Mormon-Lectures On Faith

Lectures on
Faith
From the School of

the Prophets at
Kirtland, Ohio
Lectures on Faith
Junius Merrill [email protected] Office: 795-4001
Let us here observe , that three things are necessary in order that any rational and intelligent being
may exercise faith unto salvation. First, the idea that he actually exists. Secondly, a correct idea of
his character, perfections, and attributes. Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life which
he is pursuing is according to his will. (Lectures on Faith, 3:2-5)
Date Topics
Week 1: Sept. 1, Aug. 27 Introduction; Historical Backgroud
Weeks 2-3: Sept. 8,15, Sept. 3,10 Lecture 1: What Faith Is
Weeks 3-5: Sept. 22,29 Sept. 17,24 Lecture 2: The object of faith
Weeks 5-6 Oct. 6,20 Oct. 1,8 Lecture 3: Attributes of God
Weeks 7-8: Oct. 27, 11/3 Oct. 15, 29 Lecture 4: Character of God
Weeks 9: Nov. 10 Oct. 22 Lecture 5: The Godhead
Weeks 10-11 Nov. 17, 24 Nov. 5, 12 Lecture 6: Sacrifice
Weeks 12-13: Dec. 1,8 Nov. 19, Dec. Lecture 7: Effects of faith
Introduction/Historical Background
 ASeek Learning by Faith,@ David A. Bednar; AAuthorship and History of the Lectures on Faith,@ Larry Dahl
Lecture 1
 Topical Guide: AFaith Faith BD,@ AAssurance,@ ABelieve@ AConfidence,@ ATrust in God@
 AFaith in God,@ Bruce R. McConkie; AFaith in the Lord Jesus Christ,@ Gerald N. Lund (attachment); “Faith in the
Lord Jesus Christ,” Kevin W. Pearson
Lecture 2
 Topical Guide: Prophets; Revelation; Witness, Witnesses
 Bible Dictionary: Prophet; Revelation
 True to the Faith: AProphets,@ ARevelation@; Moroni 7:29-32
 E-mail articles: AChosen Vessels and the Order of Priesthood,@ Joseph Fielding McConkie AThe Grandeur of
God,@ Jeffrey R. Holland, Ensign, Nov. 2003,70-72; AFaith and Keys,@ Henry B. Eyring, Ensign, Nov. 2004, 26-29
Lecture 3 Lecture 4
 Topical Guide: God, Creator; Mercy, Merciful; God, Eternal Nature of; Truth; God, Access to; God, Love of;
God, Omniscience of; God, Power of; God, Justice of; Justice; Judgment; God, Mercy of
 Bible Dictionary: Faith
 True to the Faith: AAtonement of Jesus Christ,@ AFaith@
 E-mail articles: AFaith and the Nature of God,@ Bruce R. McConkie; AThe Character of Christ,@ David A.
Bednar; AThe Nature and Character of God,@ Andrew Skinner
Lecture 5
 Topical Guide: Godhead; God the Father B Elohim/Eloheim; Jesus Christ; Jesus Christ, Atonement through;
Holy Ghost; Holy Ghost, Mission of; Holy Ghost, Source of Testimony.
 E-mail articles: ADoctrinal Exposition on the Father and the Son,@ Ensign, April 2002, 13-18; AThe Supreme
Power over All Things: The Doctrine of the Godhead in the Lectures on Faith,@ Robert L. Millet; AThe Eternal
Godhead,@ Bruce R. McConkie
Lecture 6
 Topical Guide: Agency; God, Will of; Humility; Obedience; Reconciliation; Sacrifice; Test, Try, Prove; Will
 True to the Faith: AHumility,@ AObedience,@ ASacrifice@
 E-mail articles: Neal A. Maxwell, ASwallowed Up in the Will of the Father,@ Ensign, Nov. 1995, 22-24;
Richard G. Scott, ATrust in the Lord,@ Ensign, Nov. 1995, 16-18; AGreat Faith Obtained Only Through Personal
Sacrifice,@ Robert J. Matthews; AFaith in the Lord Jesus Christ,@ Bruce R. McConkie
Lecture 7
 Topical Guide: AGrace,@ AJesus Christ, Exemplar,@ Jesus Christ, Atonement through; Jesus Christ, Mission of;
Jesus Christ, Relationships with the Father; Salvation
 Bible Dictionary: Grace
 True to the Faith: AAtonement of Jesus Christ,@ AGrace,@ ASalvation@
 E-mail articles: AThe Challenge to Become,@ Dallin H. Oaks, Ensign, Nov. 2000, 32-34; AIn the Strength of the
Lord,@ David A. Bednar, BYU Speeches; AThe Fruits of Faith,@ AFaith and Salvation,@ Bruce R. McConkie
Table of Contents
Lectures on Faith 1
Syllabus 2
Table of Contents
Introduction -- DAB Seek Learning by Faith 4
Background Readings 10
LED -- Authoriship and History 10
Lecture 1 17
BRM Faith in God 20
GNL Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ 23
Faith Diagrams from GNL 29
KWP Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ 31
Lecture 2 34
JFM Chosen Vessels and the Order of the Priesthood 40
JRH The Grandeur of God 48
HBE Faith and Keys 52
Lecture 3 56
Lecture 4 58
BRM Faith and the Nature of God 61
DAB The Character of Christ 66
ACS The Nature and Character of God 72
Lecture 5 77
The Father and the Son 78
BRM The Eternal Godhead 84
RLM The Supreme Power Over All Things 87
Lecture 6 96
BRM Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ 98
NAM Swallowed Up in the Will of the Father 102
RGS Trust in the Lord 106
RJM Great Faith Obtained Only Through Personal Sacrifice 109
Lecture 7 120
BRM The Fruits of Faith 124
BRM Faith and Salvation 128
DAB In the Strength of the Lord 133
DHO The Challenge to Become 141
AN EVENING WITH ELDER DAVID A. BEDNAR
SEEK LEARNING BY FAITH

