvation by works, a doctrine not aligned with True Christian beliefs.
Christianity teaches that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ and His atoning
sacrifice, not by our deeds or works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The counsel to "never take counsel from those who do not believe" raises serious
concerns when it comes to dangerous Cult Like traits in Religion. Christianity
encourages dialogue, understanding, and compassion towards those who may hold
different beliefs. Jesus Himself engaged with individuals of various backgrounds,
seeking to guide them toward a life centered on faith and love. Limiting one's counsel to
voices solely within their faith tradition risks closing the door to valuable perspectives
and spiritual growth, and raises flags of deception. The Holy Ghost is seen in the Bible
as a guide for all believers, regardless of their affiliation with a particular religious
organization.
The emphasis on temple worship and attendance may be challenging for Christians to
fully align with. The New Testament shifts the focus from external places of worship,
such as the Jerusalem temple, to the idea that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit
(1 Corinthians 6:19).

Imagine, if you will, a weary traveler making His way through the scorching sun of
Samaria. He is no ordinary traveler; He is Jesus, the Son of God, on a divine mission to
reveal profound spiritual truths. At high noon, He arrives at a well, where He encounters
a Samaritan woman coming to draw water.

This encounter is laden with symbolism and significance. Jews and Samaritans held
deep historical and religious animosities. Jews typically avoided passing through
Samaria, choosing a longer route to Jerusalem just to steer clear of these despised
neighbors. In contrast, Jesus, the embodiment of divine love and acceptance, chose the
direct route, crossing these barriers, not only of distance but of prejudice and bias.

As the woman approaches the well, Jesus, the Master Teacher, requests a drink. In this
simple act, He illustrates His approachability, breaking down the barriers that divide.
The woman, taken aback by this unconventional interaction, questions Him about the
divide between their people. In response, Jesus begins to unveil spiritual truths through
the use of metaphors and symbols.

He speaks of "living water," a metaphor that ignites the woman's curiosity. This water,
He explains, is a gift from God, an eternal source of life springing up within those who
drink from it. The woman, still perceiving Jesus through a worldly lens, asks where to
find this living water. She assumes Jesus speaks of physical water, yet He is leading her
toward a higher, spiritual truth.

In response, Jesus provides a profound revelation. He asks the woman to call her
husband, and her answer unfolds the depth of His divine knowledge. He reveals that she
has had five husbands, and the man she is with now is not her husband. This revelation,
rather than judgment, demonstrates Jesus' awareness of her past, a past that includes
personal struggles and relationships.

In this encounter, the well symbolizes our physical need for sustenance and life on
Earth. It represents the limitations of our mortal existence, where we experience thirst,
physically and spiritually. The living water symbolizes the spiritual nourishment and
eternal life that can only be obtained through a deep relationship with God.
The woman's five husbands represent the temporal desires and attachments that often
hinder our spiritual journey. These can include wealth, power, status, pleasure, and
worldly relationships. The man she is currently with symbolizes the transient nature of
earthly satisfaction. We all seek to quench our spiritual thirst through temporal means,
which never fully satisfy.

The woman's recognition of Jesus as a prophet is a step toward understanding, yet she is
still bound by traditional religious boundaries. She refers to a dispute between the Jews
and Samaritans over the proper place of worship: the Jews at the temple in Jerusalem,
the Samaritans on Mount Gerizim. In response, Jesus offers an enlightening truth:
"Believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this
mountain nor in Jerusalem." (John 4:21-25)

With these words, Jesus transcends the limitations of external temples, opening her
heart to a profound spiritual insight. He explains that true worshipers will worship in
spirit and truth, regardless of location. Here, He hints at a future where the physical
temple, with its rituals and offerings, will be replaced by something greater.

The culmination of this encounter is a moment of profound revelation. The woman

declares that the Messiah is coming, the one who will explain everything. At this pivotal
point, Jesus reveals His divine identity to her: "I, the one speaking to you—I am He."
(John 4:26)

This revelation shatters the limitations of earthly temples and ushers in a new era of
worship. True worship is not defined by physical locations or rituals; it is an intimate
connection with the living Christ. In this encounter, Jesus teaches that the time will
come when we will no longer rely on external structures or ceremonies to find God.
Instead, God's presence will reside within us, as our bodies become His temples.

As Jesus and the Samaritan woman demonstrate, the divine plan of salvation is not
bound by walls or traditions but by the living water that springs from within. It is not
about the details of the afterlife, the correctness of religious institutions, or the exclusion
of those who don't share the same faith. Rather, it is about the transformation of our
hearts into temples of the Holy Spirit, where God dwells within us.

The story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman, when viewed through this lens, illustrates
that the ultimate temple is the human heart, where we can worship God in spirit and
truth. It is a message of love, acceptance, and inclusivity, inviting us to recognize the
sacredness within ourselves and others. The living water, which Jesus offers freely, is an
eternal source of life, quenching our spiritual thirst and leading us to the celestial glory
He promised.
In this light, it becomes clear that the temporal divisions and works-based salvation
presented in President Nelson's message are incongruent with the profound spiritual
truths exemplified by the Samaritan woman's encounter with Jesus. True worship
transcends physical locations, divisions, and the limitations of human works, ushering
believers into a transformative relationship with the living Christ.

It is essential to approach each other's beliefs with understanding and love. The
differences between the LDS plan of salvation and True Christian teachings reveal
contrasting doctrines, leading to distinct paths of faith. While this response has
addressed certain aspects of President Nelson's message, it is not intended to
undermine the LDS faith but to offer a perspective from a Christian point of view. It is
through open and respectful dialogue that believers from different traditions can seek
common ground and unity in their love for God and their fellow human beings.