Elder David A. Bednar
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Address to CES Religious Educators • February 3, 2006 • Jordan Institute of Religion
I express my love to and for children of men” (2 Nephi 33:1). Please notice how
you—and the gratitude of the the power of the Spirit carries the message unto but
Brethren for the righteous not necessarily into the heart. A teacher can explain,
influence you have upon the demonstrate, persuade, and testify, and do so with
youth of the Church through- great spiritual power and effectiveness. Ultimately,
out the world. Thank you for however, the content of a message and the witness
blessing and strengthening the of the Holy Ghost penetrate into the heart only if a
rising generation. receiver allows them to enter.
I pray that the Holy Ghost will Brothers and sisters, learning by faith opens the
bless and edify us as we share pathway into the heart. Tonight we will focus upon
this special time together. the individual responsibility each of us has to seek
learning by faith. We also will consider the
Companion Principles: Preaching by the implications of this principle for us as teachers.
Spirit and Learning by Faith
The Principle of Action: Faith in the Lord
We are admonished repeatedly in the scriptures to
Jesus Christ
preach the truths of the gospel by the power of the
Spirit (see D&C 50:14). I believe the vast majority of The Apostle Paul defined faith as “the substance of
us as parents and teachers in the Church are aware of things hoped for, [and] the evidence of things not
this principle and generally strive appropriately to seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Alma declared that faith is
apply it. As important as this principle is, however, it not a perfect knowledge; rather, if we have faith,
is only one element of a much larger spiritual pattern. we “hope for things which are not seen, [but] are
We also frequently are taught to seek learning by true” (Alma 32:21). Additionally, we learn in the
faith (see D&C 88:118). Preaching by the spirit and Lectures on Faith that faith is “the first principle
learning by faith are companion principles that we in revealed religion, and the foundation of all
should strive to understand and apply concurrently righteousness” and that it is also “the principle of
and consistently. action in all intelligent beings” (Joseph Smith,
comp., Lectures on Faith [1985], 1).
I suspect we emphasize and know much more about
a teacher teaching by the Spirit than we do about a These teachings of Paul and of Alma and from the
learner learning by faith. Clearly, the principles and Lectures on Faith highlight three basic elements of
processes of both teaching and learning are spiritually faith: (1) faith as the assurance of things hoped for
essential. However, as we look to the future and which are true, (2) faith as the evidence of things not
anticipate the ever more confused and turbulent world seen, and (3) faith as the principle of action in all
in which we will live, I believe it will be essential for intelligent beings. I describe these three components
all of us to increase our capacity to seek learning by of faith in the Savior as simultaneously facing the
faith. In our personal lives, in our families, and in future, looking to the past, and initiating action in
the Church, we can and will receive the blessings of the present.
spiritual strength, direction, and protection as we
Faith as the assurance of things hoped for looks to
seek by faith to obtain and apply spiritual knowledge.
the future. This assurance is founded upon a correct
Nephi teaches us, “When a man speaketh by the understanding about and trust in God and enables us
power of the Holy Ghost the power of the Holy to “press forward” (2 Nephi 31:20) into uncertain and
Ghost carrieth [the message] unto the hearts of the often challenging situations in the service of the Savior.
1
Address to CES Religious Educators • February 3, 2006 • Elder David A. Bednar
For example, Nephi relied upon precisely this type of that they walked into the water before it parted. They
future-facing spiritual assurance as he returned to walked into the river Jordan with a future-facing
Jerusalem to obtain the plates of brass—“not knowing assurance of things hoped for. As the Israelites moved
beforehand the things which [he] should do. forward, the water parted, and as they crossed over on
Nevertheless [he] went forth” (1 Nephi 4:6–7). dry land, they looked back and beheld the evidence
of things not seen. In this episode, faith as assurance
Faith in Christ is inextricably tied to and results in
led to action and produced the evidence of things not
hope in Christ for our redemption and exaltation.
seen which were true.
And assurance and hope make it possible for us to
walk to the edge of the light and take a few steps True faith is focused in and on the Lord Jesus Christ
into the darkness—expecting and trusting the light and always leads to action. Faith as the principle of
to move and illuminate the way (see Boyd K. Packer, action is highlighted in many scriptures with which
“The Candle of the Lord,” Ensign, Jan. 1983, 54). The we are all familiar:
combination of assurance and hope initiates action
“For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith
in the present.
without works is dead also” (James 2:26; italics added).
Faith as the evidence of things not seen looks to
“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only”
the past and confirms our trust in God and our
(James 1:22; italics added).
confidence in the truthfulness of things not seen. We
stepped into the darkness with assurance and hope, “But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties,
and we received evidence and confirmation as the even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a
light in fact moved and provided the illumination particle of faith” (Alma 32:27; italics added).
we needed. The witness we obtained after the trial
And it is faith as the principle of action that is so
of our faith (see Ether 12:6) is evidence that enlarges
central to the process of learning and applying
and strengthens our assurance.
spiritual truth.
Assurance, action, and evidence influence each
other in an ongoing process. This helix is like a coil, Learning by Faith: To Act and Not to Be
and as it spirals upward it expands and grows wider. Acted Upon
These three elements of faith—assurance, action,
and evidence—are not separate and discrete; rather, How is faith as the principle of action in all intelligent
they are interrelated and continuous and cycle beings related to gospel learning? And what does it
upward. And the faith that fuels this ongoing mean to seek learning by faith?
process develops and evolves and changes. As we In the grand division of all of God’s creations, there
again turn and face forward toward an uncertain are things to act and things to be acted upon (see
future, assurance leads to action and produces 2 Nephi 2:13–14). As sons and daughters of our
evidence, which further increases assurance. Our Heavenly Father, we have been blessed with the gift
confidence waxes stronger, line upon line, precept of agency—the capacity and power of independent
upon precept, here a little and there a little. action. Endowed with agency, we are agents, and we
We find a powerful example of the interaction among primarily are to act and not only to be acted upon—
assurance, action, and evidence as the children of especially as we seek to obtain and apply spiritual
Israel transported the ark of the covenant under the knowledge.
leadership of Joshua (see Joshua 3:7–17). Recall how Learning by faith and from experience are two of
the Israelites came to the river Jordan and were the central features of the Father’s plan of happiness.
promised the waters would part, or “stand upon an The Savior preserved moral agency through the
heap” (Joshua 3:13), and they would be able to cross Atonement and made it possible for us to act and
over on dry ground. Interestingly, the waters did not to learn by faith. Lucifer’s rebellion against the plan
part as the children of Israel stood on the banks of sought to destroy the agency of man, and his intent
the river waiting for something to happen; rather, the was that we as learners would only be acted upon.
soles of their feet were wet before the water parted.
The faith of the Israelites was manifested in the fact
© 2006 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. English approval: 6/05. 00920
Consider the question posed by Heavenly Father to Consider how missionaries help investigators to learn
Adam in the Garden of Eden, “Where art thou?” by faith. Making and keeping spiritual commitments,
(Genesis 3:9). Obviously the Father knew where such as studying and praying about the Book of
Adam was hiding, but He, nonetheless, asked the Mormon, attending Church meetings, and keeping
question. Why? A wise and loving Father enabled His the commandments, require an investigator to
child to act in the learning process and not merely exercise faith and to act. One of the fundamental
be acted upon. There was no one-way lecture to a roles of a missionary is to help an investigator make
disobedient child, as perhaps many of us might be and honor commitments—to act and learn by faith.
inclined to deliver. Rather, the Father helped Adam Teaching, exhorting, and explaining, as important as
as a learner to act as an agent and appropriately they are, can never convey to an investigator a
exercise his agency. witness of the truthfulness of the restored gospel.
Only as an investigator’s faith initiates action and
Recall how Nephi desired to know about the things
opens the pathway to the heart can the Holy Ghost
his father, Lehi, had seen in the vision of the tree of
deliver a confirming witness. Missionaries obviously
life. Interestingly, the Spirit of the Lord begins the
must learn to teach by the power of the Spirit. Of
tutorial with Nephi by asking the following question,
equal importance, however, is the responsibility
“Behold, what desirest thou?” (1 Nephi 11:2). Clearly
missionaries have to help investigators learn by faith.
the Spirit knew what Nephi desired. So why ask the
question? The Holy Ghost was helping Nephi to act The learning I am describing reaches far beyond mere
in the learning process and not simply be acted upon. cognitive comprehension and the retaining and
(I encourage you at a later time to study chapters recalling of information. The type of learning about
11–14 in 1 Nephi and notice how the Spirit both which I am speaking causes us to put off the natural
asked questions and encouraged Nephi to “look” as man (see Mosiah 3:19), to change our hearts (see
active elements in the learning process.) Mosiah 5:2), and to be converted unto the Lord and to
never fall away (see Alma 23:6). Learning by faith
From these examples we recognize that as learners,
requires both “the heart and a willing mind” (D&C
you and I are to act and be doers of the word and
64:34). Learning by faith is the result of the Holy
not simply hearers who are only acted upon. Are you
Ghost carrying the power of the word of God both
and I agents who act and seek learning by faith, or
unto and into the heart. Learning by faith cannot be
are we waiting to be taught and acted upon? Are the
transferred from an instructor to a student through a
students we serve acting and seeking to learn by
lecture, a demonstration, or an experiential exercise;
faith, or are they waiting to be taught and acted
rather, a student must exercise faith and act in order to
upon? Are you and I encouraging and helping those
obtain the knowledge for himself or herself.
whom we serve to seek learning by faith? You and I
and our students are to be anxiously engaged in The young boy Joseph Smith instinctively understood
asking, seeking, and knocking (see 3 Nephi 14:7). what it meant to seek learning by faith. One of the
most well-known episodes in the life of Joseph Smith
A learner exercising agency by acting in accordance
was his reading of verses about prayer and faith in the
with correct principles opens his or her heart to the
book of James in the New Testament (see James 1:5–6).
Holy Ghost—and invites His teaching, testifying
This text inspired Joseph to retire to a grove of trees
power, and confirming witness. Learning by faith
near his home to pray and to seek for spiritual
requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion
knowledge. Please note the questions Joseph had
and not just passive reception. It is in the sincerity
formulated in his mind and felt in his heart—and
and consistency of our faith-inspired action that
which he took into the grove. He clearly had prepared
we indicate to our Heavenly Father and His Son,
himself to “ask in faith” (James 1:6) and to act.
Jesus Christ, our willingness to learn and receive
instruction from the Holy Ghost. Thus, learning by “In the midst of this war of words and tumult of
faith involves the exercise of moral agency to act opinions, I often said to myself: What is to be done?
upon the assurance of things hoped for and invites Who of all these parties are right; or, are they all
the evidence of things not seen from the only true wrong together? If any one of them be right, which
teacher, the Spirit of the Lord. is it, and how shall I know it? . . .
“My object in going to inquire of the Lord was to “The office of the Holy Ghost in His ministrations
know which of all the sects was right, that I might among men is described in scripture. He is a
know which to join. No sooner, therefore, did I get teacher sent from the Father; and unto those who
possession of myself, so as to be able to speak, than are entitled to His tuition He will reveal all things
I asked the Personages who stood above me in the necessary for the soul’s advancement” (The Articles
light, which of all the sects was right . . . and which of Faith, 12th ed. [1924], 162).
I should join” (Joseph Smith—History 1:10, 18).
We should always remember that the Holy Ghost is the
Notice that Joseph’s questions focused not just on what teacher who, through proper invitation, can enter into
he needed to know but also on what he needed to do. a learner’s heart. Indeed, you and I have the respon-
And his very first question centered on action and sibility to preach the gospel by the Spirit, even the
what was to be done! His prayer was not simply which Comforter, as a prerequisite for the learning by faith
church is right. His question was which church should that can be achieved only by and through the Holy
he join. Joseph went to the grove to learn by faith. He Ghost (see D&C 50:14). In this regard, you and I are
was determined to act. much like the long, thin strands of glass used to create
the fiber-optic cables through which light signals are
Ultimately, the responsibility to learn by faith and
transmitted over very long distances. Just as the glass
apply spiritual truth rests upon each of us individually.
in these cables must be pure to conduct the light
This is an increasingly serious and important respon-
efficiently and effectively, so we should become and
sibility in the world in which we do now and will yet
remain worthy conduits through whom the Spirit of
live. What, how, and when we learn is supported by—
the Lord can operate.
but is not dependent upon—an instructor, a method
of presentation, or a specific topic or lesson format. But brothers and sisters, we must be careful to
remember in our service that we are conduits and
Truly, one of the great challenges of mortality is to
channels; we are not the light. “For it is not ye that
seek learning by faith. The Prophet Joseph Smith best
speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh
summarizes the learning process and outcomes I am
in you” (Matthew 10:20). It is never about me and
attempting to describe. In response to a request by
it is never about you. In fact, anything you or I do
the Twelve Apostles for instruction, Joseph taught,
as an instructor that knowingly and intentionally
“The best way to obtain truth and wisdom is not to
draws attention to self—in the messages we
ask it from books, but to go to God in prayer, and
present, in the methods we use, or in our personal
obtain divine teaching” (History of the Church, 4:425).
demeanor—is a form of priestcraft that inhibits the
And on another occasion, the Prophet Joseph teaching effectiveness of the Holy Ghost. “Doth he
explained that “reading the experience of others, or preach it by the Spirit of truth or some other way?
the revelation given to them, can never give us a And if it be by some other way it is not of God”
comprehensive view of our condition and true (D&C 50:17–18).
relation to God” (History of the Church, 6:50).
Implication 2. We are most effective as
Implications for Us as Teachers instructors when we encourage and facilitate
learning by faith.
The truths about learning by faith we have discussed
We are all familiar with the adage that giving a man
thus far have profound implications for us as
a fish feeds him for one meal. Teaching the man to
teachers. Let us now consider together three of
fish, on the other hand, feeds him for a lifetime. As
these implications.
gospel instructors, you and I are not in the business
of distributing fish; rather, our work is to help
Implication 1. The Holy Ghost is the only
individuals learn to “fish” and to become spiritually
true teacher.
self-reliant. This important objective is best
The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead, accomplished as we encourage and facilitate learners
and He is the teacher and witness of all truth. Elder acting in accordance with correct principles—as we
James E. Talmage explained: help them to learn by doing. “If any man will do his
will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of has enabled me to understand that an answer given
God” (John 7:17). by another person usually is not remembered for
very long, if remembered at all. But an answer we
Please notice this implication in practice in the counsel
discover or obtain through the exercise of faith,
given to Junius F. Wells by Brigham Young as Brother
typically, is retained for a lifetime. The most
Wells was called in 1875 to organize the young men of
important learnings of life are caught—not taught.
the Church:
The spiritual understanding you and I have been
“At your meetings you should begin at the top of
blessed to receive, and which has been confirmed as
the roll and call upon as many members as there is
true in our hearts, simply cannot be given to another
time for to bear their testimonies and at the next
person. The tuition of diligence and learning by faith
meeting begin where you left off and call upon
must be paid to obtain and personally “own” such
others, so that all shall take part and get into the
knowledge. Only in this way can what is known in
practice of standing up and saying something. Many
the mind be transformed into what is felt in the heart.
may think they haven’t any testimony to bear, but
Only in this way can a person move beyond relying
get them to stand up and they will find the Lord
upon the spiritual knowledge and experience of others
will give them utterance to many truths they had
and claim those blessings for himself or herself. Only
not thought of before. More people have obtained a
in this way can we be spiritually prepared for what is
testimony while standing up trying to bear it than
coming. We are to “seek learning, even by study and
down on their knees praying for it” (in Junius F.
also by faith” (D&C 88:118).
Wells, “Historic Sketch of the YMMIA,” Improvement
Era, June 1925, 715).
Implication 3. An instructor’s faith is
President Boyd K. Packer has given similar counsel strengthened as he or she helps others seek
in our day: learning by faith.
“Oh, if I could teach you this one principle. A The Holy Ghost, who can “teach [us] all things, and
testimony is to be found in the bearing of it! bring all things to [our] remembrance” (John 14:26),
Somewhere in your quest for spiritual knowledge, is eager to help us learn as we act and exercise faith
there is that ‘leap of faith,’ as the philosophers call it. in Jesus Christ. Interestingly, this divine learning
It is the moment when you have gone to the edge of assistance is perhaps never more apparent than
the light and stepped into the darkness to discover when we are teaching, either at home or in Church
that the way is lighted ahead for just a footstep or assignments. As Paul made clear to the Romans,
two. ‘The spirit of man, ‘ as the scripture says, indeed “Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest
‘is the candle of the Lord.’ (Prov. 20:27.) thou not thyself?” (Romans 2:21).
“It is one thing to receive a witness from what you Please notice in the following verses from the
have read or what another has said; and that is a Doctrine and Covenants how teaching diligently
necessary beginning. It is quite another to have the invites heavenly grace and instruction:
Spirit confirm to you in your bosom that what you “And I give unto you a commandment that you shall
have testified is true. Can you not see that it will be teach one another the doctrine of the kingdom.
supplied as you share it? As you give that which you
have, there is a replacement, with increase!” (Ensign, “Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you,
Jan. 1983, 54–55). that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory,
in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in
I have observed a common characteristic among the all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God,
instructors who have had the greatest influence in that are expedient for you to understand” (D&C
my life. They have helped me to seek learning by 88:77–78; italics added).
faith. They refused to give me easy answers to hard
questions. In fact, they did not give me any answers Consider that the blessings described in these
at all. Rather, they pointed the way and helped me scriptures are intended specifically for the teacher:
take the steps to find my own answers. I certainly did “Teach . . . diligently and my grace shall attend
not always appreciate this approach, but experience you”—that you, the teacher, may be instructed!
The same principle is evident in verse 122 from the of Mormon—and a pathway into our heart opened
same section of the Doctrine and Covenants: wider through the exercise of our faith in the Savior
as we responded to the First Presidency challenge.
“Appoint among yourselves a teacher, and let not all
Thus, we were prepared to receive instruction from
be spokesmen at once; but let one speak at a time
the only true teacher, the Holy Ghost.
and let all listen unto his sayings, that when all have
spoken that all may be edified of all, and that every In recent weeks I have been greatly impressed by the
man may have an equal privilege” (D&C 88:122; testimonies of so many members concerning their
italics added). recent experiences reading the Book of Mormon.
Important and timely spiritual lessons have been
As all speak and as all listen in a dignified and orderly
learned, lives have been changed for the better, and
way, all are edified. The individual and collective
the promised blessings have been received. The Book
exercise of faith in the Savior invites instruction and
of Mormon, a willing heart, and the Holy Ghost—it
strength from the Spirit of the Lord.
really is that simple. My faith and the faith of the
other Brethren have been strengthened as we have
Seek Learning by Faith: A Recent Example responded to President Hinckley’s invitation and as
All of us were blessed by the challenge from the First we have observed so many of you acting and
Presidency last August to read the Book of Mormon by learning by faith.
the end of 2005. In extending the challenge, President As I stated earlier, the responsibility to seek learning
Gordon B. Hinckley promised that faithfully observing by faith rests upon each of us individually, and this
this simple reading program would bring into our lives obligation will become increasingly important as
and into our homes “an added measure of the Spirit the world in which we live grows more confused
of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in and troubled. Learning by faith is essential to our
obedience to His commandments, and a stronger personal spiritual development and for the growth
testimony of the living reality of the Son of God” (“A of the Church in these latter days. May each of us
Testimony Vibrant and True,” Ensign, Aug. 2005, 6). truly hunger and thirst after righteousness and be
Please note how this inspired challenge is a classic filled with the Holy Ghost (see 3 Nephi 12:6)—that
example of learning by faith. First, you and I were we might seek learning by faith.
not commanded, coerced, or required to read. Rather, I witness that Jesus is the Christ, the Only Begotten
we were invited to exercise our agency as agents and Son of the Eternal Father. He is our Savior and
act in accordance with correct principles. President Redeemer. I testify that as we learn of Him, listen to
Hinckley, as an inspired teacher, encouraged us to act His words, and walk in the meekness of His Spirit
and not just be acted upon. Each of us, ultimately, (see D&C 19:23), we will be blessed with spiritual
had to decide if and how we would respond to the strength, protection, and peace.
challenge—and if we would endure to the end of
the task. As a servant of the Lord, I invoke this blessing upon
each of you: even that your desire and capacity to seek
Second, in proffering the invitation to read and to learning by faith—and to appropriately help others to
act, President Hinckley was encouraging each of us seek learning by faith—will increase and improve. This
to seek learning by faith. No new study materials blessing will be a source of great treasures of spiritual
were distributed to members of the Church, and no knowledge in your personal life, for your family, and
additional lessons, classes, or programs were created to those whom you instruct and serve. In the sacred
by the Church. Each of us had our copy of the Book name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Authorship and History of the Lectures on Faith Who Wrote the Lectures on Faith?
Larry E. Dahl
(in Lectures on Faith in Historical Perspective, 1-21) It is a common understanding that Joseph Smith wrote the Lectures
on Faith. Often we hear or read statements like "The Prophet Joseph Smith
[1] Just what are the Lectures on Faith? Who prepared them? Who taught" as an introduction to a quotation from the Lectures. Those who have
delivered them—to whom, where, when, and why? What is the history of carefully studied the historical sources agree to the Prophet's close
their publication? Why have they not been included in editions of the involvement with the Lectures, but acknowledge that others contributed
Doctrine and Covenants since 1921? What benefit might we derive from heavily in their preparation, as the following representative quotations from
acquainting ourselves with the content of the Lectures on Faith? This paper Church leaders and others show:
addresses these questions. It will not provide definitive answers to them all, 1. The idea has been expressed that Sidney Rigdon wrote these
but it will summarize the literature about them and propose some answers. lectures, but they were compiled by a number of the brethren and the
A bibliography of the sources examined in the process of preparing this Prophet himself had the final revision of them (Smith, Church History 137).
paper appears in Appendix B to this volume. This bibliography will facilitate 2. "Lectures on Faith" written by Sidney Rigdon and others . . .
and, hopefully, encourage others to check the reasonableness of the (Widtsoe 2).
conclusions drawn in this paper, and it will stimulate further searching for [3] 3. Joseph Smith was not their sole author, but they were written
more sources and more answers—and even more questions. by a committee over which he presided. . . . It is not known specifically
which member, or members, of the committee put the Lectures on Faith in
What Are the Lectures on Faith? their written form. But there can be no doubt that the theological ideas
which they contain came from Joseph Smith. All the major ideas within them
[1 - 2] Joseph Smith referred to the Lectures on Faith as "lectures on can be found in his revelations and teachings before 1834 (Andrus 20 fn).
theology" (History of the Church 2:176; hereafter HC). There are seven of 4. These statements that I now read were in part written by the
them. Lecture 1 explains what faith is; Lecture 2 describes how mankind Prophet and in whole approved by him and taught by him in the School of
comes to know about God; Lectures 3 and 4 make clear the necessary and the Prophets (McConkie 4).
unchanging attributes of God; Lecture 5 deals with the nature of God the 5. My analysis of the Lectures on faith [sic] leads me to three
Father, his Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost; Lecture 6 proclaims that somewhat tentative conclusions: First, although Joseph Smith did not write
the willingness to sacrifice all earthly things is prerequisite to gaining faith the lectures as they appear in the 1835 version, his influence can be seen in
unto salvation; Lecture 7 treats the fruits of faith—perspective, power, and images, examples, scriptural references, and phrasing. Second, Sidney
eventually perfection. In the original printing the lectures filled 74 pages. The Rigdon may well have prepared them for publication; however, the style
lengths of the lectures differ, the longest being Lecture 2, and the shortest throughout is not consistently his. Third, the lectures in their published
being Lecture 5. The format consists of numbered paragraphs in which version represent a compilation or collaboration rather than the work of a
principles are stated and scriptures quoted. Lectures 1 through 5 each sum single person (Partridge 28).
up with a question and answer section, a kind of catechism pertaining to the [3 - 4] It is instructive to review the evidence that links Joseph Smith
principles stated in the lecture. These sections are often about as long as the and others to the writing of the Lectures. First, perhaps, it should be noted
lectures themselves. There are no questions and answers at the end of that a committee of four men—Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, Sidney
Lecture 6; rather, the following note appears: "This lecture is so plain and Rigdon, and Frederick G. Williams (all presiding officers in the Church)—was
the facts set forth so self-evident that it is deemed unnecessary to form a appointed 24 September 1834 "to arrange the items of the doctrine of Jesus
catechism upon it. The student is, therefore, instructed to commit the Christ, for the government of the Church of Latter-day Saints. These items
whole to memory." Lecture 7 ends with a simple "Amen." are to be taken from the Bible, Book of Mormon, and the revelations which
have been given to the Church up to this date, or that shall be given until
such arrangements are made" (HC 2:165). That committee reported to the and Covenants shows that the Lectures on Faith were considered the
priesthood councils of the Church nearly one year later, 17 August 1835, "Doctrine," and the revelations were viewed as the "Covenants," or more
recommending the publication of a book they had prepared (HC 2:243-51). precisely, "Covenants and Commandments." In the 1921 edition and all
That book consisted of two parts. The first contained the Lectures on Faith; subsequent editions, the title Doctrine and Covenants was retained, though
the second consisted of selected revelations and inspired declarations the Lectures were not published with the revelations. The title is
received since the beginning of this dispensation. The two parts together appropriate, however, for the revelations themselves contain much
made up what were called the Doctrine and Covenants of the Church. The doctrine.
priesthood councils and other Church members assembled accepted the
committee's recommendation. The result was the publication of the first Historical Evidence Concerning Authorship
edition of the Doctrine and Covenants, which came off the press about the
middle of September 1835.1 The foregoing information demonstrates that preparing and printing
the Lectures on Faith was an official, purposeful activity of the committee
[4] The First Edition of the Doctrine and Covenants appointed to compile the first edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. Their
preface says that the Lectures contain "the important doctrine of salvation."
A photographic reproduction of the title page of the 1835 edition of the representing the belief of the committee members and what they perceived
Doctrine and Covenants is on the following page. The heading to the first to be the beliefs of the Church as a body.
part of the book (the Lectures) reads like this:
The question as to who actually wrote the Lectures then, may be of
THEOLOGY. little consequence. However, we mortals are a curious lot, and sometimes
LECTURE FIRST pursue answers simply to have them, not because they are of great moment.
ON THE DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH OF THE Catering to that curiosity, we note now some historical evidence of Joseph
LATTER DAY SAINTS. Smith's participation in their preparation, and acknowledge two recent
Of Faith. authorship studies which conclude that others, particularly Sidney Rigdon,
SECTION I. were also involved.
The first lecture follows this heading. Lecture 2 is introduced simply [7 - 8] At the end of October 1834, Joseph's history states, "It being
as: the last of the month, and the Elders beginning to come in, it was necessary
LECTURE SECOND. to make preparations for the school for the Elders, wherein they might be
Of Faith. more perfectly instructed in the great things of God, during the coming
SECTION II. winter. . . . No month ever found me more busily engaged than November"
This same simple pattern introduces the rest of the lectures. (HC 2:169-70). It is possible, even probable, that some of the Prophet's
The title page of the second part of the book, containing the busyness during that month pertained to the writing of the Lectures on
revelations, is photographically reproduced on page 6. The revelations Faith. Two months later, in January 1835, we find this entry— "During the
follow in order labelled SECTION II, SECTION III, etc., through SECTION month of January, I was engaged in the school of the Elders, and in preparing
CII (or 102). the lectures on theology for publication in the book of Doctrine and
[7] The preface to the first edition of the Doctrine and Covenants Covenants, which the committee appointed last September were now
(1835) explains how the four committee members felt about the Lectures compiling" (HC 2:180). These two entries clearly establish Joseph Smith's
on Faith (see the preface on page 9). Although the preface is dated February close ties to preparing for the School of the Elders and to the content of the
17, 1835, the book was not completed until August of that year. Lectures on Faith.
A careful look at these divisions in the first edition of the Doctrine
Authorship Studies Who Delivered the Lectures—To Whom, When, Where, Why?
One of the authorship studies of the Lectures on Faith was done by [10 - 11] Trying to identify who delivered the Lectures on Faith is as
Alan J. Phipps as a master's thesis in 1977. He compared the frequency of difficult as trying to decide who wrote them. Contemporary historical
use of certain "function words" in the Lectures with the use of the same records are scarce. Yet, official histories, books, and articles generally agree
words in the writings of several persons who may have had a hand in writing that Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were the primary teachers, noting that
the Lectures, ie, Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, Sidney Rigdon, William W. others of the brethren may also have been involved (see Appendix B).
Phelps, and Parley P. Pratt. He concludes: Interestingly, however, there are seldom source citations for these
The study showed that Sidney Rigdon's use of function words conclusions, or the sources cited do not provide adequate historical data to
corresponded very closely with that in Lectures One and Seven, and fairly clearly establish the point being made. It becomes at times a case of authors
well with Two, Three, Four, and Six. Joseph Smith's use of function words citing one another with no one having compelling documentary evidence.
matched closely those in Lecture Five, with some evidence of his having [11] Some information from two men who were at the scene in
co-authored or edited Two, Three, Four, and Six. . . . The data and tests 1834 is available and of particular interest. Zebedee Coltrin, in an 1883
appear, therefore, to assign the authorship of the Lectures on Faith mainly remembrance, differentiated between the 1833 School of the Prophets
to Sidney Rigdon, with Lecture Five and perhaps some parts of the other which was held in the Prophet's home above the Whitney store—and
lectures, except One and Seven, to Joseph Smith (66-67). located in the valley—and the 1834 School for the Elders in which the
[8 - 10] Using the same data as Phipps, but applying a somewhat Lectures on Faith were studied. He said, "It was in a larger school on the hill
different word-print analysis, Wayne A. Larsen and Alvin C. Rencher report: afterwards, where Sidney presided that the lectures on faith that appear in
"Our conclusions largely support his results, with some differences . . ." the Book of Doctrine and Covenants were given" (Salt Lake [11 Oct] 44).
(183-84). Both studies conclude that Sidney Rigdon was heavily involved, and His reference to "the school on the hill" points to the printing office built on
that Joseph Smith was probably the author of Lecture 2. The differences a lot near the temple site, on land of much higher elevation than the valley
suggest that Joseph Smith had less to do with Lectures 3, 4, and 6 than the where the store was located. The printing office was a 30- by 38-foot
Phipps study showed, and that William W. Phelps and/or Parley P. Pratt two-story building completed in November 1834. The lower story of the
could have had at least some editorial influence on Lecture 5.2 In fairness it printing office was used for the School for the Elders (HC 1:417-418;
should be recognized that Larsen's and Rencher's work with the Lectures on 2:169-170). Even though Brother Coltrin said that Sidney Rigdon "presided"
Faith was a peripheral, almost incidental glance, in a study of Book of at the school where the seven lectures were given, it is likely that it was
Mormon authorship. If they were to focus primarily on the Lectures, Joseph Smith and not Sidney Rigdon who "presided" over the school in the
perhaps they would adjust both the selection of data and perform additional sense of being in charge of it because Joseph Smith organized and attended
tests and comparisons. the school, and was the President of the Church. Perhaps Zebedee Coltrin's
"presided" meant "taught."
Conclusions About Authorship Heber C. Kimball tells us something of how the school was
What then can we conclude about authorship of the Lectures on conducted and who the teachers were:
Faith? It is clear that several of the brethren participated in writing them. It is In the winter of 1834-5 . . . I attended the Theological School
also clear that Joseph Smith and perhaps others prepared them for established in Kirtland, in which the lectures on faith, contained in the book
publication after they were written. Undoubtedly, the Lectures were, in the of Doctrine and Covenants, originated.
words of President John Taylor, "published with the sanction and approval of [11 - 12] A certain number were appointed to speak at each
the Prophet Joseph Smith" (Woodford 1:87). It would therefore seem meeting. On one occasion I was called upon to speak on the principle of
appropriate to attribute the ideas, principles, and doctrines in the Lectures faith. Several brethren spoke before me and quoted every passage
on Faith to the Prophet Joseph. mentioned in the scriptures on the subject. I referred to an original
circumstance which took place in my family. My daughter had broke a then they had already been delivered. If the elders as a group did continue to
saucer; her mother promised her a whipping, when she returned from a visit study the Lectures on Faith after 22 December, the School for the Elders
on which she was just starting; she went out under an apple tree and prayed and the Kirtland Grammar School would necessarily have been two separate
that her mother's heart might be softened, that when she returned she entities meeting at different times, but there is no specific mention of any
might not whip her; although her mother was very punctual when she made such arrangement in the historical sources.
a promise to her children to fulfil it, yet when she returned she had no In answer then to the questions of who delivered the Lectures to
disposition to chastise her child. Afterwards the child told her mother that whom, when, where, and why, I would say they were delivered by the
she had prayed to God that she might not whip her. presiding officers of the Church and some of the elders themselves to a
[12] Joseph wept like a child on hearing this simple narrative and its School for the Elders, in the printing office in Kirtland, during November and
application (Journal History [22 Dec 1834]). December 1834, for the purpose of preparing the elders to be effective
In addition to being instructed by their presiding officers, it appears missionaries.
that the elders taught one another in the school. The School for the Elders
began sometime between 25 November and 1 December 1834. Under the Publication History of the Lectures
date of 25 November the Prophet records, "I continued my labors daily,
preparing for the school" (HC 2:170). On 1 December he says, The first publication of any of the Lectures on Faith was that of
Our school for the Elders was now well attended, and with the Lectures 5 and 6 in the May 1835 edition of the Messenger and Advocate, the
lectures on theology, which were regularly delivered, absorbed for the time Church monthly paper published in Kirtland. They were introduced with the
being everything else of a temporal nature. The classes, being mostly Elders following comments:
gave the most studious attention to the all-important object of qualifying The following are two short lectures which were delivered before a
themselves as messengers of Jesus Christ, to be ready to do His will in Theological class, in this place last winter. These lectures are being compiled
carrying glad tidings to all that would open their eyes, ears and hearts (HC and arranged with other documents of instruction and regulation for the
2:175-76). church, titled "Doctrine and Covenants of the church of the Latter Day
[12 - 13] The Lectures on Faith phase of the School for the Elders Saints," &c. It may be well, for the information of the churches abroad, to
evidently ended sometime before 22 December because on that date the say, that this book will contain the important revelations on doctrine and
Elders were joined by a number of sisters and also children—some one church government now extant, and will, we trust, give them a perfect
hundred thirty people total—and they all attended a grammar school with understanding of the doctrine believed by this society. Such a work has long
Sidney Rigdon and William E. McLellin as teachers (HC 2:200).3 Heber C. been called for, and if we are prospered a few weeks, shall have this volume
Kimball explains: "On the 22nd of December a Grammar school was opened ready for distribution. A full detail of its contents will be given hereafter.
in Kirtland, under the superintendence of Sidney Rigdon and William E. [13 - 14] In giving the following lectures we have thought best to
McLellin teachers, —and nearly all the elders and myself, and many of the insert the catechism, that the reader may fully understand the manner in
sisters commenced going to school" (Kimball 6:868). Evidently the grammar which this science was taught. It was found, that by annexing a catechism to
school was also held in the printing office where the elders had met to study the lectures as they were presented, the class made greater progress than
the Lectures on Faith. The curriculum for this grammar school consisted of otherwise; and in consequence of the additional scriptural proofs, it was
"penmanship, arithmetic, English grammar, and geography . . . and writing" preserved in compiling (Cowdery 122).
(HC 2:200), and according to Heber C. Kimball, nearly all the elders were in The next publication of any of the lectures was a broadside
attendance. In his February 1835 report to the school trustees, William E. containing Lecture 1, probably published in June 1835.4
McLellin made no mention of the Lectures on Faith or other missionary The first printing of all seven lectures was in September 1835, when
training in connection with the grammar school. Since the Prophet was busy they were printed as part of the first edition of the Doctrine and Covenants.
in January preparing the Lectures for publication, we could assume that by Between 1835 and 1921 the Lectures were printed in almost all of the
English language editions of the Doctrine and Covenants, and in many, but B. Lundwall of Salt Lake City published the Lectures on Faith along with a
not all non-English editions.5 The issue of why the Lectures have not been number of other items about 1940. We get the date from John W.
printed in editions of the Doctrine and Covenants since 1921 will be Fitzgerald's master's thesis (346). Lundwall's is probably the most widely
discussed later. But first, let us review instances when the Lectures on Faith known publication of the Lectures in the Church. In 1952 the Reorganized
were published by themselves. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints published the Lectures on Faith
Between 1840 and 1843, Parley P. Pratt printed all seven lectures in with an interesting preface written by their president, Israel A. Smith.7 The
the Millennial Star in England.6 Lecture 1, printed in September 1840, was Deseret Book Company of Salt Lake City also published a hardbound edition
introduced with the following comment: "We purpose to present our of the Lectures on Faith in 1985. This edition was the first to incorporate
readers with a brief Course of Lectures on the first principles of Theology, references to the book of Moses, much of which corresponds with the
or the Doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; and Joseph Smith Translation of Genesis.
commence our quotations from the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, p. 5" [16] As an endnote to the discussion of publication history, it is
(Pratt, "Lecture on Theology" 129). Lecture 5 was printed in December interesting to learn of the changes that have appeared in the titles through
1842 with this note: "We have thought [it] proper to give this month in our the years. In 1835, they were originally referred to as "Lecture First—Of
Star the fifth lecture on Faith, extracted from the above work (Doctrine an Faith," "Lecture Second—Of Faith," etc. When Parley P. Pratt published
Covenants). The four lectures preceding it were given in the first volume of them in England in the 1840s, he called them "Lecture 1—On Faith,"
the Star. Having often heard the desire expressed for the publication of the "Lecture 2—On Faith," etc. All Liverpool editions of the Doctrine and
remaining lectures, it is our intention to give them forthwith. -Ed" (Pratt, Covenants thereafter used the "On Faith" label, while the American editions
"Lecture on Faith" 135). As promised, Lectures 6 and 7 were published in kept the "Of Faith" designation until 1876. For some reason Sidney Rigdon in
the next two issues of the Millennial Star. 1845 in Pittsburgh also called them lectures "On Faith." The 1985 Deseret
[15] All the lectures were published in 1845-46 by Sidney Rigdon in Book edition carries the title Lectures on Faith, but inside, the lectures are
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He had left the Church after the death of Joseph referred to simply as "Lecture First," "Lecture Second," "Lecture Third," etc.,
Smith and started his own organization called the "Church of Christ." In with no reference to "of" or "on." This 1990 edited version uses the common
Pittsburgh he published a paper also called Messenger and Advocate, in reference of Lectures on Faith and refers to each lecture by its number,
which he published the lectures serially each month from October 1845 such as Lecture 1, Lecture 2, etc.
through March 1846. Lectures 5 and 6 both appeared in the February 1846
issue. Rigdon did not include the catechisms at the end of each lecture Why No Lectures with the D&C Since 1921?
except for Lecture 1. As he began publishing the Lectures, he explained:
There will be found in this paper a lecture on faith copied from the [16 - 17] When a new edition of the Doctrine and Covenants was
Book of Doctrine and Covenants, which is the first of a course delivered prepared in 1921, the Lectures on Faith were not included.8 The answers
before a theological class in Kirtland, O. in the winter of 1834 & 5. Faith proposed as to why the Lectures were not included are varied. Many have
being the first principle of action in all intelligent beings, and those lectures pointed to the content of Lecture 5 concerning the Godhead, suggesting
setting forth that principle in a clear and interesting manner, we thought that it contains incomplete, if not erroneous doctrine—doctrine which was
perhaps we could not interest our readers more than by giving place to one corrected or clarified in 1843 by Joseph Smith (D&C 130:22-23). The
of them at this time; we may copy others of them hereafter, if our space will argument is that the Lectures were removed to avoid these inconsistencies.
admit (Rigdon 360-61). Some have claimed that the removal of the Lectures from the Doctrine and
Space did "admit," and all seven lectures were published as indicated Covenants constitutes decanonization of material once affirmed by the
above, without further editorial comment. Church as scripture. Those who take this view see the 1834 vote of the
[15 - 16] There are three other separate publications of the priesthood quorums and the general assembly to accept as true and to
Lectures, all of them appearing in the 20th century, we need to mention. N. publish both the Lectures on Faith and the revelations of Joseph Smith in the
first edition of the Doctrine and Covenants, as putting the Lectures on a par Lectures on Faith with the revelations (Fitzgerald 345). Fitzgerald reports
with the revelations, considering both to be canonized scripture (Van that he was told in a 22 July 1940 interview with Elder Joseph Fielding Smith:
Wagoner, et al 72-77). Leaders of the Church, however, have consistently They are not complete as to their teachings regarding the Godhead.
maintained that from the beginning a distinction was made between the More complete instructions on this point of doctrine are given in section 130
Lectures on Faith and the revelations (see Penrose 16; Modern Revelation of . . . The Doctrine and Covenants.
34; Smith, Essentials 186). They also appeal to the occasion when the first It was thought by Elder James E. Talmage, chairman, and other
edition of the Doctrine and Covenants was voted upon, citing the testimony members of the committee who were responsible for their omission that to
of Elder John Smith, who represented the High Council in Kirtland. The avoid confusion and contention on this vital point of belief, it would be
minutes read as follows: Elder Smith "bore record that the revelations in said better not to have them bound in the same volume as the commandments
book were true, and that the lectures were judiciously arranged and or revelations which make up The Doctrine and Covenants (345).9
compiled, and were profitable for doctrine. Whereupon, the High Council of [18 - 19] It is not the purpose of this paper to discuss the doctrinal
Kirtland accepted and acknowledged them as the doctrine and covenants of issues raised by Lecture 5. Professor Millet's paper will address that subject.
their faith by a unanimous vote" (HC 2:244; emphasis added). Similarly, It is sufficient to note here that Lecture 5 was one of the matters of concern
"Elder Levi Jackman, taking the lead for the High Council of the church in influencing the decision not to publish the Lectures on Faith with the
Missouri, bore testimony that the revelations in said book were true, and Doctrine and Covenants from 1921.
the said High Council of Missouri accepted and acknowledged them as the [19] The Lectures on Faith were written and published in the
doctrine and covenants of their faith, by a unanimous vote" (HC 2:244; Doctrine and Covenants by men called of God to lead the Church in 1834.
emphasis added). The minutes relative to the other quorums' acceptance of The decision not to print them in the Doctrine and Covenants was made by
the work do not distinguish "revelations" from "lectures." They say only that men called of God to lead the Church in 1921. I submit that both actions
these quorums gave testimony in favor of "the book" (HC 2:244; emphasis were appropriate.
added).
[17 - 18] It can be reasoned then that a distinction was made early Summary and Conclusion
between the seven lectures and the revelations, and that the vote to accept
the lectures as "judiciously arranged . . . and profitable for doctrine" was not This paper has attempted to shed some light on the authorship and
to equate them with the divine revelations. Such is the message in the history of the Lectures on Faith by bringing together and briefly discussing
"Explanatory Introduction" of the 1921 edition of the Doctrine and information that is available in an array of histories, books, and articles. The
Covenants: motivation for preparing the paper and the bibliography in Appendix B has
[18] Certain lessons, entitled "Lectures on Faith," which were bound been to stimulate an interest in the Lectures—to encourage people to study
in with the Doctrine and Covenants in some of its former issues, are not them carefully.
included in this edition. Those lessons were prepared for use in the School I love the Lectures on Faith. For me they carry a special spirit. They
of the Elders, conducted in Kirtland, Ohio, during the winter of 1834-1835; are a rich source of doctrinal treasures couched in clear and powerful
but they were never presented to nor accepted by the Church as being language. One can drink as deeply from them as he has a mind to. I
otherwise than theological lectures or lessons (v). commend them to you.
Church leaders have acknowledged that the decision to omit the
Lectures on Faith in the 1921 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants was NOTES
based not only on the fact that they are not revelations, but it also had to do Larry E. Dahl is professor and chairman of Church History and
with some of the teachings about the Godhead in Lecture 5, as I mentioned Doctrine at Brigham Young University.
earlier. Elders James E. Talmage, John A. Widtsoe, and Joseph Fielding Smith
served as a committee to consider whether to continue to publish the
BIBLIOGRAPHY Footnotes
Andrus, Hyrum. Principles of Perfection. Vol 2 of Foundations of the Millennial Kingdom of Christ. 1. Writing from Kirtland to the Saints in Missouri under the date of 16 September
3 vols. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1968-73. 1835, W. W. Phelps said, "We received some of the Commandments from Cleveland last
Cowdery, Oliver, ed. Untitled article. The Latter-day Saints' Messenger and Advocate (May week. I shall try and send 100 copies to the Saints in Zion this fall" (Journal History [16 Sep
1835) 1:122-26. 1835]). An earlier compilation of revelations known as the Book of Commandments was
Fitzgerald, John W. "A Study of the Doctrine and Covenants." Master's thesis. Provo, UT: being printed in 1833, when mobs destroyed the church press and all but a few copies of the
Brigham Young Univ, 1940. book.
History of the Church. 7 vols. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1978. 2. There is some historical evidence that W. W. Phelps could have had an editorial
Howard, Richard P. Restoration Scriptures. Independence, MO: Herald House, 1969. influence on the Lectures on Faith. The History of the Church (2:227) records that W. W.
Journal History of the Church. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Phelps arrived in Kirtland from Missouri in May, 1835, lived in the Prophet Joseph's home, and
1906-. "assisted the committee in compiling the Book of Doctrine and Covenants."
Kimball, Heber C. "Extracts from H. C. Kimball Journal." Times and Seasons (15 Apr 1845) 3. In reporting to the trustees of the "Kirtland School" in February 1835, W. E.
6:868. McLellin indicated that because of overcrowding, they had dismissed the "small students,"
Lambert, Asael Carlyle. The Published Editions of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants of The reducing the number to one hundred.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in All Languages 1833 to 1950. N.p.: A. C. 4. A comparison of the broadside and Lecture 1 as printed in the 1835 D&C by Wm.
Lambert, 1950. M. Powell is available in the Harold B. Lee Library, BYU—Mor/M208/Ala/#568.
Larsen, Wayne A., and Alvin C. Rencher. "Who Wrote the Book of Mormon? An Analysis of 5. Evidently some English language pocket editions published in the early 1900s also
Wordprints." Book of Mormon Authorship. Ed. Noel B. Reynolds and Charles D. Tate, did not contain the Lectures on Faith (see Lambert).
Jr. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982. 157-88. 6. See Appendix B under Millennial Star for editions containing the Lectures on Faith
Lectures on Faith. Independence, MO: Herald House, 1953. 7. The title page reads "LECTURES ON FAITH delivered in Kirtland Temple in 1834
McConkie, Bruce R. "The Lord God of Joseph Smith." Speeches of the Year, 1971-1972. Provo, and 1835 by the Prophet Joseph Smith . . . with the Revelation on the Rebellion as an
UT: Brigham Young Univ, 1972. appendix published in 1952 by Herald House, Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter
Modern Revelation: The History and Message of the Doctrine and Covenants. Young Men's Day Saints, Independence, Missouri." See Appendix A for the full text of Israel A. Smith's
Mutual Improvement Associations Manual #10, 1906-1907. Salt Lake City: General preface. The RLDS published the Lectures on Faith in their editions of the Doctrine and
Board of YMMIA, 1906. Covenants from 1863 through 1896. Of their 1897 edition, Richard P. Howard writes: "The
Partridge, Elinore H. "Characteristics of Joseph Smith's Style and Notes on the Authorship of 1897 edition was somewhat of a departure from the previous format. The Lectures on Faith,
the Lectures on Faith." Task Papers in LDS History series. Salt Lake City: The Church printed in every edition through 1896, were removed. The background of this decision has
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1976 (Dec), no. 14, p 28. not been established, but it seems reasonable to consider that the extensive quotations from
Penrose, Charles W. Conference Report (3 Apr 1921) 9-17. the New Translation of the Bible taken from the unpublished manuscripts were unacceptable
Phipps, Alan J. "The Lectures on Faith: An Authorship Study." Master's thesis. Provo, UT: in the light of the work as published in 1867. Also, the materials in these pages (being simply
Brigham Young Univ, 1977. outlines of the lectures given in a strictly local situation to a class of elders) had lost much of
Pratt, Parley P., ed. "Lecture on Faith." Millennial Star (Dec 1842) 3:135-38. their relevance to the circumstances of the church over half a century later" (Howard 236).
———. "Lecture on Theology." Millennial Star (Sep 1840) 1:129-33. 8. This was not the first time the question of omitting the Lectures had been raised.
Rigdon, Sidney, ed. "Faith." Messenger and Advocate. Pittsburgh, PA (15 Oct 1845) 1:360-61. Orson Pratt proposed to President John Taylor in 1879 that they perhaps be published
Salt Lake School of the Prophets Minute Book, 1883. Ed. Merle H. Graffam. Palm Desert, CA: separately rather than in the Doctrine and Covenants. President Taylor's response was that
LDS Historical Department, ULC Press, 1981. In typescript copy, same publisher, "The Lectures on Faith were published with the sanction and approval of the Prophet Joseph
same date. Smith, and we do not feel that it is desirable to make any alteration in that regard, at any rate,
Smith, Joseph Fielding. Church History and Modern Revelation. 2nd series. Salt Lake City: not at present" (see Woodford 1:86-87).
Council of the Twelve Apostles, 1947. 9. Elder Smith is also reported to have said in this same interview that the Lectures
———. Essentials in Church History. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1956. are explanations of the principle of faith "but are not doctrine." In this statement he may have
Van Wagoner, Richard S., Steven C. Walker, and Allen D. Roberts. "The 'Lectures on Faith': A been comparing certain items in the Lectures (perhaps Lecture 5) with doctrine as
Case Study in Decanonization." Dialogue (Fall 1987) 20:71-77. understood in 1940, and not making an "historically erroneous" statement as has been
Widtsoe, John A. The Message of the Doctrine and Covenants. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1969. suggested by some.
Woodford, Robert J. "The Historical Development of the Doctrine and Covenants." PhD
dissertation. 3 vols. Provo, UT: Brigham Young Univ, 1974.
Lecture 1 acquisition of all knowledge, wisdom, and
intelligence? Would you exert yourselves to obtain
ON FAITH
wisdom and intelligence unless you did believe that
you could obtain them? Would you have ever sown
Faith, being the first principle in revealed religion
if you had not believed that you would reap? Would
and the foundation of all righteousness, necessarily
you have ever planted if you had not believed that
claims the first place in a course of lectures
you would gather? Would you have ever asked,
designed to unfold to the understanding the
unless you had believed that you would receive?
doctrine of Jesus Christ.
Would you have ever sought unless you had
believed that you would find? Or, would you have
2. In presenting the subject of faith, we shall
ever knocked, unless you had believed that it would
observe the following order:
be opened unto you? In a word, is there anything
that you would have done, either physical or
3. First, faith itselfCwhat it is;
mental, if you had not previously believed? Are not
all your exertions of every kind dependent on your
4. Secondly, the object on which it rests; and,
faith? Or, may we not ask, what have you or what
do you possess which you have not obtained by
5. Thirdly, the effects which flow from it.
reason of your faith? Your food, your raiment, your
lodgingsCare they not all by reason of your faith?
6. Agreeable to this order we have first to show
Reflect, and ask yourselves if these things are not
what faith is.
so. Turn your thoughts to your own minds and see
if faith is not the moving cause of all action in
7. The author of the epistle to the Hebrews gives
yourselves, and if it is the moving cause in you, is it
the following definition of the word faith:
not also the moving cause in all other intelligent
beings?
8. "Now faith is the substance [assurance] 1 of
things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen"
12. And as faith is the moving cause of all action in
(11:1).
temporal concerns, so it is in spiritual. For the
Savior has said, and that truly, that "he that
9. From this we learn that faith is the assurance
believeth and is baptized shall be saved" (Mark
which men have of the existence of things which
16:16; emphasis in 1835).
they have not seen and that it is also the principle
of action in all intelligent beings.
13. As we receive by faith all temporal blessings, so
we in like manner receive by faith all spiritual
10. If men were duly to consider themselves and
blessings. But faith is not only the principle of
turn their thoughts and reflections to the operations
action, it is also the principle of power in all
of their own minds, they would readily discover that
intelligent beings, whether in heaven or on earth.
it is faith, and faith only, which is the moving cause
Thus says the author of the epistle to the Hebrews:
of all action in them; that without it both mind and
body would be in a state of inactivity, and all their
14. "Through faith we understand that the worlds
exertions would cease, both physical and mental.
were framed by the word of God, so that things
which are seen were not made of things which do
11. Were each of you in this class to go back and
appear" (11:3).
reflect upon the history of your lives from the
period of your first recollection, and ask yourselves
15. By this we understand that the principle of
what principle excited you to action, or what gave
power which existed in the bosom of God, by which
you energy and activity in all your lawful
he framed the worlds, was faith; and that it is by
avocations, callings, and pursuits, what would be
reason of this principle of power existing in the
the answer? Would it not be that it was the
Deity that all created things exist; so that all things
assurance which you had of the existence of things
in heaven, on earth, or under the earth exist by
which you had not seen as yet? Was it not the hope
reason of faith as it existed in him.
which you had, in consequence of your belief in the
existence of unseen things, which stimulated you to
16. Had it not been for the principle of faith, the
action and exertion in order to obtain them? Are
worlds would never have been framed, neither
you not dependent on your faith, or belief, for the
would man have been formed of the dust. It is the that all these things were done by faith. It was by
principle by which Jehovah works and through faith that the worlds were framedCGod spake,
which he exercises power over all temporal as well chaos heard, and worlds came into order by reason
as eternal things. Take this principle or attribute of the faith there was in him. So with men also,
(for it is an attribute) from the Deity and he would they spake by faith in the name of God and the sun
cease to exist. stood still, the moon obeyed, mountains removed,
prisons fell, lions' mouths were closed, the human
17. Who cannot see that if God framed the worlds heart lost its enmity, fire its violence, armies their
by faith, it is by faith that he exercises power over power, the sword its terror, and death its dominion;
them, and faith is the principle of power? And if it is and all this by reason of the faith which was in
the principle of power in the Deity, it must be so in them.
man as well? This is the testimony of all the sacred
writers and the lesson which they have been 23. Had it not been for the faith which was in men,
endeavoring to teach to man. they might have spoken to the sun, the moon, the
mountains, prisons, lions, the human heart, fire,
18. The Savior says the reason the disciples could armies, the sword, or to death in vain!
not cast out the devil was their unbelief: "For verily
I say unto you," said he, "If ye have faith as a grain 24. Faith, then, is the first great governing principle
of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, which has power, dominion, and authority over all
Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; things. By it they exist; by it they are upheld; by it
and nothing shall be impossible unto you" (Matt they are changed; or by it they remain, agreeable
17:19-20). to the will of God. Without it there is no power, and
without power there could be no creation nor
19. Moroni, while abridging and compiling the existence!
record of his fathers, gave us the following account
of faith as the principle of power. He says on page Questions and Answers for Lecture1
563 of the 1830 Book of Mormon that it was the
faith of Alma and Amulek which caused the walls of 1. QuestionCWhat is theology?
the prison to be rent (Ether 12:13), as recorded on AnswerCIt is that revealed science which treats the
being and attributes of God, his relations to us, the
the 264th page (Alma 14:27). It was the faith of
dispensations of his providence, his will with respect to
Nephi and Lehi which caused a change to be
our actions, and his purposes with respect to our end
wrought upon the hearts of the Lamanites when (Buck's Theological Dictionary 582).
they were immersed with the Holy Spirit and with 2. QCWhat is the first principle in this revealed science?
fire, as seen on the 421st page (Hel 5:43-45). And ACFaith (Lecture 1:1).
it was by faith that the mountain Zerin was
removed when the brother of Jared spake in the 3. QCWhy is faith the first principle in this revealed
name of the Lord. See also the 565th page (Ether science?
12:30). ACBecause it is the foundation of all
righteousness. "Without faith it is impossible to please
20. In addition to this we are told in Hebrews that him [God]" (Heb 11:6). "Little children, let no man
deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous,
Gedeon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel,
even as he [God] is righteous" (1 John 3:7; Lecture 1:1).
and the prophets "through faith subdued kingdoms,
wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped 4. QCWhat arrangement should be followed in
the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, presenting the subject of faith?
escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness ACFirst, it should be shown what faith is
were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to (Lecture 1:3); secondly, the object upon which it rests
flight the armies of the aliens. Women received (Lecture 1:4); and thirdly, the effects which flow from it
their dead raised to life again" (11:33-35), etc. (Lecture 1:5).
21. Also Joshua, in the sight of all Israel, bade the 5. QCWhat is faith?
sun and moon to stand still, and it was done ACIt is the "assurance of things hoped for, the
evidence of things not seen" (JST Heb 11:1); that is, it is
(Joshua 10:12-13).
the assurance which we have of the existence of unseen
things, it must be the principle of action in all intelligent
22. We here understand that the sacred writers say beings. "Through faith we understand that the worlds
were framed by the word of God" (Heb 11:3; Lecture the moon stayed, until the people had avenged
1:8-9). themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the
book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of
6. QCHow do you prove that faith is the principle of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day"
action in all intelligent beings? (Joshua 10:12-13). "Then came the disciples to Jesus
ACFirst, by duly considering the operations of apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And
your own mind; and secondly, by the direct declaration Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for
of scripture. "By faith Noah, being warned of God of verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of
things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove
to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing
the world, and became heir of the righteousness which shall be impossible unto you" (Matt 17:19-20). "And
is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell
out into a place which he should after receive for an of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of
inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the
whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms,
promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the
with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped
promise" (Heb 11:7-9). By faith Moses "forsook Egypt, the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made
not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies
seeing him who is invisible" (Heb 11:27; Lecture of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life
1:10-11). again: and others were tortured, not accepting
deliverance; that they might obtain a better
7. QCIs not faith the principle of action in spiritual things resurrection" (Heb 11:32-35; Lecture 1:16-22).
as well as in temporal?
ACIt is. 12. QCHow would you define faith in its most unlimited
sense?
8. QCHow do you prove it? ACIt is the first great governing principle which
AC"Without faith it is impossible to please him has power, dominion, and authority over all things
[God]" (Heb 11:6). "He that believeth and is baptized (Lecture 1:24).
shall be saved" (Mark 16:16). "Therefore it is of faith,
that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might 13. QCHow do you convey to the understanding more
be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the clearly the idea that faith is the first great governing
law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; principle which has power, dominion, and authority over
who is the father of us all" (Rom 4:16; Lecture 1:12-13). all things?
ACBy it they exist, by it they are upheld, by it
9. QCIs faith anything else besides the principle of they are changed, and by it they remain, agreeable to
action? the will of God. Without it there is no power, and without
ACIt is. power there could be no creation nor existence! (Lecture
1:24).
10. QCWhat is it?
ACIt is the principle of power also (Lecture Footnotes
1:13).
1. Brackets in the 1835 edition. "Assurance" comes from
11. QCHow do you prove it? the JST.
ACFirst, it is the principle of power in the Deity 2. Bracketed material in 1835 edition, but without
as well as in man. "Through faith we understand that brackets.
the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that 3. Brackets in 1835 edition.
things which are seen were not made of things which do 4. Bracketed material in 1835 edition, but without
appear" (Heb 11:3:Lecture 1:14-16). Secondly, it is the brackets.
principle of power in man also. Book of Mormon, page
264: Alma and Amulek are delivered from prison (Alma
14:27). Page 421: Nephi and Lehi, with the Lamanites,
are immersed with the Spirit (Hel 5:43-45). Page 565:
The mountain Zerin, by the faith of the brother of Jared,
is removed (Ether 12:30). "Then spake Joshua to the
Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites
before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of
Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou,
Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. And the sun stood still, and
Chapter 19 But faith in its true signification is more than the
moving cause pursuant to which men and angels act. It is
Faith in God also a principle of power. Faith is power. And where there
(Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of is power, there is faith; and where there is no power, there
Faith, 163-170) is no faith. Thus, Joseph Smith continues: "Faith is not only
the principle of action, but of power also, in all intelligent
What Is Faith? beings, whether in heaven or on earth." Faith applies in all
Faith bringeth salvation; miracles are wrought by spheres. All intelligent beings—be they gods, angels, spirits,
faith; by faith the worlds were made. God is God because or men—all operate by its power.
faith dwells in him independently; and faith is power, the Thus, " 'Through faith we understand that the
very power of God himself. Any man who has faith in the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things
Lord Jesus Christ, in the full and true sense, will sit down which are seen were not made of things which do appear.'
with him on his throne in the kingdom of his Father. All (Hebrews 11:3.) By this we understand that the principle of
who do not gain this saving faith will fall short of that power which existed in the bosom of God, by which the
inheritance which might have been theirs had they worlds were framed, was faith; and that it is by reason of
believed and obeyed the word of faith. Oh, how great the this principle of power existing in the Deity, that all created
importance to make these things known unto all men, that things exist; so that all things in heaven, on earth, or under
they may learn what faith is, how it may be gained, and the earth, exist by reason of faith as it existed in HIM."
the eternal rewards reserved for all who gain this blessed How came this earth into being? Whence came the sidereal
boon. heavens? the universe? and created things in all their
"In presenting the subject of faith," the Prophet varieties? The power that organizes chaotic matter; the
Joseph Smith said, "we shall observe the following power that sends worlds without number into governed
order—First, faith itself—what it is. Secondly, the object orbits; the power that gives order and system, location and
on which it rests. And, Thirdly, the effects which flow appointment, to worlds and life—that power is named
from it." (Lectures on Faith 1:2-5.) We shall build our house faith. It is the power of God; it is the faith of God, the faith
of faith on the foundation he laid. Our desire is to know that dwells in him independently. "Had it not been for the
and feel and be as he was. principle of faith the worlds would never have been
What, then, is faith? In the broad, generic, and framed, neither would [page 165] man have been formed
universal sense of the word, having no particular reference of the dust." Nor, without faith, would any other form of
to religion and salvation, the Prophet tells us that faith "is life have been created.
the moving cause of all action . . . in all intelligent beings." What if there were no faith? That would mean no
All accountable and intelligent beings have faith in this power would exist to create or to control. Faith "is the
sense. Such is part of life itself. Because this faith dwells in principle by which Jehovah works, and through which he
the hearts of all mankind, they sow with the assurance of exercises power over all temporal as well as eternal things.
reaping; they plant with the hope of harvesting; they exert Take this principle or attribute—for it is an
themselves in the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and attribute—from the Deity, and he would cease to exist."
intelligence because they believe they can obtain them. Thus, if there is no faith, there is no power; if there is no
Without this faith, "both mind and [page 164] body would power, there was no creation; if nothing exists, there is no
be in a state of inactivity, and all their exertions would God; or, conversely, if there is no God, there is nothing.
cease, both physical and mental." And thus all things rest on the foundation of faith, and
Faith as so defined is not saving faith; it does not without faith there would be nothing.
lead to life and salvation; an assurance that crops will grow "Who cannot see," the Prophet asks, "that if God
is not an assurance of a celestial inheritance. Saving faith framed the worlds by faith, that it is by faith that he
centers in the Lord Jesus Christ and through him in the exercises power over them, and that faith is the principle
Father. "As faith is the moving cause of all action in of power? And if the principle of power, it must be so in
temporal concerns," the Prophet continues, "so it is in man as well as in the Deity?" (Lectures on Faith 1:13-17.)
spiritual. . . . As we receive by faith all temporal blessings Truly, if all of God's acts are righteous, if his work is to
that we do receive, so we in like manner receive by faith bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man, and if
all spiritual blessings that we do receive." (Lectures on Faith all of his works are performed by faith, it follows that
1:10-13.) Paul's statement that "faith is the substance whatever man does, in righteousness, to gain salvation
[confidence or assurance] of things hoped for, the must also be done by faith, "for whatsoever is not of faith is
evidence [the demonstration or proof] of things not seen" sin." (Romans 14:23.)
(Hebrews 11:1), applies to both temporal and spiritual Thus: "It was by faith that the worlds were
concerns. framed—God spake, chaos heard, and worlds came into
order by reason of the faith there was in HIM. So with Thus Alma says, "If ye have faith ye hope for things which
man also; he spake by faith in the name of God, and the are not seen, which are true." (Alma 32:21.) Indeed, faith is
sun stood still, the moon obeyed, mountains removed, a hope in that which is not seen that is true, and there can
prisons fell, lions' mouths were closed, the human heart be no faith in an unseen thing that is false. There is no
lost its enmity, fire its violence, armies their power, the power in falsehood. No one can have faith unto life and
sword its terror, and death its dominion; and all this by salvation in a god who is believed to be a spirit nothingness,
reason of the faith which was in him. Had it not been for or in a doctrine that denies the resurrection, or in a
the faith which was in men, they might have spoken to the philosophy that postulates man's evolutionary evolvement
sun, the moon, the mountains, prisons, the human heart, from lower forms of life, or in anything that is not true.
fire, armies, the sword, or to death in vain!" What miracles [page 167]
and marvels are wrought by faith. And it is the same Truth, diamond truth, is the rock foundation upon
whether they are done by men or angels or gods; the which faith rests, and no one can have faith in God or in any
same faith (power!) always brings to pass the same gospel truth unless and until he comes to a knowledge of
eventuality. whatever truth is involved.
How, then, shall we define faith? Joseph Smith With reference to saving faith, to faith in that God
answers: "Faith [is] the first principle in revealed religion, whose we are, to the faith by which the worlds were made
and the foundation of all righteousness." "Faith . . . is the and miracles are wrought, the Prophet taught: "Three
first great governing principle which has power, dominion, things are necessary in order that any rational and
and authority over all things; by it they exist, by it they are intelligent being may exercise faith in God unto life and
upheld, by it [page 166] they are changed, or by it they salvation. First, the idea that he actually exists. Secondly, a
remain, agreeable to the will of God. Without it there is correct idea of his character, perfections, and attributes.
no power, and without power there could be no creation Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life which
nor existence!" (Lectures on Faith 1:1, 22-24.) he is pursuing is according to his will."
That is to say: (1) There is a true and living God,
Knowledge Precedes Faith the very being who created all things. (2) He has a certain
Queries: Which comes first, faith or knowledge? Is character; he possesses specified attributes; he is the
faith a vague and uncertain hope in something unseen that, embodiment of all perfections. (3) Man may so live as to
as a sprouting seed, may grow into knowledge? Or is faith have an actual knowledge that he is conforming to the mind
based on truth and knowledge? Is faith something that and will of the Lord. Faith comes to those who know these
grows out of and comes because of a prior knowledge of truths and who keep the commandments. Those who
the truth? meet this standard gain faith unto life and salvation. Where
Answers: Faith is the child of knowledge. It is there is a deficiency, in part or in whole, there faith is
reserved for those only who first have knowledge; there either weak or entirely wanting. "Without an acquaintance
neither is nor can be any faith until there is knowledge. with these three important facts," the blessed word
No one can have faith in a God of whom he knows continues, "the faith of every rational being must be
nothing. Faith is founded on truth; it is the offspring of imperfect and unproductive; but with this understanding it
truth; it can never exist alone and apart from the truth. can become perfect and fruitful, abounding in
No one can have faith unto life and salvation in a false god; righteousness, unto the praise and glory of God the Father,
no idol ever had power to raise the dead or stop the sun. and the Lord Jesus Christ." (Lectures on Faith 3:2-5.)
And faith is power. It is true that faith in some doctrine or Knowing, then, that knowledge precedes faith, that
on some theological point may be imperfect; it is true that faith is founded on truth, and that falsehood and error do
sproutings of either faith or knowledge can become not and cannot exercise any saving power, we are led to
perfect relative to that doctrine or concept. But faith the inevitable conclusion that faith cannot be exercised
itself—the great and eternal power that creates and contrary to the order of heaven. It takes the power of God
governs and saves, faith unto life and salvation—saving (which is faith!) to bring to pass the immortality and eternal
faith grows out of knowledge and cannot come in any life of man. All progress, all science, all religion, even life
other way. itself, exist and are because of truth. And faith can only be
"Faith cometh by hearing," Paul says, "and hearing exercised in conformity with true principles.
the word of God" taught by the power of the Holy Ghost. For instance: The Prophet, discoursing upon the
(Romans 10:17.) Faith comes to those only who receive great plan of redemption and the sacrifices offered to typify
the word of truth. Hence the gospel truism that "it the atoning sacrifice of our Lord, explained that Abel's
pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them sacrifice was accepted because it conformed to the true
that believe." (1 Corinthians 1:21.) The gospel embraces pattern. Then he said: "Cain offered of the fruit of the
all truth, and truth—nothing else—can bring salvation. ground, and was not [page 168] accepted, because he could
not do it in faith, he could have no faith, or could not the same extent that it exists in Deity. Faith will thus dwell
exercise faith contrary to the plan of heaven. . . . As the independently in every person who gains eternal life.
sacrifice was instituted for a type, by which man was to It follows that to gain eternal life, men must know
discern the great Sacrifice which God had prepared, to God. They must believe in the true and living God and do
offer a sacrifice contrary to that, no faith could be the things that will enable them to become like him.
exercised, because redemption was not purchased in that Knowledge of God is the foundation upon which a house of
way, nor the power of the atonement instituted after that faith is built. This knowledge begins with the assurance that
order; consequently, Cain could have no faith; and he actually is, that he exists and is indeed the Self-Existent
whatsoever is not of faith, is sin." (Teachings of the Prophet One, and that Deity is as real and literal and actual as any of
Joseph Smith, p. 58.) the common verities of life. As we have seen, "the
Similarly, no faith unto life and salvation can be knowledge of the existence of God came into the world"
exercised in any false doctrine, in any false ordinance, or in when he revealed himself to Adam and the ancients. And "it
any false system of religion. If a man believes with all his was by reason of the knowledge of his existence that there
heart that there will be no resurrection; if every hope in was a foundation laid for the exercise of faith in him, as the
his heart cries out in favor of annihilation of both soul and only Being in whom faith could center for life and salvation;
body at death; if he believes with every fiber of his being for faith could not center in a Being of whose existence we
and every thought of his mind that death ends all—it does have no idea, because the idea of his existence in the first
not matter one particle in the eternal sense. He cannot instance is essential to the exercise of faith in him."
have faith in a doctrine that denies the resurrection. The (Lectures on Faith 3:1.)
fact, the reality, the truth is, there will be a resurrection, But by the knowledge of God is meant not simply
and there is nothing any of us can do about it one way or that he exists and is a personal being in whose image man is
the other. A hope in an unseen expectancy that is false made; not merely that he is a resurrected, glorified, and
does not bring into being a single scintilla of faith. There is perfected man who has all power, all might, and all
no such thing as faith unto life and salvation in a false dominion; not the mere fact that he is the Father of spirits
doctrine. No man can exercise the slightest faith in infant and as such lives in the family unit; rather, in addition to all
baptism, or in baptism by sprinkling, or in a sacramental this, by the knowledge of God is meant the very nature and
ordinance that has departed from the primitive similitude kind of being that he is. The knowledge of God includes an
established by the Lord Jesus. All such are contrary to the understanding of his character, perfections, and attributes.
order of heaven. They are not based and grounded on If men are to become like him, they must know what his
eternal truth. And faith is a hope in that which is not seen characteristics and attributes are so that they can begin the
which is true. process of obtaining these very acquirements,
endowments, and personality traits. As the Prophet taught:
Faith and the Knowledge of God "God became an object of faith among men after the fall,"
God the Father, in the ultimate and final sense, is in consequence of which multitudes were "stirred up . . .
the Creator of all things. He is the creator of spirit men, [page 170] to search after a knowledge of his character,
of mortal men, and of immortal men. He created life and perfections and attributes, until they became extensively
death and immortality and eternal life. He made the laws acquainted with him," so that they could "not only
whereby spirit men gain mortality, and mortal men gain commune with him and behold his glory, but [also] be
immortality, and faithful men gain eternal life. The power partakers of his power and stand in his presence." (Lectures
he uses in these and in all things is faith. Faith is power, on Faith 2:34.)
and the power of God is the faith of God. "In him the Accordingly, as the Prophet expressed it, "We shall
principle of faith dwells independently, and he is the object proceed to examine his character, perfections, and
in whom the faith of all other rational and accountable attributes, in order that [we] may see, not only the just
beings center for life and salvation." (Lectures on Faith 2:2.) grounds which they [the ancient saints] have for the
[page 169] exercise of faith in him for life and salvation, but the
God the Father is an eternal being. The very name reasons that all the world, also, as far as the idea of his
of the kind of life he lives is eternal life, and thus eternal existence extends, may have to exercise faith in him, the
life consists in living and being as he is. In other words, Father of all living." (Lectures on Faith 3:6.)
eternal life is to gain the power of God, which power is
faith, and thus to be able to do what he does and to live as
he lives. And the great and eternal plan of salvation that he
has ordained and established consists of those laws,
ordinances, and powers whereby faith is acquired and
perfected until it is possessed in the same degree and to
"Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ" commenting on Heb. 11:3, the Prophet said: "Faith is not
(Gerald N. Lund, Selected Writings of Gerald N. Lund: only the principle of action, but of power also, in all
Gospel Scholars Series, 237-253) intelligent beings, whether in heaven or on earth. Thus
says the author of the epistle to the Hebrews (11:3):
Even without the fourth Article of Faith, which "'Through faith we understand that the worlds
lists "faith in the Lord Jesus Christ" as the first principle of were framed by the word of God, so that things which are
the gospel, it would be obvious to anyone opening the seen were not made of things which do appear.'
standard works that faith is a pervasive, all-encompassing "By this we understand that the principle of power
principle. The word itself and its cognate forms are found which existed in the bosom of God, by which the worlds
hundreds of times. Its importance in the plan of salvation were framed, was faith; and that it is by reason of this
could best be summarized by Paul's statement that principle of power existing in the Deity, that all created
"without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that things exist; so that all things in heaven, on earth, or under
cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a the earth exist by reason of faith as it existed in HIM.
rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Heb. 11:6). "Had it not been for the principle of faith the
Joseph Smith, commenting on that verse, said, "If it should worlds would never have been framed, neither would man
be asked—Why is it impossible to please God without have been formed of the dust. It is the principle by which
faith? The answer would be—Because without faith it is Jehovah works, and through which he exercises power
impossible for men to be saved; and as God desires the over all temporal as well as eternal things. Take this
salvation of men, he must, of course, desire that they principle or attribute—for it is an attribute—from the
should have faith; and he could not be pleased unless they Deity, and he would cease to exist.
had, or else he could be pleased with their destruction."1 "Who cannot see, that if God framed the worlds
Clearly, then, faith is at the center of all that we by faith, that it is by faith that he exercises power over
do and teach in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, them, and that faith is the principle of power? And if the
however, in the Church we occasionally find some whose principle of power, it must be so in man as well as in the
attitude seems to be that, since it is the first principle of Deity? This is the testimony of all the sacred writers, and
the gospel, it is also a simple principle, easily the lesson which they have been endeavoring to teach to
comprehended and left behind as one moves on to more man."3
complicated and challenging areas of study. However, this That faith is a principle of power is evident in
is not the case. Elder Vaughn J. Featherstone has summed scripture. As we look in the standard works and find
up, as well as any, the challenge of studying faith as a examples of men with faith, we find in virtually every case
concept: demonstrations of tremendous and marvelous power. We
"What a great thing it is if we understand what read about Enoch, for example, speaking the word of the
faith is. What is faith? How does it work? Do you have Lord, and the earth trembling and the mountains fleeing!
total faith? When we come to a full and total (see Moses 7:13). We see Joshua saying, "Sun, stand thou
understanding of faith, then I think we ought to move on still"; and the sun obeys! (see Josh. 10:12-14). Or we find
to repentance. When we understand that totally, then we Peter spying a lame man near a gate of the temple—a man
should move through the principles. But I doubt we will with a congenital birth defect who had been unable to
ever really get through an understanding and complete walk for the forty years of his life. Peter said simply, "In
knowledge of faith in a life-time. I don't care how the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk."
intellectual you are, or how long you study, I doubt you The record states, "And he leaping up stood, and walked,
will ever come to an end of the study of faith, the first and entered with them into the temple, walking, and
principle of the gospel. The gospel is so simple that a fool leaping, and praising God" (Acts 3:1-10). Faith is the
will not err therein, but it is so beautiful and so power by which God speaks, creating worlds, solar
sophisticated that I believe the greatest intellectual can systems, and universes. So when we speak of faith, we
make a study of faith and never come to an end of speak of tremendous power, not only physical power, but
understanding."2 even power that can save a man from temporal and
spiritual death.
Faith—a Principle of Power
Requirements for Developing Faith
If a typical Church group were to give a one-word
synonym for faith, the usual answers would be belief, trust, In the third lecture on faith, Joseph Smith
assurance, hope, and so on. Joseph Smith's Lectures on Faith described what is necessary for people to have faith
gives a different definition for faith, one that has profound sufficient to bring them salvation:
implication for our understanding. In the first lecture, "Let us here observe, that three things are
necessary in order that any rational and intelligent being fit the model. The paradigm of faith included in this
may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation. chapter is only to help people conceptualize a grand and
"First, the idea that he actually exists. complex subject. Second, Elder Featherstone's comment
"Secondly, a correct idea of his character, that the study of faith can be pursued without ever
perfections, and attributes. reaching the end of understanding suggests that the model
"Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of presented here should be refined or adapted as an
life which he is pursuing is according to his will. For individual pursues a deeper understanding of faith. Third,
without an acquaintance with these three important facts, the model is based heavily on three major sections in the
the faith of every rational being must be imperfect and Book of Mormon dealing with faith in Jesus Christ: Alma
unproductive; but with this understanding it can become 32, Ether 12, and Moro. 7. Thus, understanding the
perfect and fruitful, abounding in righteousness, unto the paradigm is based in part upon a thorough study of those
praise and glory of God the Father, and the Lord Jesus chapters.
Christ."4
Looking at these three requirements carefully, we The Process We Call Faith
can see that each of the three involves knowledge; that is, One of the challenges in describing or discussing
we have an idea in the first one, a correct idea in the faith is the idea that faith is a process involving various
second one, and anactual knowledge in the third one. If a stages of development. A prophet may use the word faith
sequence were designed depicting an individual's to speak of faith as a whole or to refer to any one of the
movement toward salvation, it would look something like different stages of the process. This presents a challenge
this: in studying the scriptures, and sometimes even results in
confusion. Joseph Smith, for example, said that faith is
Knowledge Faith Salvation power; Alma said that faith is hope. Both, however, can
be easily understood if we use the process model of faith.
In other words, if we are to achieve salvation, we The tendency for prophets to use one
must have faith; and if we are to have faith, we must have word—faith—to discuss different aspects of faith makes it
knowledge. This is a crucial thing to know about faith and difficult to delineate the different stages of the process.
the means to develop it, and yet it raises a troubling After some consideration, I decided that, rather than try
question. If we say that knowledge is the requirement or to generate new terms—terms the prophets did not
prerequisite of faith, someone will invariably ask, But if use—I would instead use the basic word with a number,
knowledge leads to faith, how do you explain Alma 32, thus describing the stages of the process as Faith 1, Faith
wherein Alma describes the process of faith leading to 2, and so on. In addition, it seems to me that each stage of
salvation as having faith first, which then leads us to a faith always contains three basic components: hope,
perfect knowledge? action, and confirmation. Again, because these may differ
After carefully rereading Alma 32 and studying the somewhat in their nature, depending on which level of the
Lectures on Faith, I have come to some tentative process of faith a person is at, I have chosen to designate
conclusions about faith. Suppose, for instance, that faith in these with subscripts too: Hope 1, Hope 2; Action 1,
Jesus Christ is a process rather than simply a concept? Action 2; Confirmation 1, Confirmation 2; and so on.
Suppose that the same word is used by different prophets To begin, let us examine Alma 32. I have
to describe different phases or stages of the process? concluded after studying the chapter that it describes the
Could that explain what seems to be a different use of the initial process of the development of faith in Jesus Christ,
same term? And if that is true, can the process be or, in terms of our nomenclature, the development of
described? Do the scriptures describe it? I believe that Faith 1. Remember that Alma was speaking to the
they do and that the best descriptions of that process are Zoramites, or, more precisely, a group of Zoramites who
found within the Book of Mormon itself. In an attempt to had been expelled from the congregations of the
describe this process, I have developed a paradigm, or Zoramite churches because of their poor, lower-class
model, of what the process of faith in Jesus Christ is. status. The Zoramites had apostatized from the
Some words of caution need to be given, Nephites—they worshiped idols and had developed a
however, before we begin looking at the model itself. proud and perverted way of worshiping (see Alma 31:8-
First, one danger of any model is that it tends to 23, 31). In other words, Alma was not speaking to
oversimplify. This is of value in one way, because the members of Christ's church in the sermon recorded in
simplification helps us to conceptualize or grasp the Alma 32. Rather, he was speaking to a group who had just
relationships of a complex subject. But when we begin to begun the process of developing faith. This situation has
apply the model closely to reality, we find that it may not some important implications for Alma's discussion of faith.
hold up in all cases. Exceptions will exist that do not truly
When Alma spoke to these Zoramite poor, he twenty-seven, Alma said, "Even if ye can no more than
seemed to have used the terms faith and perfect knowledge desire to believe" (emphasis added). If we have Hope 1,
in a peculiar sense; that is, in a sense different from the then we will be motivated to Action 1, which is the
normal usage of the terms. He equated faith with a hope second step of the process, the second component of
or desire to believe what is not known to be true. Notice faith. At the first level of faith, this action may be no more
what he said in verse twenty-one of Alma 32: "Now as I than a willingness to try to ascertain whether the word we
said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect have heard is true.
knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for Moroni taught a valuable concept about this level
things which are not seen, which are true." Notice that he of faith when he wrote, "I would show unto the world that
said, "If ye have faith ye hope." In other words, he seemed faith is things which are hoped for and not seen" (Ether
to be defining faith as a hope or desire that the things he 12:6). This is essentially what Paul told us in Heb. 11:1. In
was telling them were true. He also limited his definition this case, faith, or the ability to trust in something not
of faith to hoping for things that are actually true. That seen, is quite clear. We cannot "see" that the word we
suggests that hoping for things that are untrue will not have heard is true; that is, we do not have empirical proof
bring the results he described in the rest of the sermon. (proof based upon observation or experience) of the
Alma's use of the term perfect knowledge is truthfulness of the word. Therefore, we must act on faith:
revealed in verses eighteen to thirty-four. In verse we must trust or hope for something to be, although it is
eighteen he said, "If a man knoweth a thing he hath no not yet based on seen evidence.
cause to believe, for he knoweth it." In verse thirty-three, Moroni continued the verse by writing, "Dispute
after telling the Zoramites how to experiment with the not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until
word, which he compared to a seed, he said that, when after the trial of your faith." In every case, in every level of
they begin to see it "swell" and "grow" in them, they must the development of faith, there must be a trial of faith.
know that the seed is good. In other words, they didn't That is, we are tested to see whether we will act on the
have to hope or desire to believe that it is good; they basis of the hope that is in us. We have to show that we
would know that it was good. Therefore he said in verse are motivated to behave according to the truths the Lord
thirty-four, "Your knowledge is perfect in that thing." has given us, before we have actual evidence that these
Obviously, he was not talking about perfect knowledge in things are true. Notice again what Alma told the Zoramite
any grand or universal sense; and he made that clear in poor in Alma 32:27-28: "If ye will awake and arouse your
verses thirty-five and thirty-six by saying that, once they faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and
had tasted this light, their knowledge was not perfect in an exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more
ultimate sense. than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even
Notice also in Alma 32 that Alma gave two until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a
prerequisites for the development of faith (the very first portion of my words. . . . If ye do not cast it [the word]
level of faith). These prerequisites are, first, humility (see out by your unbelief, . . . it will begin to swell within your
v. 16) and, second, hearing the word (see v. 23). If we are breasts." Notice the verbs of action that he used: awake,
not willing to humble ourselves and make the experiment, arouse, exercise, desire, give place, not cast out. We must
we can never develop faith. Even more fundamental, if we act on our desire (which desire I call Hope 1) to know if
do not have the word of the Lord on which to the word of the Lord is true. This initial level of action
experiment, if we do not have knowledge or information (Action 1) is basically one of will, one of deciding to try to
on which to begin to believe, we cannot have faith. (For find out if the word is true.
additional references, see also Moro. 7:24-25; Rom. When we act by experimenting, awaking,
10:13-17.) exercising, and so on, we are led to the third component
of faith, which is a confirmation of our hope. This initial
Level One: Faith or Hope level of the faith process would be called confirmation.
At each stage of faith, we must move through Alma described this kind of evidence through feelings.
three components to reach the next level. Note the Though this evidence is available only to the feelings, it is
diagram of the first level of faith, or Faith 1, on the still empirical, or real, evidence. It may be difficult to put
following page. The three components are shown in their into words, but that doesn't lessen its reality. Notice how
proper relationship to one another. Alma described this evidence through one's feelings, "It
Hope 1, or the initial level of hope, would be the will begin to swell within your breasts; . . . it beginneth to
beginning step for the whole process. This level of hope is enlarge [the] soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten [the]
really nothing more than the desire or wish that understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious" (v. 28).
something be true. It is as though we are motivated to Based on this real, though difficult to express
say, "I want to know if this is true." Notice in verse evidence, we can say, as Alma did in verse thirty-three,
"Ye must needs know that the seed is good" (emphasis through the atonement of Christ . . . to be raised unto life
added). In other words, we now have knowledge based eternal" (Moro. 7:41) or "Without faith [could this be Faith
on empirical evidence. Alma called this "perfect 1?] there cannot be any hope" (Moro. 7:42).
knowledge." That perfect knowledge gained through the When we move into this second level of hope
trial of faith and confirmed by real evidence then does (Hope 2), where we begin to sincerely believe in the
away with the faith described by Alma (to the nonfaithful things we have heard rather than simply desiring to
Zoramites), the faith that is a hope or desire to believe believe, we will then be motivated to action again.
what is not known to be true. Since we have come to However, this action (Action 2) is on a higher level than
know that the word is good, we no longer need to hope that of Faith 1 and could be defined as a willingness to live
that it is good. Perfect knowledge takes away, or swallows the truths we believe to be true. Whereas we had
up, faith, as Alma used the term. previously acted to find out if the Lord's word was true,
When we move through the trial of faith (hope now we act to incorporate into our lives the truths we
that moves us to act, which leads to a confirmation of that have learned. Here again we find in operation the principle
hope), we can say that we have achieved the first stage of in Ether 12:6: we must have our faith tried; we must
faith. These preliminary steps are at an investigator level: prove by our actions that the hope in us truly is sincere
we are investigating whether something is true. Alma's and serious. Notice what Moroni said about this hope: it
description and discussion fit the Zoramite needs makes "an anchor to the souls of men, which would make
perfectly. Typically, we would hypothesize that when a them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works"
person begins the process of developing and entering into (Ether 12:4). In his letter on faith, hope, and charity,
Faith 1, described so perfectly by Alma, he will likely get Mormon said, "They who have faith in him will cleave unto
confirmation quite rapidly. This is an experience every good thing" (Moro. 7:28). This seems to be what
missionaries see countless times. When people truly Alma meant when he said, "If ye nourish [the word] with
humble themselves upon hearing the word of God and much care it will get root" (Alma 32:37).
experiment upon that word (for instance, seeking to know When we operate at the Action 2 level, we again
through prayer whether something is true), very often the undergo the trial of faith. We must show that we are
confirmation, the swelling, the feeling of truthfulness, the willing to trust in things not seen. When we do so, we
almost indescribable sensation that this is good come receive confirmation (Confirmation 2), specifically
quickly, and they know that the word of the Lord is a evidence on a behavioral level. This empirical evidence is
good seed. more outward than that received in Confirmation 1,
where the evidence consisted mostly of inner feelings
Level Two: Faith or Knowledge (although Confirmation 2 still includes many feelings). Such
When we have achieved Faith 1, have we evidence is easier to identify and to put into words. It
achieved all that there is to have? Obviously not. Alma would involve statements such as "Yes, my prayer was
himself encouraged the people to continue on once they answered" or "I can see that this principle works in my
had received this "perfect knowledge." He told them to life." Such confirmation leads us to say not "I believe . . ."
nourish the seed that was starting to grow until it became but "I know the gospel is true." The word has grown to the
a great tree providing them with the fruit of eternal life point where we can actually begin to taste the fruits of it
(see vv. 25-43). In other words, once we have Faith 1, we in our lives (see Alma 32:42). In Moro. 7:25 we read,
can move on to the next level of the process in developing "Thus by faith, they did lay hold upon every good thing."
faith. The second stage of faith (Faith 2), diagrammed on Now that we have examined the first two levels
the following page, is a level of faith entailing belief and of faith, we begin to appreciate the profound implications
knowledge. of the discussion of faith and works James the apostle
Once again there are the three components: gave. If we do not have works joined to our faith, then our
Hope 2, Action 2, and Confirmation 2. In the second level faith is dead, "being alone" (see James 2:17). If we have the
of hope, we have more than a desire to know if something hope or desire that something is true (Hope 1) but refuse
is true. Now our attitude could be described not as "I to act on that hope, we will receive no confirmation, and
want to know if this is true," but as "I desire this truth." As our faith, even at this early stage, will be dead. The same
Moroni stated it, we may "with surety hope for a better is true in level two. Once we believe that something is
world" (Ether 12:4). This is a major step upward from the true but refuse to live the truth, then we have faith
Faith 1 level. In his sermon to the Zoramites, Alma did not without works, and our faith dies. We will receive no
discuss in detail this second level of faith (probably confirmation. The confirmation comes only after the trial
because of the nature of his audience). But others did. of faith. But in this second level, our trial is not on an
Besides Moroni's statement in Ether 12:4 above, we find investigator level; we are tried on a higher level involving
statements like these from Mormon: You "shall have hope conversion, or testimony.
Level Three—Faith or Power Notice the promises cited under the Confirmation
Now we are prepared to look at the next level of 3 level in the diagram. This is what the Lord meant when
faith, which brings us to faith as Joseph Smith defined it. he said, "These signs shall follow them that believe" (Mark
We could say that Faith 3, diagrammed on the next page, 16:17). This power level of faith also helps us to better
is the power level of faith. Once again we are describing a understand what the Lord meant when he said: "Faith
major step upward from the previous level, and once again cometh not by signs, but signs follow those that believe.
we find all three components operating as in the previous Yea, signs come by faith, not by the will of men, nor as
levels. they please, but by the will of God. Yea, signs come by
Hope 1 is to hope that something is true, and faith, unto mighty works, for without faith no man
Hope 2 is to believe that it is true. After having gone pleaseth God" (D&C 63:9-11).
through the process of Faith 2, however, we have I believe that understanding the process of Faith 3
confirmation and knowledge that the things we cannot see also gives us added insight as to why those who seek signs
are indeed true. This makes a new level of hope possible. to bolster faith are called "a wicked and adulterous
Hope 3, the third level of hope, could be described as a generation" (Matt. 16:4). A person who wants to build his
knowledge and assurance of things not seen. At this level, faith only on the basis of confirmation or evidence,
our attitude is reflected by this statement: I have the without living the principles, seeks to circumvent the trial
truth, and I desire to use it to become like God. This is, I of faith that Moroni described. That is, he wants to have
believe, what Moroni meant by the phrase "a more confirmation without paying the price of hope and action.
excellent hope" (Ether 12:32). This desire seems to also And this "adulterates" or pollutes the proper relationship
describe what Nephi meant by "a perfect brightness of in the developmental process of faith. Satan seems to
hope" (2 Ne. 31:20). When our hope is this strong, when understand the significance of this and often prompts his
we truly have knowledge and assurance of unseen things, servants to demand a sign, to demand faith without paying
we move into more committed action (Action 3). This any price (see, for example, Jacob 7:13; Alma 30:43; Ether
higher level of action could be described as a willingness 12:5).
to do whatever God requires of a person. This, again, is a
great trial of faith. Action 3 may involve a wide range of Level Four—Faith or Perfection
behaviors, including working on a Church welfare project In level three of faith, or the power level, we
or taking care of a sick neighbor's children. It may be looked to the faith shown by the people in the scriptures
something as trying and challenging as God's request to whom we typically characterize as having great faith. Many
Abraham that he sacrifice his only son. people might think of this as being the highest level of
In our development of faith, if we have reached faith, but I feel that there is a fourth level of faith, which
this point of hope or knowledge but refuse to act could be described as the perfection level.
accordingly, then, as James said, "as the body without the Once again, this is a major step upward. We have
spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also" (James to be a little more speculative as we describe this level of
2:26). We have failed the trial of faith and will receive no the process of faith because relatively few have achieved
confirmation of our hope. Notice the quotation by Joseph it; and those who have seem reticent (by direction of the
Smith from the Lectures on Faith included in the diagram. Spirit) to talk about it in much detail. But I believe again
He said that only a willingness to sacrifice whatever God that it involves our three components of hope, action, and
requires brings the knowledge that allows us to obtain the confirmation, as diagrammed on the following page.
faith required for salvation.5 In level three, hope involved knowledge and
If we operate at this level of action, we would assurance. How could one come to a higher level than
expect that confirmation of this hope would be that? I suggest that Hope 4 is the actual knowledge that
forthcoming, and such is the case. We could describe this one will become like God, and it can be characterized by
level of confirmation (Confirmation 3) as evidence on the attitude, I desire to be as God is. Two scriptures come
many levels of experience. It can not only involve to mind: "The more sure word of prophecy means a man's
experiences of inner feelings and knowledge, but also knowing that he is sealed up unto eternal life" (D&C 131:5;
include experiences available to the senses, such as emphasis added); and "If ye do these things, ye shall never
visions, visitations of angels, the demonstration of power fall" (2 Pet. 1:10; emphasis added), which is Peter's
in miracles, speaking in tongues, and the like. These may promise to those who were laboring to make their calling
still be hard to express in words (in the sense that words and election sure.
are inadequate to describe them), but they are irrefutable When someone has reached this level of faith in
kinds of evidence, demonstrations that the honest person mortality, his calling and election is made sure, and he is
cannot deny. told by the more sure word of prophecy that he will be
exalted. Imagine the level of hope or desire that such a
revelation would create in him. Such hope would lead him of faith and hope fairly clearly through the paradigm, but
to the fourth or highest level of action (Action 4)—the where does charity enter in? As I have pondered this, I
level where his life becomes more and more godlike until find a profoundly moving answer—charity enters in at
he is made perfect and becomes worthy to become a god. every level, every aspect, every point. The pure love of
Whether the phrase "trial of faith" adequately describes Christ validates every level of action to make it
Action 4 is not important. What is important is to know productive. This seems to be what Paul meant when he
that the person must still live at a level of action said that one can prophesy or give alms or do numerous
commensurate with the level of hope within him. When other things, yet such actions are meaningless if not done
he does so, he will receive a level of confirmation also because of a love for God and fellowman. Charity is what
commensurate with his level of action. In the highest level lights our hope, strengthens our will, deepens our
of confirmation (Confirmation 4), a man receives the confirmation. It suffers long, endures much, is properly
ultimate proof of the truths of the gospel—he is made a motivated, hopes for all things, and endures all things. I
god! have not shown charity in the paradigm because it would
As discussed at the beginning, the paradigm of the need to be shown everywhere, for it permeates the
four levels of faith in Jesus Christ is inadequate to describe whole process of faith and salvation. Mormon explained it
all the complexities of faith. Certainly it needs further thus:
clarification and refinement. But I have found it to be "Charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth
tremendously helpful as I think through what the prophets forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day,
have said about faith. When Joseph Smith said faith is it shall be well with him. Wherefore, my beloved
power, he was obviously speaking about a different level brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of
of faith than when Alma said to experiment upon his heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath
words so that faith could be swallowed up in perfect bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus
knowledge. Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when
I also find it helpful to think of the three he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him
components—hope, action, and confirmation—at each as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be
level of faith, for I find the three principles operating in the purified even as he is pure" (Moro. 7:47-48).
lives of those who demonstrate faith. These principles also
have relationship to repentance, baptism, and enduring to Notes
the end. Often we risk the danger of becoming sign From "An Exploration of the Process of Faith as Taught in
seekers by talking of having one's calling and election the Book of Mormon," in The Second Annual Church
made sure. As we talk about this important concept, we Educational System Religious Educators' Symposium: A
must clearly define the price to be paid so we do not end Symposium on the Book of Mormon (Provo: Brigham Young
up testing God. Rather, we should operate according to University Religious Studies, 1978), 74-80.
the level of knowledge and hope that the Lord has granted 1. Joseph Smith, Lectures on Faith (Salt Lake City: Deseret
us. Then we will receive a greater and greater Book Co., 1985), 7:7.
confirmation until Jesus Christ makes us joint heirs with 2. Vaughn J. Featherstone, "As If They Would Ask Him to
him, and we become gods. I firmly believe that this is the Tarry a Little Longer," in Speeches of the Year, 1975
process that we must follow in our lives if we are to find (Provo: Brigham Young University Press, 1976), 375.
that power. Joseph Smith said this: 3. Smith, Lectures on Faith, 1:13-17.
"All the saints of whom we have account, in all the 4. Ibid., 3:2-5.
revelations of God which are extant, obtained the 5. Ibid., 6:7.
knowledge which they had of their acceptance in his sight 6. Ibid., 6:11.
through the sacrifice which they offered unto him; and
through the knowledge thus obtained their faith became
sufficiently strong to lay hold upon the promise of eternal
life, and to endure as seeing him who is invisible; and were
enabled, through faith, to combat the powers of darkness,
contend against the wiles of the adversary, overcome the
world, and obtain the end of their faith, even the salvation
of their souls."6
Until now, we have not said anything about
charity, though faith, hope, and charity are clearly
interwoven, interdependent concepts (see 1 Cor. 13;
Moro. 7:44-48). We can understand the interrelationship
FAITH 1—HOPE FAITH 2—BELIEF CONFIRMATION 2—EVIDENCE
CONFIRMATION 1—EVIDENCE AND KNOWLEDGE ON A BEHAVIORAL LEVEL
BECAUSE OF FEELINGS
Empirical evidence—more outward
Empirical evidence—inner feelings;
proof, easier to identify and verbal-
may be difficult to verbalize, but
ize, though still much on the feeling
still real (v. 35)
level
"It will begin to swell" (v. 28)
"Because of your diligence and your
"It beginneth to enlarge my soul, faith... with the word in nourishing
... enlighten my understanding,... it,... by and by ye shall pluck the
be delicious to me" (v. 28) fruit thereof (Alma 32:42)
Based on this evidence, you "must "Thus by faith, they did lay hold
needs know that [it] is good" or true upon every good thing" (Moro. 7:25)
(v. 33). Then you have perfect
"For if they... have faith in me,
knowledge (that is, empirical
then will I make weak things
knowledge), and your faith (that is,
become strong unto them"
your hope that it is true) becomes
(Ether 12:27)
dormant (see w. 34-35).
ACTION 2—WILLINGNESS TO LIVE

THE TRUTHS ONE BELIEVES TO
ACTION 1—WILLINGNESS BE TRUE
TO TRY TO FIND OUT IF IT
IS TRUE Trial of faith
Trial of faith "Which hope cometh of faith, maketh an

anchor to the souls of men, which would
"Experiment upon my words" (v. 27) make them sure and steadfast, always
"Awake and arouse your faculties" (v. 27) abounding in good works" (Ether 12:4)
"Exercise a particle of faith" (v. 27) "They who have faith in him will cleave
unto every good thing" (Moro. 7:28)
"Give place for a portion of my words"
(v.27) "But if ye will nourish the word... it
shall take root" (Alma 32:41)
"Do not cast it out by your unbelief (v. 28)
HOPE 1—DESIRE TO BELIEVE
SOMETHING IS TRUE HOPE 2—BELIEF OR A MORE SURE HOPE
I want to know if this is true, I desire this truth

"even if JTJ can no more than desire to "Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety
believe" (v. 27) hope for a better world" (Ether 12:4)
PREREQUISITES "Ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ

. . . to be raised unto life eternal" (Moro. 7:41)
Note: Unless otherwise indicated,
1. Humility (v. 16) "Without faith [Faith 1] there cannot be any hope"
references in this chart are in Alma 32.
2. Hearing the word (v. 23)
(Moro. 7:42)
(See also Moro. 7:24-25; Rom. CONFIRMATION 1

10:13-17)
FAITH 3—POWER CONFIRMATION 3—EVIDENCE ON
FAITH 4—PERFECTION CONFIRMATION 4—HE BECOMES LIKE
GOD
MANY LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE
I become a joint heir with Christ, receiving
Empirical evidence—experiences through of his fulness of glory
feelings, knowing, and senses (though these
may be hard to visualize, they are irrefutable "Now are we the sons of God, and...
kinds of evidence, including hearing, visual- when he shall appear, we shall be like him"
izing, touching, and demonstrating of power) (1 Jn. 3:2)
"All they who wrought miracles wrought "They shall pass by the angels, and the gods,
them by faith" (Ether 12:16) . . . to their exaltation and glory in all things,
. . . which glory shall be a fulness....
"There were many whose faith was so
exceedingly strong... who could not be kept "Then shall they be gods" (D&C 132:19-20)
from within the veil, but truly saw with their ACTION 4—LIVES A LIFE ACCEPTABLE TO GOD
eyes the things which they had beheld with
an eye of faith" (Ether 12:19) I do all things according to God's will
"It is by faith that miracles are wrought, and "This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only
it is by faith that angels appear" (Moro. 7:37) true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent"
"Whatsoever thing ye shall ask the Father in (John 17:3)
my name, which is good, in faith believing HOPE 4—KNOWLEDGE THAT ONE WILL
that ye shall receive, behold, it shall be done
BECOME LIKE GOD
unto you" (Moro. 7:26)
I have a sure promise that I will be as God
"The more sure word of prophecy means a man's
ACTION 3—WILLINGNESS TO DO WHATEVER knowing that he is sealed up unto eternal life"
GOD REQUIRES (D&C 131:5)
"Give diligence to make your calling and election sure:
Trial of faith for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall"
"Let us here observe, that a religion that does not require the (2 Pet. 1:10)
sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the
CONFIRMATION 3
faith necessary unto life and salvation.... When a man has
offered in sacrifice all that he has for the truth's sake, not even
withholding his life... he does know, most assuredly, that God
does and will accept his sacrifice.... Under these circum-
stances, then, he can obtain the faith necessary for him to lay
hold on eternal life" (Joseph Smith, Lectures on Faith, 6:7).
HOPE 3—KNOWLEDGE AND ASSURANCE OF

Taken from "Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ," by
THINGS NOT SEEN Gerald N. Lund, in Selected Writings of Gerald N.
Lund: Gospel Scholars Series, 243, 246, 248, 251
I have the truth and desire to use it to become like God
"A more excellent hope" (Ether 12:32)

"A perfect brightness of hope" (2 Ne. 31:20)
CONFIRMATION 2
Faith in the Lord
of Him in the name of Jesus Christ,
amen. ■
NOTES
1. John 16:33.
2. Charles Dickens, “The Uncommercial
Traveler,” All the Year Round, July 4, 1863,
449; see also David M. W. Pickup, The Pick
and Flower of England (2001), 2.
3. All the Year Round, July 4, 1863, 446.
Jesus Christ
E L D E R K E V I N W. P E A R S O N
4. See Alma 4:10.
5. See Paul Johnson, “Militant Atheism and Of the Seventy
God,” Forbes, Oct. 8, 2007, 27; John Gray,
“Faith in Reason: Secular Fantasies of a
Godless Age,” Harper’s Magazine, Jan.
2008, 86. In a household of faith, there is no need to fear or doubt.
6. D&C 45:32.
7. D&C 45:29.
Choose to live by faith and not fear.
8. William Lee Adams, “Christians and Atheists
Battle in London Bus Wars,” Time, Feb. 8,
2009, www.time.com.
9. See Luke 18:8.
10. Some have mistakenly cited Revelation
22:18, but this has reference to the book of understand the doctrine of . . . faith
Revelation, not the Bible as a whole. See in Christ the Son of the living God”
also Deuteronomy 4:2.
11. See Nassim Nicholas Taleb, The Black
(D&C 68:25). This requires more than
Swan: The Impact of the Highly merely recognizing faith as a gospel
Improbable (2007), xvii–xxviii. principle. “To have faith is to have con-
12. Gary G. Ely, May 16, 2008, conversation
preparatory to his service as president of
fidence in something or someone”
the Colorado Denver North Mission. (Bible Dictionary, “Faith,” 669). True
13. In Newell Cook McMillan, comp., The Life faith must be centered in Jesus Christ.
and History of Phineas Wolcott Cook
(1980), 19–20. “Faith is a principle of action and of
14. See Frederic W. Farrar, Eternal Hope power” (Bible Dictionary, 670). It
(1892), xxxvi–xlii. For an expanded requires us to do, not merely to
discussion of this topic, see H. Wallace
Goddard, “God’s Plan—Kinder Than We believe. Faith is a spiritual gift from
Dare to Expect,” Meridian Magazine, God that comes through the Holy
www.ldsmag.com/myth/060217plan.html. Ghost. It requires a correct under-
15. Poems of Tennyson, ed. Henry Frowde
(1907), 387–88. standing and knowledge of Jesus
16. See Frederic W. Farrar, Eternal Hope Christ, His divine attributes and
(1892), xxii.
17. See D&C 29:46–50; 137:7–10.
perfect character, His teachings,
I
18. Alma 40:12. humbly invite the companionship Atonement, Resurrection, and priest-
19. See 2 Nephi 9:10–14; D&C 76:84–86. of the Holy Ghost as we discuss a hood power. Obedience to these prin-
20. Alma 40:14.
21. See D&C 76:89. vital principle of the gospel: faith ciples develops complete trust in Him
22. See Isaiah 14:12–15; Luke 10:18; Revelation in the Lord Jesus Christ. I acknowl- and His ordained servants and assur-
12:7–9; D&C 76:32–37. edge with deep appreciation and love ance of His promised blessings.
23. D&C 76:41; see also 1 Corinthians 15:22.
24. John 14:1–2. great examples of true faith and faith- There is no other thing in which
25. Moses 1:39. fulness in my own life. To goodly we can have absolute assurance.
26. Joseph Smith—History 1:19; see also v. 20. parents, family, priesthood leaders, There is no other foundation in life
27. See 2 Nephi 31:2–21; see also Hebrews
6:1–2; 2 John 1:9–10; 3 Nephi 11:30–40. beloved missionaries, wonderful chil- that can bring the same peace, joy,
28. Mary Jordan, “The New Face of Global dren, and a precious eternal compan- and hope. In uncertain and difficult
Mormonism,” The Washington Post,
Nov. 19, 2007, p. A01.
ion, I express my deepest love and times, faith is truly a spiritual gift wor-
29. Gordon B. Hinckley, “This Is the Work of gratitude. I acknowledge my own thy of our utmost efforts. We can give
the Master,” Ensign, May 1995, 71. need and desire for greater faith as a our children education, lessons, ath-
30. See Luke 6:37.
31. 2 Nephi 26:27. disciple and witness of Christ. There letics, the arts, and material posses-
32. See D&C 93:1. has never been a greater need for sions, but if we do not give them faith
33. D&C 93:20. faith in my own life than now. in Christ, we have given little.
34. “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” Hymns, no. 30.
35. Orson F. Whitney, Saturday Night Thoughts As parents, we have been com- “Faith is kindled by hearing the
(1921), 323. manded to teach our children “to testimony of those who have faith”
38
(Bible Dictionary, 669; see also woman, and righteous mothers, principles, nothing wavering, even
Romans 10:14–17). Do your children fathers, and grandparents. It can be when the mist of darkness con-
know that you know? Do they see seen in the lives of individuals young fronting us is exceedingly great.
and feel your conviction? “Strong and old, in every land and culture, This quality of faith is exceedingly
faith is developed by obedience to speaking every language, in every powerful.
the gospel of Jesus Christ” (Bible circumstance and station in life. It is However, “it must needs be, that
Dictionary, 669). the “eye of faith” spoken of by the there is an opposition in all things. . . .
Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught: prophet Alma (see Alma 5:15–26)— The Lord God gave unto man that he
“Faith is a gift of God bestowed as a the ability to focus and be steadfast, should act for himself. Wherefore,
reward for personal righteousness. continually holding fast to true man could not act for himself save it
It is always given when righteousness
is present, and the greater the meas-
ure of obedience to God’s laws the
greater will be the endowment of
faith” (Mormon Doctrine, 2nd ed.
[1966], 264). If we desire more faith,
we must be more obedient. When we
teach our children by example or pre-
cept to be casual or situational in
obeying God’s commandments, we
prevent them from receiving this vital
spiritual gift. Faith requires an attitude
of exact obedience, even in the small,
simple things.
Desire is a particle of faith that
develops within us as we experience
divine truth. It is like spiritual photo-
synthesis. The influence of the Holy
Ghost, acting on the Light of Christ
within every human being, produces
the spiritual equivalent of a chemical
reaction—a stirring, a change of
heart, or a desire to know. Hope
develops as particles of faith become
molecules and as simple efforts to live
true principles occur.
As patterns of obedience develop,
the specific blessings associated with
obedience are realized and belief
emerges. Desire, hope, and belief are
forms of faith, but faith as a principle
of power comes from a consistent
pattern of obedient behavior and atti-
tudes. Personal righteousness is a
choice. Faith is a gift from God, and
one possessed of it can receive enor-
mous spiritual power.
There is a quality of faith which
develops as we focus all of our heart,
might, mind, and strength. It is seen
and felt in the eyes of a great mis-
sionary, a valiant and virtuous young São Paulo, Brazil
MAY 2009 39
should be that he was enticed by the net faith positive or negative?” If difficulty feeling and following the
one or the other” (2 Nephi 2:11, 16). your faith exceeds your doubt and Spirit (see Preach My Gospel [2004],
And so it is with faith. It can be entic- disbelief, the answer is likely posi- 10). Discouragement and despair are
ing to choose doubt and disbelief tive. If you allow doubt and disbelief the very antithesis of faith.
over faith. to control you, the answer might Discouragement leads to distrac-
As Jesus returned from the tran- be negative. tion, a lack of focus. Distraction
scendent spiritual experience on the We do have a choice. We get what eliminates the very focus the eye of
Mount of Transfiguration, He was we focus on consistently. Because faith requires. Discouragement and
approached by a desperate father there is an opposition in all things, distraction are two of Satan’s most
whose son needed help. The father there are forces that erode our faith. effective tools, but they are also
pleaded, “If thou canst do any thing, Some are the result of Satan’s direct bad habits.
have compassion on us, and help influence. But for others, we have no Distraction leads to a lack of dili-
us.” one but ourselves to blame. These gence, a reduced commitment to
Jesus replied, “If thou canst stem from personal tendencies, atti- remain true and faithful and to carry
believe, all things are possible to him tudes, and habits we can learn to on through despite hardship and dis-
that believeth. change. I will refer to these influences appointment. Disappointment is an
“And straightway the father . . . as the “Six Destructive Ds.” As I do, inevitable part of life, but it need not
cried out, and said with tears, Lord, consider their influence on you or lead to doubt, discouragement, dis-
I believe; help thou mine unbelief ” your children. traction, or lack of diligence.
(Mark 9:22–24). First is doubt. Doubt is not a prin- If not reversed, this path ultimately
Faith and fear cannot coexist. One ciple of the gospel. It does not come leads to disobedience, which under-
gives way to the other. The simple from the Light of Christ or the influ- mines the very basis of faith. So often
fact is we all need to constantly ence of the Holy Ghost. Doubt is a the result is disbelief, the conscious
build faith and overcome sources of negative emotion related to fear. or unconscious refusal to believe.
destructive disbelief. The Savior’s It comes from a lack of confidence The scriptures describe disbelief as
teaching comparing faith to a grain in one’s self or abilities. It is incon- the state of having chosen to harden
of mustard seed recognizes this sistent with our divine identity as one’s heart. It is to be past feeling.
reality (see Matthew 13:31–32). children of God. These Six Destructive Ds—doubt,
Consider it this way: our net usable Doubt leads to discouragement. discouragement, distraction, lack
faith is what we have left to exercise Discouragement comes from missed of diligence, disobedience, and
after we subtract our sources of expectations. Chronic discouragement disbelief—all erode and destroy
doubt and disbelief. You might ask leads to lower expectations, decreased our faith. We can choose to avoid
yourself this question: “Is my own effort, weakened desire, and greater and overcome them.
Challenging times require greater
spiritual power. Consider carefully the
Savior’s promise: “If ye will have faith
in me ye shall have power to do what-
soever thing is expedient in me”
(Moroni 7:33).
I humbly declare that God, our
Heavenly Father, lives and loves each
of us, His children. Jesus Christ is
our Savior and Redeemer. He lives
and personally leads His Church
through President Monson, His
anointed prophet. Because He lives,
there is always hope smiling brightly
before us. In a household of faith,
there is no need to fear or doubt.
Choose to live by faith and not fear.
In the sacred name of Jesus Christ,
amen. ■
40
Lecture 2 8. "And I, God, created man in mine own image, in
ON FAITH the image of mine Only Begotten created I him;
male and female created I them. And I, God,
1. Having shown in our previous lecture "faith blessed them, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and
itselfCwhat it is," we shall proceed to show, multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it;
secondly, the object on which it rests. and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and
over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing
2. We here observe that God is the only supreme that moveth upon the earth.
governor and independent being in whom all
fulness and perfection dwell. He is omnipotent, 9. "And I, God, said unto man, Behold, I have given
omnipresent, and omniscient, without beginning of you every herb, bearing seed, which is upon the
days or end of life. In him every good gift and every face of all the earth; and every tree in the which
good principle dwell, and he is the Father of lights. shall be the fruit of a tree, yielding seed; to you it
In him the principle of faith dwells independently, shall be for meat" (JST Gen 1:27-31; see also
and he is the object in whom the faith of all other Moses 2:26-29).
rational and accountable beings centers for life and
salvation. 10. Again, in Genesis: "And I, the Lord God, took
the man, and put him into the garden of Eden, to
3. In order to present this part of the subject in a dress it, and to keep it. And I, the Lord God,
clear and conspicuous point of light, it is necessary commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the
to go back and show the evidences which mankind garden thou mayest freely eat; But of the tree of
have had to believe in the existence of a God and the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat
also to show the foundation on which these of it; Nevertheless, thou mayest choose for thyself,
evidences are and have been based since the for it is given unto thee; but remember that I forbid
creation. it; For in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt
surely die. . . .
4. We do not mean those evidences which are
manifested by the works of creation which we daily 11. "And out of the ground, I the Lord God, formed
behold with our natural eyes. We are sensible that, every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air;
after a revelation of Jesus Christ, the works of and commanded that they should come unto Adam,
creation clearly exhibit his eternal power and to see what he would call them. And . . .
Godhead throughout their vast forms and varieties. whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that
"For the invisible things of him from the creation of should be the name thereof. And Adam gave names
the world are clearly seen, being understood by the to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every
things that are made, even his eternal power and beast of the field" (JST Gen 2:18-22, 25-27; see
Godhead" (Rom 1:20). But we do mean those also Moses 3:15-17, 19-20).
evidences by which the first thoughts were
suggested to the minds of men that there was a 12. From the foregoing we learn of man's situation
God who created all things. at his first creation, the knowledge with which he
was endowed, and the high and exalted station in
5. We shall now proceed to examine the situation of which he was placedClord, or governor, of all
man at his first creation. Moses, the historian, has things on earth, and at the same time enjoying
given us the following account of him in Genesis. communion and intercourse with his Maker, without
We copy from the New Translation: 1 a veil to separate between. We shall next proceed
to examine the account given of his fall and of his
6. "And I, God, said unto mine Only Begotten, being driven out of the garden of Eden and from
which was with me from the beginning, Let us the presence of the Lord.
make man in our image, after our likeness; and it
was so. 13. Moses proceeds: "And they [Adam and Eve] 2
heard the voice of the Lord God, as they were
7. "And I, God, said, Let them have dominion over walking in the garden, in the cool of the day. And
the fishes of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, Adam and his wife went to hide themselves from
and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over the presence of the Lord God, amongst the trees of
every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. the garden. And I, the Lord God, called unto Adam,
and said unto him, Where goest thou? And he said, 19. Secondly, we have seen that though man did
I heard thy voice, in the garden, and I was afraid, transgress, his transgression did not deprive him of
because I beheld that I was naked, and I hid the previous knowledge with which he had been
myself. endowed relative to the existence and glory of his
Creator; for no sooner did he hear his voice than he
14. "And I, the Lord God, said unto Adam, Who told sought to hide himself from his presence.
thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the
tree whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldst 20. Having shown, then, in the first instance, that
not eat, if so thou shouldst surely die? And the man God began to converse with man immediately after
said, The woman whom thou gavest me, and he "breathed into his nostrils the breath of life," and
commanded that she should remain with me, she that he did not cease to manifest himself to him,
gave me of the fruit of the tree, and I did eat. even after his fall, we shall next proceed to show,
that even though man was cast out from the
15. "And I, the Lord God, said unto the woman, garden of Eden, he did not lose his knowledge of
What is this thing which thou hast done? And the the existence of God, neither did God cease to
woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did manifest his will unto him.
eat" (JST Gen 3:13-19; see also Moses 4:14-19).
21. We next proceed to present the account of the
16. And again, the Lord said unto the woman, "I direct revelation which man received after he was
will greatly multiply thy sorrow, and thy conception; cast out of Eden, and further copy from the New
in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children, and thy Translation:
desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule
over thee. 22. After Adam had been driven out of the garden,
17. "And unto Adam, I, the Lord God, said, Because he "began to till the earth, and to have dominion
thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and over all the beasts of the field, and to eat his bread
hast eaten of the fruit of the tree, of which I by the sweat of his brow, as I, the Lord had
commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it, commanded him. . . . And Adam called upon the
cursed shall be the ground for thy sake; in sorrow name of the Lord, and Eve also, his wife; and they
shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; thorns heard the voice of the Lord, from the way towards
also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and the garden of Eden, speaking unto them, and they
thou shalt eat the herb of the field; by the sweat of saw him not; for they were shut out from his
thy face shalt thou eat bread, until thou shalt return presence. And he gave unto them commandments,
unto the ground, for thou shalt surely die; for out of that they should worship the Lord their God; and
it wast thou taken, for dust thou wast, and unto should offer the firstlings of their flocks for an
dust shalt thou return" (JST Gen 3:22-25; see also offering unto the Lord. And Adam was obedient
Moses 4:22-25). This was immediately followed by unto the commandments of the Lord.
the fulfilment of what we previously said: Man was
driven or sent out of Eden. 23. "And after many days, an angel of the Lord
appeared unto Adam, saying, Why dost thou offer
18. Two important items are shown from the former sacrifices unto the Lord. And Adam said unto him, I
quotations: First, after man was created, he was know not, save the Lord commanded me.
not left without intelligence or understanding to
wander in darkness and spend an existence in 24. "And then the angel spake, saying, This thing is
ignorance and doubt on the great and important a similitude of the sacrifice of the Only Begotten of
point which effected his happiness as to the real the Father, which is full of grace and truth;
fact by whom he was created, or unto whom he wherefore, thou shalt do all that thou doest, in the
was amenable for his conduct. God conversed with name of the Son. And thou shalt repent, and call
him face to face: in his presence he was permitted upon God, in the name of the Son for evermore.
to stand, and from his own mouth he was permitted And in that day, the Holy Ghost fell upon Adam,
to receive instruction. He heard his voice, walked which beareth record of the Father and the Son"
before him, and gazed upon his glory, while (JST Gen 4:1, 4-9; see also Moses 5:1, 4-9).
intelligence burst upon his understanding and
enabled him to give names to the vast assemblage
of his Maker's works.
25. This last quotation shows this important fact: findeth me shall slay me, because of mine
even though our first parents were driven out of the iniquities, for these things are not hid from the
garden of Eden and were separated from the Lord. And I, the Lord, said unto him, Whosoever
presence of God by a veil, they still retained a slayeth thee, vengeance shall be taken on him
knowledge of his existence, and that sufficiently to seven-fold; and I, the Lord, set a mark upon Cain,
move them to call upon him. And further, no sooner lest any finding him should kill him" (JST Gen 5:6-9,
was the plan of redemption revealed to man and he 17-25; see also Moses 5:19-23, 32-40).
began to call upon God, than the Holy Spirit was
given, bearing record of the Father and Son. 30. The object of the foregoing quotation is to show
to this class that the way by which mankind were
26. Moses also gives us an account of the first made acquainted with the existence of a God
transgression of Cain, of the righteousness of Abel, was by a manifestation of God to man. Also after
and of the revelations of God to them. He says, "In man's transgression God continued to manifest
process of time. . . Cain brought of the fruit of the himself to him and to his posterity. And
ground an offering unto the Lord. And Abel, he also notwithstanding they were separated from his
brought, of the firstlings of his flock, and of the fat immediate presence so that they could not see his
thereof; and the Lord had respect unto Abel, and to face, they continued to hear his voice.
his offering, but unto Cain, and to his offering, he
had not respect. Now Satan knew this, and it 31. Adam, thus being made acquainted with God,
pleased him. And Cain was very wroth, and his communicated the knowledge which he had unto
countenance fell. And the Lord said unto Cain, Why his posterity. And it was through this means that
art thou wroth? Why is thy countenance fallen? If the thought was first suggested to their minds that
thou doest well thou shalt be accepted, and if thou there was a God, which laid the foundation for the
doest not well, sin lieth at the door; and Satan exercise of their faith, through which they could
desireth to have thee, and except thou shalt obtain a knowledge of his character and also of his
hearken unto my commandments, I will deliver thee glory.
up, and it shall be unto thee according to his desire.
32. Not only was there a manifestation made unto
27. "And Cain went into the field, and Cain talked Adam of the existence of a God, but Moses informs
with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, that us, as before quoted, that God also condescended
while they were in the field, Cain rose up against to talk with Cain after his great transgression in
Abel his brother, and slew him. And Cain gloried in slaying his brother. And Cain knew that it was the
that which he had done, saying, I am free; surely Lord who was talking with him, so when he was
the flocks of my brother falleth into my hands. driven out from the presence of his brethren, he
carried with him the knowledge of the existence of
28. "And the Lord said unto Cain, Where is Abel, a God. And through this means, doubtless, his
thy brother? And he said, I know not, am I my posterity became acquainted with the fact that such
brother's keeper? And the Lord said, What hast a being existed.
thou done? The voice of thy brother's blood cries
unto me from the ground. And now, thou shalt be 33. From this we can see that the whole human
cursed from the earth, which hath opened her family in the early age of their existence and in all
mouth to receive thy brother's blood from thy hand. their different branches had this knowledge
When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth disseminated among them; so that the existence of
yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a God became an object of faith in the early age of
vagabond shalt thou be in the earth. the world. And the evidence which these men had
of the existence of a God was the testimony of their
29. "And Cain said unto the Lord, Satan tempted fathers, in the first instance.
me, because of my brother's flock; and I was wroth
also, for his offering thou didst accept, and not 34. The reason we have been thus particular on this
mine. My punishment is greater than I can bear. part of our subject is that this class may see by
Behold, thou hast driven me out this day from the what means it was that God became an object of
face of the Lord, and from thy face shall I be hid; faith among men after the Fall, and also may see
and I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the what it was that stirred up the faith of multitudes to
earth; and it shall come to pass, that he that feel after him, to search after a knowledge of his
character, perfections, and attributes, until they 40. Moses further informs us that Seth lived 807
became extensively acquainted with him. Not only years after he begat Enos, making him 912 years
were they to commune with him and behold his old at his death (Gen 5:7-8). And Enos lived 815
glory, but they were also to be partakers of his years after he begat Cainan, making him 905 years
power and stand in his presence. old when he died (5:10-11). And Cainan lived 840
years after he begat Mahalaleel, making him 910
35. Let this class mark particularly that the years old at his death (5:13-14). And Mahalaleel
testimony which these men had of the existence of lived 830 years after he begat Jared, making him
a God was the testimony of man. For previous to 895 years old when he died (5:16-17). And Jared
the time that any of Adam's posterity had obtained lived 800 years after he begat Enoch, making him
a manifestation of God to themselves, Adam, their 962 years old at his death (5:19-20). And Enoch
common father, had testified unto them of the walked with God 300 years after he begat
existence of God and of his eternal power and Methuselah, making him 365 years old when he
Godhead. was translated (5:22-23). And Methuselah lived 782
years after he begat Lamech, making him 969 years
36. For instance, Abel, before he received the old when he died (5:26-27). Lamech lived 595
assurance from heaven that his offerings were years after he begat Noah, making him 777 years
acceptable unto God, had received the important old when he died (5:30-31).
information from his father that such a being who
had created and who did uphold all things did exist. 41. Agreeable to this account, Adam died in the
Neither can there be any doubt existing in the mind 930th year of the world; Enoch was translated in
of any person but that Adam was the first who did the 987th; Seth died in the 1042nd; Enos in the
communicate the knowledge of the existence of a 1140th; Cainan in the 1235th; Mahalaleel in the
God to his posterity. The whole faith of the world 1290th; Jared in the 1422nd; Lamech in the
from that time down to the present is in a certain 1651st; and Methuselah in the 1656th, it being the
degree dependent on the knowledge first same year in which the flood came.
communicated to them by their common
progenitor; and it has been handed down to the 42. So Noah was 84 years old when Enos died, 179
day and generation in which we live, as we shall 4 when Cainan died, 234 when Mahalaleel died,
show from the face of the sacred records. 366 when Jared died, 595 when Lamech died, and
600 when Methuselah died.
37. First, Adam was 130 years old when Seth was
born (Gen 5:3). And the days of Adam, after he had 43. We can see from this that Enos, Cainan,
begotten Seth, were 800 years, making him 930 Mahalaleel, Jared, Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah,
years old when he died (5:4-5). Seth was 105 when all lived on the earth at the same time, and that
Enos was born (5:6); Enos was 90 when Cainan Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Methuselah, and
was born (5:9); Cainan was 70 when Mahalaleel Lamech, were all acquainted with both Adam and
was born (5:12); Mahalaleel was 65 when Jared Noah.
was born (5:15); Jared was 162 when Enoch was
born (5:18); Enoch was 65 when Methuselah was 44. From the foregoing, it is easy to see not only
born (5:21); Methuselah was 187 when Lamech how the knowledge of God came into the world but
was born (5:25); Lamech was 182 when Noah was also upon what principle it was preserved. From the
born (5:28). time it was first communicated, it was retained in
the minds of righteous men who taught not only
38. From this account it appears that Lamech, the their own posterity but also the world. So there was
eighth 3 from Adam, and the father of Noah, was no need of a new revelation to man after Adam's
56 years old when Adam died; Methuselah, 243; creation to Noah to give them the first idea or
Enoch, 308; Jared, 470; Mahalaleel, 535; Cainan, notion of the existence of a God, and not only of a
605; Enos, 695; and Seth, 800. God, but the true and living God.
39. So Lamech the father of Noah, Methuselah, 45. Having traced the chronology of the world from
Enoch, Jared, Mahalaleel, Cainan, Enos, Seth, and Adam to Noah, we will now trace it from Noah to
Adam, were all living at the same time, and, beyond Abraham. Noah was 502 years old when Shem was
all controversy, were all preachers of righteousness. born; 98 years afterwards the flood came, being the
600th year of Noah's age (Gen 7:11). And Moses to 29 years, which was his age when Terah was
informs us that Noah lived 350 years after the born, makes him 148 years old when he died.
flood, making him 950 years old when he died (Gen Terah was 130 years old when Abraham was born,
9:28-29). and is supposed to have lived 75 years after his
birth, making him 205 years old when he died.
46. Shem was 100 years old when Arphaxad was
born (Gen 11:10). Arphaxad was 35 when Salah 49. Agreeable to this last account, Peleg died in the
was born (11:12); Salah was 30 when Eber was 1996th year of the world, Nahor in the 1997th, and
born (11:14); Eber was 34 when Peleg was born, in Noah in the 2006th. So that Peleg, in whose days
whose days the earth was divided (11:16); Peleg the earth was divided, and Nahor, the grandfather
was 30 when Reu was born (11:18); Reu was 32 of Abraham, both died before Noah: the former
when Serug was born (11:20); Serug was 30 when being 239 years old, and the latter 148. And who
Nahor was born (11:22); Nahor was 29 when Terah cannot but see that they must have had a long and
was born (11:24); Terah was 70 when Haran and intimate acquaintance with Noah?
Abraham were born (11:26).
50. Reu died in the 2026th year of the world, Serug
47. There is some difficulty in the account given by in the 2049th, Terah in the 2083rd, Arphaxad in the
Moses of Abraham's birth. Some have supposed 2096th, Salah in the 2126th, Shem in the 2158th,
that Abraham was not born until Terah was 130 Abraham in the 2183rd, and Eber in the 2187th,
years old. This conclusion is drawn from a variety of which was four years after Abraham's death. And
scriptures, but it is not our purpose at present to Eber was the fourth from Noah.
quote them. Neither is it a matter of any
consequence to us whether Abraham was born 51. Nahor, Abraham's brother, was 58 years old
when Terah was 70 years old or 130. But so there when Noah died, Terah 128, Serug 187, Reu 219,
may be no doubt about the present chronology, we Eber 283, Salah 313, Arphaxad 348, 5 and Shem
will date the birth of Abraham at the later period, 448.
that is, when Terah was 130 years old. It appears
from this account that the time from the flood to 52. It appears from this account that Nahor, brother
the birth of Abraham was 352 years. of Abraham, Terah, Nahor, Serug, Reu, Peleg, Eber,
Salah, Arphaxad, Shem, and Noah, all lived on the
48. Moses informs us that Shem lived 500 years earth at the same time. Abraham was 18 years old
after he begat Arphaxad (Gen 11:11); this added to when Reu died, 41 when Serug and his brother
100 years, which was his age when Arphaxad was Nahor died, 75 when Terah died, 88 when
born, makes him 600 years old when he died. Arphaxad died, 118 when Salah died, 150 when
Arphaxad lived 403 years after he begat Salah Shem died, and that Eber lived four years after
(11:13); this added to 35 years, which was his age Abraham's death. Shem, Arphaxad, Salah, Eber,
when Salah was born, makes him 438 years old Reu, Serug, Terah, and Nahor, brother of Abraham,
when he died. Salah lived 403 years after he begat and Abraham, lived at the same time. Nahor,
Eber (11:15); this added to 30 years, which was his brother of Abraham, Terah, Serug, Reu, Eber,
age when Eber was born, makes him 433 years old Salah, Arphaxad, and Shem, were all acquainted
when he died. Eber lived 430 years after he begat with both Noah and Abraham.
Peleg (11:17); this added to 34 years, which was
his age when Peleg was born, makes him 464 years 53. We have now traced the chronology of the
old when he died. Peleg lived 209 years after he world from Adam to Abraham agreeable to the
begat Reu (11:19); this added to 30 years, which account given in our present Bible, and have clearly
was his age when Reu was born, makes him 239 determined beyond the power of controversy that
years old when he died. Reu lived 207 years after there was no difficulty in preserving the knowledge
he begat Serug (11:21); this added to 32 years, of God in the world from the creation of Adam, and
which was his age when Serug was born, makes the manifestation made to his immediate
him 239 years old when he died. Serug lived 200 descendants, as set forth in the former part of this
years after he begat Nahor (11:23); this added to lecture. So the students in this class need not have
30 years, which was his age when Nahor was born, any doubt in their minds on this subject, for they
makes him 230 years old when he died. Nahor lived can easily see that it is impossible for it to be
119 years after he begat Terah (11:25); this added otherwise, but that the knowledge of the existence
of a God must have continued from father to son,
as a matter of tradition at least. For we cannot
suppose that a knowledge of this important fact
could have existed in the mind of any of the
before-mentioned individuals without their having
made it known to their posterity.
54. We have now shown how it was by reason of

the manifestation which God first made to our
father Adam, when he stood in his presence and
conversed with him face to face at the time of his
creation, that the first thought ever existed in the
mind of any individual that there was such a being
as a God who had created and did uphold all things.
55. Let us here observe that after any members of

the human family are made acquainted with the
important fact that there is a God who has created
and does uphold all things, the extent of their
knowledge respecting his character and glory will
depend upon their diligence and faithfulness in
seeking after him, until, like Enoch, the brother of
Jared, and Moses, they shall obtain faith in God and
power with him to behold him face to face.
56. We have now clearly set forth how it is, and

how it was, that God became an object of faith for
rational beings, and also, upon what foundation the
testimony was based which excited the inquiry and
diligent search of the ancient Saints to seek after
and obtain a knowledge of the glory of God. We
have also seen that it was human testimony, and
human testimony only, that excited this inquiry in
their minds in the first instance. It was the
credence they gave to the testimony of their
fathers, it having aroused their minds to inquire
after the knowledge of God. That inquiry frequently
terminated, indeed always terminated when rightly
pursued, in the most glorious discoveries and
eternal certainty.
A Discussion of Lecture 2
Chosen Vessels and the Order of the Priesthood
(Joseph Fielding McConkie, in The Lectures on Faith in Historical Perspective, 179-197)
It is of God we speak and how one comes to know him. The because of the goodness and grace of others and therefore assume the
subject commands attention. There is no knowledge of greater obligation to extend that blessing to as many as they properly can.
importance. Surely there is no salvation to be found in the worship of
false gods. Certainly no benefit can accrue from spurious or delusive
doctrine. Even that which is innocently ignorant is without the power to
Adam: Earth's First Apostle
bless. Sincerity, however pure it may be, cannot remit sins, raise the
dead, or create a celestial kingdom. Salvation is not the child of darkness, It was not intended that man dwell in darkness. Long before the
it is not the child of stern and heartless justice, nor is it the child of first of our race was placed upon the earth the Lord had given the
indulgent and intemperate mercy. Christ addressed the issue in his command: "Let there be light" (Gen 1:3). Nor was it intended that Adam
intercessory prayer: "And this is life eternal," he said, "that they might wander in doubt or uncertainty relative to the nature and purpose of his
know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent" creation or to whom he was answerable for his conduct. "God conversed
(John 17:3; emphasis added). The bloodline must be pureC eternal life with him face to face: in his presence he was permitted to stand, and
from his own mouth he was permitted to receive instruction. He heard his
can only be the offspring of eternal truth.
voice, walked before him, and gazed upon his glory, while intelligence
Anciently it was said that all roads led to Rome. It was equally
burst upon his understanding and enabled him to give names to the vast
true that there was only one entrance to the Holy of Holies. This is true in
assemblage of his Maker's works" (LF 2:18).
spiritual matters as well. There is one path to exaltation. What is it? How
Obviously Adam's transgression did not deprive him of the
then are we to approach the true and living God? What is the system that
knowledge with which he had previously been endowed (LF 2:19). Upon
the heavens have ordained whereby we are to obtain a sure knowledge of
hearing God's voice, Adam, knowing his shame, sought to hide himself.
the plan of salvation? Such are the questions to which the Prophet
Nor did the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of the Divine
responds in the second lecture on faith.
Presence bring an end to communion with their Father (LF 2:20). Their
My purpose here is to follow Joseph Smith's lead. Having become
circumstance in the lone and dreary world immediately evoked the desire
a perfect witness of God the Father and his Son, Jesus Christ, the Prophet
for divine assistance. Nor did their prayers go unheeded, for we read,
proceeds to show us the way whereby we too can share that same
knowledge. How fitting it is that Joseph Smith himself is the crowning
and they heard the voice of the Lord from the way toward the
example of the principle that he taught in the School of the Elders. He is
Garden of Eden, speaking unto them, and they saw him not; for
God's witness, and it is through his testimony that we are encouraged to
they were shut out from his presence. And he gave unto them
seek God's divine presence. Such is the system. We learn of God from
commandments, that they should worship the Lord their God, and
those who know him (LF 2:35). If there were none who knew of God, if
should offer the firstlings of their flocks, for an offering unto the
we had no testimonies of him, we would have little inclination to seek
Lord. And Adam was obedient unto the commandments of the
after him. It is because of the testimony of one who knows him that we
Lord. And after many days, an angel of the Lord appeared unto
seek to know him. Initially, we are all dependent on someone else's
Adam, saying, Why dost thou offer sacrifices unto the Lord? And
testimony. Thus, we grow spiritually as we do physically; both body and
Adam said unto him: I know not, save the Lord commanded me.
spirit are born dependant, both require careful nurturing, both are
And then the angel spake, saying, This thing is a similitude of the
intended to grow to a state of maturity and independence, and then both
sacrifice of the Only Begotten of the Father, which is full of grace
are expected to assume a parenting role to others that the process may
and truth. Wherefore, thou shalt do all that thou doest in the
begin anew. All who obtain a knowledge of saving truths, a knowledge of
name of the Son, and thou shalt repent, and call upon God, in the
God and his plan for the salvation of his children, have that knowledge
name of the Son forevermore. And in that day, the Holy Ghost fell diligence and faithfulness in seeking after him, until, like Enoch,
upon Adam, which beareth record of the Father and the Son the brother of Jared. and Moses, they shall obtain faith in God
(Moses 5:4-9). and power with him to behold him face to face (LF 2:55).
The quotation clearly establishes two points: first, the Fall did not
cause Adam and Eve to lose their knowledge of God; and second, "no
Chosen Vessels
sooner was the plan of redemption revealed to man and he began to call
upon God, than the Holy Spirit was given, bearing record of the Father "Thus the Gospel began to be preached, from the beginning,
and Son" (LF 2:25). How then did the family of Adam obtain a knowledge being declared by holy angels sent forth from the presence of God, and
of God? Adam and Eve communicated that knowledge to them (LF 2:31). by his own voice, and by the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Moses 5:58; see LF
How did Adam and Eve obtain that knowledge? God manifested himself to 2:24, 30). Adam and his posterity had no reason to be in doubt as to the
them in the Garden and he continued to speak to them after their nature of that being in whom they were to exercise faith or as to what
transgression and expulsion from Eden (LF 2:30). Thus it was for Adam God expected of them. It is recorded that "all things were confirmed unto
and Eve, as special witnesses, to plant the first seeds of testimony in the Adam, by an holy ordinance, and the Gospel preached, and a decree sent
hearts of their children and their children's children for many generations. forth, that it should be in the world, until the end thereof" (Moses
Thus man learned to have faith in God after the Fall. 5:58-59; LF 2:33-36). Further, we are told that the "same Priesthood,
Adam and Eve establish the pattern to be followed in all which was in the beginning, shall be in the end of the world also" (Moses
subsequent dispensations and in all generations. This pattern is that the 6:7). Adam, then, is the pattern; his dispensation the example; and the
posterity of Adam in all ages first learn of God or have the seeds of faith order or system of heaven is everlastingly the same.
planted in their hearts by special witnesses chosen of God for that Mormon testified,
purpose. It is for one man to plant the seed in the heart of another. Most Wherefore, by the ministering of angels, and by every word which
properly it is for parents to plant the seed in the hearts of their children, proceeded forth out of the mouth of God, men began to exercise faith in
for previous to the time that any of "Adam's posterity had obtained a Christ; and thus by faith, they did lay hold upon every good thing; and
manifestation of God to themselves, Adam, their common father, had thus it was until the coming of Christ. And after that he came men also
testified unto them of the existence of God and of his eternal power and were saved by faith in his name; and by faith, they became the sons of
Godhead" (LF 2:35). God (Moroni 7:25-26).
Thus the whole human family partakes of the fruit of the tree of As to the matter of who it is the angels appear to, Mormon
faith because father Adam planted the tree. Each dispensation in its turn explained that they manifest themselves to "chosen vessels," teaching
has had its special witness or witnessesCits "Adams"Cbut in all cases it them the "word of Christ," so that those chosen ones can in turn bear
has been "human testimony, and human testimony only," that motivated testimony to all others.
man's initial investigation concerning God. It has been the belief exercised And the office of their ministry is to call men to repentance...by
in "the testimony of their fathers," that aroused their minds to "inquire declaring the word of Christ unto the chosen vessels of the Lord, that
after the knowledge of God. That inquiry frequently terminated, indeed they may bear testimony of him. And by so doing, the Lord God prepareth
always terminated when rightly pursued, in the most glorious discoveries the way that the residue of men may have faith in Christ, that the Holy
and eternal certainty" (LF 2:56). Ghost may have place in their hearts, according to the power thereof; and
Though one may plant the seed in the heart of another, each after this manner bringeth to pass the Father, the covenants which he
must nourish the seed for himself. The Prophet said hath made unto the children of men (Moroni 7:31-32).
Lecture 2 shows how Adam taught his descendants and they
that after any members of the human family are made taught theirs, all the way to Abraham (LF 2:37-53). Let us look at our
acquainted with the important fact that there is a God who has dispensation to find a similar example. With the appearance of that God
created and does uphold all things, the extent of their knowledge known to Adam in Eden and his Only Begotten Son, our Lord and Savior
respecting his character and glory will depend upon their Jesus Christ, to the youthful Joseph Smith, a dispensation was born.
Though only a boy fourteen years of age, Joseph Smith then knew more the theological foundations of the Restored Church. He was the chosen
about God and the truths of salvation than any other man on earth. He vessel to whom the angels appeared to restore every key and power and
was earth's most competent witness on the nature and purposes of God. authority necessary for men to work out their salvation and obtain their
No other man could bear the testimony he bore, for he alone had stood in eternal inheritance. The revelations that came after the ministry of Joseph
the divine presence. He was the vessel chosen in heaven from which the Smith, came to other chosen vessels to amplify, to expound, and to
truths of salvation were again to be poured out to the generality of expand upon that which he received. No such revelations are ever given
mankind. to those who have rejected the testimony of the dispensation head.
When we speak of dispensations, as Elder Bruce R. McConkie In our day the faithful Latter-day Saint stands in fast and
explained, we speak testimony meeting and testifies that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ,
that Joseph Smith is the great prophet of the Restoration, that whoever is
of those designated portions of the earth's history when the Lord, presiding over the Church at the time is his lawful successor, and that this
through one man, gives his word to the whole world and makes is the only true and living Church on the face of the whole earth. Had we
all the prophets, and all the seers, and all the administrators, and attended a testimony meeting in the days of Adam, Enoch, Noah, or any
all the apostles of that period subject to, and exponents of, what of the other gospel dispensations, the nature of the testimonies would
came through that individual....Every prophet is a witness of have been essentially the same. In Adam's day, for example, we might
Christ; every dispensation head is a revealer of Christ for his day; have listened to a testimony to this effect: "I know that God lives, that he
and every other prophet or apostle who comes is a reflection and will yet have a Son in the flesh who will work out an atoning sacrifice and
an echo and an exponent of the dispensation head. All such come thereby redeem us from the effects of the Fall. I know that Adam is the
to echo to the world and to expound and unfold what God has chosen vessel of the Lord, the one called and ordained to stand at the
revealed through the man who was appointed for that era to give head of the Church in this dispensation and reveal to us the laws and
his eternal word to the world. Such is the dispensation concept ordinances necessary for our salvation."
("This Generation" 4-5).
Thus when we find the Lord saying to Joseph Smith, "this

The Order of the Priesthood
generation shall have my word through you" (D&C 5:10), he means our
dispensation,1 the period from the First Vision to the Second Coming. Although the words "Priesthood" and "order" are not used in
"Shall" means "must"; it is mandatory, it is the bold assertion that there Lecture 2, it is clear that the transmittal of the gospel message from
are no options. You accept Joseph Smith's testimony or you are damned. Adam to later generations was patterned and orderly (LF 2:43-44, 52-53).
"My word" means the "gospel of salvation; the word is the plan of The gospel, that is the revealed knowledge of God and his plan for the
salvation; the word is the mind and will and purposes of the Lord as salvation of his children, by its very nature bespeaks system and order.
pertaining to his children on earth; the word is all the truths and rights There is no disorder in the kingdom of heaven. God does not get
and powers and doctrines and principles that are needed by men so they confused, he does not forget, he is not the author of contention, his ways
can take the souls they possess and transform them into the kind of souls are not capricious, he does not act with irregularity, his kingdom is not
that can go where God and Christ are" (McConkie, "This Generation" 3). one of disunity, disarray, or dishevelment. He is a God of order. Indeed,
Revelation is in no way limited only to the Prophet Joseph Smith, we have been told that "he hath given a law unto all things, by which
who was called to stand as the dispensation head. Our faith embraces "all they move in their times and their seasons; and their courses are fixed,
that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal" and the promise that even the courses of the heavens and the earth, which comprehend the
"He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the earth and all the planets" (D&C 88:42-43). He has done all this that man
Kingdom of God" (A of F #9). Classic illustrations include Joseph F. might be taught the gospel. Are we then to suppose that God forgot to
Smith's vision of the redemption of the dead (D&C 138) and Spencer W. ordain a system whereby this would be doneCa system that would allow
Kimball's revelation extending the privilege of the priesthood and the all men in all ages equal opportunity to hear the message of salvation and
temple to those of all races (OD #2). Yet, it was for Joseph Smith to lay lay claim to the blessings of heaven?
Surely the system whereby the message of salvation is to be was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God.
declared must be worthy of the principles it espouses. It must be a But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme
system of order, consistency, and unity. It must be a system of God's Being, to avoid the too frequent repetition of his name, they, the
ordination, not man's. Pure water cannot be housed in impure vessels. church... called that priesthood after Melchizedek" (emphasis in
What then is the system that God has ordained by which his gospel is to original).
be taught? The scriptures, as we shall see, respond with plainness.
In response to the question of how the gospel is to be taught, let Mechizedek's name was used because he "was such a great high
me cite two classic scriptural textsCone from the Book of Mormon, the priest" (v 2).
other from the Doctrine and Covenants. Alma, in the conclusion of a Now the thrust of all this is that the doctrine of "order" is
marvelous discourse on how we obtain salvation, testified: "I have spoken inseparable from the functioning of the priesthood and that priesthood is
unto you plainly that ye cannot err, or have spoken according to the inseparable from the declaration of the gospel. This is why we have
commandments of God" (Alma 5:43). In that which preceded this verse, Joseph Smith saying, "Where there is a prophet, a priest, or a righteous
Alma had indeed spoken with considerable plainness. That those carrying man unto whom God gives His oracles, there is the kingdom of God; and
the gospel message are to be plain and straightforward is obviously part where the oracles of God are not, there the kingdom of God is not"
of their commission, for Alma continues, "For I am called to speak after (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith 272; hereafter TPJS). Now he
this manner, according to the holy order of God, which is in Christ Jesus" didn't say where one believer is, there is the kingdom of God also. It
(Alma 5:44). takes more than the conviction of one individual to comply with the
Note particularly the language Alma uses to identify his heavenly ordained order whereby the gospel is to be taught. Thus the
commission to preachCie, "the holy order of God." This is a phrase that very name of the priesthood (ie, the Holy Order) stands as a refutation of
we read frequently in the Book of Mormon. It is interchangeable with the the protestant concept of "priesthood of all believers," which is the idea
phrase "the order of his Son," and has reference to the Melchizedek that to accept Christ grants one the authority to act in his name.
Priesthood. The same phrase is used in the revelations of our Returning to our text in Alma, we read the prophet saying. "I am
dispensation as the Lord describes the nature of the priesthood to us. We commanded to stand and testify unto this people the things which have
also find it in the Old Testament to the extent that the purity of that been spoken by our fathers concerning the things which are to come"
record has been retained. Section 84 in the Doctrine and Covenants (5:44). His testimony is that he had been "called...according to the holy
describes the Melchizedek Priesthood as "the holiest order of God," and order of God" and that he was "commanded" to declare certain
then states that this holy priesthood is to administer the gospel (see thingsCspecifically that which had been spoken by the fathers, that is the
84:18-19). In the JST Genesis we read that Melchizedek, the very man things recorded in the scriptures. "And this is not all," he added.
after whom the priesthood was named, was first "approved of God" and
then he was Do ye not suppose that I know of these things myself? Behold, I
testify unto you that I do know that these things whereof I have
ordained an high priest after the order of the covenant which God spoken are true. And how do ye suppose that I know of their
made with Enoch, it being after the order of the Son of God; surety? Behold, I say unto you they are made known unto me by
which order came, not by man, nor the will of man; neither by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted and prayed many
father nor mother; neither by beginning of days nor end of years; days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do
but of God; and it was delivered unto men by the calling of his know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made
own voice, according to his own will, unto as many as believed on them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of
his name (14:27-29; emphasis added). revelation which is in me. And moreover, I say unto you that it
has thus been revealed unto me, that the words which have been
In Section 107:3-4, we learn that anciently the priesthood spoken by our fathers are true, even so according to the spirit of
prophecy which is in me, which is also by the manifestation of the
Spirit of God. I say unto you, that I know of myself that
whatsoever I shall say unto you, concerning that which is to power of God unto salvation. Behold, this is the promise of the
come, is true (Alma 5:45-48). Lord unto you, O ye my servants (D&C 68:3-5).
Alma then testifies about the coming of Christ: The revelation then directs "all the faithful elders of [the] church"
to be of good cheer, to preach without fear, and to testify of the Christ,
And now I say unto you that this is the order after which I am and it states that the promises given therein are directed to them (vv
called, yea, to preach unto my beloved brethren, yea, and every 6-7).
one that dwelleth in the land; yea, to preach unto all, both old This is what Alma called the holy orderCthat is, when men have
and young, both bond and free; yea, I say unto you the aged, been properly called to the priesthood and commissioned to go forth to
and also the middle aged, and the rising generation; yea, to cry teach, they are to do so from the scriptures (or as Alma said, the things
unto them that they must repent and be born again (Alma 5:49). spoken by the fathers). Then with the Holy Ghost, they will be granted
In summary, Alma did not assume the right to preach; rather he the power to expand the written word and to add scripture to scripture.
was called and ordained to the "holy order." With that ordination came The principle is succinctly stated in a revelation instructing the early
the commandment to preach with plainness. That which he preached was missionaries of this dispensation: "And let them journey from thence
that which he learned from the testimony of the fathersCthat is, the preaching the word by the way, saying none other things than that which
witness of the scriptures and that which had been revealed to him the prophets and apostles have written, and that which is taught them by
through his study of them. Thus he had been confirming revelation about the Comforter through the prayer of faith" (D&C 52:9).
what the fathers had taught and additional revelation that enabled him to A modern Apostle articulated this principle in this very instructive
expound and expand upon that which the chosen vessels of times past language:
had recorded. In a subsequent chapter we read that Alma
Those who preach by the power of the Holy Ghost use the
began to declare the word of God...according to the revelation of scriptures as their basic source of knowledge and doctrine. They
the truth of the word which had been spoken by his fathers, and begin with what the Lord has before revealed to other inspired
according to the spirit of prophecy which was in him, according to men. But it is the practice of the Lord to give added knowledge to
the testimony of Jesus Christ, the Son of God...and the holy order those upon whose hearts the true meaning and intents of the
by which he was called" (Alma 6:8; see also 8:4, 24). scriptures have been impressed. Many great doctrinal revelations
come to those who preach from the scriptures. When they are in
Our second example is a revelation directed to a young elder by tune with the Infinite, the Lord lets them know, first, the full and
the name of Orson Hyde. It is important to note that this revelation was complete meaning of the scriptures they are expounding, and
given some three and half years before Elder Hyde was called to the then he ofttimes expands their views so that new truths flood in
Apostleship. It announced that he was "called by his ordination [to the upon them, and they learn added things that those who do not
priesthood] to proclaim the everlasting gospel, by the Spirit of the living follow such a course can never know (McConkie, The Promised
God." It further stated that he was to reason with those to whom he Messiah 515-16).
preached, "expounding all scriptures unto them" (D&C 68:1). Elder Hyde
was then told to be an "ensample" (v 2), meaning he was to be the We must keep all the commandments of God. "But," as Joseph
pattern or model for all others who held the same priesthood. Smith observed, "we cannot keep all the commandments without first
knowing them, and we cannot expect to know all, or more than we now
And this is the ensample unto them, that they shall speak as they know unless we comply with or keep those we have already received"
are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. And whatsoever they shall (TPJS 256). If we are to receive more and thus know more, we must
speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, master and live by what we have been given. We reduce the realm of the
shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall unknown, not by wandering in it, but rather by feasting on and expanding
be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the our knowledge of that which God has already revealed. Hence, we have
the commandment to teach from the scriptures with the attendant amplifies on it. Many of these revelations grow out of Joseph Smith's work
promise that by so doing we will be granted understanding that goes on the Bible, which we now call the Joseph Smith translation. That is, as
beyond the written word. This is the reason the canon of scripture can he labored over the meaning and intent of the words of the biblical
never be complete. To argue for a closed canon is to defeat the very fathers, the spirit of revelation unfolded that meaning to him in the form
purpose of scripture, it is to contend with the Spirit of truth, and offend of additional scripture for our dispensation. Such is and ever has been the
the Holy Ghost. systemCthe holy order of God. This is the way it was with Adam and
The Book of Mormon has been criticized because its prophets those who followed in his family down to Abraham as outlined in Lecture
quote so frequently from Bible texts. Well of course they do. It is the holy 2:35-53.
order of God. It is the manner after which their prophets were A Word of Caution
commanded to preach. Only if they didn't do so could it be argued that
the Book of Mormon was not authentic scripture. Those prophets whose
teachings are recorded for us in the scriptures are our patterns; chief As we emphasize the fact that the gospel is to be taught by
among them is Christ himself. He commenced his mortal ministry with a chosen vessels, there is a tendancy to say that only one chosen vessel,
quotation from Isaiah (Luke 4:16-21), constantly quoted the scriptures in the president of the Church, can interpret and expound scripture. Some
his teaching (Matthew 19:4; Mark 12:10), challenged his detractors to contend that no one but the head of the Church should declare or write
search the scriptures (John 5:39), and even in his appearances as a doctrine. Let us briefly consider the implications of such a notion. If, for
resurrected being continued to expound "in all the scriptures the things instance, we are to state that no one but the president of the Church can
concerning himself" (Luke 24:27, 44-45). write scripture or can speak to the whole Church, what are we to do with
While he was among the Nephites, the glorified Christ not only the New Testament? Of its twenty-seven books, it can be argued that
quoted Old World scriptures, including the words of Moses, Isaiah, only those written by Peter and John were written by "the prophet"; and
Habakkuk, Micah, and Malachi, but he "expounded all the scriptures unto it is highly doubtful that the writings of John and Peter were all done
them which they had received" (3 Nephi 23:6). That is, he expounded while they presided over the Church. Be that as it may, certainly Matthew,
their own Nephite scripture, then "expounded all the scriptures [both the Mark, and Luke never presided over the Church; yet, we have accepted
New World and the Old World scripture] in one." And then he their writings as scripture. Paul, of course, is the major contributor to the
commanded them to "teach the things which he had expounded unto New Testament, generally credited with fourteen of its books. No one
them" (3 Nephi 23:14). Thus the inspired pronouncements of the fathers argues that Paul presided over the Church. The discussion as far as Paul
kindle the spirit of revelation in the resurrected Christ who speaks new is concerned is whether or not he was a member of the Quorum of the
scripture to the Nephites. They in turn were to teach the words Christ has Twelve. It seems evident that he was, but there is no clear proof even of
spoken to them. By so doing they came to know the spirit of revelation this. As to James and Jude, according to the standard suggested, they
and were able to amplify what he taught. Thus the gospel goes forth in obviously had no business writing "general" epistles either. And be there
ever widening circles until that glorious day when it will fill the whole no mistake about the fact that they intended their writings to go to all the
earth as the waters do the seas. This is the pattern, Christ is the classic world. James addressed his epistle "to the twelve tribes...scattered
example, and the manner in which the scriptural prophets teach abroad" (1:1); Jude addressed himself to all who have been "called," and
illustrates it. When Amulek, for instance, wanted to support Alma's "sanctified" (1:1).
teaching that "the word is in Christ unto salvation," he noted that Alma This is not to suggest that there was no discipline in the meridian
had quoted the prophets Zenos, Zenock, and Moses, and then he said, Church relative to who could write and preach. Certainly there was. The
"And now, behold, I will testify unto you of myself that these things are house of God in every dispensation must be a house of order. The
true" (Alma 34:5-8). Thus in compliance with the holy order he taught writings of both Paul and John indicate that all within the faith, both men
those things which had been manifest to him by the spirit of revelation. In and women, were entitled to the spirit of prophecy and
our day we have the Doctrine and Covenants as the perfect illustration of revelationCindeed, they were expected to be prophets or prophetesses
this principle. In literally hundreds of instances the Doctrine and (See 1 Cor 14:29-32; Rev 19:10). The commonality of prophets among
Covenants picks up a phrase from the Old or New Testament and the congregations of the meridian Saints is seen in the frequent warnings
against false prophets that would arise among their number (see Matt Priesthood were "to preach, teach, expound, exhort," with the scriptures
7:15; 24:11; 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 4:1). Though it was believed to be within by the spirit of revelation (D&C 20:46; 42:14).
the providence of all to prophesy, some were specifically identified as To join the Church is, in a sense, to join a School of the Elders.
holding the office of a prophet in the ecclesiastical hierarchy of the Church To receive the priesthood is to accept the responsibility to teach and
(see 1 Cor 12:28-29; Eph 2:19-20; 4:11). testify of those truths revealed to that vessel chosen as the instrument of
Paul's doctrine was that when Saints met together they were all restoration in the particular dispensation in which one lives. To those of
to share the fruits of their spiritual gifts. One could come having written our dispensation the Lord has said: "You shall declare the things which
an inspired hymn, another with doctrinal understanding, another speaking have been revealed to my servant, Joseph Smith, Jun." (D&C 31:4). Thus
in tongues, another to interpret, and still another with the spirit of it is for us to teach the message of the restoration and to do it from those
revelation. "All things to be done unto edifying" (1 Cor 14:26). "For ye scriptures the Lord has given us for that purpose. We are without the
may all prophesy one by one," Paul declared, "that all may learn, and all right or the authority to preach any other gospel than that restored to us.
may be comforted" (v 31) that "all may be edified of all" (D&C 84:110), or Our commission is to "declare the word with truth and soberness," that is
as another modern revelation states, "that every man may have an equal to faithfully declare the gospel as it has been revealed, without distortion
privilege" (D&C 88:122). "And the spirits of the prophets are subject to of any sort to please either the speaker or the listener (see Alma 42:31).
the prophets," Paul said (1 Cor 14:32). That is, the doctrine espoused by Now just what does it mean to declare doctrine? Are we speaking
any who truly have the spirit of prophecy will be in harmony with that of adding to, augmenting, and changing doctrinal concepts? Or, do we
doctrine revealed through those whose office it is to officially establish the mean preaching and interpreting the doctrines now found in the standard
doctrines of the kingdom. By way of illustration, Paul's epistle is regarded works? Is the President of the Church the only General Authority who can
as scripture. His office and calling as an Apostle granted him the right to declare doctrine in the sense that he alone writes doctrinal books; or is
speak as one having authority, as a chosen vessel, to the Corinthian his position unique in that he alone can announce new doctrine and stand
Saints. In turn all the members of the church in Corinth were entitled to as the final arbiter upon differing doctrinal views? Certainly there is a
that same spirit of prophecy that they might edify one another. In doing difference between writing by wisdom and writing by commandment, as
so they would teach no doctrines that were out of harmony with the illustrated by the divine command to Oliver Cowdery: "If thou art led at
inspired counsel or holy writ they had already received. Still they neither any time by the Comforter to speak or teach, or at all times by the way of
individually nor collectively had the authority to write an epistle of commandment unto the church, thou mayest do it. But thou shalt not
instruction to Paul or to some other branch of the Church. Thus their spirit write by way of commandment, but by wisdom" (D&C 28:4-5).
of prophecy and revelation was subject to the prophets, the chosen Surely it is not intended that only ordained prophets write all the
vessels, who had been called of the Lord to preside over them. inspired books, poetry, plays, or music in the Church. Neither is it
Concluding his thought, Paul said, "Wherefore, brethren, covet to intended that they give all the patriarchal blessings, deliver all the
prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues [nor, it might be added, inspired addresses, teach all of the classes, or lead all of the choirs.
forbid the expression of any other spiritual gift]. Let all things be done Indeed, it may never be their lot to paint the great paintings, sculpt with
decently and in order" (1 Cor 14:39-40). inspiration, or design chapels and temples. The kingdom of God is to be
As to our own day, there are many revelations relative to built as the tabernacle in the wilderness or the temple in Jerusalem were,
proclaiming the gospel and teaching one another the doctrines of the that is, by the revelation of God as it manifests itself through a prophet,
kingdom. The revealed word tells us that the gospel and the priesthood and also a nation of artists and craftsmen. All who labor to build the
were restored so "every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, house of the Lord, be it temporal or spiritual, be it ancient or modern, are
even the Savior of the world" (D&C 1:20). As already quoted, whatever is to do so with the spirit of revelation. And it goes without saying, that as
spoken by any elder when moved upon by the Holy Ghost is scripture and the greatest of temples awaits building, so the best of books, music, art,
is the mind and will and voice of the Lord. Joseph Smith said that God and all things that testify of our God still await the day of their earthly
would not reveal anything to him that he would not reveal to the Twelve, creation.
and to the least and last Saint as soon as he was able to bear it (TPJS
149). He further declared that even those holding office in the Aaronic
Conclusion He quarried the stone from the mountain.
We will cause it to become a great mountain and fill the whole
earth (151-52).
How then have men learned of God and what they must do to
please him? From the days of Adam to our own, the only answer that can NOTES
satisfy is revelation (LF 2:13). Unless God chooses to reveal himself as he Joseph F. McConkie is professor of Ancient Scripture at Brigham Young
did to Adam and has to his other chosen vessels through the centuries, University.
men are forever without a sure and certain knowledge of him. They
would therefore be unable to exercise faith in him for they can hardly BIBLIOGRAPHY
exercise faith in uncertainty. Thus God has chosen to manifest himself McConkie, Bruce R. The Promised Messiah. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book,
and his plan for the salvation of his children to certain chosen vessels who 1978.
stand as witnesses of him in all the world. CCC-. "This Generation Shall Have My Word Through You." Hearken, O
All but Adam first learned of God by human testimony (LF Ye People. Salt Lake City: Randall Book, 1984. 3-15.
2:30-31). Thereafter it is the right of every living soul through faith and Pratt, Parley P. "Proclamation." Millennial Star (Mar 1845) 5:149-53.
obedience to obtain a personal manifestation of the verity of that Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Comp. Joseph Fielding Smith.
testimony communicated to them. Thus they stand independent and Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1976.
become the source of first testimony to others (LF 2:34).
For our day, Joseph Smith was the chosen vessel through whom
the dispensation was established and the pure knowledge of God was Footnotes
again restored to the earth. Those who listen in faith to his testimony 1. The word "generation" is used with a wide range of meanings in the
come to know by the manifestation of the spirit of prophecy and scriptures. For instance, it is used to describe an indeterminate period or
revelation that he is a competent and reliable witness and that the age, as in the declaration that the priesthood is found in the Church "in all
authority of heaven rests with him. Having obtained such a testimony, generations" (D&C 84:17), or in the Savior's statement that it is a "wicked
members then become witnesses themselves and aid in taking the and adulterous generation [that] seeketh after a sign" (Matthew 16:4).
message of the restored gospel to the ends of the earth. The spirit of this Similarly, it is used as a synonym for a dispensation, as in the statement
divinely ordained systemCoutlined in Lecture 2 and known to us in the that the Book of Mormon is given to prove that God will call prophets in
scriptures as the order of the priesthoodCis beautifully captured in Parley this "age and generation, as well as in generations of old" (D&C 20:11).
P. Pratt's poetic tribute to the Prophet Joseph Smith: By contrast it is also used to describe more limited periods, for instance,
He has organized the kingdom of GodC the time necessary for children to grow to maturity and have offspring of
We will extend its dominion. their own (see (D&C 98:28).
He has restored the fulness of the Gospel. The question in the present text is how it can confidently be
We will spread it abroad. asserted that "generation" is being used as a synonym for "dispensation,"
He has laid the foundation of Nauvoo. when it is used with a different meaning in the previous verse. Such an
We will build it up. interpretation conforms to a significant number of other texts. For
He has laid the foundation of the Temple. instance, a revelation given on the day the Church was organized directed
We will bring up the topstone with shouting. its members to "give heed" to all of Joseph Smith's words with the
He has kindled a fire. promise that the gates of hell will have no power over those who do so
We will fan the flame. and cause the heavens to shake for their good (D&C 21:6-7). Indeed, we
He has kindled up the dawn of a day of glory. are told that we are to declare the things revealed to Joseph Smith for
bring it to its meridian splendor. they are "glad tidings of great joy unto this generation" (D&C 31:3),
He was a "little one," and became a thousand. obviously meaning dispensation.
We are a small one, and will become a strong nation.
The Grandeur
These events, coupled with His
glorious Resurrection, completed the
final bridge of our trilogy: The
Bridge of Obedience, the Bridge
of Service, the Bridge of Prayer.
Jesus, the Bridge Builder, spanned
that vast chasm we call death. “For as
in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall
of God
ELDER JEFFREY R. HOLLAND
all be made alive.”17 He did for us
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
what we could not do for ourselves;
hence, mankind can cross the bridges
He built—into life eternal. In word and in deed Jesus was trying to reveal
I close by paraphrasing the poem
“The Bridge Builder”:
and make personal to us the true nature of His Father,
our Father in Heaven.
“You have crossed the chasm, deep
and wide—
Why build you the bridge at the
eventide?” in deed Jesus was trying to reveal and
make personal to us the true nature
“There followeth after me today of His Father, our Father in Heaven.
A vast throng whose feet must pass He did this at least in part because
this way. then and now all of us need to know
This chasm that has been naught God more fully in order to love Him
to me more deeply and obey Him more
To that great throng may a pitfall be. completely. As both Old and New
They too must cross in the twilight Testaments declare, “The first of all the
dim; commandments is . . . thou shalt love
Good friend, I am building the the Lord thy God with all thy heart,
bridge for them.” and with all thy soul, and with all thy
mind, and with all thy strength: this is
That we may have the wisdom and the first [and great] commandment.”1
determination to cross the bridges Little wonder then that the
the Savior built for each of us is my Prophet Joseph Smith taught: “It is
sincere prayer, in the name of Jesus the first principle of the gospel to
O
Christ, amen. ■ f the many magnificent pur- know for a certainty the character of
poses served in the life and God.” “I want you all to know Him,”
NOTES ministry of the Lord Jesus he said, “and to be familiar with
1. In James Dalton Morrison, ed., Masterpieces Christ, one great aspect of that mis- Him.”2 We must have “a correct idea
of Religious Verse (1948), 342.
2. Matthew 1:21. sion often goes uncelebrated. His of his . . . perfections, and attributes,”
3. Luke 2:40. followers did not understand it fully an admiration for “the excellency
4. Acts 10:38. at the time, and many in modern of [His] character.”3 Thus the first
5. Matthew 11:28–30.
6. Matthew 4:4. Christianity do not grasp it now, but phrase we utter in the declaration of
7. Matthew 4:7. the Savior Himself spoke of it repeat- our faith is, “We believe in God, the
8. Matthew 4:10.
9. 1 Corinthians 10:13.
edly and emphatically. It is the grand Eternal Father.”4 So, emphatically, did
10. Duke University commencement speech, truth that in all that Jesus came to say Jesus. Even as He acknowledged His
10 May 1987. and do, including and especially in own singular role in the divine plan,
11. Matthew 25:34–40.
12. Richard Evans’ Quote Book (1971), 51.
His atoning suffering and sacrifice, He the Savior nevertheless insisted on
13. D&C 19:38. was showing us who and what God this prayerful preamble: “And this is
14. Luke 22:39–44. our Eternal Father is like, how com- life eternal, that they might know
15. Luke 23:34.
16. John 19:30. pletely devoted He is to His children thee the only true God.”5
17. 1 Corinthians 15:22. in every age and nation. In word and After generations of prophets had
70
tried to teach the family of man the have seen with my Father.” “I do In reflecting on these misconcep-
will and the way of the Father, usually nothing of myself; but as my Father tions we realize that one of the
with little success, God in His ultimate hath taught me.” “I came down from remarkable contributions of the Book
effort to have us know Him, sent to heaven, not to do mine own will, but of Mormon is its seamless, perfectly
earth His Only Begotten and perfect the will of him that sent me.”7 consistent view of divinity throughout
Son, created in His very likeness and I make my own heartfelt declara- that majestic book. Here there is no
image, to live and serve among mor- tion of God our Eternal Father this Malachi-to-Matthew gap, no pause
tals in the everyday rigors of life. morning because some in the con- while we shift theological gears, no
To come to earth with such a temporary world suffer from a dis- misreading the God who is urgently,
responsibility, to stand in place of tressing misconception of Him. lovingly, faithfully at work on every
Elohim—speaking as He would Among these there is a tendency to page of that record from its Old
speak, judging and serving, loving and feel distant from the Father, even Testament beginning to its New
warning, forbearing and forgiving as estranged from Him, if they believe in Testament end. Yes, in an effort to
He would do—this is a duty of such Him at all. And if they do believe, give the world back its Bible and a
staggering proportions that you and I many moderns say they might feel correct view of Deity with it, what we
cannot comprehend such a thing. But comfortable in the arms of Jesus, but have in the Book of Mormon is a uni-
in the loyalty and determination that they are uneasy contemplating the form view of God in all His glory and
would be characteristic of a divine stern encounter of God.8 Through a goodness, all His richness and com-
child, Jesus could comprehend it and misreading (and surely, in some cases, plexity—including and especially as
He did it. Then, when the praise and a mistranslation) of the Bible, these again demonstrated through a per-
honor began to come, He humbly see God the Father and Jesus Christ sonal appearance of His Only
directed all adulation to the Father. His Son as operating very differently, Begotten Son, Jesus Christ.
“The Father . . . doeth the works,” this in spite of the fact that in both How grateful we are for all the
He said in earnest. “The Son can do the Old Testament and the New, the scriptures, especially the scriptures of
nothing of himself, but what he seeth Son of God is one and the same, act- the Restoration, that teach us the
the Father do: for what things soever ing as He always does under the majesty of each member of the
[the Father] doeth, these also doeth direction of the Father, who is Godhead. How we would thrill, for
the Son likewise.”6 On another occa- Himself the same “yesterday, today, example, if all the world would
sion He said: “I speak that which I and forever.”9 receive and embrace the view of the
NOVEMBER 2003 71
nowhere at all. Certainly that does not
describe the Being we behold through
the eyes of these prophets. Nor does it
match the living, breathing, embodied
Jesus of Nazareth who was and is in
“the brightness of his glory, and the
express image of his [Father].”13
In that sense Jesus did not come to
improve God’s view of man nearly so
much as He came to improve man’s
view of God and to plead with them
to love their Heavenly Father as He
has always and will always love them.
The plan of God, the power of God,
the holiness of God, yes, even the
anger and the judgment of God they
had occasion to understand. But the
love of God, the profound depth of
His devotion to His children, they still
did not fully know—until Christ came.
So feeding the hungry, healing the
sick, rebuking hypocrisy, pleading for
faith—this was Christ showing us the
way of the Father, He who is “merciful
Father so movingly described in the more to teach the true nature of God and gracious, slow to anger, long-
Pearl of Great Price. than any theological treatise could suffering and full of goodness.”14 In
There, in the midst of a grand vision ever convey. It also helps us under- His life and especially in His death,
of humankind which heaven opened stand much more emphatically that Christ was declaring, “This is God’s
to his view, Enoch, observing both the vivid moment in the Book of Mormon compassion I am showing you, as well
blessings and challenges of mortality, allegory of the olive tree, when after as that of my own.” In the perfect Son’s
turns his gaze toward the Father and is digging and dunging, watering and manifestation of the perfect Father’s
stunned to see Him weeping. He says weeding, trimming, pruning, trans- care, in Their mutual suffering and
in wonder and amazement to this planting, and grafting, the great Lord shared sorrow for the sins and heart-
most powerful Being in the universe: of the vineyard throws down his aches of the rest of us, we see ultimate
“How is it that thou canst weep? . . . spade and his pruning shears and meaning in the declaration: “For God
Thou art just [and] merciful and kind weeps, crying out to any who would so loved the world, that he gave his
forever; . . . Peace . . . is the habitation listen, “What could I have done more only begotten Son, that whosoever
of thy throne; and mercy shall go for my vineyard?”11 believeth in him should not perish, but
before thy face and have no end; how What an indelible image of God’s have everlasting life. For God sent not
is it thou canst weep?” engagement in our lives! What his Son into the world to condemn
Looking out on the events of almost anguish in a parent when His children the world; but that the world through
any day, God replies: “Behold these do not choose Him nor “the gospel of him might be saved.”15
thy brethren; they are the workman- God” He sent!12 How easy to love I bear personal witness this day of a
ship of mine own hands. . . . I gave someone who so singularly loves us! personal, living God, who knows our
unto them . . . [a] commandment, that Of course the centuries-long drift names, hears and answers prayers,
they should love one another, and that away from belief in such a perfect and and cherishes us eternally as children
they should choose me, their Father; caring Father hasn’t been helped any of His spirit. I testify that amidst the
but behold, they are without affection, by the man-made creeds of erring gen- wondrously complex tasks inherent in
and they hate their own blood. . . . erations which describe God variously the universe, He seeks our individual
Wherefore should not the heavens as unknown and unknowable—form- happiness and safety above all other
weep, seeing these shall suffer?”10 less, passionless, elusive, ethereal, godly concerns. We are created in His
That single, riveting scene does simultaneously everywhere and very image and likeness,16 and Jesus of
72
The Message
Nazareth, His Only Begotten Son in
the flesh, came to earth as the perfect
mortal manifestation of His grandeur.
In addition to the witness of the
ancients we also have the modern
miracle of Palmyra, the appearance of
God the Father and His Beloved Son,
the Savior of the world, to the boy
of the Restoration
ELDER CHARLES DIDIER
prophet Joseph Smith. I testify of that
Of the Presidency of the Seventy
appearance, and in the words of that
prophet I, too, declare: “Our heavenly
Father is more liberal in His views, and The message of the Restoration is [an] invitation to know
boundless in His mercies and bless-
ings, than we are ready to believe or
why the gospel of Jesus Christ and His true Church have been
receive. . . . God does not look on sin restored by a prophet in modern times.
with [the least degree of] allowance,
but . . . the nearer we get to our heav-
enly Father, the more we are disposed
to look with compassion on perishing and especially teenagers. A favorite
souls; we feel that we want to take why of one of my grandchildren:
them upon our shoulders, and cast “Why do I need to eat vegetables?”
their sins behind our backs.”17 Then, as children grow, the whys start
I bear witness of a God who has the exploration of feelings: “Why did
such shoulders. And in the spirit of Grandmother die?” Then it is the
the holy apostleship, I say as did one search for knowledge or for confirma-
who held this office anciently: “Herein tion of responsibilities: “Why do I
[then] is love, not that we loved God, need to go to church or serve a mis-
but that he loved us, and sent his Son sion?” “Why are we commanded to
to be the propitiation for our sins. share the gospel with others?”
Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought This last question is challenging!
also to love one another”18 —and to Missionary work is also the responsi-
love Him forever, I pray. In the sacred bility of every member—to sound the
name of Jesus Christ, amen. ■ warning voice to their neighbors, in
NOTES
mildness and in meekness (see D&C
1. Mark 12:29–30; see also Matthew 22:37–38; 38:41). Why? So that others may
W
Deuteronomy 6:5. ords are part of a vocabulary receive the saving ordinances in the
2. History of the Church, 6:305.
3. Lectures on Faith (1985), 38, 42. that we use to share feelings, Church of Jesus Christ by inviting
4. Articles of Faith 1:1. knowledge, or information them to come unto Christ (see
5. John 17:3. between people. Among these words, Moroni 10:32). The message of the
6. John 14:10; 5:19.
7. John 8:38, 28; 6:38. one is used to find the cause or the Restoration is this invitation to know
8. See William Barclay, The Mind of Jesus (1961), reason of a thing. When expressed, it why the gospel of Jesus Christ and His
especially the chapter “Looking at the Cross” is to satisfy our curiosity, to discover true Church have been restored by a
for a discussion of this modern tendency.
9. For example, 1 Nephi 10:18; 2 Nephi the unknown, or to receive answers prophet in modern times.
27:23; Moroni 10:19; D&C 20:12. to vital questions related to our mor- How can you extend such an invi-
10. Moses 7:29–33, 37.
11. Jacob 5:41; see also vv. 47, 49.
tal life. If not used or ignored, the tation to someone?
12. Romans 1:1. thinking process ceases and igno- First, by declaring that God our
13. Hebrews 1:3; see also 2 Corinthians 4:4; rance prevails. So what is this essen- Father lives, loves us, and that He
Colossians 1:15.
14. Lectures on Faith, 42. tial word? Did you guess it? It is is a God of revelation. How is that
15. John 3:16–17. comprised of three letters; it is the known? By revelation and the witness
16. See Genesis 1:26–27; Moses 2:26–27. word why. of prophets.
17. Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel.
Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 257, 240–41. Why is among the first and favorite The time line of religious history
18. 1 John 4:10–11. words pronounced early by children starts with the Bible. It is a record of
NOVEMBER 2003 73
Faith and Keys
iniquity, and the Zion of God should
be prepared for the coming of the
bridegroom. We should humble our-
selves before the Lord and be in a
position to be filled with the spirit of ELDER HENRY B. EYRING
our calling, with the Holy Ghost, and Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
with the revelations of Jesus Christ,
that we may know the mind and will
of God concerning us, and be pre- We have to know by inspiration that the priesthood keys
pared to magnify our calling and bring are held by those who lead and serve us. That requires
to pass righteousness, and be valiant the witness of the Spirit.
in the testimony of Jesus Christ to the
end. . . . There never was a time when
the work of God required a more
faithful testimony and labor from the will need it for courage to follow direc-
Apostles and Elders than to-day” (“An tion to serve. He will need it for the
Epistle,” Deseret News, 24 Nov. 1886, comfort that comes from trusting a
712). Make of each of your quorums a sealing power that binds forever.
great service organization for the ben- Missionaries will invite investiga-
efit of all your quorum members. tors to meet a bishop or branch presi-
Now this word of warning from the dent today with the same intent. They
scriptures: hope that the investigators will feel far
“Wherefore, now let every man more than that they have met a nice
learn his duty, and to act in the man or even a great man. They will be
office in which he is appointed, praying that the investigators will feel
in all diligence. a conviction that this apparently ordi-
“He that is slothful shall not be nary man holds priesthood keys in
counted worthy to stand, and he that the Lord’s Church. The investigators
learns not his duty and shows himself will need that conviction when they
not approved shall not be counted go into the waters of baptism. They
worthy to stand” (D&C 107:99–100). will need it when they pay tithing.
I
And so I say to you two Brethren n a chapel far from Salt Lake City, They will need that conviction when
who have joined us in our Quorum, in a place where a member of the the bishop is inspired to give them a
and to all of you brethren who belong Quorum of the Twelve rarely goes, calling. They will need it when they
to the priesthood of God, may God a father approached me. He led his see him presiding in the sacrament
bless each of us in our calls to serve. young son by the hand. As they meeting and when he nourishes them
May our faith strengthen as we serve reached me, he looked down at by teaching the gospel.
in righteousness, faithfully keeping the boy, called him by name, and And so missionaries and fathers,
the commandments. May our testi- said, nodding his head towards me, and all of us who serve others in the
monies ever grow stronger as we seek “This is an Apostle.” I could tell by the true Church, want to help those we
to find the fountain of eternal truth. sound of the father’s voice that he was love gain a lasting testimony that the
May the brotherhood that exists in hoping his son would feel more than keys of the priesthood are held by the
our quorum be of comfort and that he was meeting a dignified visitor. Lord’s servants in His Church. I speak
strength and security as we pass He hoped that his son would feel a today to encourage all who labor to
through this mortal part of our exis- conviction that priesthood keys were instill and strengthen that testimony.
tence. May the joy of gospel service on the earth in the Lord’s Church. His It will help to recognize some
ever abide in our hearts as we go for- son will need that conviction again things. First, God is persistent and
ward to fulfill our duties and responsi- and again. He will need it when he generous in offering the blessings of
bilities as servants in our Father in opens a letter from some future priesthood power to His children.
Heaven’s kingdom, is my humble prophet he has never seen calling him Second, His children must choose for
prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, to a mission. He will need it when he themselves to qualify for and receive
amen. ■ buries a child or a wife or a parent. He those blessings. And third, Satan, the
26
enemy of righteousness, has from the
beginning tried to undermine the
faith necessary to receive the bless-
ings made possible by priesthood
power.
I learned about those realities from
a wise teacher nearly 25 years ago. I
spoke in an ancient theater in
Ephesus. Bright sunlight flooded the
ground where the Apostle Paul had
stood to preach. My topic was Paul,
the Apostle called of God.
The audience was hundreds of
Latter-day Saints. They were arranged
on the rows of stone benches the
Ephesians sat upon more than a mil-
lennium before. Among them were
two living Apostles, Elder Mark E.
Petersen and Elder James E. Faust.
As you can imagine, I had prepared
carefully. I had read the Acts of the
Apostles and the Epistles, both those
of Paul and his fellow Apostles. I had
read and pondered Paul’s Epistle to
the Ephesians.
I tried my best to honor Paul and
his office. After the talk, a number of
people said kind things. Both of the
living Apostles were generous in their
comments. But later, Elder Faust took
me aside and, with a smile and with
softness in his voice, said, “That was a
good talk. But you left out the most
important thing you could have said.”
I asked him what that was. Weeks
later he consented to tell me. His Paul testified to the Ephesians that together in one all things in Christ,
answer has been teaching me ever Christ was at the head of His Church. both which are in heaven, and which
since. And he taught that the Savior built are on earth; even in him.”1
He said that I could have told the His Church on a foundation of apos- Paul looked forward to the min-
people that if the Saints who heard tles and prophets who hold all the istry of the Prophet Joseph Smith,
Paul had possessed a testimony of the keys of the priesthood. when the heavens would be opened
value and the power of the keys he Despite the clarity and the power again. It happened. John the Baptist
held, perhaps the Apostles would not of his teaching and his example, Paul came and conferred on mortals the
have had to be taken from the earth. knew that an apostasy would come. priesthood of Aaron and the keys of
That sent me back to Paul’s letter He knew that apostles and prophets the ministering of angels and of bap-
to the Ephesians. I could see that Paul would be taken from the earth. And tism by immersion for the remission
wanted the people to feel the value of he knew that they would, in some of sins.
the chain of priesthood keys reaching great, future day, be restored. He Ancient apostles and prophets
from the Lord through His Apostles wrote of that time to the Ephesians, returned and conferred upon Joseph
to them, the members of the Lord’s speaking of what the Lord would do: the keys they held in mortality. Mortal
Church. Paul was trying to build a tes- “That in the dispensation of the ful- men were ordained to the holy apos-
timony of those keys. ness of times he might gather tleship in February of 1835. Priesthood
NOVEMBER 2004 27
keys were given to the Twelve Apostles matter how far from the prophet and has called. We must be worthy of the
in the latter part of March 1844. the apostles. companionship of the Holy Ghost.
The Prophet Joseph Smith knew That is not easy today. It was not And we need to pray for the Holy
that his death was imminent. He easy in the days of Paul. It has always Ghost to help us know that men who
knew that the precious priesthood been hard to recognize in fallible lead us hold this power. For me, such
keys and the apostleship must not be human beings the authorized servants prayers are most often answered
and would not be lost again. of God. Paul must have seemed an when I am fully engaged in the Lord’s
One of the Apostles, Wilford ordinary man to many. Joseph Smith’s service myself.
Woodruff, left us this account of what cheerful disposition was seen by It happened in the aftermath of a
happened in Nauvoo as the Prophet some as not fitting their expectations disaster. A dam in Idaho broke on a
spoke to the Twelve: for a prophet of God. June day. A wall of water struck the
“On that occasion the Prophet Satan will always work on the communities below it. Thousands of
Joseph rose up and said to us: Saints of God to undermine their faith people, mostly Latter-day Saints, fled
‘Brethren, I have desired to live to in priesthood keys. One way he does their homes to go to safety.
see this temple built. I shall never live it is to point out the humanity of I was there as the people faced the
to see it, but you will. I have sealed those who hold them. He can in that terrible task of recovery. I saw the
upon your heads all the keys of the way weaken our testimony and so cut stake president gather his bishops to
kingdom of God. I have sealed upon us loose from the line of keys by lead the people. We were cut off in
you every key, power, principle that which the Lord ties us to Him and can those first days from any supervision
the God of heaven has revealed to take us and our families home to Him from outside. I was in the meeting of
me. Now, no matter where I may go and to our Heavenly Father. local leaders when a director from the
or what I may do, the kingdom rests Satan succeeded in undermining federal disaster agency arrived.
upon you.’ ”2 the testimony of men who had, with He tried to take over the meeting.
Every prophet that followed Joseph Smith, seen the heavens With great force he began to list the
Joseph, from Brigham Young to opened and heard the voices of things that he said needed to be
President Hinckley, has held and exer- angels. The evidence of their physical done. As he read aloud each item, the
cised those keys and has held the eyes and ears was not enough when stake president, who was sitting near
sacred apostleship. they no longer could feel the testi- him, said quietly, “We’ve already done
But just as in the time of Paul, the mony that the priesthood keys were that.” After that went on for five or
power of those priesthood keys for us still in place with Joseph. ten minutes, the federal official grew
requires our faith. We have to know The warning for us is plain. If we silent and sat down. He listened qui-
by inspiration that the priesthood look for human frailty in humans, we etly as the stake president took
keys are held by those who lead and will always find it. When we focus on reports from the bishops and gave
serve us. That requires the witness of finding the frailties of those who hold directions.
the Spirit. priesthood keys, we run risks for our- For the meeting the next day, the
And that depends upon our testi- selves. When we speak or write to federal disaster official arrived early.
mony that Jesus is the Christ and that others of such frailties, we put them He sat toward the back. The stake
He lives and leads His Church. We at risk. president began the meeting. He took
must also know for ourselves that the We live in a world where finding more reports, and he gave instruc-
Lord restored His Church and the fault in others seems to be the tions. After a few minutes, the federal
priesthood keys through the Prophet favorite blood sport. It has long been official, who had come with all the
Joseph Smith. And we must have an the basis of political campaign strat- authority and resources of his great
assurance through the Holy Ghost, egy. It is the theme of much television agency, said, “President Ricks, what
refreshed often, that those keys have programming across the world. It would you like us to do?”
been passed without interruption to sells newspapers. Whenever we He recognized power. I saw more.
the living prophet and that the Lord meet anyone, our first, almost un- I recognized the evidence of keys and
blesses and directs His people conscious reaction may be to look the faith that unlocks their power.
through the line of priesthood keys for imperfections. It happened again when a man and
which reaches down through presi- To keep ourselves grounded in the his wife arrived back in town just after
dents of stakes and of districts and Lord’s Church, we can and must train the dam had broken. They didn’t go
through bishops and branch presi- our eyes to recognize the power of to their home. They went first to find
dents to us, wherever we are and no the Lord in the service of those He their bishop. He was covered in mud,
28
leading his members in mucking out citizens in the Lord’s kingdom, united spiritual assurance will come peace
homes. They asked what he would in loving bonds. and power. You will know again that
have them do. That happy condition will not last this is the Lord’s true and living
They went to work. Much later, without a constant renewal of faith. Church, that He leads it through His
they took a few minutes to check on The bishop we love will be released, as ordained servants, and that He cares
their own house. It was gone. So they will the stake president. The Apostles about us.
went back to work wherever their we followed in faith will be taken If enough of us exercise that faith
bishop asked them to help. They home to the God who called them. and receive those assurances, God
knew where to go to get the Lord’s With those continual changes will lift up those who lead us and so
direction for service in His Church. comes a great opportunity. We can bless our lives and our families. We
I learned then as I have since how act to qualify for the revelation that will become what Paul so wanted for
the stakes of Zion become places of allows us to know that the keys are those he served: “built upon the foun-
safety. They become like a great family, being passed by God from one per- dation of the apostles and prophets,
united, caring for each other. It comes son to another. We can seek to have Jesus Christ himself being the chief
by simple faith. that experience again and again. And corner stone.”3
By faith they are baptized and we must, in order to receive the bless- I testify, I know that Jesus Christ is
receive the Holy Ghost. As they con- ings God has for us and wants us to our Savior and that He lives. I know
tinue to keep the commandments, offer to others. that He is the rock upon which this,
that gift becomes constant. They can The answer to your prayer is not His true Church, stands. In the name
recognize spiritual things. It becomes likely to be as dramatic as it was of Jesus Christ, amen. ■
easier to see the power of God work- when some saw Brigham Young, as NOTES
ing through the common people God he spoke, take on the appearance 1. Ephesians 1:10.
2. “The Keys of the Kingdom,” Liahona, Apr.
calls to serve and lead them. Hearts of the martyred Prophet Joseph. 2004, 42; Ensign, Apr. 2004, 30.
are softened. Strangers become fellow But it can be as sure. And with that 3. Ephesians 2:20.
NOVEMBER 2004 29
Lecture 3 of man, the things which God hath prepared for them
that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by
ON FAITH his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the
deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things
1. In the second lecture we showed how the knowledge of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even
of the existence of God came into the world and by so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of
what means the first thoughts were suggested to the God" (1 Cor 2:9-11).
minds of men that such a being did actually exist. We
also showed that it was by reason of the knowledge of 8. Having said so much, we proceed to examine the
his existence that there was a foundation laid for the character which the revelations give of God.
exercise of faith in him as the only being in whom faith
could center for life and salvation. For faith could not 9. Moses gives us the following account in Exodus: "And
center in a being of whose existence we had no idea, the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The
because the idea of his existence, in the first instance, is Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering,
essential to the exercise of faith in him. "How then shall and abundant in goodness and truth" (Ex 34:6). "The
they call on him in whom they have not believed? and Lord executeth righteousness and judgment for all that
how shall they believe in him of whom they have not are oppressed. He made known his ways unto Moses,
heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" (or his acts unto the children of Israel. The Lord is merciful
one sent to tell them?) (Rom 10:14). So, then, faith and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy"
comes by hearing the word of God. (Ps 103:6-8). "But the mercy of the Lord is from
everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and
2. Let us here observe that three things are necessary his righteousness unto children's children; to such as
for any rational and intelligent being to exercise faith in keep his covenant, and to those that remember his
God unto life and salvation. commandments to do them" (Ps 103:17-18). "Before
the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst
3. First, the idea that he actually exists; formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting
to everlasting, thou art God" (Ps 90:2). "And, Thou,
4. Secondly, a correct idea of his character, perfections, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the
and attributes; earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:
They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall
5. Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life wax old as doth a garment; and as a vesture shalt thou
which one is pursuing is according to His will. For fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art
without an acquaintance with these three important the same, and thy years shall not fail" (Heb 1:10-12).
facts, the faith of every rational being must be imperfect "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,
and unproductive. But with this understanding, it can and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom
become perfect and fruitful, abounding in righteousness is no variableness, neither shadow of turning" (James
unto the praise and glory of God the Father and the 1:17). "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye
Lord Jesus Christ. sons of Jacob are not consumed" (Mal 3:6).
6. Having previously shown the way that both the idea 10. "For God doth not walk in crooked paths; neither
and the fact of his existence came into the world, we doth he turn to the right hand nor the left; neither doth
shall proceed to examine his character, perfections, and he vary from that which he hath said: therefore his
attributes, so this class may see not only the just paths are strait and his course is one eternal round"
grounds which they have to exercise faith in him for life (Book of Commandments 2:1; D&C 3:2). "Listen to the
and salvation, but the reasons that all the world, also, voice of the Lord your God, even Alpha and Omega, the
may have to exercise faith in him, the Father of all beginning and the end, whose course is one eternal
living, as far as the idea of his existence extends. round, the same today as yesterday and forever" (Book
of Commandments 37:1; D&C 35:1).
7. As we are indebted for the idea of his existence to a
revelation which God made of himself to his creatures, 11. "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the
in the first instance, so in like manner we are indebted son of man, that he should repent" (Num 23:19). "He
to the revelations which he has given to us for a correct that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love" (1
understanding of his character, perfections, and John 4:8). "Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of
attributes. Because without the revelations which he has a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
given to us, no man by searching could find out God But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh
(see Job 11:7-9). "But as it is written, Eye hath not righteousness, is accepted with him" (Acts 10:34-35).
seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart
12. From the foregoing testimonies, we learn the 13. First, he was God before the world was created, and
following things respecting the character of God: the same God he was after it was created.
14. Secondly, he is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, 22. And again, the idea that he is a God of truth and
abundant in goodness, and he was so from everlasting, cannot lie is equally as necessary to the exercise of faith
and will be to everlasting. in him as is the idea of his unchangeableness. For
without the idea that he is a God of truth and cannot lie,
15. Thirdly, he does not change, neither does he vary; men could not have the confidence in his word
but he is the same from everlasting to everlasting, being necessary to exercise faith in him. But having the idea
the same yesterday, today, and forever; and his course that he is not a man who can lie gives power to the
is one eternal round, without variation. minds of men to exercise faith in him.
16. Fourthly, he is a God of truth and cannot lie. 23. But it is also necessary that men should have an
idea that God is no respecter of persons, for with the
17. Fifthly, he is no respecter of persons; but in every idea of all the other excellencies in his character, and
nation he that fears God and works righteousness is this one wanting, men could not exercise faith in him.
accepted of him. Because if he were a respecter of persons, they could
not tell what their privileges were, nor how far they
18. Sixthly, he is love. were authorized to exercise faith in him, or whether
they were authorized to do it at all. All must be
19. An acquaintance with these attributes in the divine confusion. But no sooner are the minds of men made
character is essential so the faith of any rational being acquainted with the truth on this point, that he is no
can center in him for life and salvation. For if, in the first respecter of persons, than they see that they have
instance, he did not believe him to be God, that is, the authority by faith to lay hold on eternal life, the richest
creator and upholder of all things, he could not center boon of heaven, because God is no respecter of
his faith in him for life and salvation, for fear there persons, and every man in every nation has an equal
should be a greater one than he who would thwart all privilege.
his plans, and he, like the gods of the heathen, would
be unable to fulfil his promises. But seeing he is God 24. And lastly, but not less important to the exercise of
over all, from everlasting to everlasting, the creator and faith in God, is the idea that he is love. For without this
upholder of all things, no such fear can exist in the one characteristic to influence all the other excellencies
minds of those who put their trust in him, so that in this in his character, they could not have such powerful
respect their faith can be unwavering. dominion over the minds of men. But when the idea is
planted in the mind that he is love, who cannot see the
20. But secondly, unless God was merciful and gracious, just ground that men of every nation, kindred, and
slow to anger, long-suffering and full of goodness, such tongue have to exercise faith in God so as to obtain
is the weakness of human nature and so great the eternal life?
frailties and imperfections of men that unless they
believed that these excellencies existed in the divine 25. From the above description of the character of the
character, they could not have the faith necessary to Deity which is given him in the revelations to men, there
salvation. For doubt would take the place of faith, and is a sure foundation for the exercise of faith in him
those who know their weakness and liability to sin among every people, nation, and kindred, from age to
would be in constant doubt of salvation if it were not for age, and from generation to generation.
the idea which they have of the excellency of the
character of God, that he is slow to anger, 26. Let us here observe that the foregoing is the
long-suffering, and of a forgiving disposition, and does character which is given of God in his revelations to the
forgive iniquity, transgression, and sin. Having an idea Former-day Saints, and it is also the character which is
of these facts does away with doubt and makes faith given of him in his revelations to the Latter-day Saints.
exceedingly strong. So the Saints of former days and those of latter days are
both alike in this respect: the Latter-day Saints have as
21. But in order to have faith in him, it is equally as good grounds to exercise faith in God as the Former-day
necessary that men should have the idea that he is a Saints had, because the same character is given of him
God who does not change as it is to have the idea that to both.
he is gracious and long-suffering. For without the idea
of unchangeableness in the character of the Deity,
doubt would take the place of faith. But with the idea
that he does not change, faith lays hold upon the
excellencies in his character with unshaken confidence,
believing he is the same yesterday, today, and forever,
and that his course is one eternal round.
Lecture 4 5. First, knowledge. "Known unto God are all his
works from the beginning of the world" (Acts
ON FAITH
15:18). "Remember the former things of old: for I
am God, and there is none else; I am God, and
1. We showed in the third lecture that it is
there is none like me, declaring the end from the
necessary to have correct ideas of the character of
beginning, and from ancient times the things that
God to exercise faith in him unto life and salvation,
are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand,
and that without correct ideas of his character, the
and I will do all my pleasure" (Isa 46:9-10;
minds of men could not have sufficient power with
emphasis in 1835).
God to exercise the faith necessary to enjoy eternal
life. But having correct ideas of his character lays a
6. Secondly, faith or power. "Through faith we
foundation, as far as his character is concerned, for
understand that the worlds were framed by the
the exercise of faith so as to enjoy the fulness of
word of God" (Heb 11:3). "In the beginning God
the blessing of the gospel of Jesus Christ, even that
created the heaven and the earth" (Gen 1:1). "The
of eternal glory. We shall now proceed to show the
Lord of hosts hath sworn, saying, Surely as I have
connection between having correct ideas of the
thought, so shall it come to pass; and as I have
attributes of God and exercising faith in him unto
purposed, so shall it stand. . . . For the Lord of
eternal life.
hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul it? and
his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it
2. Let us here observe that the real design which
back?" (Isa 14:24, 27).
the God of heaven had in view in making the
human family acquainted with his attributes was
7. Thirdly, justice. "Justice and judgment are the
that they might be enabled to exercise faith in him
habitation of thy throne" (Ps 89:14). "Tell ye, and
through the idea of the existence of his attributes,
bring them near; yea, let them take counsel
and through exercising faith in him, might obtain
together: who hath declared this from ancient time?
eternal life. For without the idea of the existence of
. . . have not I the Lord? and there is no God else
the attributes which belong to God, the minds of
beside me; a just God and a Saviour" (Isa 45:21).
men could not have power to exercise faith in him
"The just Lord is in the midst thereof" (Zeph 3:5).
so as to lay hold upon eternal life. The God of
"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O
heaven, understanding most perfectly the
daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh
constitution of human nature and the weakness of
unto thee: he is just, and having salvation" (Zech
men, knew what was necessary to be revealed and
9:9).
what ideas needed to be planted in their minds to
enable them to exercise faith in him unto eternal
8. Fourthly, judgment. "Justice and judgment are
life.
the habitation of thy throne" (Ps 89:14). "He is the
Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are
3. Having said so much, we shall proceed to
judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just
examine the attributes of God as set forth in his
and right is he" (Deut 32:4). "But the Lord shall
revelations to the human family and to show how
endure for ever: he hath prepared his throne for
necessary having correct ideas of his attributes is to
judgment" (Ps 9:7). "The Lord is known by the
enable men to exercise faith in him. For without
judgment which he executeth" (Ps 9:16).
these ideas being planted in the minds of men, it
would be out of the power of any person or persons
9. Fifthly, mercy. "Mercy and truth shall go before
to exercise faith in God so as to obtain eternal life.
thy face" (Ps 89:14). "And the Lord passed by
Consequently, the divine communications made to
before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord
men, in the first instance, were designed to
God, merciful and gracious" (Ex 34:6). "But thou art
establish in their minds the ideas necessary to
a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful" (Neh
enable them to exercise faith in God, and through
9:17).
this means to be partakers of his glory.
10. And sixthly, truth. "Mercy and truth shall go
4. We have the following account of his attributes in
before thy face" (Ps 89:14). "Longsuffering, and
the revelations which he has given to the human
abundant in goodness and truth" (Ex 34:6). "He is
family:
the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are
judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just
and right is he" (Deut 32:4). "Into thine hand I 14. It is also of equal importance that men should
commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O Lord have the idea of the existence of the attribute
God of truth" (Ps 31:5). judgment in God, so they may exercise faith in him
for life and salvation. For without the idea of the
11. A little reflection shows that the idea of the existence of this attribute in the Deity, it would be
existence of these attributes in the Deity is impossible for men to exercise faith in him for life
necessary to enable any rational being to exercise and salvation, seeing that it is through the exercise
faith in him. For without the idea of the existence of of this attribute that the faithful in Christ Jesus are
these attributes in the Deity, men could not delivered out of the hands of those who seek their
exercise faith in him for life and salvation, seeing destruction. For if God were not to come out in
that without the knowledge of all things God would swift judgment against the workers of iniquity and
not be able to save any portion of his creatures. For the powers of darkness, his saints could not be
it is the knowledge which he has of all things from saved; for it is by judgment that the Lord delivers
the beginning to the end that enables him to give his saints out of the hands of all their enemies and
that understanding to his creatures by which they those who reject the gospel of our Lord Jesus
are made partakers of eternal life. And if it were not Christ. But no sooner is the idea of the existence of
for the idea existing in the minds of men that God this attribute planted in the minds of men than it
has all knowledge, it would be impossible for them gives power to their minds for the exercise of faith
to exercise faith in him. and confidence in God. They are thus enabled by
faith to lay hold on the promises which are set
12. And it is not less necessary that men should before them and to wade through all the
have the idea of the existence of the attribute tribulations and afflictions to which they are
power in the Deity. For unless God had power over subjected by reason of the persecution from those
all things, and was able by his power to control all who know not God and obey not the gospel of our
things and thereby deliver his creatures who put Lord Jesus Christ. They believe that in due time the
their trust in him from the power of all beings that Lord will come out in swift judgment against their
might seek their destruction, whether in heaven, on enemies, who shall be cut off from before him, and
earth, or in hell, men could not be saved. But with that in his own due time he will bear them off
the idea of the existence of this attribute planted in conquerors, and more than conquerors, in all
the mind, men who put their trust in God feel as things.
though they have nothing to fear, believing that he
has power to save all who come to him to the very 15. And again, it is equally important that men
uttermost. should have the idea of the existence of the
attribute mercy in the Deity in order to exercise
13. It is also necessary that men should have the faith in him for life and salvation. For without the
idea of the existence of the attribute justice in God idea of the existence of this attribute in the Deity,
in order to exercise faith in him unto life and the spirits of the Saints would faint in the midst of
salvation. For without the idea of the existence of the tribulations, afflictions, and persecutions which
the attribute justice in the Deity, men could not they have to endure for righteousness' sake. But
have confidence sufficient to place themselves when the idea of the existence of this attribute is
under his guidance and direction. For they would be once established in the mind, it gives life and
filled with fear and doubt lest the Judge of all the energy to the spirit of the Saints, who believe then
earth would not do right, and thus fear or doubt that the mercy of God will be poured out upon them
existing in the mind would preclude the possibility in the midst of their afflictions, and that he will be
of the exercise of faith in him for life and salvation. compassionate to them in their sufferings, and that
But when the idea of the existence of the attribute the mercy of God will lay hold of them and secure
justice in the Deity is fairly planted in the mind, it them in the arms of his love, so that they will
leaves no room for doubt to get into the heart; and receive a full reward for all their sufferings.
the mind is enabled to cast itself upon the Almighty
without fear, and without doubt, and with the most 16. And lastly, but not less important to the
unshaken confidence, believing that the Judge of all exercise of faith in God, is the idea of the existence
the earth will do right. of the attribute truth in him. For without the idea of
the existence of this attribute, the mind of man
could have nothing upon which it could rest with
certainty: all would be confusion and doubt. But 18. In view, then, of the existence of these
with the idea of the existence of this attribute in the attributes, the faith of the Saints can become
Deity in the mind, all the teachings, instructions, exceedingly strong, abounding in righteousness
promises, and blessings become realities. And the unto the praise and glory of God. And it can exert
mind is enabled to lay hold of them with certainty its mighty influence in searching after wisdom and
and confidence, believing that these things and all understanding, until it has obtained a knowledge of
that the Lord has said shall be fulfilled in their time, all things that pertain to life and salvation.
and that all the cursings, denunciations, and
judgments pronounced upon the heads of the 19. Such, then, is the foundation which is laid for
unrighteous will also be executed in the due time of the exercise of faith in him for life and salvation
the Lord. By reason of the truth and veracity of him, through the revelation of the attributes of God. And
the mind beholds its deliverance and salvation as seeing that these attributes of the Deity are
being certain. unchangeableCbeing the same yesterday, today,
and foreverCgives to the minds of the Latter-day
17. Let the mind once reflect sincerely and candidly Saints the same power and authority to exercise
upon the ideas of the existence of the faith in God which the Former-day Saints had. All
before-mentioned attributes in the Deity, and it will the Saints, in this respect, have been, are, and will
see that there is a sure foundation laid for the be alike until the end of time; for God never
exercise of faith in him for life and salvation as far changes. Therefore, his attributes and character
as his attributes are concerned. For inasmuch as remain forever the same. And as it is through the
God possesses the attribute knowledge, he can revelation of these attributes that a foundation is
make all things known to his saints that are laid for the exercise of faith in God unto life and
necessary for their salvation. And as he possesses salvation, the foundation for the exercise of faith,
the attribute power, he is able thereby to deliver therefore, was, is, and ever will be, the same.
them from the power of all enemies. Seeing, also, Consequently all men have had and will have an
that justice is an attribute of the Deity, he will deal equal privilege.
with them upon the principles of righteousness and
equity, and will grant them a just reward for all
their afflictions and sufferings for the truth's sake.
And as judgment is an attribute of the Deity, also,
his saints can have the most unshaken confidence
that, in due time, they will obtain a perfect
deliverance out of the hands of all their enemies
and a complete victory over all those who have
sought their hurt and destruction. And as mercy is
also an attribute of the Deity, his saints can have
confidence that it will be exercised towards them,
and through the exercise of that attribute towards
them comfort and consolation will be administered
unto them abundantly, amid all their afflictions and
tribulations. Lastly, realizing that truth is an
attribute of the Deity, the mind is led to rejoice
amid all its trials and temptations in hope of that
glory which is to be brought at the revelation of
Jesus Christ. It will do this in view of that crown
which is to be placed upon the heads of the Saints
in the day when the Lord shall distribute rewards
unto them, and in prospect of that eternal weight of
glory which the Lord has promised to bestow upon
them when he shall bring them in the midst of his
throne to dwell in his presence eternally.
Chapter 20 away doubt, and makes faith exceedingly strong." (Lectures
Faith and the Nature of God on Faith 3:20.)
(Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of Faith, 171-184)
3. God is an unchangeable being.
The Character of God The teaching proclaimed in the School of the
Prophets was: "He changes not, neither is there variableness
What is the nature and character of God? What kind
with him; but . . . he is the same from everlasting to
and sort of being is he? What is his position, rank, and status,
everlasting, being the same yesterday, to-day, and for ever;
and as the Supreme Being, what qualities does he possess?
and . . . his course is one eternal round, without variation."
His character as set forth in the revealed word is
(Lectures on Faith 3:15.) To this, the concurring voice of
summarized by the Prophet under six headings:
scripture attests: "God doth not walk in crooked paths,
neither doth he turn to the right hand nor to the left, neither
1. God is an eternal being.
doth he vary from that which he hath said, therefore his
"He was God before the world was created, and the
paths are straight, and his course is one eternal round."
same God that he was after it was created." (Lectures on
(D&C 3:2.) The scriptures acclaim that he is a being "with
Faith 3:17.) "Before the mountains were brought forth, or
whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning" (James
ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from
1:17) and that his "course is one eternal round, the same
everlasting to everlasting, thou art God." (Psalm 90:2.)
today as yesterday, and forever" (D&C 35:1).
This attribute of the divine character is the basic
From these basic gospel truisms, our prophet-
foundation upon which faith rests, "for if [man] did not, in the
prepared source material concludes: "It is equally as
first instance, believe him to be God, that is, the Creator and
necessary that men should have the idea that he is a God
upholder of all things, he could not center his faith in him for
who changes not, in [page 173] order to have faith in him, as
life and salvation, for fear there should be greater than he
it is to have the idea that he is gracious and long-suffering; for
who would thwart all his plans, and he, like the gods of the
without the idea of unchangeableness in the character of the
heathen, would be unable to fulfill his promises; but seeing he
Deity, doubt would take the place of faith. But with the idea
is God over all, from everlasting to everlasting, the Creator
that he changes not, faith lays hold upon the excellencies in
and upholder of all things, no such fear can exist in the minds
his character with unshaken confidence, believing he is the
of those who put their trust in him, so that in this respect
same yesterday, to-day, and forever, and that his course is
their faith can be without wavering." (Lectures on Faith 3:19.)
one eternal round." (Lectures on Faith 3:21.)
2. God is merciful and gracious.
4. God is truthful.
Joseph Smith taught: "He is merciful and gracious,
What a simple yet wondrous truth this is. "God is
slow to anger, abundant in goodness, and . . . he was so from
not a man, that he should lie." (Numbers 23:19.) "He is a
everlasting, and will be to everlasting." (Lectures on Faith
God of truth and cannot lie." (Lectures on Faith 3:22.) God
3:14.) To Moses Deity said of himself: "The Lord, the Lord
tells the truth! "Thy word," O God, "is truth." (John 17:17.)
God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in
And from this basic verity comes this conclusion relative to
goodness and [page 172] truth." (Exodus 34:6.) In the
faith: "The idea that he is a God of truth and cannot lie, is
Psalmic word we read: "The Lord executeth righteousness
equally as necessary to the exercise of faith in him as the idea
and judgment for all that are oppressed. . . . The Lord is
of his unchangeableness. For without the idea that he was a
merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
God of truth and could not lie, the confidence necessary to
. . . The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting
be placed in his word in order to the exercise of faith in him
upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto
children's children; to such as keep his covenant, and to could not exist. But having the idea that he is not man, that
he cannot lie, it gives power to the minds of men to exercise
those that remember his commandments to do them."
(Psalm 103:6, 8, 17-18.) faith in him." (Lectures on Faith 3:22.)
The relationship of these elements in the character
5. God is impartial.
of Deity to faith and the salvation that flows therefrom is set
"He is no respecter of persons; but in every nation
forth in these words: "Unless he was merciful and gracious,
he that fears God and works righteousness is accepted of
slow to anger, long-suffering and full of goodness, such is the
him." (Lectures on Faith 3:17.) These words are but a
weakness of human nature, and so great the frailties and
restatement of what Peter said in the house of Cornelius.
imperfections of men, that unless they believed that these
(Acts 10:34-35.) And Paul said simply: "There is no respect of
excellencies existed in the divine character, the faith
persons with God." (Romans 2:11.)
necessary to salvation could not exist; for doubt would take
As to gaining faith in God, the conclusion is: In
the place of faith, and those who know their weakness and
addition to all other aspects of his character, "it is also
liability to sin would be in constant doubt of salvation if it
necessary that men should have an idea that he is no
were not for the idea which they have of the excellency of
respecter of persons, for with the idea of all the other
the character of God, that he is slow to anger and long-
excellencies in his character, and this one wanting, men could
suffering, and of a forgiving disposition, and does forgive
not exercise faith in him; because if he were a respecter of
iniquity, transgression, and sin. An idea of these facts does
persons, they could not tell what their privileges were, nor connection there is between correct ideas of the attributes
how far they were authorized to exercise faith in him, or of God, and the exercise of faith in him unto eternal life."
whether they were authorized to do it at all, but all must be A correct understanding of the attributes of
confusion; but no sooner are the minds of men made God—how eternally important this is to the gaining of faith
acquainted with the truth on this point, that he is no and salvation! "Let us here observe," the powerful word
respecter of persons, than they see that they have authority continues, "that the real design which the God of heaven had
by [page 174] faith to lay hold on eternal life, the richest in view in making the human family acquainted with his
boon of heaven, because God is no respecter of persons, and attributes, was, that they, through the ideas of the existence
that every man in every nation has an equal privilege." of his attributes, might be enabled to exercise faith in him,
(Lectures on Faith 3:23.) and, through the exercise of faith in him, might obtain eternal
life; for without the idea of the existence of the attributes
6. God is a loving being. which belong to God the minds of men could not have
"He is love." (Lectures on Faith 3:18.) As to this power to exercise faith on him so as to lay hold upon eternal
attribute in his character, John says: "He that loveth not life."
knoweth not God; for God is love." (1 John 4:8.) Such wondrous gifts as faith and eternal life are not
And in setting forth the relationship between this bestowed upon unworthy recipients. Man must prepare and
element of his character and the acquiring of faith in Deity, qualify himself to receive them. "The God of heaven,
the Prophet taught: "Not less important to the exercise of understanding most perfectly the constitution of human
faith in God," than all the other attributes in his character, "is nature, and the weakness of man, knew what was necessary
the idea that he is love; for with all the other excellencies in to be revealed, and what ideas must be planted in their
his character, without this one to influence them, they could minds in order that they might be enabled to exercise faith in
not have such powerful dominion over the minds of men; but him unto eternal life. Having said so much, we shall proceed
when the idea is planted in the mind that he is love, who to examine the attributes of God, as set forth in his
cannot see the just ground that men of every nation, kindred, revelations to the human family," the Prophet continues, "and
and tongue have to exercise faith in God so as to obtain to show how necessary correct ideas of his attributes are to
eternal life?" (Lectures on Faith 3:24.) enable men to exercise faith in him; for without these ideas
Having thus summarized the teachings of God's being planted in the minds of men it would be out of the
greatest latter-day prophet relative to the character of God, power of any person or persons to exercise faith in God so
we need only set forth his general conclusion with reference as to obtain eternal life. So that the divine communications
thereto. It is: "An acquaintance with these attributes in the made to men in the first instance were designed to establish
divine character, is essentially necessary, in order that the in their minds the ideas necessary to enable them to exercise
faith of any rational being can center in him for life and faith in God, and through this means to be partakers of his
salvation." And further: A knowledge "of the character of the glory." (Lectures on Faith 4:1-3.) [page 176]
Deity," as thus set forth, "is a sure foundation for the exercise The chief attributes of God are many; they include
of faith in him among every people, nation, and kindred, from every godly and uplifting quality. The Prophet Joseph Smith
age to age, and from generation to generation." (Lectures on chose the six chief ones to show the relationship between
Faith 3:19, 25.) faith and a knowledge of the attributes of God. We shall
name these six and show how and why a correct
The Attributes of God understanding of each one must be gained in order to have
The character of God and his attributes are all faith unto life and salvation. They are:
interwoven to form one grand tapestry. His attributes are
the qualities of his character. They are the elements of 1. Knowledge.
character that are attributed or ascribed to him in the Does God know all things? He does. Is there
revealed word; they are the elements that are inherent in his anything he does not know? There is not. Is he progressing in
person, as, for instance, that he is merciful. knowledge and learning new truths? He is not. He is not a
After teaching the true doctrine as to the character student God. His knowledge and Supremacy are not limited
of God, and by way of introduction to his teachings about the to a sphere or realm beyond which there are higher spheres
attributes of Deity, the Prophet Joseph Smith laid this and greater realms. He is an Eternal God, an infinite being, an
foundation: "Having shown . . . that correct ideas of the omniscient man, one in whose person all knowledge, all
character of God [page 175] are necessary in order to the power, and all truth center.
exercise of faith in him unto life and salvation," he said, "and Be it remembered: He created the universe; the
that without correct ideas of his character the minds of men sidereal heavens are the works of his hands; all things,
could not have sufficient power with God to the exercise of animate and inanimate, life in all its forms and varieties, life
faith necessary to the enjoyment of eternal life; and that on all worlds, all things exist and are governed by him.
correct ideas of his character lay a foundation, as far as his Envision worlds without number; think of earths more
character is concerned, for the exercise of faith, so as to numerous than the particles of dust on this planet and on
enjoy the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Jesus Christ, millions of other like spheres: all this is but a beginning to the
even that of eternal glory; we shall now proceed to show the number of his creations. And he has given a law unto all
things. Need anyone be foolish enough to suppose that such doubt, existing in the mind, would preclude the possibility of
a being does not know all things and have all power? the exercise of faith in him for life and salvation. But when
A belief that there is or might be another being the idea of the existence of the attribute justice in the Deity
greater and more powerful than God of itself precludes the is fairly planted in [page 178] the mind, it leaves no room for
exercise of full faith in him. And so Joseph Smith taught: doubt to get into the heart, and the mind is enabled to cast
"Without the knowledge of all things God would not be able itself upon the Almighty without fear and without doubt, and
to save any portion of his creatures; for it is by reason of the with most unshaken confidence, believing that the Judge of
knowledge which he has of all things, from the beginning to all the earth will do right." (Lectures on Faith 4:13.)
the end, that enables him to give that understanding to his
creatures by which they are made partakers of eternal life; 4. Judgment.
and if it were not for the idea existing in the minds of men "It is also of equal importance that men should have
that God had all knowledge it would be impossible for them the idea of the existence of the attribute of judgment in God,
to exercise faith in him." (Lectures on Faith 4:11.) in order that they may exercise faith in him for life and
salvation." As with justice, so with judgment, the whole tone
2. Faith or power. and tenor of holy writ attests that "the Lord is a God of
It is with faith or power as it is with knowledge. God judgment." (Isaiah 30:18.) Judgment consists in the power to
himself is the very embodiment of this attribute. His infinite arrive at a wise and righteous decision and in the execution
knowledge gives him infinite power. None can stay his hand. of that decision, to the blessing of the righteous and the
[page 177] condemnation of the wicked. In its perfect form, judgment is
There is nothing greater to create than one universe the very decree and mandate and sentence of that God who
upon another with all the forms of life found in them. What is judge of all.
laws require more power than those that govern worlds and And "without the idea of the existence of this
spheres and all forms of life? God himself is the Author of it attribute in the Deity, it would be impossible for men to
all. Unless men know that God has all power (which power exercise faith in him for life and salvation, seeing that it is
is itself faith), it is not possible for them to exercise faith in through the exercise of this attribute that the faithful in
him unto life and salvation. The reasoning is as follows: Christ Jesus are delivered out of the hands of those who
"Unless God had power over all things, and was able by his seek their destruction; for if God were not to come out in
power to control all things, and thereby deliver his creatures swift judgment against the workers of iniquity and the
who put their trust in him from the power of all beings that powers of darkness, his saints could not be saved; for it is by
might seek their destruction, whether in heaven, on earth, judgment that the Lord delivers his saints out of the hands of
or in hell, men could not be saved." Salvation comes by all their enemies, and those who reject the gospel of our
power; it is the power of God that brings to pass the Lord Jesus Christ." How perfect the Prophet's reasoning is!
immortality and eternal life of man, and the very gospel of What effect does it have on the minds and acts of
salvation is defined as the power of God unto salvation. "But men when they come to know that judgment is an attribute
with the idea of the existence of this attribute [power or of God? "No sooner is the idea of the existence of this
faith] planted in the mind, men feel as though they had attribute planted in the minds of men," the reasoning
nothing to fear who put their trust in God, believing that he continues, "than it gives power to the mind for the exercise
has power to save all who come to him to the very of faith and confidence in God, and they are enabled by faith
uttermost." (Lectures on Faith 4:12.) to lay hold on the promises which are set before them, and
wade through all the tribulations and afflictions to which they
3. Justice. are subjected by reason of the persecution from those who
"It is also necessary, in order to the exercise of faith know not God, and obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus
in God unto life and salvation, that men should have the idea Christ, believing that in due time the Lord will come out in
of the existence of the attribute justice in him." That which is swift judgment against their enemies, and they shall be cut
just is right and proper. It is true; it conforms to spiritual law; off from before him, and that in his own [page 179] due time
it is righteous before God. Justice is the administration and he will bear them off conquerors, and more than
the maintenance of that which is just and right. Justice, conquerors, in all things." (Lectures on Faith 4:14.)
therefore, deals with the unbending, invariable results that
always and ever flow from the same causes. Fairness, 5. Mercy.
impartiality, perfect rectitude, complete integrity, Along with the other attributes of his character, "it is
righteousness itself—all of these are inherent in justice. The equally important that men should have the idea of the
whole tenor of the scriptures is that God is just and that existence of the attribute mercy in the Deity, in order to
justice and judgment are the habitation of his throne. exercise faith in him for life and salvation." God is merciful.
And "without the idea of the existence of the "His mercy endureth for ever." (Psalm 106:1.) He is
attribute justice in the Deity men could not have confidence compassionate. His compassion knows no bounds. His mercy
sufficient to place themselves under his guidance and is manifest in a divine forbearance, on certain specified
direction; for they would be filled with fear and doubt lest conditions, from imposing punishments that, except for his
the judge of all the earth would not do right, and thus fear or goodness and grace, would be the just reward of man.
All men have sinned; all must pay the penalty for themselves would be without form and void, and God, no
their sins. Punishment always follows sin; otherwise there longer controlling all things, would cease to be God.
would be no sin. Thus, all men are subject to justice, and all "For without the idea of the existence of this
must pay the price for their wayward works. That is, all men attribute [in God] the mind of man could have nothing upon
would pay the penalty for their own sins, all would suffer a which it could rest with certainty—all would be confusion
just punishment for their transgressions, all would be subject and doubt. But with the idea of the existence of this attribute
to the law of justice, if it were not for the law of mercy. in the Deity in the mind, all the teachings, instructions,
Mercy is a gift of God bestowed bounteously upon promises, and blessings, become realities, and the mind is
the penitent. It is reserved for those who repent. In their enabled to lay hold of them with certainty and confidence,
case, mercy appeases the demands of justice; it frees men believing that these things, and all that the Lord has said, shall
from the penalty of sin. Thus saith the Lord: "If ye will be fulfilled in their time; and that all the cursings,
repent, and harden not your hearts, then will I have mercy denunciations, and judgments, pronounced upon the heads of
upon you, through mine Only Begotten Son; therefore, the unrighteous, will also be executed in the due time of the
whosoever repenteth, and hardeneth not his heart, he shall Lord; and, by reason of the truth and veracity of him, the
have claim on mercy through mine Only Begotten Son, unto mind beholds its deliverance and salvation as being certain."
a remission of his sins; and these shall enter into my rest." (Lectures on Faith 4:16.) [page 181]
(Alma 12:33-34.) Thus the great and eternal plan of
redemption operates in the lives of men, on conditions of The Perfections of God
repentance and because of the mercy of God. The perfections of God—what are they? And what
And thus, the prophet reasons: "Without the idea of must we know relative to them in order to have faith unto
the existence of this attribute [mercy!] in the Deity, the life and salvation? Our exposition as to the nature and kind of
spirits of the saints would faint in the midst of the being in whom our faith centers has already shown that God
tribulations, afflictions, and persecutions which they have to is the only supreme governor and independent being, in
endure for righteousness' sake. But when the idea of the whom all fulness and perfection dwell; that he is omnipotent,
existence of this attribute is once established in the mind it omniscient, and omnipresent; and that in him every good gift
gives life and energy to the spirits of the saints, believing that and every good principle dwell independently. Having set
the mercy of God will be poured out upon them in the midst forth the character and attributes of God, the inspired
of their afflictions, and that he will compassionate them in account we are now studying says: "What we mean by
their sufferings, and that [page 180] the mercy of God will perfections is, the perfections which belong to all the
lay hold of them and secure them in the arms of his love, so attributes of [God]." (Lectures on Faith 5:1.)
that they will receive a full reward for all their sufferings." Thus, by the perfections of God is meant that He is
(Lectures on Faith 4:15.) the embodiment—totally, completely, and perfectly—of
every good thing. He is the possessor of every good gift, of
all uplifting attributes, of all edifying graces, all in their eternal
6. Truth. fulness. We speak thus in the infinite and unlimited sense. All
We have heretofore set forth the great and eternal of the attributes of godliness are resident in the person of
verity that faith is a hope in that which is not seen which is Deity in their entirety, in their transcendence, in their
true; that faith is founded and grounded on the bedrock of holiness. His is the totality, the wholeness, the completeness
truth, and upon nothing else; and that men must come to a of every attribute. God does not fall short and is not wanting
knowledge of the truth about God and his laws before they in anything.
can have faith in him. Now we shall see that men must After setting forth the six chief attributes of God, as
believe that truth is an attribute of God before they can have we have listed them, the Prophet Joseph Smith counseled:
faith in him. "Not less important to the exercise of faith in "Let the mind once reflect sincerely and candidly upon the
God," than all the other attributes we have considered, "is ideas of the existence of the before-mentioned attributes in
the idea of the existence of the attribute truth in him," our the Deity, and it will be seen that, as far as his attributes are
account recites. concerned, there is a sure foundation laid for the exercise of
The Lord is a God of truth. He is the "Lord God of faith in him for life and salvation." By way of summary and
truth." (Psalm 31:5.) His law, his commandments, his word, recapitulation, he continues:
his scriptures—all are truth. Truth is that which really is. It
includes a knowledge of things as they are, as they were, and 1. As to knowledge:
as they shall be; it is absolute and eternal; it endures forever. "For inasmuch as God possesses the attribute
It is not relative; it does not vary; it never changes. What is knowledge, he can make all things known to his saints
true in one eternity is true in the next. All progress, all necessary for their salvation." But be it known, the attribute
enlightenment, all salvation—everything that is good and of knowledge must exist in Deity in perfection, and he must
right grows out of and comes because of truth. If there were be recognized as knowing all things. Unless men conceive of
no invariable truths, if truth changed from age to age, or God as knowing all things, they cannot have faith in him to a
from world to world, or from universe to universe, all would sufficient degree to gain eternal life.
be confusion and chaos and disorganization. Life and matter
2. As to power: 6. As to truth:
"And as he possesses the attribute power, he is able "And, lastly, realizing that truth is an attribute of the
[page 182] thereby to deliver them from the power of all Deity, the mind is led to rejoice amid all its trials and
enemies." The power is omnipotence; it is the power that temptations, in hope of that glory which is to be brought at
made man and all things, and that upholds, preserves, and the revelation of Jesus Christ, and in view of that crown
maintains the endless worlds and all that in them are. How which is to be placed upon the heads of the saints in the day
could man have infinite faith in anything less than an infinite when the Lord shall distribute rewards unto them, and in
being? God's perfection in this field consists in having all prospect of that eternal weight of glory which the Lord has
power, all might, and all dominion. promised to bestow upon them, when he shall bring them
into the midst of his throne to dwell in his presence
3. As to justice: eternally." Truth, glorious, pure, diamond truth; truth, the
"And seeing, also, that justice is an attribute of the eternal foundation upon which all things rest; truth, the
Deity, he will deal with them upon the principles of eternal verity that controls and governs in time and in
righteousness and equity, and a just reward will be granted eternity—take truth away and what would remain? All would
unto them for all their afflictions and sufferings for the truth's be chaos; anarchy would rule; chance and happenstance
sake." Again the issue is whether Deity enjoys the named would replace the Father and the Son. And unless fallen man
attribute in all its glory and perfection. Does he fall short can turn to a God in whom all fulness and perfection dwell
with reference to charity, love, honesty, integrity, and who is the possessor of all truth, how can he be
benevolence, or any good thing? Is there some degree of any expected to have faith? If Deity does not possess all truth,
of these that he has not yet obtained? Who will contend that how long will it be before he learns a new truth that will lead
the Judge of all the earth falls short in the field of justice? Will to the death of all life and the end of an organized universe?
the Almighty act capriciously by dealing justly with his saints "In view, then, of the existence of these
in one age and failing to reward others in another age for like attributes"—they being present in their eternal fulness and
sufferings and afflictions? The answers are self-evident. perfection —"the faith of the saints can become exceedingly
strong, abounding in righteousness unto the praise and glory
of God. Such faith, faith like that possessed by the ancients,
4. As to judgment: "can exert its mighty influence in searching after wisdom and
"And as judgment is an attribute of the Deity also, his understanding, until it has obtained a knowledge of all things
saints can have the most unshaken confidence that they will, that pertain to life and salvation."
in due time, obtain a perfect deliverance out of the hands of Can man gain faith unto life and salvation without an
all their enemies, and a complete victory over all those who understanding of the character, perfections, and attributes of
have sought their hurt and destruction." To question the God? The answer is, No. Such knowledge "is the foundation
righteousness and rectitude of the judgments of God is to [page 184] which is laid, through the revelation of the
deny his divinity. If he were deficient in judgment, if his attributes of God, for the exercise of faith in him for life and
judgments were less than perfect, if he dealt capriciously and salvation; and seeing that these are the attributes of the
without sense and reason—how could he be a divine being? Deity, they are unchangeable—being the same yesterday,
God is God because of the perfections existing in all of the to-day, and for ever—which gives to the minds of the Latter-
attributes of his nature. day Saints the same power and authority to exercise faith in
God which the Former-day saints had; so that all the saints,
5. As to mercy: in this respect, have been, are, and will be, alike until the end
"And as mercy is also an attribute of the Deity, his of time; for God never changes, therefore his attributes and
saints can have confidence that it will be exercised towards character remain forever the same. And as it is through the
them, and through the exercise of that attribute towards revelation of these that a foundation is laid for the exercise of
them comfort and consolation will be administered unto faith in God unto life and salvation, the foundation, therefore,
them abundantly, amid all their afflictions and tribulations." for the exercise of faith was, is, and ever will be, the same;
Salvation is the child of mercy. It is because of the great plan so that all men have had, and will have, an equal privilege."
of mercy that sinful men become clean and are fit candidates (Lectures on Faith 4:17-19.)
to [page 183] go where God and Christ are. Mercy tempers
justice to claim penitent persons; if it were not so, all men
would be lost, for all have sinned. Suppose God did not
possess all mercy, or that men did not know he was a
merciful being; would they then turn to him for remission of
their sins, relying wholly on the merits of Him who is mighty
to save? Truly, unless men know that mercy is in God in all its
glory, fulness, and perfection, they would not and could not
exercise faith in him unto life and salvation.
"THE CHARACTER OF CHRIST" displayed" (Oxford English Dictionary Online,
University Press 2003, Second Edition, 1989).
Brigham Young University-Idaho Religion Interestingly, when we look up the word "character"
Symposium in the topical guide of our scriptures, we discover
January 25, 2003 that it is cross-referenced to the topics of honesty,
Elder David A. Bednar honor, and integrity.
Good morning, brothers and sisters. I am delighted Brigham Young emphasized the significance of the
to be here with you. I pray for and invite the Holy Savior's character as he taught and testified about
Ghost to be with me and with you as together we the truthfulness of the Holy Bible:
discuss an important aspect of the life and ministry
of the Lord Jesus Christ. . . . the Bible is true. It may not all have been
translated aright, and many precious things may
Last September I participated in an area training have been rejected in the compilation and
meeting in Twin Falls, Idaho. Elder Neal A. translation of the Bible; but we understand, from the
Maxwell presided at the training session, and on a writings of one of the Apostles, that if all the
Friday night and a Saturday morning he, the Idaho sayings and doings of the Savior had been written,
Area Presidency, and other general church officers the world could not contain them. I will say that the
instructed a group of approximately one hundred world could not understand them. They do not
stake presidents. It was a meaningful and understand what we have on record, nor the
memorable time of spiritual enrichment, learning, character of the Savior, as delineated in the
and edification. Scriptures; and yet it is one of the simplest things in
the world, and the Bible, when it is understood, is
During the course of his teaching and testifying, one of the simplest books in the world, for, as far as
Elder Maxwell made a statement that impressed me it is translated correctly, it is nothing but truth, and
deeply and has been the recent focus for much of in truth there is no mystery save to the ignorant. The
my studying, reflecting, and pondering. He said, revelations of the Lord to his creatures are adapted
"There would have been no Atonement except for to the lowest capacity, and they bring life and
the character of Christ." Since hearing this salvation to all who are willing to receive them.
straightforward and penetrating statement, I have (Discourses of Brigham Young, p. 124, emphasis
tried to learn more about and better understand the added)
word "character." I have also pondered the
relationship between Christ's character and the Brigham Young further taught that faith must be
Atonement--and the implications of that focused upon Jesus' character, in His Atonement,
relationship for each of us as disciples. This and in the Father's plan of salvation:
morning I hope to share with you just a few of the
learnings that have come to my mind and heart as I . . . I will take the liberty of saying to every man and
have attempted to more fully appreciate this woman who wishes to obtain salvation through him
teaching by Elder Maxwell. (the Savior) that looking to him, only, is not
enough: they must have faith in his name,
What is Character? character and atonement; and they must have
faith in his father and in the plan of salvation
After returning home from the area training meeting devised and wrought out by the Father and the Son.
in Twin Falls, the first question I attempted to What will this faith lead to? It will lead to
answer was "What is character?" The Oxford obedience to the requirements of the Gospel; and
English Dictionary indicates that many of the uses the few words that I may deliver to my brethren and
of the word character relate to graphic symbols, sisters and friends this afternoon will be with the
printing, engraving, and writing. The usages I found direct view of leading them to God. (Journal of
most relevant, however, relate to ". . . the sum of the Discourses, Vol.13, p. 56, Brigham Young, July 18,
moral and mental qualities which distinguish an 1869, emphasis added)
individual or a race; mental or moral constitution;
moral qualities strongly developed or strikingly The Character of the Lord Jesus Christ
In a message entitled "O How Great the Plan of Our John the Baptist and as a preparation for His public
God" delivered to CES religious educators in ministry, the Savior fasted for forty days. He also
February of 1995 (p. 5), Elder Maxwell specifically was tempted by the adversary to inappropriately use
linked Christ's character to the infinite and eternal His supernal power to satisfy physical desires by
atoning sacrifice: commanding that stones be made bread, to gain
recognition by casting Himself down from the
Jesus' character necessarily underwrote His pinnacle of the temple, and to obtain wealth and
remarkable atonement. Without Jesus' sublime power and prestige in exchange for falling down
character there could have been no sublime and worshiping the tempter (see Matthew 4:1-9). It
atonement! His character is such that He "[suffered] is interesting to note that the overarching and
temptations of every kind" (Alma 7:11), yet He fundamental challenge to the Savior in each of these
gave temptations "no heed" (Doctrine and three temptations is contained in the taunting
Covenants 20:22). statement, "If thou be the Son of God." Satan's
strategy, in essence, was to dare the Son of God to
Someone has said only those who resist temptation improperly demonstrate His God-given powers, to
really understand the power of temptation. Because sacrifice meekness and modesty, and, thereby,
Jesus resisted it perfectly, He understood temptation betray who He was. Thus, Satan attempted
perfectly, hence He can help us. The fact that He repeatedly to attack Jesus' understanding of who He
was dismissive of temptation and gave it "no heed," was and of His relationship with His Father. Jesus
reveals His marvelous character, which we are to was victorious in meeting and overcoming the
emulate (see Doctrine and Covenants 20:22; 3 strategy of Satan.
Nephi 12:48; 27:27).
I suspect the Savior may have been at least partially
Perhaps the greatest indicator of character is the spent physically after forty days of fasting--and
capacity to recognize and appropriately respond to somewhat spiritually drained after His encounter
other people who are experiencing the very with the adversary. With this background
challenge or adversity that is most immediately and information in mind, please turn with me now to
forcefully pressing upon us. Character is revealed, Matthew 4, and together we will read verse 11:
for example, in the power to discern the suffering of "Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels
other people when we ourselves are suffering; in the came and ministered unto him."
ability to detect the hunger of others when we are
hungry; and in the power to reach out and extend This verse in the King James version of the New
compassion for the spiritual agony of others when Testament clearly indicates that angels came and
we are in the midst of our own spiritual distress. ministered to the Savior after the devil had
Thus, character is demonstrated by looking and departed. And, undoubtedly, Jesus would have
reaching outward when the natural and instinctive benefitted from and been blessed by such a
response is to be self-absorbed and turn inward. If heavenly ministration in a time of physical and
such a capacity is indeed the ultimate criterion of spiritual need.
moral character, then the Savior of the world is the
perfect example of such a consistent and charitable However, the Joseph Smith Translation of Matthew
character. 4:11 provides a remarkable insight into the
character of Christ. Please note the important
differences in verse 11 between the King James
version and the Joseph Smith Translation: "Then the
devil leaveth him, and, now Jesus knew that John
was cast into prison, and he sent angels, and,
Examples of Christ's Character in the New behold, they came and ministered unto him (John)."
Testament
Interestingly, the additions found in the JST
The New Testament is replete with "strikingly completely change our understanding of this event.
displayed" examples of the Savior's character. We Angels did not come and minister to the Savior;
are all well aware that following His baptism by rather, the Savior, in His own state of spiritual,
mental, and physical distress, sent angels to minister . . . that they may be made perfect in one; and that
to John. Brothers and sisters, it is important for us to the world may know that thou hast sent me, and
recognize that Jesus in the midst of His own hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
challenge recognized and appropriately responded
to John--who was experiencing a similar but lesser And I have declared unto them thy name, and will
challenge than that of the Savior's. Thus, the declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved
character of Christ is manifested as He reached me may be in them, and I in them. (John 17:20, 21,
outward and ministered to one who was suffering-- 23, 26)
even as He himself was experiencing anguish and
torment. I find myself repeatedly asking the following
questions as I ponder this and other events that took
In the upper room on the night of the last supper, place so close to the Savior's suffering in the garden
the very night during which He would experience and His betrayal: How could He pray for the well-
the greatest suffering that ever took place in all of being and unity of others immediately before His
the worlds created by Him, Christ spoke about the own anguish? What enabled Him to seek comfort
Comforter and peace: and peace for those whose need was so much less
than His? As the fallen nature of the world He
These things have I spoken unto you, being yet created pressed in upon Him, how could He focus
present with you. so totally and so exclusively upon the conditions
and concerns of others? How was the Master able to
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom reach outward when a lesser being would have
the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you turned inward? The statement I quoted earlier from
all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, Elder Maxwell provides the answer to each of these
whatsoever I have said unto you. powerful questions:
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: Jesus' character necessarily underwrote His
not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not remarkable atonement. Without Jesus' sublime
your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. character there could have been no sublime
(John 14:25-27) atonement! His character is such that He "[suffered]
temptations of every kind" (Alma 7:11), yet He
Once again the fundamental character of Christ is gave temptations "no heed" (Doctrine and
revealed magnificently in this tender incident. Covenants 20:22). ("O How Great the Plan of Our
Recognizing that He himself was about to intensely God," message delivered to CES religious educators
and personally experience the absence of both in February of 1995, p. 5)
comfort and peace, and in a moment when His heart
was perhaps troubled and afraid, the Master reached Jesus, who suffered the most, has the most
outward and offered to others the very blessings that compassion for all of us who suffer so much less.
could and would have strengthened Him. Indeed, the depth of suffering and compassion is
intimately linked to the depth of love felt by the
In the great intercessory prayer, offered ministering one. Consider the scene as Jesus
immediately before Jesus went forth with His emerged from His awful suffering in the Garden of
disciples over the brook Cedron to the Garden of Gethsemane. Having just sweat great drops of blood
Gethsemane, the Master prayed for His disciples from every pore as part of the infinite and eternal
and for all: Atonement, the Redeemer encountered a multitude:
. . . which shall believe on me through their word; And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he
that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me . before them, and drew unto Jesus to kiss him.
..
But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the
Son of man with a kiss?
When they which were about him saw what would and grace of the Holy Messiah" (2 Nephi 2:8). But
follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite "line upon line, precept upon precept" (2 Nephi
with the sword? 28:30) and "in [the] process of time" (Moses 7:21),
we are enabled to reach outward when the natural
And one of them smote the servant of the high tendency is for us to turn inward.
priest, and cut off his right ear. (Luke 22:47-50)
It is interesting to me that one of the central
Given the magnitude and intensity of Jesus' agony, elements of the word character is created by the
it perhaps would have been understandable if He letters A, C, and T. As we already have seen in the
had not noticed and attended to the guard's severed examples of Christ's character from the New
ear. But the Savior's character activated a Testament, the nature and consistency of how one
compassion that was perfect. Note His response to acts reveals in a powerful way his or her true
the guard as described in verse 51: "And Jesus character. In the case of Christ, he is described as
answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he one ". . . who went about doing good" (Acts 10:38).
touched his ear, and healed him (Luke 22:51). Let me now briefly share with you two memorable
experiences from my service as a stake president
As individually impressive as is each of the that highlight the relationship between our actions
preceding events, I believe it is the consistency of and a Christlike character.
the Lord's character across multiple episodes that is
ultimately the most instructive and inspiring. In Early one summer morning I was showering. My
addition to the incidents we have thus far reviewed, wife called to me in the middle of my shower and
recall how the Savior, while suffering such agony indicated that I was needed immediately on the
on the cross, instructed the Apostle John about telephone. (This was before the day of cell and
caring for Jesus' mother, Mary (John 19:26-27). cordless phones). I quickly put on my robe and
Consider how, as the Lord was taken to Calvary and hurried to the phone. I next heard the voice of a dear
the awful agony of the crucifixion was commenced, sister and friend informing me of a tragic
He pleaded with the Father in behalf of the soldiers automobile accident that had just occurred in a
to ". . . forgive them; for they know not what they remote area involving three teenage young women
do" (Luke 23:34). Remember also that in the midst from our stake. Our friend indicated one of the
of excruciating spiritual and physical pain, the young women had already been pronounced dead at
Savior offered hope and reassurance to one of the the scene of the accident and that the two other
thieves on the cross, "To day shalt thou be with me young women were badly injured and presently
in paradise" (Luke 23:43). Throughout His mortal were being transported to the regional medical
ministry, and especially during the events leading center in Fayetteville. She further reported that the
up to and including the atoning sacrifice, the Savior identity of the deceased young woman was not yet
of the world turned outward--when the natural man known. There was urgency in her voice, but there
or woman in any of us would have been self- was no panic or excessive alarm. She then asked if I
centered and focused inward. could go to the hospital, meet the ambulance when
it arrived, and assist in identifying the young
Developing a Christlike Character women. I answered that I would leave immediately.
We can in mortality seek to be blessed with and During the course of our telephone conversation
develop essential elements of a Christlike character. and as I listened to both the information being
Indeed, it is possible for us as mortals to strive in conveyed and the voice of our friend, I gradually
righteousness to receive the spiritual gifts associated became aware of two important things. First, this
with the capacity to reach outward and friend's daughter was one of the young women
appropriately respond to other people who are involved in the accident. Our friend lived
experiencing the very challenge or adversity that is approximately 35 miles from the hospital and
most immediately and forcefully pressing upon us. therefore needed the assistance of someone who
We cannot obtain such a capacity through sheer lived closer to the city. Second, I detected that the
willpower or personal determination. Rather, we are mother simultaneously was using two telephone
dependent upon and in need of "the merits, mercy, handsets--with one in each hand pressed to each of
her ears. I became aware that as she was talking attention and the attention of the respective families
with me, she was also talking with a nurse at a small now shifted to funeral arrangements and logistics.
rural hospital who had initially attended to the three
accident victims. Our friend was receiving updated A day or so later, in the midst of program planning
information about the condition of the young and detail arranging for the three funerals, I
women in the very moment she was informing me received a phone call from the Relief Society
about the accident and requesting my help. I then president of my home ward. Her daughter had been
heard one of the most remarkable things I have ever one of the victims in the accident, and she and I had
heard in my life. talked several times about her desires for the funeral
program. This faithful woman was a single mother
I faintly heard the nurse telling this faithful mother rearing her only child--her teenage daughter. I was
and friend that the young woman pronounced dead especially close to this woman and her daughter
at the scene of the accident had been positively having served as both their bishop and stake
identified as her daughter. I could not believe what I president. After reviewing and finalizing several
was hearing. I was listening to this good woman in details for the funeral of her daughter, this good
the very moment that she learned of the death of her sister said to me, "President, I am sure it was
precious daughter. Without hesitation, and with a difficult for you to see my daughter in the
calm and most deliberate voice, our friend next said, emergency room the other day. She was severely
"President Bednar, we must get in contact with the injured and disfigured. As you know, we will have a
two other mothers. We must let them know as much closed casket at the funeral. I have just returned
as we can about the condition of their daughters and from the funeral home, and they have helped my
that they will soon be in the hospital in daughter to look so lovely again. I was just
Fayetteville." There was no self-pity; there was no wondering . . . why don't we arrange a time when
self-absorption; there was no turning inward. The we can meet at the mortuary and you can have one
Christlike character of this devoted woman was last look at her before she is buried. Then your final
manifested in her immediate and almost instinctive memories of my daughter will not be the images
turning outward to attend to the needs of other you saw in the emergency room the other day." I
suffering mothers. It was a moment and a lesson listened and marveled at the compassion and
that I have never forgotten. In a moment of ultimate thoughtfulness this sister had for me. Her only
grief, this dear friend reached outward when I likely daughter had just been tragically killed, but she was
would have turned inward. concerned about the potentially troublesome
memories I might have given my experience in the
I then drove to the hospital with a concern in my emergency room. In this good woman I detected no
heart for the well-being of the two other beautiful self-pity and no turning inward. Sorrow, certainly.
young women who had been involved in the Sadness, absolutely. Nevertheless, she reached
accident. Little did I realize that the lessons I would outward when many or perhaps most of us would
learn about Christlike character--lessons taught by have turned inward with sorrow and grief.
seemingly ordinary disciples--were just beginning.
Let me describe one final episode related to these
I arrived at the hospital and proceeded to the three tragic deaths. On the day of her daughter's
emergency room. After properly establishing who I funeral, this Relief Society president from my home
was and my relationship to the victims, I was ward received a phone call from an irritated sister in
invited into two different treatment areas to identify our ward. The complaining sister had a cold and did
the injured young women. It was obvious that their not feel well, and she basically chewed out the
respective wounds were serious and life threatening. Relief Society president for not being thoughtful or
And the lovely countenances and physical features compassionate enough to arrange for meals to be
of these young women had been badly marred. delivered to her home. Just hours before the funeral
Within a relatively short period of time, the two of her only child, this remarkable Relief Society
remaining young women died. All three of these president prepared and delivered a meal to the
virtuous, lovely, and engaging young women--who murmuring sister.
seemed to have so much of life in front of them--
suddenly had gone home to their Eternal Father. My
We appropriately and rightly speak with reverence is a rich resource for learning about and increasing
and awe of young men who sacrificed their lives to our appreciation for the character and life and
rescue stranded handcart pioneers and of other example of the Savior. My prayer for each of us is
mighty men and women who repeatedly gave their that through our study of this sacred volume of
all to establish the Church in the early days of the scripture we will more fully come unto Him; more
Restoration. I speak with equal reverence and awe completely become like Him; and more fervently
of these two women--women of faith and character worship, reverence, and adore Him.
and conversion--who taught me so much and
instinctively reached outward when most of us As a witness, I declare my witness. I know and
would have turned inward. Oh how I appreciate testify and witness that Jesus is the Christ, the Only
their quiet and powerful examples. Begotten Son of the Eternal Father. I know that He
lives. And I testify that His character made possible
I noted earlier in my remarks that the letters A, C, for us the opportunities for both immortality and
and T form a central component in the word eternal life. May we reach outward when the natural
character. Also noteworthy is the similarity tendency for us is to turn inward, I pray in the name
between the words character and charity--as both of Jesus Christ, amen.
words contain the letters C, H, A, and R.
Etymologically there is no relationship between
these two words. Nevertheless, I believe there are
several conceptual connections that are important
for us to consider and ponder.
Let me suggest that you and I must be praying and

yearning and striving and working to cultivate a
Christlike character if we hope to receive the
spiritual gift of charity--the pure love of Christ.
Charity is not a trait or characteristic we acquire
exclusively through our own purposive persistence
and determination. Indeed we must honor our
covenants and live worthily and do all that we can
do to qualify for the gift; but ultimately the gift of
charity possesses us--we do not posses it (see
Moroni 7:47). The Lord determines if and when we
receive all spiritual gifts, but we must do all in our
power to desire and yearn and invite and qualify for
such gifts. As we increasingly act in a manner
congruent with the character of Christ, then
perhaps we are indicating to heaven in a most
powerful manner our desire for the supernal
spiritual gift of charity. And clearly we are being
blessed with this marvelous gift as we increasingly
reach outward when the natural man or woman in
us would typically turn inward.
I conclude now by returning to where I began--the

statement by Elder Maxwell in that special training
session last September: "There would have been no
Atonement except for the character of Christ." It
was the Prophet Joseph Smith who stated that "it is
the first principle of the Gospel to know for a
certainty the Character of God" (Teachings of the
Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 345). The New Testament
The Nature and Character of God confirmed that life eternal was to ―know . . . the
ANDREW C. SKINNER only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom [the Father]
Andrew C. Skinner was executive director of the hast sent‖ (John 17:3).
Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship Thus everything of sacred significance
and a professor of ancient scripture at Brigham connected with our future rests on both our coming
Young University when this devotional address was to know about God the Eternal Father and,
given on 11 April 2006. ultimately, our coming to know Him. ―If men do not
© Brigham Young University. comprehend the character of God,‖ said Joseph
Smith, ―they do not comprehend themselves‖
Several years ago, during a challenging and (Teachings, 343). God and men are of the same
hectic period in my life, I read a statement by divine, eternal species, and if we do not
President Brigham Young that has meant a great comprehend the nature of God, we cannot
deal to me ever since. He said: appreciate our divine parentage nor the very real
When you . . . see our Father, you will see a potential we possess to become like our heavenly
being with whom you have long been acquainted, parents.
and He will receive you into His arms, and you will
be ready to fall into His embrace and kiss Him. . . . God Must Be Revealed
You will be so glad and joyful. . . . When you are Coming to know God is not for the
qualified and purified, . . . you can endure the glory spiritually lazy. He can only be known through
of eternity. [JD 4:54–55] revelation. And powerful personal revelation, as
How blessed we are to know what President many of you know, is predicated upon righteous
Young taught us about our Heavenly Father—what living and spiritual discipline. Elder Bruce R.
kind of a being He is, what He is really like. How McConkie of the Quorum of the Twelve provided
many people over the space of thousands of years this insight:
have not even known that there is a Father in God is known only by revelation; he stands
Heaven? How many individuals’ lives might have revealed or remains forever unknown. He cannot be
been different if they could only have known about discovered in the laboratory, or by viewing all
our loving, merciful, and caring Heavenly Father? immensity through giant telescopes, or by
Indeed, how blessed we are to have such teachings cataloging all the laws of nature that do or have
that center on the nature of our Father in Heaven. It existed. A knowledge of his powers and the laws of
is about God, our Eternal Father, that I wish to nature which he has ordained does not reveal his
speak today. personality and attributes to men in the true gospel
The first article or principle in our sense. Certainly a knowledge of these laws and
declaration of faith as Latter-day Saints states, ―We powers enables man to learn truths which are faith
believe in God, the Eternal Father‖ (Articles of promoting and which help him to understand more
Faith 1:1). I do not think it is accidental or about Deity; but saving knowledge of God comes
coincidental that this statement comes first in our 13 only by revelation from the Holy Ghost as a
Articles of Faith. consequence of obedience to the laws and
The Prophet Joseph Smith said: ―It is the ordinances of the gospel.
first principle of the Gospel to know for a certainty Man’s purpose in life is to learn the nature
the Character of God‖ (Teachings, 345). In other and kind of being that God is, and then, by
words, one of the foundation stones of the restored conformity to his laws and ordinances, to progress
gospel is a knowledge of what kind of being God to that high state of exaltation wherein man
actually is. But not only do we need to understand becomes perfect as the Father is perfect. [MD, s.v.
what kind of being God is, we must come to know ―God,‖ 318]
God. In the same sermon from which we just It was Jesus Christ who commanded His
quoted, the Prophet Joseph further stated, ―If any disciples to be perfect even as our Father in Heaven
man does not know God, . . . he will realize that he is perfect. It was Jesus Christ who restored in His
has not eternal life; for there can be eternal life on own day a knowledge of God the Father to the
no other principle‖ (Teachings, 344). In His great people of Israel—a people who for the previous
high-priestly or Intercessory Prayer, the Savior 1,200 or 1,400 years had lost, to a greater or lesser
degree, an understanding of the Supreme Parent of nature in us and the Holy Spirit is able to confirm
the universe. that such examples are authentic.
It will be remembered that when Israel I have had the great blessing in my life of
rebelled against God during the golden calf episode coming to know, in part, what our Heavenly Father
at Mount Sinai, God took the Melchizedek is like by observing some of His characteristics and
Priesthood out of their midst, as well as the higher personality traits in the lives of dear friends,
law and the higher ordinances of His holy order. colleagues, and students here at the university, file
This was a devastating loss, for the Melchizedek leaders, apostles and prophets, and members of my
Priesthood ―holdeth . . . the key of the knowledge of own family. Brothers and sisters, can we who are
God‖ (D&C 84:19). For the next 1,200 or 1,400 parents or potential parents not see that our behavior
years, until the time of Christ, Israel lived without makes it easier or harder for others to come to
the higher law, and their knowledge of God the know—or even desire to know—our Father in
Father grew dim. They interacted with Jehovah, Heaven? There is a great compelling power about
who was the premortal Jesus of Nazareth. those who the Spirit tells us are like our Heavenly
Of course all the prophets in ancient Israel Father.
held the Melchizedek Priesthood during this period In another statement Jesus commanded His
(see Teachings, 181). But the people as a whole did disciples to love their enemies, to bless those who
not. In fact, among the people of Israel generally, hurled curses at them, and to pray for those who
only the tribe of Levi (one-twelfth of the male despitefully used them. The reason is given in
population) was privileged to hold any priesthood at Matthew 5:45: ―That ye may be the children of your
all—and that was the lesser priesthood. Father which is in heaven.‖
When Jesus inaugurated a new dispensation The original Greek wording of Matthew
of the gospel through His earthly ministry, He 5:45 connotes a rebirth, ―so that ye may be born
began to restore knowledge, doctrines, ordinances, (genesthe) the sons [children] of your Father in
and powers long withheld from the children of men. heaven.‖ This idea parallels the doctrine of being
He was the Elias who came to restore all things in spiritually born of God and receiving His image in
His day—as John the Baptist testified and as is now our countenances, as taught in Alma 5:14. Disciples
recorded for us in the Joseph Smith Translation of must reflect in their lives—in their behaviors and in
John 1:24–28. their countenances—the distinguishing traits of the
As the great Restorer, Jesus spoke much Great Parent of the universe in order to truly
about His ―Father in Heaven.‖ Jesus wanted all men become His children and His heirs in every way. As
and women to come to know His true Father, who Jesus taught, patient love and tolerant restraint are
was also their Father. The phrase ―Father in great hallmarks of our Heavenly Father’s character
Heaven‖ is characteristic of Matthew’s Gospel as a and personality. ―He maketh his sun to rise on the
whole and is found throughout the Sermon on the evil and on the good‖ (Matthew 5:45), meaning that
Mount, the discourse in which Jesus commanded righteousness and wickedness are not—cannot be—
His disciples to be perfect as their Father in Heaven immediately and constantly rewarded or punished.
is perfect (see Matthew 5:48). Such constant interference in the lives of men and
Jesus’ desire to have His disciples women would thwart the plan of salvation and the
understand and know God the Father is clearly purposes for which earth life was designed: to allow
demonstrated in such teachings as His exhortation individuals to exercise patience, walk by faith, and
to His disciples to live so righteously and present be tested.
such fine examples that others would see their good Thus one of the distinguishing features of
works and glorify their Father in Heaven (see Jesus’ earthly ministry was His restoration of the
Matthew 5:16). knowledge of the nature and personality of His
Practically speaking, I think the Savior is Father in Heaven—the Father of us all. But, alas,
telling us here that each of us has the obligation and this restored knowledge was not to last. Soon after
the opportunity to live in such a manner that our the death and resurrection of Jesus, another
friends and family members can more fully rebellion set in, and an even greater apostasy ensued
understand what our Heavenly Father is actually than the one that existed from the time of Moses to
like because they see something of His divine the time of John the Baptist. This so-called Great
Apostasy lasted for some 1,800 years. During this
time a true and clear understanding of the nature In the King Follett Sermon, a year after
and personality of God the Father was distorted and, section 130 was recorded in 1843, Joseph astounded
at times, all but lost. Misunderstandings and the theological world with this further instruction
distortions about the Godhead usually came as a about the physical person of God:
result of debate without the confirming witness of God himself was once as we are now, and is
the Holy Ghost. Pronouncements of theological an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder
councils defined the nature of God. Errors became heavens! . . .
entrenched. These are incomprehensible ideas to some,
but they are simple. It is the first principle of the
Another Restoration Gospel to know for a certainty the Character of
However, good news has again come to God, and to know that we may converse with him as
earth. In these latter days, beginning in 1820, our one man converses with another. [Teachings, 345]
Heavenly Father, through His Son and His prophets, However, here a caution needs to be
has rerevealed many divine truths about His nature emphasized. We must always remember that God is
and personality so that each of us can again come to exalted—we are not! He is perfect—we are not! He
know Him as the meridian disciples knew him and must never be treated casually. He possesses
as we knew Him in our premortal existence. almighty power. His ―brightness and glory defy all
Joseph Smith’s First Vision in 1820 description‖ (JS—H 1:17).
immediately clarified misunderstandings about the In another way of explaining this, Joseph
nature of the Godhead as well as the person of God Smith further declared:
the Father: God Almighty Himself dwells in eternal fire;
• God the Father is a distinct personage, flesh and blood cannot go there, for all corruption
separate from the Lord Jesus Christ. is devoured by the fire. “Our God is a consuming
• God the Father looks like a man, as does fire.” . . .
His Son—who is our Savior. . . . Immortality dwells in everlasting
• God the Father can speak and move. burnings. [Teachings, 367]
• God the Father knows individuals by President Joseph Fielding Smith put it this
name. way:
• God the Father hears and answers prayers. God is full of energy, and should we mortals
• God the Father bears witness of His Son. stand in his presence, unless his spirit was upon us
• Satan and his power are real, but God’s to protect us we would be consumed. That is how
power is greater. much energy there is in a celestial body. [Joseph
It is easy to see why President Ezra Taft Fielding Smith, Seek Ye Earnestly (Salt Lake City:
Benson said: Deseret Book, 1970), 275]
The appearance of God the Father and his It should come as no surprise that the
Son Jesus Christ to the boy prophet [Joseph Smith] Prophet Joseph and his associates described a god
is the greatest event that has occurred in this world whose character and personality were made up of
since the resurrection of the Master. [Ezra Taft all characteristics possessed by His Divine Son. The
Benson, ―Life Is Eternal,‖ Ensign, June 1971, 34] traits of one are the traits of the other (see ―Lecture
Other revelations about the nature and Third‖ in Lectures on Faith):
person of God the Father followed the First Vision, • He ―is no respecter of persons‖ (Acts
and Joseph Smith taught these truths to all who 10:34).
would listen. But these were radical doctrines • He is ―merciful and gracious‖ (Exodus
indeed. 34:6; see also Psalm 103:8; 2 Nephi 2:6).
Though we take it for granted, section 130 • He is ―slow to anger,‖ ―abundant in
of the Doctrine and Covenants teaches an incredibly goodness,‖ and will be so forever (Nehemiah 9:17;
profound truth: Exodus 34:6; see also Moroni 7:12).
The Father has a body of flesh and bones as • He is generous (see 2 Nephi 26:24).
tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost • ―He changes not, neither is there
has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a variableness with him; but that he is the same . . .
personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost yesterday, to-day, and for ever‖ (Lectures on Faith
could not dwell in us. [D&C 130:22] 3:15; see also Mormon 9:9; Moroni 8:18).
• He is just (see Mosiah 29:12). And he answering said to his father, Lo,
• He is ―a God of truth, and canst not lie‖ these many years do I serve thee, neither
(Ether 3:12). transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and
• He possesses independent faith. That is to yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make
say, He is the only being who has faith in Himself merry with my friends:
and is not dependent on any other being or any But as soon as this thy son was come, which
other power to accomplish His purposes and bring hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast
about His desires. If this were not so, we could not killed for him the fatted calf.
exercise faith in Him. We ―would be as the heathen, And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever
not knowing but there might be a being greater and with me, and all that I have is thine.
more powerful than [God], and thereby be It was meet that we should make merry, and
prevented from fulfilling his promises‖ (Lectures on be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive
Faith, Q&A 3:19). again; and was lost, and is found. [Luke 15:29–32]
• God is the author of law. It originates with Our Father in Heaven loves me, and He
Him (see D&C 88:41–42). loves you. His love is not a zero-sum exercise. He
• God possesses all power and all knowledge does not love me less and you more because there is
(see 1 Nephi 9:6; Mosiah 4:9; Isaiah 46:9–10). only so much love to go around. His love is infinite.
• ―God is love‖ (1 John 4:16). That is to say, He loves me when I think or act a little like the
this characteristic or attribute of love shapes, prodigal son, and He is patient with me when I
mediates, and influences all of God’s other think or act a little like the jealous older son. In
attributes. ―With all the other excellencies‖ of our truth, during our years of mortality, are we not all,
Heavenly Father’s character, without love ―to even just a little bit, like both the prodigal son and
influence them, they could not have such powerful the steady but jealous older brother? Does our
dominion over the minds of men‖ (Lectures on Father in Heaven cease to be interested in our
Faith, 3:24). welfare when we are sinful and we need to come to
I am convinced that God’s love is both ourselves? Does He turn off His care and concern
corporate—―He doeth not anything save it be for for us when we are bad and turn it on again when
the benefit of the world‖ (2 Nephi 26:24)—and we are good? I do not think so. The Father’s love is
individual. I am also convinced that His love is as broad, deep, and lasting as eternity. It
proactive. To me one of the greatest examples of encompasses all.
this personal and searching love is the parable of the Of course, God’s love does not mean that all
prodigal son. I believe this parable is nothing less of us will receive the same blessings and
than a thinly veiled reflection of our Heavenly opportunities. God cannot and will not do as much
Father’s personality—a personality dominated by for the rebellious as He can and will do for the
love for us—and that Jesus presented the parable valiant. The disobedient cannot take full advantage
because He wanted us to know what He knew: what of the Father’s love, which love is manifested fully
Heavenly Father is really like. in the gift of His Son.
Like the father in the story of the prodigal This, I think, is the meaning of Nephi’s
son, our Father in Heaven is anxious to come to us, declaration: ―Behold, the Lord esteemeth all flesh in
to meet us ―a great way off,‖ as the parable says one; [but] he that is righteous is favored of God‖ (1
(Luke 15:20). He is desperate to get us back in His Nephi 17:35).
presence. I testify that our Father in Heaven cares
The parable of the prodigal son teaches that about each of us, individually and personally. There
our Father in Heaven cares about the feelings of all are many examples of this doctrine that I could
of His children at the same time, even though it may share, but my son Mark recently reminded me of
appear that only certain ones are being blessed. For one. Mark served a mission to Mongolia. He served
example, in the parable, the father’s patient tutoring with and developed a deep love for a senior
of the older son—the ―righteous‖ son who was put missionary couple from Idaho. They used an
out over his father’s generous treatment of the interpreter their entire 18-month mission. Their
profligate younger brother—is a reflection of our interpreter—a Mongolian sister—had an important
Heavenly Father’s personality: story to tell. She grew up in Mongolia. The
missionaries found her and baptized her. When she
joined the Church, she started saving money for a repentance—for which He will reward us with the
full-time mission. She received a call to one of the riches of eternity.
missions in the United States, but at that time she As we near the end of another semester and
spoke almost no English. She got on a plane in another school year, it seems good to come back
Mongolia to come to the Missionary Training full circle to beginnings, to foundations and first
Center in Provo, Utah, knowing only three principles. Therefore I return to where I began this
sentences in English: morning—with President Brigham Young’s
―I am from Mongolia.‖ statement:
―I am a missionary.‖ When you . . . see our Father, you will see a
―Please help me.‖ being with whom you have long been acquainted,
When she got on the plane, no one had and He will receive you into His arms, and you will
explained to her that she needed to change planes to be ready to fall into His embrace and kiss Him. . . .
complete the flight to Utah. She landed in Chicago, You will be so glad and joyful. . . . When you are
but, naturally, there was no one there to meet her qualified and purified, . . . you can endure the glory
and she didn’t know the language. She found a of eternity. [JD 4:54–55]
chair, sat down, and prayed to Heavenly Father to May President Young’s vision become
know what to do. She then got up to try to find help. reality for each of us, I pray in the name of Jesus
As she was attempting to explain her predicament to Christ, amen.
a ticket agent (using her three English sentences), a
man tapped her on the shoulder, pulled out his
temple recommend, and showed it to her. She
recognized the temple recommend because she had
been given one before she left, so she knew this
man at her side was a member of the Church. He
motioned for her to wait. Ten minutes later he
handed her his cell phone, and on the other end of
the line was the missionary who had taught her the
gospel in Mongolia. The missionary told her to
follow the man to the plane to Salt Lake City and
get on board. He told her there would be people to
meet her in Salt Lake City—and there were!
Our Father in Heaven truly watches out for
His children—very often through others. But that’s
not the end of the story. The man in the Chicago
airport was a businessman who has flown all over
the world. He was upset that day because it was the
first time he had missed his connecting flight to Salt
Lake City. But because he was there at the Chicago
airport, he overheard this Mongolian sister trying to
get help, and he knew he could help her.
I testify, as others have, that our Father in
Heaven not only answers prayers but at times
chooses to micromanage the details of His kingdom.
This, too, is part of His divine nature. But herein
lies an important lesson. It is our Heavenly Father
who chooses; we do not dictate to Him time, place,
or circumstance. Still, we may rest assured that our
Father knows all things and He does all that He
does out of love. And He does what is best for us
from an eternal perspective. He asks of us our
loyalty, our willingness to help others, and our
Lecture 5 the fulness of the mind, glory, and power, or in
other words, the spirit, glory, and power, of the
ON FAITH Father, possesses all knowledge and glory and the
same kingdom, and sits at the right hand of power
1. In our former lectures we treated the being, in the express image and likeness of the Father. He
character, perfections, and attributes of God. What is a mediator for man, being filled with the fulness
we mean by perfections is the perfections which of the mind of the Father, or, in other words, the
belong to all the attributes of his nature. We shall, Spirit of the Father, which Spirit is shed forth upon
in this lecture, speak of the Godhead: we mean the all who believe on his name and keep his
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. commandments. And all those who keep his
commandments shall grow from grace to grace and
2. There are two personages who constitute the become heirs of the heavenly kingdom, and
great, matchless, governing, and supreme power joint-heirs with Jesus Christ. They will possess the
over all things, by whom all things were created same mind, being transformed into the same image
and made, whether visible or invisible, whether in or likeness, even the express image of him who fills
heaven, on earth, in the earth, under the earth, or all in all, being filled with the fulness of his glory
throughout the immensity of space. They are the and becoming one in him, even as the Father, Son,
Father and the Son: the Father being a personage and Holy Spirit are one.
of spirit, glory, and power, possessing all perfection
and fulness. The Son, who was in the bosom of the 3. From the foregoing account of the Godhead,
Father, is a personage of tabernacle, made or which is given in his revelations, the Saints have a
fashioned like unto man, being in the form and sure foundation laid for the exercise of faith unto
likeness of man, or rather man was formed after his life and salvation through the atonement and
likeness and in his image. He is also the express mediation of Jesus Christ. By his blood they have a
image and likeness of the personage of the Father, forgiveness of sins and also a sure reward laid up
possessing all the fulness of the Father, or the for them in heaven, even that of partaking of the
same fulness with the Father; being begotten of fulness of the Father and the Son through the
him, and ordained from before the foundation of Spirit. As the Son partakes of the fulness of the
the world to be a propitiation for the sins of all Father through the Spirit, so the Saints are, by the
those who should believe on his name. He is called same Spirit, to be partakers of the same fulness, to
the Son because of the flesh. And he descended in enjoy the same glory. For as the Father and the Son
suffering below that which man can suffer; or, in are one, so, in like manner, the Saints are to be one
other words, he suffered greater sufferings and was in them, through the love of the Father, the
exposed to more powerful contradictions than any mediation of Jesus Christ, and the gift of the Holy
man can be. But notwithstanding all this, he kept Spirit. They are to be heirs of God and joint-heirs
the law of God and remained without sin, showing with Jesus Christ.
thereby that it is in the power of man to keep the
law and remain also without sin. And also that by
him a righteous judgment might come upon all
flesh, that all who walk not in the law of God may
justly be condemned by the law and have no
excuse for their sins. He, being the Only Begotten
of the Father, full of grace and truth, and having
overcome, received a fulness of the glory of the
Father, possessing the same mind with the Father,
which mind is the Holy Spirit that bears record of
the Father and the Son. These three are one; or, in
other words, these three constitute the great,
matchless, governing, and supreme power over all
things, by whom all things were created and made.
And these three constitute the Godhead and are
one. The Father and the Son possess the same
mind, the same wisdom, glory, power, and
fulnessCfilling all in all. The Son, being filled with
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Chapter 9
The Eternal Godhead
(in Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of Faith, 71-77)
The Mystery of Godliness excellent summary of revealed and eternal truth relative to the Godhead
that is now extant in mortal language. In it is set forth the mystery of
We have set forth the true doctrine relative to those Gods whose Godliness; that is, it sets forth the personalities, missions, and ministries
witnesses and servants we are. It is the same doctrine that those holy of those holy beings who comprise the supreme presidency of the
beings have always revealed to their servants the prophets, and it has universe. To spiritually illiterate persons, it may seem hard and confusing;
come anew to us in these last days by the opening of the heavens. The to those whose souls are aflame with heavenly light, it is a nearly perfect
scriptures, both ancient and modern, contain as much about the members summary of those things which must be believed to gain salvation.
of the Eternal Godhead as the members of that Holy Presidency, in their "There are two personages [of tabernacle] who constitute the
infinite wisdom, feel that we as mortals should have before us in our great, matchless, governing, and supreme power over all things, by
present state of spiritual progression. But in the final and ultimate sense whom all things were created and made, that are created and made,
they are known only by personal revelation, revelation that comes to those whether visible or invisible; whether in heaven, on earth, or in the earth;
separate individuals who attune their souls to the Infinite. To the faithful, under the earth, or throughout the immensity of space." (Lectures on
the Holy Ghost bears witness of the Father and the Son. Then those who Faith 5:2.)
receive this divine witness have power, through faith and righteousness, to These two, standing alone, are not the Godhead. But they are
progress in spiritual things until the heavens are rent and they see and God the first and God the second. They are personages, individuals,
know for themselves. persons, holy men. They created and they have power over all things.
Those desiring to know the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom Their power is supreme and their wisdom infinite; there is no power they
he sent into the world, must of necessity turn for help and guidance to do not possess, no truth they do not know. From eternity to eternity they
others who have already gained that knowledge. Truth seekers must heed are the same; they are omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent.
the voices of the legal administrators sent to teach the truth in their day, "They are the Father and the SonCthe Father being a personage
and they must search the scriptures and ponder the inspired writings of of spirit, glory, and power, possessing all perfection and fullness, the Son,
the apostles and prophets of all ages. The light and truth they receive from who was in the bosom of the Father, a personage of tabernacle."
the spoken word and from the written record will depend on their own (Lectures on Faith 5:2.)
spiritual status. Each pronouncement in the holy scriptures, for instance, is
so written as to reveal little or much, depending on the spiritual capacity of They are the two personages who came to Joseph Smith in the
the student. To a carnal person, a passage of scripture may mean nothing; spring of 1820 in a grove of trees in western New York. They are exalted
to an honest though uninformed truth seeker, it may shed forth only a few men. Each is a personage of spirit; each is a personage of tabernacle.
rays of heavenly light; but to one who has the mind of Christ, the same Both of them have bodies, tangible bodies of flesh and bones. They are
passage may blaze forth an effulgence of celestial light. That which is a resurrected beings. Words, with their finite connotations, cannot fully
mystery to one is plain and simple to another. The things of the Spirit can describe them. A personage of tabernacle, as here used, is one whose
be understood only by the power of the Spirit. body and spirit are inseparably connected and for whom there can be no
death. A personage of spirit, as here used and as distinguished from the
Using the holy scriptures as the recorded source of the knowledge spirit children of the Father, is a resurrected personage. Resurrected
of God, knowing what the Lord has revealed to them of old in visions and bodies, as contrasted with mortal bodies, are in fact spiritual bodies. With
by the power of the Spirit, and writing as guided by that same Spirit, reference to the change of our bodies from mortality to immortality, Paul
Joseph Smith and the early brethren of this dispensation prepared a says: "It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a
creedal statement on the Godhead. It is without question the most natural body, and there is a spiritual body." (1 Corinthians 15:44.) "For
notwithstanding they [the saints] die, they also shall rise again, a spiritual keep the law and remain also without sin; and also, that by him a
body." (D&C 88:27.) righteous judgment might come upon all flesh, and that all who walk not
"The Son, who was in the bosom of the Father, a personage of in the law of God may justly be condemned by the law, and have no
tabernacle, made or fashioned like unto man, or being in the form and excuse for their sins." (Lectures on Faith 5:2.)
likeness of man, or rather man was formed after his likeness and in his Jesus was and is the Sinless One; he kept the whole law of the
image; he is also the express image and likeness of the personage of the whole gospel. His every thought and word and deed conformed to a
Father, possessing all the fullness of the Father, or the same fullness with divine and perfect standard. Before his birth, during mortality, and now in
the Father." (Lectures on Faith 5:2.) exalted immortality, he was and is the Holy One. Because he was sinless
Christ as the Firstborn, the firstborn spirit child of the Father, was and perfect, he is both our Exemplar and our Judge. Being himself
in the bosom of the Father before the world was. Though he was then "in perfectCwithout taint of sin and under no personal condemnationChe can
the form of God" and was "equal with God," as Paul expresses itCequal in sit in judgment upon all others without having his judgments colored by
knowledge and truth and all of the attributes of godlinessCyet he "made any untoward thought, word, or deed. Thus, speaking of himself as both
himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and our Exemplar and our Judge, he said to the Nephite Twelve: "Ye shall be
was made in the likeness of men." Thus he was "found in fashion as a judges of this people, according to the judgment which I shall give unto
man." (Philippians 2:6-8.) After the days of his flesh and when he had you, which shall be just. Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be?
been raised from mortality to immortality by the power of the Father, he Verily I say unto you, even as I am." (3 Nephi 27:27.)
was able to say: "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." "And he being the Only Begotten of the Father, full of grace and
(Matthew 28:18.) Thus, the Son, as Paul tells us, now possesses "the truth, and having overcome, received a fullness of the glory of the Father,
brightness of his [Father's] glory, and the express image of his person." possessing the same mind with the Father, which mind is the Holy Spirit,
(Hebrews 1:3.) From all of this it follows that the Son possesses the same that bears record of the Father and the Son." (Lectures on Faith 5:2.)The
fulness with the Father, that is, the same glory, the same power, the same mortal Jesus, as a man among men, had both a father and a mother. God
perfection, the same holiness, the same eternal life. was his Father, and Mary was his mother. He was begotten by a Holy
Man, by that God whose name is Man of Holiness; and he was conceived
"The Son, . . . being begotten of him, and ordained from before in the womb of a mortal woman. Mary, a virgin of Nazareth in Galilee,
the foundation of the world to be a propitiation for the sins of all those was "the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh." (1
who should believe on his name, . . . is called the Son because of the flesh, Nephi 11:18.) She was overshadowed by the Holy Ghost; "she was
and descended in suffering below that which man can suffer; or, in other carried away in the Spirit" (1 Nephi 11:19); she conceived "by the power
words, suffered greater sufferings, and was exposed to more powerful of the Holy Ghost," and she brought forth a son, "even the Son of God"
contradictions than any man can be." (Lectures on Faith 5:2.) (Alma 7:10). That Son, who is called Christ, is the Only Begotten, the only
As with all men, Christ was a spirit son in preexistence. In that offspring of the Father born into mortality. As a man, as God's only Son,
premortal sphere he was chosen and ordained to be the Redeemer and his only mortal Son, he overcame the world. He overcame the world of
Savior and to make a propitiation for the sins of all who believe and obey. evil and carnality and devilishness, and then, having died, he rose again
But he is the Son because he alone was begotten in the flesh, in mortality, in glorious immortality to receive all power both on earth and in heaven,
in this probationary sphere, where, as a man, he would "suffer which power is the fulness of the glory of the Father. He thus possesses
temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than the same mind with the Father, knowing and believing and speaking and
man can suffer, except it be unto death." (Mosiah 3:7.) The greatest doing as though he were the Father. This mind is theirs by the power of
suffering ever endured by man or God was in Gethsemane, where the Son, the Holy Ghost. That is, the Holy Ghost, who is a personage of spirit (a
in agony, sweat great drops of blood from every pore. Truly, "in bringing spirit man!), using the light of Christ, can give the same mind to all men,
many sons unto glory," it pleased God "to make the captain of their whether mortal or immortal. The saints who are true and faithful in all
salvation perfect through sufferings." (Hebrews 2:10.) things have, as Paul said, "the mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians 2:16), which
"But, notwithstanding all this, he kept the law of God, and means also that they have the mind of the Father. It is to the faithful
remained without sin, showing thereby that it is in the power of man to saints that the Holy Spirit bears witness of the Father and the Son, and it
is to them that he reveals all things. the Father and the Son are one, so, in like manner, the saints are to be
"And these three are one, or, in other words, these three one in them. Through the love of the Father, the mediation of Jesus
constitute the great, matchless, governing and supreme power over all Christ, and the gift of the Holy Spirit, they are to be heirs of God, and
things; by whom all things were created and made that were created and joint heirs with Jesus Christ." (Lectures on Faith 5:3.)
made." (Lectures on Faith 5:2.) Such is the course whereby the saints gain eternal life, the
In what way are the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost one God? greatest of all the gifts of God. And how could Deity give anything greater
Though three persons are involved, they are one supreme presidency, one to any man than the glory, power, and dominion that he himself
in creating all things, one in governing the universe with almighty power. possesses? The name of the kind of life he lives is eternal life, and all
"And these three constitute the Godhead, and are one; the Father those who know him in the full and complete sense shall have eternal life.
and the Son possessing the same mind, the same wisdom, glory, power "Behold, the mystery of godliness, how great is it!" (D&C 19:10.)
and fullnessCfilling all in all, the Son being filled with the fullness of the
mind, glory, and power; or, in other words, the spirit, glory, and power, of
the Father, possessing all knowledge and glory, and the same kingdom,
sitting at the right hand of power, in the express image and likeness of the
Father, mediator for man, being filled with the fullness of the mind of the
Father; or, in other words, the Spirit of the Father, which Spirit is shed
forth upon all who believe on his name and keep his commandments."
(Lectures on Faith 5:2.)
One Godhead! Three persons possessing the same mind, power,
and glory! Three individuals actuated by the same spirit, knowing all
things, and working together in perfect unity! God the Creator united in all
things with God the Redeemer, who mediates between the Great Creator
and his fallen creatures! AndCwonder of wondersCthe same spirit which
unites the Gods of heaven is shed forth on the righteous, that they may be
one as the Gods themselves are one.
"And all those who keep his commandments shall grow up from
grace to grace, and become heirs of the heavenly kingdom, and joint heirs
with Jesus Christ,Cpossessing the same mind, being transformed into the
same image or likeness, even the express image of him who fills all in all;
being filled with the fullness of his glory, and become one in him, even as
the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one." (Lectures on Faith 5:2.)
Thus is set forth in the creedal document the doctrineClater to be
endorsed and expounded in even plainer languageCthat as God now is,
man may become.
"From the foregoing account of the Godhead, which is given in his
revelations, the saints have a sure foundation laid for the exercise of faith
unto life and salvation, through the atonement and mediation of Jesus
Christ; by whose blood they have a forgiveness of sins, and also a sure
reward laid up for them in heaven, even that of partaking of the fullness of
the Father and the Son through the spirit. As the Son partakes of the
fullness of the Father through the Spirit, so the saints are, by the same
Spirit, to be partakers of the same fullness, to enjoy the same glory; for as
The Supreme Power over All Things: The Doctrine of the Godhead in the Lectures on Faith
(Robert L. Millet, The Lectures on Faith in Historical Perspective, 221-240)
Not long before his death, Elder Bruce R. McConkie wrote the following God and the Godhead:
concerning the fifth Lecture on Faith:
Some Preliminary Observations
Using the holy scriptures as the recorded source of the
knowledge of God, knowing what the Lord has revealed to them The nature of GodChis character and attributes and
of old in visions and by the power of the Spirit, and writing as perfectionsChas been treated at length by others in this symposium. I
guided by that same Spirit, Joseph Smith and the early brethren would like here to simply draw attention to a few matters which have
of this dispensation prepared a creedal statement on the some doctrinal bearing on a more detailed discussion of the Godhead.
Godhead. It is without question the most excellent summary of First of all, it is important to note that there is no distinction
revealed and eternal truth relative to the Godhead that is now made in the lectures between faith in God the Father and faith in his
extant in mortal language. In it is set forth the mystery of Son, Jesus Christ. This is as it should be, for faith in one is faith in the
Godliness; that is, it sets forth the personalities, missions, and other. "Christ and his Father are one," wrote Elder McConkie.
ministries of those holy beings who comprise the supreme
presidency of the universe. To spiritually illiterate persons, it may They possess the same powers, are of the same character,
seem hard and confusing; to those whose souls are aflame with embody the same attributes, and stand as beacons to all others
heavenly light, it is a nearly perfect summary of those things with reference to the same eternal perfections. The words and
which must be believed to gain salvation (A New Witness 72). acts of one are the words and acts of the other. The Father was
in Christ manifesting himself to the world. Hence, faith in the
After many years of concentrated study of the Lectures on Faith, Son is faith in the Father. And as Christ is the way to the Father,
and particularly Lecture 5, I have come to appreciate Elder McConkie's faith centers in him and in his redeeming sacrifice and goes
assessment; I believe the doctrines taught therein to be true and the thereby to the Father, who is the Creator (A New Witness 185).
concepts presentedCthough difficult and in some cases seemingly at
odds with more traditional discussions of God and the GodheadCto be Secondly, a careful study of all of the lectures reveals a
deep, penetrating, and, when fully grasped, soul inspiring. I believe them profoundly deep concept of God. These teachings relative to
to be in harmony with other doctrines found in the standard works and GodCdespite some claims to the contraryCare neither primitive nor
the teachings of living apostles and prophets. Protestant. We are made privy to a divine Being who is omnipotent,
Because the Prophet was not at liberty to reveal all he knew, we omniscient, and omnipresent:1 he has all power, all knowledge, and is,
are under solemn obligation to read, study, teach, and take seriously by the power of his Spirit, everywhere present. At the same time, we are
that which God did see fit to make known to the Latter-day Saints given insights into a Being who can be approached, a God who
through him. Because Joseph Smith was given the mind of Deity, and communicates freely with his people and reveals himself to those who,
because he was given the unique power and authorization of like Enoch, the brother of Jared, and Moses, seek after him with
"expounding all scriptures" (see D&C 24:5, 9) unto the people of this diligence and faithfulness (see LF 2:55). Most profoundly, we come face
dispensation, it is both fitting and proper that as we search and to face with the reality later taught in the King Follett SermonCthat men
prayerfully consider matters pertaining to the Godhead, we give solemn and women can mature spiritually to the point where they can become
and ponderous thought to insights provided by "the choice seer" of the even as their exalted Sire (see LF 5:2-3; 7:8-9, 16). As indicated, these
last days. lectures are not primitive: they contain doctrinal pronouncements and
allusions which would normally be associated with the mature Joseph some 24 years later. As a result of the First Vision, Joseph knew that the
Smith in Nauvoo. These lectures are not Protestant: indeed, we learn of heavens were no longer sealed; that Satan was more than myth or
a truly infinite BeingCa totally independent Being (see LF 2:2) who metaphor; and that the Father and Son were separate and distinct
possesses every godly attribute in perfection (see LF 3:12-24; 4:3-16, personages. There is no mention in any of his known accounts of the
19; 5:1). But in no way do we encounter the utterly transcendent Deity First Vision of the fact that God has a body of flesh and bones (Backman,
of the creeds. God's infinity does not preclude either his immediacy or his Joseph Smith's First Vision 155-67). The earliest reference in a sermon
intimacy. by Joseph Smith on the corporeality of God seems to be 5 January 1841.
On that occasion William Clayton recorded the Prophet as saying: "That
which is without body or parts is nothing. There is no other God in
The Father: A Personage of Spirit heaven but that God who has flesh and bones" (Ehat and Cook, Words of
Joseph Smith 60; hereafter Words).3 Six weeks later "Joseph said
"There are two personages," Joseph Smith explained, "who concerning the Godhead [that] it was not as many imaginedCthree
constitute the great, matchless, governing, and supreme power over all heads and but one body; he said the three were separate bodies"
things, by whom all things were created and made .... They are the (Words 63). On 9 March 1841 he spoke of the ministries of Jesus as the
Father and the Son" (LF 5:2). The Father and the Son are indeed the Mediator and the Holy Ghost as the witness or Testator. He then
central members of the heavenly hierarchy, but as the Prophet later declared that "the Son had a Tabernacle and so had the Father" (Words
observed in the same lecture, the Holy Spirit is also a vital part of this 64). Finally, it was on 2 April 1843 in Ramus, Illinois that Joseph the
eternal presidency. "These three are one," he stated; "or, in other words, Prophet delivered instructions on this matter which are the basis for D&C
these three constitute the great, matchless, governing, and supreme 130:22-23: "The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as
power over all things, by whom all things were created and made. And man's; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost ... is a personage of Spirit" (see
these three constitute the Godhead and are one" (LF 5:2). Words 173).
Again quoting from the Prophet: "They are the Father and the A second possibility is that Joseph Smith did indeed understand
Son: the Father being a personage of spirit, glory, and power, possessing that God has a body but that the passage in Lecture 5 under
all perfection and fulness. The Son, who was in the bosom of the Father, consideration has simply been misunderstood. If so, what could the
is a personage of tabernacle" (LF 5:2; emphasis added). This is a phrase mean? To begin with, we should note that the complete
perplexing passage, perhaps one of the two most enigmatic passages of expression is not "a personage of spirit," but rather "a personage of
Lecture 5,2 a segment of the lecture which seems to have resulted in spirit, glory, and power." This may well be intended more as a
confusion on the part of members and may have contributed eventually description of God's divine natureCa statement regarding his exalted and
to the deletion of the Lectures on Faith from the Doctrine and Covenants
glorified statusCthan of his physical being. The word "spirit," as used for
in 1921. The problem lies in the fact that the Prophet appears to be
example in Moses 1, is a synonym for glory or power: his Spirit is his
teaching that God the Father is a "personage of spirit" while Jesus is "a
glory. Thus the account indicates that after a marvelous vision "the
personage of tabernacle." The latter proposition is, of course, no
presence of God withdrew from Moses, that his glory was not upon
problem. It is the notion of the Father as a personage of spirit which is
Moses" (v 9). When Satan came tempting and taunting, the Lawgiver
unsettling. Let us consider some possible explanations for this statement.
found that he was still possessed of sufficient spiritual power and
We cannot avoid the possible conclusion that Joseph Smith
discernment to distinguish between the true God of glory and the "god of
simply did not understand the corporeal or physical nature of God at the
this world" (v 20; see also 2 Cor 4:4). "Blessed be the name of my God,"
time the Lectures on Faith were delivered in the winter of 1834-35. His
Moses exulted, "for his Spirit hath not altogether withdrawn from me"
knowledge of thingsClike that of all men and womenCwas often
(Moses 1:15; emphasis added). To speak of the spirit, glory, and power
incremental, and his development in understanding was thereby
of the Father is to speak of his greatness, of his omnipotence, of his
accomplished in "line upon line" fashion. When he left the grove of trees
majesty. Thus it is that later in this lecture the Prophet says, "The Father
in 1820, Joseph Smith, Jr. did not have the doctrinal grasp or spiritual
and the Son possess the same mind, the same wisdom, glory, power,
maturity that he would have when he died a martyr's death in Carthage
and fulnessCfilling all in all. The Son, being filled with the fulness of the Joseph Smith would not cite this passage from the King James Bible,
mind, glory, and power, or in other words, the spirit, glory, and power, since he had previously learned by revelationCsome time between
of the Father, possesses all knowledge and glory" (LF 5:2; emphasis November 1831 and 16 February 1832 (Matthews 96)Cthat this verse
added). Please note that the phrase "spirit, glory, and power" is used was a mistranslation. The inspired translation reads as follows: "And the
here to describe that which makes the Son one with the FatherCthe hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the
attributes of Godhood. Note the equation of spirit with light in the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
following verse from the Doctrine and Covenants: "For the word of the For unto such hath God promised his Spirit. And they who worship him,
Lord is truth, and whatsoever is truth is light, and whatsoever is light is must worship in spirit and in truth" (JST John 4:25-26). One cannot help
Spirit, even the Spirit of Jesus Christ" (D&C 84:45). but wonder whether the inspired revision did not have some impact on
Elder Bruce R. McConkie has suggested that the phrase "a the Prophet's thought regarding the nature of God; that is to say, if he
personage of spirit" has reference to God's spiritual natureCthe fact that did not know of the corporeality of God at the time of the First Vision, did
he is a resurrected and immortal being and as such is not subject to he know it by the time he had translated these verses in John?4
death, ie, a spiritual body. "They are the two personages who came to I am indebted to my colleague Professor Milton Backman for
Joseph Smith in the spring of 1820"; he also wrote: bringing to light an important documentCa description of Mormonism by
a Protestant clergyman in Ohio. Truman Coe, a Presbyterian minister
They are exalted men. Each is a personage of spirit; who had for four years lived among the Saints in Kirtland, published the
each is a personage of tabernacle. Both of them have bodies, following regarding the Mormons in the 11 August 1836 Ohio Observer:
tangible bodies of flesh and bones. They are resurrected beings. "They contend that the God worshipped by the Presbyterians and all
Words, with their finite connotations, cannot fully describe them. other sectarians is no better than a wooden god. They believe that the
A personage of tabernacle, as here used, is one whose body and true God is a material being, composed of body and parts; and that
spirit are inseparably connected and for whom there can be no when the Creator formed Adam in his own image, he made him about
death. A personage of spirit, as here used and as distinguished the size and shape of God himself" (Backman, "Truman Coe's 1836
from the spirit children of the Father, is a resurrected personage. Description of Mormonism" 347, 354; emphasis added). If a non-Mormon
Resurrected bodies, as contrasted with mortal bodies, are in fact had observed as early as 1836 that the Latter-day Saints were teaching
spiritual bodies (A New Witness 72-73; see also Penrose 12-13; 1 that God has a body, it is certainly not inconceivable that such things
Cor 15:44; D&C 88:27; Alma 11:45). were known by Joseph Smith a year or so earlier at the time of the
School of the Elders. It is interesting to note in D&C 93:33 the Lord
It is interesting to read the catechism following Lecture 5. In states that "man is spirit." This would appear to be a reference to man's
response to the question, "What is the Father?" the answer is given: "He eternal nature, and certainly not an allusion to his physical person.
is a personage of glory and of power." Note the rather obvious omission Perhaps the phrase "personage of spirit" also has reference to God as a
of any reference to the Father as a personage of spirit. I suggest that being who is from everlasting to everlasting.
there is no reference to his being a personage of spirit because to say
such is repetitious; we have already established that he is a personage of
power and glory, which in the mind of Joseph Smith is the same as
The Son: A Personage of Tabernacle
saying that he is a personage of spirit. It is also worth noting in the
catechism that in the scriptures cited to establish the Father as a Jesus Christ the Son is described in Lecture 5 as having been "in
personage of power and glory, all of them speak of his attributes and his the bosom of the Father ... a personage of tabernacle, made or
exaltation. Noticeably absent is John 4:24Cthe one passage from the fashioned like unto man, being in the form and likeness of man, or rather
man was formed after his likeness and in his image. He is also the
Bible that might have been used to establish clearly that God is a spirit.
express image and likeness of the personage of the Father, possessing
"God is a spirit," the King James Version has Jesus explaining, "and they
all the fulness of the Father, or the same fulness with the Father" (LF
that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." But of course
5:2). The section of this lecture dealing with Christ is a statement of the
Incarnation, a reaffirmation of what the Book of Mormon prophets knew dwelt in the fleshCis also affirmed in Lecture 5. Jesus "descended in
as "the condescension of God" (see 1 Nephi 11; Mosiah 3:1-11; 7:26-28). suffering below that which man can suffer; or, in other words, he
He who had been in the bosom of the FatherCwho had been the Lord suffered greater sufferings and was exposed to more powerful
God Omnipotent, the Holy One of Israel and the God of Abraham, Isaac, contradictions than any man can be" (LF 5:2). The conclusion: Jesus of
and JacobCcame to earth; he chose to "descend from his throne divine" Nazareth was more than man, for the full act of propitiation required a
(Hymns 193) to accomplish his mission of mercy. The Son is called a God (see Mosiah 3:7, 9; Alma 34:11). Our Lord is "he that ascended up
"personage of tabernacle" here because his assignment on earth on high, as also he descended below all things, in that he comprehended
pertained to the redemption and regeneration of the flesh. Thus Elohim all things, that he might be in all and through all things, the light of
is designated as the Father, a being of spirit, glory, and power, while truth" (D&C 88:6). In the words of Paul, "he that descended is the same
Jesus Christ is called the Son, "because of the flesh" (LF 5:2). These also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things"
words are in harmony with the doctrines of the condescension of God in (Eph 4:10). How is it that Christ "was exposed to more powerful
the Book of Mormon. Abinadi thus prophesied that because Jesus the contradictions than any man can be"? Simply stated, the ministry of
Messiah would dwell "in the flesh he shall be called the Son of God" Messiah was a life filled with irony. During the hours of atonement, for
(Mosiah 15:2). King Limhi explained to Ammon concerning Abinadi: example, he who had remained sinless became, as it were, the great
sinner. In the language of Paul, God the Father "made him to be sin for
And because he said unto them that Christ was the God, the us, who knew no sin" (2 Cor 5:21). To the Galatian Saints, Paul taught
Father of all things, and said that he should take upon him the that "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a
image of man, and it should be the image after which man was curse for us" (Gal 3:13). He who deserved least of all to suffer suffered
created in the beginning; or, in other words, he said that man the mostCmore than mortal mind can fathom. He who had brought
was created after the image of God, and that God should come lifeCthe more abundant life (John 10:10)Csubjected himself to the
down among the children of men, and take upon him flesh and powers of death and darkness.
blood, and go forth upon the face of the earthCand now, Notwithstanding all the sufferings and the infinite opposition
because he said this, they did put him to death (Mosiah faced by the Infinite One, the Prophet testified that the Savior "kept the
7:27-28). law of God and remained without sin, showing thereby that it is in the
power of man to keep the law and remain also without sin. And also that
The language of Lecture 5 regarding the relationship of the by him a righteous judgment might come upon all flesh, that all who
Father to the Son is also highly reminiscent of the language of the 93rd walk not in the law of God may justly be condemned by the law and
section of the Doctrine and Covenants. In this revelation, for example, have no excuse for their sins" (LF 5:2). Jesus never took a backward step
Christ explained that he is called "the Father because [Elohim] gave me nor a moral detour. He "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet
of his fulness, and the Son because I was in the world and made flesh without sin" (Heb 4:15; see also 1 Peter 2:22). As the Sinless One, he is
my tabernacle, and dwelt among the sons of men" (D&C 93:4; emphasis thus the perfect Prototype (see LF 7:9), the standard against which all
added). Further, in regard to the divine indwelling relationship that exists others are judged. The standard of perfection is fixed. It is in place. It is
between the Father and the SonCthe manner in which in the irrevocable. Because God himself is the embodiment of "truth, justice,
resurrection the fulness of the glory of the Father came to be centered in judgment, mercy, and an infinity of fulness, from everlasting to
the SonCthe revelation continues with an excerpt from the record of everlasting" (D&C 109:77), he could not expect less from his children.
John. It is stated that Christ was called the Son of God "because he What is possible, however, is not always probable. Though the standard
received not of the fulness at the first," but that in the resurrection "he is set and the example a matter of history, the Prophet recognized that
received a fulness of the glory of the Father; and he received all power, ultimate perfection is a matter toward which men and women reach even
both in heaven and on earth, and the glory of the Father was with him, beyond this life (Words 345, 358). "Where is the man that is free from
for he dwelt in him" (D&C 93:14, 16-17).The divine Sonship of vanity?" Joseph Smith asked on a subsequent occasion. "None ever were
ChristCthe fact that Jesus possessed the powers of immortality while he perfect but Jesus," he taught, "and why was he perfect? because he was
the Son of God, and had the fulness of the Spirit, and greater power Smith knew and taught and what the Saints understood may be two
than any man" (Words 72). Similarly, Elder Bruce R. McConkie declared different matters. One of the earliest references to the personage status
in an address at Brigham Young University: of the Holy Spirit in the documents now available to us is from a sermon
delivered some six years later, on 9 March 1841, a portion of which I
We have to become perfect to be saved in the celestial kingdom. cited earlier. In speaking of the separate and severable functions of the
But nobody becomes perfect in this life. Only the Lord Jesus members of the Godhead, Joseph Smith explained that "the Son had a
attained that state, and he had an advantage that none of us tabernacle and so had the Father, but the Holy Ghost is a personage of
has. He was the Son of God, and he came into this life with a spirit without tabernacle" (Words 64). The most famous statement in
spiritual capacity and a talent and an inheritance that exceeded Latter-day Saint theology regarding the mission of the Spirit is that
beyond all comprehension what any of the rest of us was born recorded by Willard Richards in Ramus, Illinios:
with. Our revelations say that he was like unto God in the
premortal life and he was, under the Father, the creator of
worlds without number. That Holy Being was the Holy One of The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man's;
Israel anciently and he was the Sinless One in mortality. He lived the Son also. But the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit. And a
a perfect life, and he set an ideal example. This shows that we person cannot have the personage of the Holy Ghost in his
can strive and go forward toward that goal, but no other heart. He may receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; it may descend
mortalCnot the greatest prophets nor the mightiest apostles nor upon him but not tarry with him (Words 173).
any of the righteous saints ofany of the agesChas ever been
perfect, but we must become perfect to gain a celestial On 11 June 1843 Wilford Woodruff recorded the following
inheritance. As it is with being born again, and as it is with remarks by the Prophet:
sanctifying our souls, so becoming perfect in Christ is a process
("Jesus Christ and Him Crucified" 399-400). There is much said concerning God the Godhead. And the
scripture says there are Gods many and Lords many. The
Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). To the teachers of the day say that the Father is God, the Son is God,
Nephites he said: "I am the law, and the light. Look unto me, and endure and the Holy Ghost is God and that they are all in one body and
to the end, and ye shall live" (3 Nephi 15:9). one God. Jesus says or prays that those that the Father had
given him out of the world might be made one in us as we are
The Holy Spirit: The Mind of the Father and Son one, but if they were to be stuffed into one person that would
make a great God. If I were to testify that the world was wrong
on this point it would be true. Peter says that Jesus Christ sat on
Though the Prophet began the fifth lecture by stating that the
the right hand of God. Any person that has seen the heavens
Father and Son were the supreme power over all things, he also
opened knows that there are three personages in the heavens
observed that the Holy Spirit is the third member of the eternal
holding the keys of power (Words 214; emphasis added).
presidency and that these threeCthe Father, Son, and Holy
SpiritC"constitute the great, matchless, governing, and supreme power
Finally, perhaps the most explicit statement as to the role and
over all things, by whom all things were created and made. And these
mission of the Holy Ghost is recorded by George Laub. According to
three constitute the Godhead and are one" (LF 5:2). It is true, as some
Brother Laub, Joseph Smith taught on 16 June 1844 that God, Christ,
have pointed out, that the Prophet did not refer in Lecture 5 to the Holy
and the Holy Ghost are separate persons but that they "all agree in one
Spirit as a personage. Some have further suggested that this doctrine
or the self same thing. But the Holy Ghost is yet a spiritual body and
was not clarified until the administration of President Joseph F. Smith
waiting to take to himself a body as the Savior did, or as God did, or the
(Alexander, "The Reconstruction of Mormon Doctrine" 25-26; also
Gods before them took bodies" (Words 382).
Mormonism in Transition 272-306). As we will discuss later, what Joseph
The matter in Lecture 5 is complicated somewhat by the unusual
manner in which the Prophet describes the work of the Spirit. Jesus his death that disproves such a proposition. "I have always [taught],"
Christ is said to have "received a fulness of the glory of the Father, Thomas Bullock quoted Joseph Smith as saying, "in all congregations
possessing the same mind with the Father, which mind is the Holy Spirit when I have preached, it has been the plurality of Gods. It has been
that bears record of the Father and the Son" (LF 5:2; emphasis added). preached fifteen years. I have always declared God to be a distinct
Not only is the Holy Spirit not accorded personage status in this personage, Jesus Christ a separate and distinct personage from God the
reference, but he seems to be relegated to some type of mystical Father. The Holy Ghost was a distinct personage and or spirit, and these
connecting link between the other two members of the Godhead. The three constitute three distinct personages and three Gods" (Words 378).
Son is said to be "filled with the fulness of the mind, glory, and power, or Rather than contradicting the ProphetCrather than concluding that
in other words, the spirit, glory, and power, of the Father." The Son is Joseph did not preach something when he said he hadCI choose to
"filled with the fulness of the mind of the Father, or ... the Spirit of the believe, with Elders Penrose and McConkie, that Joseph Smith did know
Father, which Spirit is shed forth upon all who believe on his name and the difference even though that difference is not clear in the records we
keep his commandments" (LF 5:2; emphasis added). It appears to me have. Or it may have been that he thought it unnecessary to make that
that the difficulty here is heightened by the lack of distinction between distinction every time he spoke because he had made it before. As we
what we would call the Light of Christ and the Holy Ghost. Joseph Smith shall discuss shortly, there was, no doubt, a significant chasm between
is speaking in the broadest of terms and simply refers to the Holy Spirit what the Prophet knew and what the Saints knew, as well as between
as the mind of God. "It is true," stated President Charles W. Penrose, what the Prophet knew and what he taught.
"that the Holy Spirit conveys the mind of God; that is, I am speaking now
of this universal spirit which is the life and the light of all things, which is
in and through and round about all things, and God says he made the
Becoming Heirs of the Heavenly Kingdom
world by the power of that spirit. That is his agent; but the personage,
the Comforter, which Jesus Christ said he would send when he went In Lecture 5 Joseph Smith lifted our vision of man's eternal
away, that was a personage of the Trinity" (Penrose 16). Elder Bruce R. possibilities. Simply stated, he taught at this early date that man may
McConkie likewise wrote that the Savior become even as God. He instructed the School of the Elders that the
Saints "who keep [the Lord's] commandments shall grow from grace to
possesses the same mind with the Father, knowing and believing grace and become heirs of the heavenly kingdom, and joint-heirs with
and speaking and doing as though he were the Father. This mind Jesus Christ. They will possess the same mind, being transformed into
is theirs by the power of the Holy Ghost. That is, the Holy Ghost, the same image or likeness, even the express image of him who fills all
who is a personage of spirit (a spirit man!), using the light of in all, being filled with the fulness of his glory and becoming one in him,
Christ, can give the same mind to all men, whether mortal or even as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one" (LF 5:2). We see
immortal. The saints who are true and faithful in all things have, reflected once again the doctrine of D&C 93, wherein Christ's pathway to
as Paul said, "the mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians 2:16), which Godhood is laid out, and the Saints are taught how to worship and what
means also that they have the mind of the Father (A New to worship. The essence of true worship is emulation, the imitation of the
Witness 75). works and labors of Christ (McConkie, The Promised Messiah 568-69).
Just as their prototype received divine assistance from the Father as he
It would not be difficult to suppose that at the time the Lectures gave of himself to his fellow men (ie, he received "grace for grace"); just
on Faith were delivered the Prophet Joseph Smith had not yet learned of as Christ "received not of the fulness" of the glory of the Father at the
the personage status of the Holy Ghost and thus made no doctrinal first, but "continued from grace to grace"Cgrew line upon line,
distinction between the Spirit's person and powers. There is, however, developed from one level of spiritual grace to a higher; and just as Christ
one major difficulty with drawing the conclusion that the personage received in the resurrection the fulness of the Father, so may all men
status of the Holy Ghost was not taught until after the turn of this and women follow such a path and grow in spiritual graces until they
centuryCJoseph Smith himself made a statement just eleven days before inherit all that the Father has (see D&C 93:12-20).
To say that men may possess "the same mind" as God, that they
may be "transformed into [his] same image or likeness," or that they
may partake "of the fulness of the Father and the Son through the Spirit" "Brother Joseph," observed Wilford Woodruff,
(LF 5:2, 3), is to say that men may come unto God in more than
metaphorical fashion. To be a "joint-heir with Christ" is to be a used a great many methods of testing the integrity of men; and
co-inheritor with him, to possess on equal standing with the Holder of he taught a great many things which, in consequence of
the birthright.5 Elder McConkie has stressed that the fifth Lecture on tradition, required prayer, faith, and a testimony from the Lord,
Faith teaches "that we, as fallible, weak, mortal menCsubject to all the before they could be believed by many of the Saints. His mind
ills, difficulties, and vicissitudes of lifeChave power to advance and was opened by the visions of the Almighty, and the Lord taught
progress and become like our exalted and eternal Father and his beloved him many things by vision and revelation that were never taught
Son." It thus sets forth "the same doctrine that concludes, 'As God now publicly in his days; for the people could not bear the flood of
is, man may become.' This thing was announced, in principle, in the intelligence which God poured into his mind (Journal of
School of the Prophets and did not have to wait for a King Follett Discourses 5:83-84; hereafter JD).
sermon, although, I suppose, the Saints did not fully grasp what was
involved in this language initially" (McConkie, "The Lord God of Joseph Five months before his death, Joseph Smith lamented that
Smith" 5). "Here then is Eternal life," the Prophet would teach at the there has been a great difficulty in getting anything into the
theological peak of his ministry, heads of this generation. It has been like splitting hemlock knots
with a corn-dodger for a wedge, and a pumpkin for a beetle.
to know the only wise and true God. You have got to learn how Even the Saints are slow to understand.
to be a God yourself and to be a king and priest to God, [the]
same as all have done, by going from a small capacity to I have tried for a number of years to get the minds of the Saints
another, from grace to grace, until the resurrection, and sit in prepared to receive the things of God; but we frequently see
everlasting power as they who have gone before.... How some of them, after suffering all they have for the work of God,
consoling to the mourner when they are called to part with a will fly to pieces like glass as soon as anything comes that is
wife, mother, father, daughter, relative, to know that although contrary to their traditions: they cannot stand the fire at all. How
the earthly tabernacle shall be dissolved that they shall be heirs many will be able to abide a celestial law, and go through and
of God and joint-heirs of Jesus Christ, to inherit the same power receive their exaltation, I am unable to say, as many are called,
... the same as those who are gone before" (Words 350). but few are chosen (History of the Church 6:184-85; hereafter
HC).
Again I am eager to affirm that the Lectures on Faith are not
primitive; I do not see them as being out of harmony in any way with We simply are unable to gauge how much the Prophet
what Joseph the Prophet later taught; they are certainly not something knewChow much God had revealed to him personallyCusing only the
beyond which he and the Church later evolved. All the Lectures on Faith, basis of what the Saints knew. It would be a serious historical error to
and Lecture 5 in particular, contain much that is meaty, much that suppose that because the average member of the Church did not
requires pondering and prayer and comparison and contemplation. They understand the nature of the GodheadCwhether, for example, the Father
"were given to the saints and not the world, to enable the apostles, had a corporeal body or whether the Holy Ghost was a personageCthat
elders, and righteous people of the kingdom to fulfill the same plea made Joseph the Prophet did not understand, and that the Lectures on Faith
by the prophets of oldC'Lord, Increase our faith'" (McConkie, "Lord, reflect that lack of understanding. This would also apply to some of the
Increase Our Faith" 5). leaders of the Church, even some of the first Apostles. Because Parley P.
Pratt failed to distinguish the Light of Christ from the personage of the
The Knowledge of God: Holy Ghost in his masterwork, Key to the Science of Theology,6 does not
reflect one way or another on what Joseph Smith comprehended or what
The Prophets and the People
he intended in the School of the Elders. Few would argue against the Lectures were at least in part written by the Prophet and wholly
proposition that Parley's brother, Orson, was one of the great theological approved by him in preparation for their inclusion in the first
minds of this dispensation. And yet we find Orson Pratt, as late as 1855, edition of the Doctrine and Covenants (HC 2:180).
still wondering about the personage status of the Holy Ghost (JD "In my own judgment," said President Joseph Fielding
2:337-38), when, in fact, Joseph Smith had revealed clearly, as early as
Smith, "these Lectures on Faith are of great value and should be
1841, that the Holy Ghost was a personage of spirit as has already been
noted above. The fact that the people did not fully grasp the intricacies
studied.... They were not taken out of the Doctrine and Covenants
of the doctrines is totally unrelated to what their leader was able to because they contained false doctrine, and I consider them to be
grasp and thus is unrelated to what he taught and what he intended to of extreme value in the study of the gospel of Jesus Christ" (194).
be understood. We must not be guilty of setting bounds for God or his Perhaps Elder McConkie voiced my own feelings best when he
prophet-leaders, subscribing them on the basis of our present view of spoke of Lecture Five to a Brigham Young University audience in
things. 1972. "In my judgment," he said, "it is the most comprehensive,
intelligent, inspired utterance that now exists ... in one place
defining, interpreting, expounding, announcing, and testifying
what kind of being God is. It was written by the power of the Holy
Ghost, by the spirit of inspiration. It is, in effect, eternal scripture;
it is true" ("The Lord God of Joseph Smith" 4).
Conclusion
NOTES
In my view the Lectures on Faith have not received the Robert L. Millet is associate professor and chairman of Ancient
positive attention they ought to have received by the Latter-day Scripture at Brigham Young University.
Saints. They were, in fact, acknowledged by the members in 1835
as the "doctrine of the Church of the Latter Day Saints." I find the
doctrine and scope of the Lectures to be stimulating and the BIBLIOGRAPHY
Alexander, Thomas G. Mormonism in Transition. Chicago: Univ of Illinois, 1986.
perspective to be harmonious with traditional theology of the CCC. "The Reconstruction of Mormon Doctrine: From Joseph Smith to
20th-century Church. Like the Book of Mormon, I find their Progressive Theology." Sunstone (Jul-Aug 1980) 5:24-33.
contents to be profound, even though they come from an early Backman, Milton V., Jr. Joseph Smith's First Vision. 2nd ed. Salt Lake City:
period in the Church's history. Truly "one of the flaws in the Bookcraft, 1980.
CCC. "Truman Coe's 1836 Description of Mormonism." BYU Studies (Spring
reasoning of some ... is an over-reliance upon a linear view of
1977) 17:347-55.
history, an acceptance of the principle that phenomena evolve Ehat, Andrew F., and Lyndon W. Cook. The Words of Joseph Smith. Salt Lake
from previously existing circumstances. Such is certainly not the City: Bookcraft, 1980.
case in all situations; many events or movements"Cand, without History of the Church. 7 vols. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1978.
question, many doctrinesC"[are] more revolutionary than Hymns. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1985.
Journal of Discourses. 26 vols. 1854-86.
evolutionary" (Millet 189). The Lectures on Faith are illustrative of McConkie, Bruce R. Doctrinal New Testament Commentary. 3 vols. Salt Lake City:
this phenomenon: they come from a formative period of our Bookcraft, 1965-73.
history but make known truths which, when carefully studied and CCC. "Jesus Christ and Him Crucified." Devotional Speeches of the Year, 1976.
fully appreciated, would be considered a part of the mature Joseph Provo, UT: Brigham Young Univ, 1977. 391-405.
CCC. "The Lord God of Joseph Smith." Speeches of the Year, 1971-1972. Provo,
Smith and the Nauvoo Church. Whether Joseph Smith himself
UT: Brigham Young Univ, 1972.
literally wrote every word in Lecture 5 is immaterial to me; the
CCC. "Lord, Increase Our Faith." Speeches of the Year, 1967-1968. Provo, UT: the firstborn. As such they are not just sons and daughters of Jesus Christ but
Brigham Young Univ, 1968. sons and daughters of God, meaning the Father (see McConkie, Doctrinal New
CCC. A New Witness for the Articles of Faith. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, Testament Commentary 2:471-75; See also D&C 76:58).
1985. 6. See Alexander's discussion in Mormonism in Transition (280-81). See also
CCC. The Promised Messiah. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1978. Parley P. Pratt's An Answer to Mr. William Hewitt's Tract Against the Latter-Day
Matthews, Robert J. A Plainer Translation: Joseph Smith's Translation of the Saints, wherein even Elder Pratt gives evidence that he was struggling to
Bible, A History and Commentary. Provo, UT: Brigham Young Univ, understand the corporeality of God the Father.
1975.
Millet, Robert L. "Biblical Criticism and the Four Gospels: A Critical Look." To Be
Learned Is Good If.... Ed. Robert L. Millet. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft,
1987. 187-204.
Penrose, Charles W. Conference Report (Apr 1921) 9-17.
Pratt, Parley P. An Answer to Mr. William Hewitt's Tract Against the Latter-Day
Saints. Manchester: W. R. Thomas, 1840.
Smith, Joseph Fielding. Seek Ye Earnestly. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1970.
Talmage, James E. Articles of Faith. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, 1984.
Footnotes
1. I should distinguish here between and LDS view of God's omnipotence,
omniscience, and omnipresence, and that held by many in Catholicism or
Protestantism. We do not believe in the utterly transcendent Being of the creeds,
nor do we subscribe to the notion of a creation ex nihilo. God has all power but
works within established parameters. "Whatever His wisdom indicates as
necessary to be done God can and will do. The means through which He
operates may not be of infinite capacity in themselves, but they are directed by
an infinite power. A rational conception of His omnipotence is power to do all that
He may will to do" (Talmage 44). Latter-day Saints attest to God's corporeality
and thus his inability to be, in person at least, everywhere at the same time. He is
able, however, through his holy Spirit (also called the Light of Christ) to be in and
through all things.
2. The other troublesome passage deals with the role of the Holy Spirit as the
"mind" of the other two members of the Godhead (LF 5:2), and will be discussed
below.
3. Quotations from Words of Joseph Smith have been modernized and corrected
in this article.
4. At an even earlier date (Nov-Dec 1830), the Prophet's inspired revision of
Genesis resulted in the following scripture: "In the day that God created man, (in
the likeness of God made he him,) in the image of his own body, male and
female created he them, and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the
day when they were created, and became living souls, in the land, upon the
footstool of God" (JST Gen 6:9; emphasis added; see also Moses 6:8-9).
5. Thus those who are entitled to membership in the "Church of the Firstborn"
are not simply those who are members of the Lord's earthly church, but rather
those who with Christ become joint-heirs to all the Father has; they are entitled
to all of the blessings of the Firstborn and thus inherit them as though they were
Lecture 6 him necessary for them to overcome the world and
obtain that crown of glory which is laid up for them
ON FAITH that fear God.
1. Having treated the ideas of the character,
5. For a man to lay down his allChis character and
perfections, and attributes of God in the preceding
reputation, his honor and applause, his good name
lectures, we next proceed to treat the knowledge
among men, his houses, his lands, his brothers and
which persons must have that the course of life
sisters, his wife and children, and even his own life
which they pursue is according to the will of God,
also, counting all things but filth and dross for the
so they may be enabled to exercise faith in him
excellency of the knowledge of Jesus
unto life and salvation.
ChristCrequires more than mere belief or
supposition that he is doing the will of God. It
2. This knowledge supplies an important place in
requires actual knowledge, realizing that when
revealed religion; for it was by reason of it that the
these sufferings are ended, he will enter into
ancients were enabled to endure "as seeing him
eternal rest and be a partaker of the glory of God.
who is invisible" (Heb 11:27). It is essential for any
person to have an actual knowledge that the course
6. For unless a person does know that he is walking
of life which he is pursuing is according to the will
according to the will of God, it would be offering an
of God to enable him to have that confidence in
insult to the dignity of the Creator were he to say
God without which no person can obtain eternal
that he would be a partaker of his glory when he
life. It was this that enabled the ancient Saints to
should be done with the things of this life. But
endure all their afflictions and persecutions and to
when he has this knowledge and most assuredly
take joyfully the spoiling of their goods, knowing
knows that he is doing the will of God, his
(not believing merely) that they had a more
confidence can be equally strong that he will be a
enduring substance (Heb 10:34).
partaker of the glory of God.
3. Having the assurance that they were pursuing a
7. Let us here observe that a religion that does not
course which was agreeable to the will of God, they
require the sacrifice of all things never has power
were enabled to take not only the spoiling of their
sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life
goods and the wasting of their substance joyfully,
and salvation. For from the first existence of man,
but also to suffer death in its most horrid forms,
the faith necessary unto the enjoyment of life and
knowing (not merely believing) that when this
salvation never could be obtained without the
"earthly house of this tabernacle [was] dissolved,
sacrifice of all earthly things. It is through this
we have a building of God, an house not made with
sacrifice, and this only, that God has ordained that
hands, eternal in the heavens" (2 Cor 5:1).
men should enjoy eternal life. And it is through the
medium of the sacrifice of all earthly things that
4. Such was and always will be the situation of the
men do actually know that they are doing the
Saints of God. Unless they have an actual
things that are well pleasing in the sight of God.
knowledge that the course they are pursuing is
When a man has offered in sacrifice all that he has
according to the will of God, they will grow weary in
for the truth's sake, not even withholding his life,
their minds and faint. For such has been and
and believing before God that he has been called to
always will be the opposition in the hearts of
make this sacrifice because he seeks to do His will,
unbelievers and those who know not God against
he does know, most assuredly, that God does and
the pure and unadulterated religion of heaven (the
will accept his sacrifice and offering and that he has
only thing which ensures eternal life). They will
not sought nor will he seek His face in vain. Under
persecute to the uttermost all who worship God
these circumstances, then, he can obtain the faith
according to his revelations, receive the truth in the
necessary for him to lay hold on eternal life.
love of it, and submit themselves to be guided and
directed by his will. And they will drive them to such
8. It is in vain for persons to fancy to themselves
extremities that nothing short of an actual
that they are heirs with those, or can be heirs with
knowledge of their being the favorites of heaven
them, who have offered their all in sacrifice, and by
and of their having embraced that order of things
this means obtained faith in God and favor with him
which God has established for the redemption of
so as to obtain eternal life, unless they in like
man will enable them to exercise that confidence in
manner offer unto him the same sacrifice and
through that offering obtain the knowledge that doubt and faith do not exist in the same person at
they are accepted of him. the same time. So persons whose minds are under
doubts and fears cannot have unshaken confidence,
9. It was in offering sacrifices that Abel, the first and where unshaken confidence is not, there faith
martyr, obtained knowledge that he was accepted is weak. And where faith is weak, the persons will
of God. And from the days of righteous Abel to the not be able to contend against all the opposition,
present time, the knowledge that men have that tribulations, and afflictions which they will have to
they are accepted in the sight of God is obtained by encounter in order to be heirs of God and
offering sacrifice. And in the last days before the joint-heirs with Christ Jesus. But they will grow
Lord comes, he is to gather together his saints who weary in their minds, and the adversary will have
have made a covenant with him by sacrifice. "Our power over them and destroy them. 1
God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire
shall devour before him, and it shall be very Note: This lecture is so plain and the facts set forth
tempestuous round about him. He shall call to the so self-evident that it is deemed unnecessary to
heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may form a catechism upon it. The student is, therefore,
judge his people. Gather my saints together unto instructed to commit the whole to memory [1835
me; those that have made a covenant with me by footnote].
sacrifice" (Ps 50:3-5).
10. Those, then, who make the sacrifice will have

the testimony that their course is pleasing in the
sight of God. And those who have this testimony
will have faith to lay hold on eternal life and will be
enabled, through faith, to endure unto the end and
receive the crown that is laid up for them that love
the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. But those
who do not make the sacrifice cannot enjoy this
faith, because men are dependent upon this
sacrifice in order to obtain this faith. Therefore,
they cannot lay hold upon eternal life, because the
revelations of God do not guarantee unto them the
authority so to do; and without this guarantee faith
could not exist.
11. All the Saints of whom we have account in all

the revelations of God which are extant obtained
the knowledge which they had of their acceptance
in his sight through the sacrifice which they offered
unto him. And through the knowledge thus
obtained, their faith became sufficiently strong to
lay hold upon the promise of eternal life and to
endure "as seeing him who is invisible" (Heb
11:27). They were enabled through faith to combat
the powers of darkness, contend against the wiles
of the adversary, overcome the world, and obtain
the end of their faith, even the salvation of their
souls.
12. But those who have not made this sacrifice to

God do not know that the course which they pursue
is well pleasing in his sight. For whatever may be
their belief or their opinion, it is a matter of doubt
and uncertainty in their mind; and where doubt and
uncertainty are, there faith is not, nor can it be. For
Chapter 21 Son worships the Father, as we are commanded to
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ do; if there is any being with whom we should feel a
(Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of special kinship, it is with the Father. But Christ as the
Faith, 185-201) Only Begotten in the flesh, as the Redeemer, as the
Savior, has made salvation possible and has become
Faith Centers in Christ one with the Father. Thus salvation is in Christ; faith
Thus far in our analysis of faith we have centers in him; and faithful saints have power to
spoken primarily of faith in God without become like him and be as he is, even as he is as his
differentiating between the Father and the Son. Nor Father.
has it been necessary so to do, for faith in one is faith Growing in Faith
in the other. Joseph Smith taught that the Father is One man and one man only had perfect faith.
the author of the plan of salvation and of the law of He was the Lord Jesus, and his faith was perfect
faith that is part of this great and eternal plan. This because he lived a life of perfection. None others
plan has become Christ's by adoption, and he has put have ever done so. He alone knew no sin. His every
all its terms and conditions into full operation through word and act conformed to a divine standard; from
his infinite and eternal atonement. Bethlehem to Calvary, the light of heaven guided his
To gain salvation, men must come unto the deeds and placed words in his mouth. None of the
Father, attain the faith that he exercises, and be as he residue of men have ever walked in such an upright
is. Christ has done so; he is both a saved being and course. But all faithful people have the desire, born of
the perfect and only illustration of what others must the Spirit, to grow in faith and be more like him. All
do to gain like inheritances and be joint-heirs with the saints desire to increase in faith and godliness. His
him. He is thus the way to the Father; no man ancient apostles, for instance, said to him: "Increase
cometh unto the Father but by him and by his word. our faith." Such of his reply as is recorded tells them
He is our Mediator, Advocate, and Intercessor, all not how to increase their faith, but the power that
because he wrought out the perfect atonement will be theirs if they do so. "If ye had faith as a grain of
through the shedding of his own blood. Through him, mustard seed," Jesus responded, "ye might say unto
and through him only, fallen men may be reconciled this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root,
to God if they repent and work righteousness. and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey
Christ and his Father are one. They possess you." (Luke 17:5-6.)
the same powers, are of the same character, embody These ancient apostles had faith. They knew
the same attributes, and stand as beacons to all Jesus was the Son of God, and they had already
others with reference to the same eternal preached and would yet preach the gospel and work
perfections. The words and acts of one are the words miracles. Faith was theirs because they worshipped
and acts of the other. The Father was in Christ the true God and had a knowledge of his character,
manifesting himself to the world. Hence, faith in the attributes, and perfections. We also stand where they
Son is faith in the Father. And as Christ is the way to stood. We have forsaken the creeds of Christendom
the Father, faith centers in him and in his redeeming and [page 187] believe in those Holy Beings who
sacrifice and goes thereby to the Father, who is the appeared to Joseph Smith in the spring of 1820. We
Creator. have proper views as to their character, attributes,
We do not single Christ out and set him apart and perfections. What must we yet do to gain faith
from the [page 186] Father; our prayers do not go unto life and salvation? The answer is found in these
through him to the Father; he does not stand alone as words of the Prophet Joseph Smith: "An actual
a person with whom we do or should have some knowledge to any person, that the course of life
special relationship that excludes the other members which he pursues is according to the will of God, is
of the Godhead. We are commanded in the revealed essentially necessary to enable him to have that
word to worship the Father, in the name of the Son, confidence in God without which no person can
by the power of the Holy Ghost. We are the spirit obtain eternal life." (Lectures on Faith 6:2.)
children of the Father, as is Christ, and our objective Faith is born of knowledge. It first breathes
is to do what Christ did and thus become like the the breath of life in the hearts of those who believe in
Father. Elohim is our God and he is Christ's God. The God and who know what kind of a being he is. Then,
as a newborn baby, it begins to grow by obedience to order of things which God has established for the
the laws of the Lord. It reaches full maturity when its redemption of man, will enable them to exercise that
possessor, through righteousness, gains the assurance confidence in him, necessary for them to overcome
that his way of life conforms to the divine will. the world, and obtain that crown of glory which is
Faith in its full and pure form requires an laid up for them that fear God." (Lectures on Faith 6:2-
unshakable assurance and an absolute confidence that 4.)
Deity will hear our pleas and grant our petitions. It
requires a mental guarantee, sealed with surety in the Sacrificing to Gain Faith
soul, that what we ask is right and will be granted. In this mortal probation, as pilgrims far from
Only then can we "come boldly unto the throne of their heavenly home, the saints are called upon to put
grace," there to "obtain mercy, and find grace to help first in their lives the things of God's kingdom and to
in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16.) And it scarcely let the things of this world sink into a place of relative
needs stating that no person can have this confidence insignificance. If their hearts are set upon worldly
and assurance when he knows he is not living in the things, including lands and money and power, their
way the Lord wants him to live. reward will come in the currency of the world. It is
According to the Prophet, it was this only when men's hearts are set on heavenly things,
knowledge of conformity to divine standards and the when they lay up treasures in heaven, where neither
resultant oneness it created between man and his moth nor rust doth corrupt and where thieves do not
Maker, "that enabled the ancient saints to endure all break through and steal, that they are paid in the
their afflictions and persecutions, and to take joyfully currency of heaven.
the spoiling of their goods, knowing (not believing The trials and tests of mortality are designed
merely) that they had a more enduring substance. to determine whether men will use their time and
(Hebrews 10:34.) Having the assurance that they talents in worldly or spiritual pursuits. The crowning
were pursuing a course which was agreeable to the test in this field is the test of sacrifice. The Lord's
will of God, they were enabled to take, not only the saints must be willing, if called upon to do so, to
spoiling of their goods, and the wasting of their sacrifice all that they have, including life itself, in their
substance, joyfully, but also to suffer death in its most pursuit of eternal life. It is to them that this promise
horrid forms; knowing (not merely believing) that of Jesus applies: "Every one that hath forsaken
when this earthly house of their tabernacle was houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother,
dissolved, they had a building of God, a house not or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake,
made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (2 shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit
Corinthians 5:1.)" everlasting life." (Matthew 19:29.) [page 189]
And if it was thus among the ancients, whom Nowhere in all our literature is the law of
we so highly revere, should it not be the same among sacrifice set forth with such clarity and power as is
us? In answer, the [page 188] Prophet's account found in these words of Joseph Smith: "For a man to
attests: "Such was, and always will be, the situation of lay down his all, his character and reputation, his
the saints of God, that unless they have an actual honor, and applause, his good name among men, his
knowledge that the course they are pursuing is houses, his lands, his brothers and sisters, his wife
according to the will of God they will grow weary in and children, and even his own life also—counting all
their minds, and faint; for such has been, and always things but filth and dross for the excellency of the
will be, the opposition in the hearts of unbelievers knowledge of Jesus Christ—requires more than mere
and those that know not God against the pure and belief or supposition that he is doing the will of God;
unadulterated religion of heaven (the only thing which but actual knowledge, realizing that, when these
insures eternal life), that they will persecute to the sufferings are ended, he will enter into eternal rest,
uttermost all that worship God according to his and be a partaker of the glory of God. For unless a
revelations, receive the truth in the love of it, and person does know that he is walking according to the
submit themselves to be guided and directed by his will of God, it would be offering an insult to the
will; and drive them to such extremities that nothing dignity of the Creator were he to say that he would
short of an actual knowledge of their being the be a partaker of his glory when he should be done
favorites of heaven, and of their having embraced that with the things of this life. But when he has this
knowledge, and most assuredly knows that he is God; and those who have this testimony will have
doing the will of God, his confidence can be equally faith to lay hold on eternal life, and will be enabled,
strong that he will be a partaker of the glory of God." through faith, to endure unto the end, and receive the
Faith and sacrifice go hand in hand. Those crown that is laid up for them that love the appearing
who have faith sacrifice freely for the Lord's work, of our Lord Jesus Christ. But those who do not make
and their acts of sacrifice increase their faith. "Let us the sacrifice cannot enjoy this faith, because men are
here observe," the Prophet continues, "that a religion dependent upon this sacrifice in order to obtain this
that does not require the sacrifice of all things never faith: therefore, they cannot lay hold upon eternal life,
has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary because the revelations of God do not guarantee unto
unto life and salvation; for, from the first existence of them the authority so to do, and without this
man, the faith necessary unto the enjoyment of life guarantee faith could not exist."
and salvation never could be obtained without the Thus, it is with the true believers today as it
sacrifice of all earthly things. It was through this has been with their counterparts in former days. "All
sacrifice, and this only, that God has ordained that the saints of whom we have account, in all the
men should enjoy eternal life; and it is through the revelations of God which are extant, obtained the
medium of the sacrifice of all earthly things that men knowledge which they had of their acceptance in his
do actually know that they are doing the things that sight through the sacrifice which they offered unto
are well pleasing in the sight of God." him; and through the knowledge thus obtained their
We do not say that no person will gain eternal faith became sufficiently strong to lay hold upon the
life unless and until he sacrifices all things, life promise of eternal life, and to endure as seeing him
included. If such were the case, there would be no who is invisible; and were enabled, through faith, to
saved beings except the martyrs whose blood is spilt combat the powers of darkness, contend against the
in the cause of truth and righteousness. But we do wiles of the adversary, overcome the world, and
say that all who receive so great a reward must be obtain the end of their faith, even the salvation of
willing to forsake their all if called upon to do so. their souls."
"When a man has offered in sacrifice all that he has What of the saints, no matter what age they
for the truth's sake, not even withholding his life," our live in, who are not willing to offer their all upon the
account continues, "and believing before God that he Lord's altar? "Those who [page 191] have not made
has been called to make this sacrifice because he this sacrifice to God do not know that the course
seeks to do his will, he does know, most [page 190] which they pursue is well pleasing in his sight; for
assuredly, that God does and will accept his sacrifice whatever may be their belief or their opinion, it is a
and offering, and that he has not, nor will not seek his matter of doubt and uncertainty in their mind; and
face in vain. Under these circumstances, then, he can where doubt and uncertainty are there faith is not,
obtain the faith necessary for him to lay hold on nor can it be. For doubt and faith do not exist in the
eternal life." same person at the same time; so that persons whose
To gain the same faith and inherit the same minds are under doubts and fears cannot have
reward enjoyed by the saints of old, we must live and unshaken confidence; and where unshaken
sacrifice as they did. "It is vain for persons to fancy to confidence is not there faith is weak; and where faith
themselves that they are heirs with those, or can be is weak the persons will not be able to contend
heirs with them, who have offered their all in against all the opposition, tribulations, and afflictions
sacrifice, and by this means obtained faith in God and which they will have to encounter in order to be
favor with him so as to obtain eternal life, unless they, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ Jesus; and
in like manner, offer unto him the same sacrifice, and they will grow weary in their minds, and the
through that offering obtain the knowledge that they adversary will have power over them and destroy
are accepted of him." them." (Lectures on Faith 6:5-12.)
Addressing himself to the Latter-day Saints,
who in holy places "have made a covenant" of
sacrifice with the Lord, the Prophet continues:
"Those, then, who make the sacrifice, will have the
testimony that their course is pleasing in the sight of
Working by Faith to lay their all on the altar of the Almighty.
How do men exercise faith? If they have an And then—when the day is at hand and the
occasion to heal the sick, raise the dead, or move hour has arrived for the miracle to be wrought—then
mountains, how is it done? Faith is power, but what they must be in tune with the Holy Spirit of God. He
causes the power to flow forth and accomplish the who is the Author of faith, he whose power faith is,
desired result? As an introductory explanation, the he whose works are the embodiment of justice and
account we are studying asks: "What are we to judgment and wisdom and all good things, even he
understand by a man's working by faith?" must approve the use of his power in the case at
By way of answer, the account says: "We hand. Faith cannot be exercised contrary to the order
understand that when a man works by faith he works of heaven or contrary to the will and purposes of him
by mental exertion instead of physical force. It is by whose power it is. Men work by faith when they are
words, instead of exerting his physical powers, with in tune with the Spirit and when what they seek to do
which every being works when he works by faith. by mental exertion and by the spoken word is the
God said, 'Let there be light: and there was light.' mind and will of the Lord.
Joshua spake and the great lights which God had
created stood still. Elijah commanded, and the
heavens were stayed for the space of three years and
six months, so that it did not rain: he again
commanded and the heavens gave forth rain. All this
was done by faith. And the Saviour says: 'If you have
faith as a grain of mustard seed, say to this mountain,
"Remove," and it will remove; or say to that sycamine
tree, "Be ye plucked up, and planted in the midst of
the sea," and it shall obey you.' Faith, then, works by
words; and with these its mightiest works have been,
and will be performed." (Lectures on Faith 7:3.)
But working by faith is not the mere speaking
of a few well-[page 192] chosen words; anyone with
the power of speech could have commanded the
rotting corpse of Lazarus to come forth, but only one
whose power was greater than death could bring life
again to the brother of Mary and Martha. Nor is
working by faith merely a mental desire, however
strong, that some eventuality should occur. There
may be those whose mental powers and thought
processes are greater than any of the saints, but only
persons who are in tune with the Infinite can exercise
the spiritual forces and powers that come from him.
Those who work by faith must first have faith;
no one can use a power that he does not possess,
and the faith or power must be gained by obedience
to those laws upon which its receipt is predicated.
These we have set forth. Those who work by faith
must believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and in his
Father. They must accept at face value what the
revealed word teaches as to the character, attributes,
and perfections of the Father and the Son. They must
then work the works of righteousness until they
know within themselves that their way of life
conforms to the divine will, and they must be willing
“Swallowed Up in the Will of the Father”
Neal A. Maxwell, Ensign, Nov. 1995, 22-24
Whenever Church members speak of whom he has not served, and who is a stranger
consecration, it should be done reverently while unto him, and is far from the thoughts and
acknowledging that each of us “come[s] short of intents of his heart?” (Mosiah 5:13). For many
the glory of God,” some of us far short (Rom. moderns, sad to say, the query “What think ye
3:23). Even the conscientious have not arrived, of Christ?” (Matt. 22:42) would be answered, “I
but they sense the shortfall and are genuinely really don’t think of Him at all!”
striving. Consolingly, God’s grace flows not only Consider three examples of how
to those “who love [Him] and keep all [His] honorable people in the Church keep back a
commandments,” but likewise to those “that portion and thus prevent greater consecration
[seek] so to do” (D&C 46:9). (see Acts 5:1–4).
A second group of members are A sister gives commendable, visible civic
“honorable” but not “valiant.” They are not service. Yet even with her good image in the
really aware of the gap nor of the importance of community, she remains a comparative stranger
closing it (see D&C 76:75, 79). These to Jesus’ holy temples and His holy scriptures,
“honorable” individuals are certainly not two vital dimensions of discipleship. But she
miserable nor wicked, nor are they unrighteous could have Christ’s image in her countenance
and unhappy. It is not what they have done but (see Alma 5:14).
what they have left undone that is amiss. For An honorable father, dutifully involved in
example, if valiant, they could touch others the cares of his family, is less than kind and
deeply instead of merely being remembered gentle with individual family members. Though a
pleasantly. comparative stranger to Jesus’ gentleness and
In a third group are those who are kindness, which we are instructed to emulate, a
grossly entangled with the “ungodliness” of the little more effort by this father would make such
world, reminding us all, as Peter wrote, that if a large difference.
“[we are] overcome” by something worldly, Consider the returned missionary, skills
“[we are] brought in bondage” (2 Pet. 2:19). polished while serving an honorable mission,
If one “mind[s] the things of the flesh” striving earnestly for success in his career. Busy,
(Rom. 8:5), he cannot “have the mind of Christ” he ends up in a posture of some
(1 Cor. 2:16) because his thought patterns are accommodation with the world. Thus he
“far from” Jesus, as are the desires or the forgoes building up the kingdom first and
“intents of his heart” (Mosiah 5:13). Ironically, if instead builds up himself. A small course
the Master is a stranger to us, then we will correction now would make a large, even
merely end up serving other masters. The destinational, difference for him later on.
sovereignty of these other masters is real, even These deficiencies just illustrated are
if it sometimes is subtle, for they do call their those of omission. Once the telestial sins are left
cadence. Actually, “we are all enlisted” (Hymns, behind and henceforth avoided, the focus falls
1985, no. 250), if only in the ranks of the ever more on the sins of omission. These
indifferent. omissions signify a lack of qualifying fully for the
To the extent that we are not willing to celestial kingdom. Only greater consecration
be led by the Lord, we will be driven by our can correct these omissions, which have
appetites, or we will be greatly preoccupied consequences just as real as do the sins of
with the lesser things of the day. The remedy is commission. Many of us thus have sufficient
implicit in the marvelous lamentation of King faith to avoid the major sins of commission, but
Benjamin: “For how knoweth a man the master
not enough faith to sacrifice our distracting we are instructed by the Savior to lose
obsessions or to focus on our omissions. ourselves (see Luke 9:24). He is only asking us
Most omissions occur because we fail to to lose the old self in order to find the new self.
get outside ourselves. We are so busy checking It is not a question of one’s losing identity but of
on our own temperatures, we do not notice the finding his true identity! Ironically, so many
burning fevers of others even when we can people already lose themselves anyway in their
offer them some of the needed remedies, such consuming hobbies and preoccupations but with
as encouragement, kindness, and far, far lesser things.
commendation. The hands which hang down Ever observant, in both the first and
and most need to be lifted up belong to those second estates, consecrated Jesus always knew
too discouraged even to reach out anymore. in which direction He faced: He consistently
Actually, everything depends—initially emulated His Father: “The Son can do nothing
and finally—on our desires. These shape our of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for
thought patterns. Our desires thus precede our what things soever he doeth, these also doeth
deeds and lie at the very cores of our souls, the Son likewise” (John 5:19), for “I have
tilting us toward or away from God (see D&C suffered the will of the Father in all things from
4:3). God can “educate our desires” (see Joseph the beginning” (3 Ne. 11:11).
F. Smith, Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed., Salt Lake As one’s will is increasingly submissive to
City: Deseret Book Co., 1939, p. 297). Others the will of God, he can receive inspiration and
seek to manipulate our desires. But it is we who revelation so much needed to help meet the
form the desires, the “thoughts and intents of trials of life. In the trying and very defining Isaac
[our] hearts” (Mosiah 5:13). episode, faithful Abraham “staggered not …
The end rule is “according to [our] through unbelief” (Rom. 4:20). Of that episode
desires … shall it be done unto [us]” (D&C John Taylor observed that “nothing but the
11:17), “for I, the Lord, will judge all men spirit of revelation could have given him this
according to their works, according to the confidence, and … sustained him under these
desire of their hearts” (D&C 137:9; see also peculiar circumstances” (in Journal of Discourses,
Alma 41:5; D&C 6:20, 27). One’s individual will 14:361). Will we too trust the Lord amid a
thus remains uniquely his. God will not override perplexing trial for which we have no easy
it nor overwhelm it. Hence we’d better want explanation? Do we understand—really
the consequences of what we want! comprehend—that Jesus knows and
Another cosmic fact: only by aligning our understands when we are stressed and
wills with God’s is full happiness to be found. perplexed? The complete consecration which
Anything less results in a lesser portion (see effected the Atonement ensured Jesus’ perfect
Alma 12:10–11). The Lord will work with us empathy; He felt our very pains and afflictions
even if, at first, we “can no more than desire” before we did and knows how to succor us (see
but are willing to “give place for a portion of Alma 7:11–12; 2 Ne. 9:21). Since the Most
[His] words” (Alma 32:27). A small foothold is Innocent suffered the most, our own cries of
all He needs! But we must desire and provide it. “Why?” cannot match His. But we can utter the
So many of us are kept from eventual same submissive word “nevertheless …” (Matt.
consecration because we mistakenly think that, 26:39).
somehow, by letting our will be swallowed up in Progression toward submission confers
the will of God, we lose our individuality (see another blessing: an enhanced capacity for joy.
Mosiah 15:7). What we are really worried Counseled President Brigham Young, “If you
about, of course, is not giving up self, but selfish want to enjoy exquisitely, become a Latter-day
things—like our roles, our time, our Saint, and then live the doctrine of Jesus Christ”
preeminence, and our possessions. No wonder (in Journal of Discourses, 18:247).
Thus, brothers and sisters, consecration can be melted away. Whatever we lack will get
is not resignation or a mindless caving in. attention, one way or another.
Rather, it is a deliberate expanding outward, John Taylor indicated that the Lord may
making us more honest when we sing, “More even choose to wrench our very heartstrings
used would I be” (“More Holiness Give Me,” (see Journal of Discourses, 14:360). If our hearts
1985, Hymns, no. 131). Consecration, likewise, are set too much upon the things of this world,
is not shoulder-shrugging acceptance, but, they may need to be wrenched, or broken, or
instead, shoulder-squaring to better bear the undergo a mighty change (see Alma 5:12).
yoke. Consecration is thus both a principle and
Consecration involves pressing forward a process, and it is not tied to a single moment.
“with a steadfastness in Christ” with a Instead, it is freely given, drop by drop, until the
“brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all cup of consecration brims and finally runs over.
men … [while] feasting upon the word of Long before that, however, as Jesus
Christ” (2 Ne. 31:20). Jesus pressed forward declared, we must “settle this in [our] hearts”
sublimely. He did not shrink, such as by going that we will do what He asks of us (JST, Luke
only 60 percent of the distance toward the full 14:28). President Young further counseled us
atonement. Instead, He “finished [His] “to submit to the hand of the Lord, … and
preparations” for all mankind, bringing a acknowledge his hand in all things, … then you
universal resurrection—not one in which 40 will be exactly right; and until you come to that
percent of us would have been left out (see point, you cannot be entirely right. That is what
D&C 19:18–19). we have to come to” (in Journal of Discourses,
Each of us might well ask, “In what ways 5:352).
am I shrinking or holding back?” Meek Thus, acknowledging God’s hand
introspection may yield some bold insights! For includes, in the words of the Prophet Joseph,
example, we can tell much by what we have trusting that God has made “ample provision”
already willingly discarded along the pathway of beforehand to achieve all His purposes,
discipleship. It is the only pathway where including His purposes in our lives (Teachings of
littering is permissible, even encouraged. In the the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 220). Sometimes He
early stages, the debris left behind includes the clearly directs; other times it seems He merely
grosser sins of commission. Later debris differs; permits some things to happen. Therefore, we
things begin to be discarded which have caused will not always understand the role of God’s
the misuse or underuse of our time and talent. hand, but we know enough of his heart and
Along this pathway leading to mind to be submissive. Thus when we are
consecration, stern and unsought challenges perplexed and stressed, explanatory help is not
sometimes hasten this jettisoning, which is always immediately forthcoming, but
needed to achieve increased consecration (see compensatory help will be. Thus our process of
Hel. 12:3). If we have grown soft, hard times cognition gives way to our personal submission,
may be necessary. If we are too contented, a as we experience those moments when we
dose of divine discontent may come. A relevant learn to “be still, and know that I am God” (Ps.
insight may be contained in reproof. A new 46:10).
calling beckons us away from comfortable Then, the more one’s will is thus
routines wherein the needed competencies “swallowed up,” the more his afflictions, rather
have already been developed. One may be than necessarily being removed, will be
stripped of accustomed luxury so that the “swallowed up in the joy of Christ” (Alma
malignant mole of materialism may be removed. 31:38).
One may be scorched by humiliation so pride
Seventy years ago, Lord Moulton coined In conclusion, the submission of one’s
a perceptive phrase, “obedience to the will is really the only uniquely personal thing we
unenforceable,” describing “the obedience of a have to place on God’s altar. The many other
man to that which he cannot be forced to obey” things we “give,” brothers and sisters, are
(“Law And Manners,” Atlantic Monthly, July actually the things He has already given or
1924, p. 1). God’s blessings, including those loaned to us. However, when you and I finally
associated with consecration, come by unforced submit ourselves, by letting our individual wills
obedience to the laws upon which they are be swallowed up in God’s will, then we are
predicated (see D&C 130:20–21). Thus our really giving something to Him! It is the only
deepest desires determine our degree of possession which is truly ours to give!
“obedience to the unenforceable.” God seeks Consecration thus constitutes the only
to have us become more consecrated by giving unconditional surrender which is also a total
everything. Then, when we come home to Him, victory!
He will generously give us “all that [He] hath” May we deeply desire that victory, I pray
(D&C 84:38). in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Trust in the Lord
Richard G. Scott, Ensign, Nov. 1995, 16-18
It is so hard when sincere prayer about a worthy, righteous life and are obedient to His
something we desire very much is not answered commandments.
the way we want. It is especially difficult when Just when all seems to be going right,
the Lord answers no to that which is worthy challenges often come in multiple doses applied
and would give us great joy and happiness. simultaneously. When those trials are not
Whether it be overcoming illness or loneliness, consequences of your disobedience, they are
recovery of a wayward child, coping with a evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared
handicap, or seeking continuing life for a dear to grow more (see Prov. 3:11–12). He
one who is slipping away, it seems so therefore gives you experiences that stimulate
reasonable and so consistent with our happiness growth, understanding, and compassion which
to have a favorable answer. It is hard to polish you for your everlasting benefit. To get
understand why our exercise of deep and you from where you are to where He wants
sincere faith from an obedient life does not you to be requires a lot of stretching, and that
bring the desired result. generally entails discomfort and pain.
No one wants adversity. Trials, When you face adversity, you can be led
disappointments, sadness, and heartache come to ask many questions. Some serve a useful
to us from two basically different sources. purpose; others do not. To ask, Why does this
Those who transgress the laws of God will have to happen to me? Why do I have to suffer
always have those challenges. The other reason this, now? What have I done to cause this? will
for adversity is to accomplish the Lord’s own lead you into blind alleys. It really does no good
purposes in our life that we may receive the to ask questions that reflect opposition to the
refinement that comes from testing. It is vitally will of God. Rather ask, What am I to do? What
important for each of us to identify from which am I to learn from this experience? What am I
of these two sources come our trials and to change? Whom am I to help? How can I
challenges, for the corrective action is very remember my many blessings in times of trial?
different. Willing sacrifice of deeply held personal desires
If you are suffering the disheartening in favor of the will of God is very hard to do.
effects of transgression, please recognize that Yet, when you pray with real conviction,
the only path to permanent relief from sadness “Please let me know Thy will” and “May Thy
is sincere repentance with a broken heart and a will be done,” you are in the strongest position
contrite spirit. Realize your full dependence to receive the maximum help from your loving
upon the Lord and your need to align your life Father.
with His teachings. There is really no other way This life is an experience in profound
to get lasting healing and peace. Postponing trust—trust in Jesus Christ, trust in His
humble repentance will delay or prevent your teachings, trust in our capacity as led by the
receiving relief. Admit to yourself your mistakes Holy Spirit to obey those teachings for
and seek help now. Your bishop is a friend with happiness now and for a purposeful, supremely
keys of authority to help you find peace of mind happy eternal existence. To trust means to
and contentment. The way will be opened for obey willingly without knowing the end from
you to have strength to repent and be forgiven. the beginning (see Prov. 3:5–7). To produce
Now may I share some suggestions with fruit, your trust in the Lord must be more
you who face the second source of adversity, powerful and enduring than your confidence in
the testing that a wise Heavenly Father your own personal feelings and experience.
determines is needed even when you are living
To exercise faith is to trust that the Lord clear indication of His will. This enlightenment
knows what He is doing with you and that He comes because of our faith and our willingness
can accomplish it for your eternal good even to do what He asks even though we would
though you cannot understand how He can desire something else.
possibly do it. We are like infants in our Our Father in Heaven has invited you to
understanding of eternal matters and their express your needs, hopes, and desires unto
impact on us here in mortality. Yet at times we Him. That should not be done in a spirit of
act as if we knew it all. When you pass through negotiation, but rather as a willingness to obey
trials for His purposes, as you trust Him, His will no matter what direction that takes. His
exercise faith in Him, He will help you. That invitation, “Ask, and ye shall receive” (3 Ne.
support will generally come step by step, a 27:29) does not assure that you will get what
portion at a time. While you are passing through you want. It does guarantee that, if worthy, you
each phase, the pain and difficulty that comes will get what you need, as judged by a Father
from being enlarged will continue. If all matters that loves you perfectly, who wants your
were immediately resolved at your first petition, eternal happiness even more than do you.
you could not grow. Your Father in Heaven and I testify that when the Lord closes one
His Beloved Son love you perfectly. They would important door in your life, He shows His
not require you to experience a moment more continuing love and compassion by opening
of difficulty than is absolutely needed for your many other compensating doors through your
personal benefit or for that of those you love. exercise of faith. He will place in your path
As in all things, the Master is our perfect packets of spiritual sunlight to brighten your
example. Who could have asked with more way. They often come after the trial has been
perfect faith, greater obedience, or more the greatest, as evidence of the compassion and
complete understanding than did He when He love of an all-knowing Father. They point the
asked His Father in Gethsemane: “O my Father, way to greater happiness, more understanding,
if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: and strengthen your determination to accept
nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” and be obedient to His will.
(Matt. 26:39). Later He pled twice again: “O my It is a singularly marvelous blessing to
Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, have faith in the Savior and a testimony of His
except I drink it, thy will be done” (Matt. 26:42; teachings. So few in the world have that brilliant
see also Matt. 26:44). light to guide them. The fulness of the restored
How grateful I am personally that our gospel gives perspective, purpose, and
Savior taught we should conclude our most understanding. It allows us to face what
urgent, deeply felt prayers, when we ask for otherwise appear to be unjust, unfair,
that which is of utmost importance to us, with unreasonable challenges in life. Learn those
“Thy will be done” (Matt. 26:42). Your helpful truths by pondering the Book of
willingness to accept the will of the Father will Mormon and other scriptures. Try to
not change what in His wisdom He has chosen understand those teachings not only with your
to do. However, it will certainly change the mind but also with your heart.
effect of those decisions on you personally. That True enduring happiness with the
evidence of the proper exercise of agency accompanying strength, courage, and capacity
allows His decisions to produce far greater to overcome the most challenging difficulties
blessings in your life. I have found that because comes from a life centered in Jesus Christ.
of our Father’s desire for us to grow, He may Obedience to His teachings provides a sure
give us gentle, almost imperceptible promptings foundation upon which to build. That takes
that, if we are willing to accept without effort. There is no guarantee of overnight
complaint, He will enlarge to become a very results, but there is absolute assurance that, in
the Lord’s time, solutions will come, peace will I know the principles that we have
prevail, and emptiness will be filled. discussed are true. They have been tested in the
Recently a great leader, suffering from crucible of personal experience. To recognize
physical handicaps that come with advancing the hand of the Lord in your life and to accept
age, said, “I am glad I have what I have.” It is His will without complaint is a beginning. That
wisdom to open the windows of happiness by decision does not immediately eliminate the
recognizing your abundant blessings. struggles that will come for your growth. But I
Don’t let the workings of adversity witness that it is the best way there is for you to
totally absorb your life. Try to understand what find strength and understanding. It will free you
you can. Act where you are able; then let the from the dead ends of your own reasoning. It
matter rest with the Lord for a period while you will allow your life to become a productive,
give to others in worthy ways before you take meaningful experience, when otherwise you
on appropriate concern again. may not know how to go on (see D&C 24:8).
Please learn that as you wrestle with a I testify that you have a Heavenly Father
challenge and feel sadness because of it, you can who loves you. I witness that the Savior gave
simultaneously have peace and rejoicing. Yes, His life for your happiness. I know Him. He
pain, disappointment, frustration, and anguish understands your every need. I positively know
can be temporary scenes played out on the that as you accept Their will without complaint,
stage of life. Behind them there can be a They will bless and sustain you. In the name of
background of peace and the positive assurance Jesus Christ, amen.
that a loving Father will keep His promises. You
can qualify for those promises by a
determination to accept His will, by
understanding the plan of happiness, by
receiving all of the ordinances, and by keeping
the covenants made to assure their fulfillment.
The Lord’s plan is to exalt you to live
with Him and be greatly blessed. The rate at
which you qualify is generally set by your
capacity to mature, to grow, to love, and to give
of yourself. He is preparing you to be a god.
You cannot understand fully what that means,
yet, He knows. As you trust Him, seek and
follow His will, you will receive blessings that
your finite mind cannot understand here on
earth. Your Father in Heaven and His Holy Son
know better than you what brings happiness.
They have given you the plan of happiness. As
you understand and follow it, happiness will be
your blessing. As you willingly obey, receive,
and honor the ordinances and covenants of that
holy plan, you can have the greatest measure of
satisfaction in this life. Yes, even times of
overpowering happiness. You will prepare
yourself for an eternity of glorious life with your
loved ones who qualify for that kingdom.
Great Faith Obtained Only Through Personal Sacrifice
Robert J. Matthews
It is an honor to be involved with this symposium which is sponsored by the Religious Studies Center and is
focused on the Lectures on Faith. It is certainly an important subject and it is appropriate that Brigham Young
University should present a symposium and prepare a publication on this topic. The Lectures on Faith are the
greatest and most profound treatises on faith that we know of. Although the seven lectures are systematically
arranged in a logical way, they are not easy reading, but are worth the effort. The spiritual understanding that
is available from the Lectures on Faith justifies many re-readings and invites an intense study for anyone who
sincerely wants to know what faith really is. The lectures are a valuable clarification and bringing together of
what the scriptures teach about faith in God and in the Lord Jesus Christ.
The orderly progress of ideas in the Lectures on Faith makes them one of our greatest possessions for
explaining a systematic theology. The catechism for Lecture 1 defines "theology" as a "revealed science." We
do not ordinarily think of theology or of religion as a "science," but it can be so regarded. And if the concepts
are given by revelation, theology is the truest of sciences. President Brigham Young called it a "celestial
science" (Journal of Discourses 6:318; hereafter JD). He also said:
We want every branch of science taught in this place that is taught in the world. But our favourite study is that
branch which particularly belongs to the Elders of Israel—namely, theology. Every Elder should become a
profound theologian—should understand this branch better than all the world (JD 6:317).
I am reminded also that the complete title to Elder Parley P. Pratt's popular work, Key to Theology, is actually
The Key to the Science of Theology. In that light I would define the Lectures on Faith as lessons in the
revealed science of theology. They are in a class by themselves and are literally "designed to unfold to the
understanding the doctrine of Jesus Christ" in a rational, scientific manner (LF 1:1).
The earlier presentations in this symposium have emphasized what faith is and what it rests upon. It has been
shown that in order to exercise true faith in God we need to know something of his perfect character and
attributes. When we learn of the perfections and attributes of Deity, we are then able to develop unshaken
confidence in God, because our minds can be at rest and be assured that God can and will fulfil all his
promises. When we become men and women of faith, we can have this unshaken confidence and trust
because the scriptures guarantee that the true God is perfect and is therefore an unchangeable, complete,
and living God.
Such is the message of the first five of the Lectures on Faith. I have been asked to discuss the content of
Lecture 6, which is a sobering task, and I feel a great need for the help of the Holy Ghost in order to present it
in the proper perspective and spirit. I cannot speak for the Church or for the University, but I believe what I
have written is correct. So that this paper will continue the unity and purpose of this symposium, it is necessary
to quote briefly from two of the preceding lectures. First, from Lecture 4:2:
Let us here observe that the real design which the God of heaven had in view in making the human family
acquainted with his attributes was that they might be enabled to exercise faith in him through the idea of the
existence of his attributes.... The God of heaven, understanding most perfectly the constitution of human
nature and the weakness of men, knew what was necessary to be revealed and what ideas needed to be
planted in their minds to enable them to exercise faith in him unto eternal life.
And also paragraph 3 of Lecture 5:
From the foregoing account of the Godhead, which is given in his revelations, the Saints have a sure
foundation laid for the exercise of faith unto life and salvation through the atonement and mediation of Jesus
Christ. By his blood they have a forgiveness of sins.... As the Son partakes of the fulness of the Father through
the Spirit, so the Saints are, by the same Spirit, to be partakers of the same fulness, to enjoy the same glory ...
through the love of the Father, the mediation of Jesus Christ, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. They are to be
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heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ.
The sixth lecture, building on the foundation established by the earlier ones, introduces two major items: first,
the necessity of each person's knowing (not merely believing or hoping) that his/her life is acceptable to God;
and second, the necessity of our being willing to sacrifice all earthly possessions and honors as the means to
obtain the knowledge of and the approval of the Lord Jesus Christ. We will discuss these items in that order.
Knowing That One's Life Is Acceptable to God

In the sixth Lecture on Faith, paragraphs 2 and 3, we read the following:
It is essential for any person to have an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing is
according to the will of God to enable him to have that confidence in God without which no person can obtain
eternal life. It was this that enabled the ancient Saints to endure all their afflictions and persecutions and to
take joyfully the spoiling of their goods, knowing (not believing merely) that they had a more enduring
substance.
Having the assurance that they were pursuing a course which was agreeable to the will of God, they were
enabled to take not only the spoiling of their goods and the wasting of their substance joyfully, but also to
suffer death in its most horrid forms, knowing (not merely believing) that when this "earthly house of this
tabernacle [was] dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens"
(2 Cor 5:1).
What is there about living in this mortal fallen world that makes this kind of knowledge so important and
necessary? We read from the next paragraph:
Such was and always will be the situation of the Saints of God. Unless they have an actual knowledge that the
course they are pursuing is according to the will of God, they will grow weary in their minds and faint. For such
has been and always will be the opposition in the hearts of unbelievers and those who know not God against
the pure and unadulterated religion of heaven (the only thing which ensures eternal life). They will persecute to
the uttermost all who worship God according to his revelations, receive the truth in the love of it, and submit
themselves to be guided and directed by his will. And they will drive them to such extremities that nothing short
of an actual knowledge of their being the favorites of heaven and of their having embraced that order of things
which God has established for the redemption of man will enable them to exercise that confidence in him
necessary for them to overcome the world and obtain that crown of glory which is laid up for them that fear
God (LF 6:4).
The matter is stated even more clearly in paragraph 5:
For a man to lay down his all—his character and reputation, his honor and applause, his good name among
men, his houses, his lands, his brothers and sisters, his wife and children, and even his own life also, counting
all things but filth and dross for the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus Christ—requires more than mere
belief or supposition that he is doing the will of God. It requires actual knowledge, realizing that when these
sufferings are ended, he will enter into eternal rest and be a partaker of the glory of God.
The foregoing is so plain, so well stated, and so reasonable that I feel confident that anyone who reads it will
understand it and will almost automatically want to have that same knowledge and testimony. It just naturally
follows that after we learn of the perfect character and nature of God, what kind of a being he is, there wells up
within our own hearts an intense desire, a craving and thirsting, a longing to be in harmony with him. That is
why repentance, followed by baptism for the remission of sins and the laying on of hands for the baptism of fire
or the Holy Ghost, accompany true faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. These are sequential steps that inch us
along the pathway towards having our own lives conform to the revelations and commandments of God. Such
a course of life feeds the soul, and comforts and gives it rest. Only a very calloused nature would not long for
that unity and joy that come as a result of our knowing that we have the Lord's specific, precise, and particular
approval.
Faith begins by hearing the word of God as it is preached by an authorized person through the testimony of
the Holy Spirit. That Spirit kindles a desire for repentance and urges us to remove from our lives every deed
and thought that would be offensive to God. Repentance brings unity and wholeness, whereas sin is fractious
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and divisive. "Wickedness never was happiness," and it jars the spirit of man ( Alma 41:10). We cannot do
wrong and feel right. These principles operate in everyone's life because we all came from God in the
beginning and are his sons and daughters. Sometimes it takes a little longer for some of us to be touched and
moved by the principles of eternal life, but we can be certain that sooner or later every human being will be so
touched. With some it may be at the day of judgment, when it is too late to gain full benefit.
An example of how the preaching of the gospel and the workings of the Spirit move a people to repent and to
seek divine approval is shown in Alma 22. Aaron begins teaching the king of the Lamanites by telling him what
kind of a being God is and about the creation of the world and of Adam. Then he teaches the king about the
fall of man and the plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. "And Aaron did expound all these things unto the
king" (v 14).
The effect these teachings and the testimony of Aaron had on the king's mind illustrates the doctrine we are
examining in Lecture 6:
And it came to pass that after Aaron had expounded these things unto him, the king said: What shall I do that I
may have this eternal life of which thou hast spoken? Yea, what shall I do that I may be born of God, having
this wicked spirit rooted out of my breast, and receive his Spirit, that I may be filled with joy, that I may not be
cast off at the last day? Behold, said he, I will give up all that I possess, yea, I will forsake my kingdom, that I
may receive this great joy.
But Aaron said unto him: If thou desirest this thing, if thou wilt bow down before God, yea, if thou wilt repent of
all thy sins, and will bow down before God, and call on his name in faith, believing that ye shall receive, then
shalt thou receive the hope which thou desirest.
And it came to pass that when Aaron had said these words, the king did bow down before the Lord, upon his
knees; yea, even he did prostrate himself upon the earth, and cried mightily, saying:
O God, Aaron hath told me that there is a God; and if there is a God, and if thou art God, wilt thou make
thyself known unto me, and I will give away all my sins to know thee, and that I may be raised from the dead,
and be saved at the last day (Alma 22:15-18).
It is not difficult to see that the king wanted to be in favor with God. He didn't know a great deal about the
scriptures or of the science of theology, but when he heard the gospel properly taught, his soul hungered for
righteousness.
We have a similar example with Enos, who said his "soul hungered" because he had often heard his father
Jacob speak "concerning eternal life, and the joy of the saints," and these things "sunk deep into [his] heart"
(Enos 1:3-4). He had great strugglings in the spirit, a "wrestle" (v 2) he called it, until he gained a remission of
his sins and obtained the voice of the Lord to his mind. Then he said "my guilt was swept away" (v 6), and "my
soul did rest" (v 17). When he asked how it was done, the Lord said, "thy faith hath made thee whole" (v 8).
By reading the accounts of the Lamanite king and of Enos, we obtain a glimpse of what they felt. But what
about we who live now? How can we feel what they felt and gain what they gained?
The great question for us, therefore, is: How do we today go about getting that individual assurance and actual
knowledge that we are pursuing a course of life that is acceptable to the will of God? The answer is that we
have to do the same things that were required in earler dispensations. The gospel has not changed. Faith is
the same, the requirements are the same, and the rewards are the same. There are no special sales, no
bargain days.
Being Willing to Sacrifice All Things

There is greater clarity given to us on the need to be willing to sacrifice all things than we have perhaps
realized. We read in Lecture 6:7:
Let us here observe that a religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to
produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation. For from the first existence of man, the faith necessary
unto the enjoyment of life and salvation never could be obtained without the sacrifice of all earthly things. It is
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through this sacrifice, and this only, that God has ordained that men should enjoy eternal life. And it is through
the medium of the sacrifice of all earthly things that men do actually know that they are doing the things that
are well pleasing in the sight of God. When a man has offered in sacrifice all that he has for the truth's sake,
not even withholding his life, and believing before God that he has been called to make this sacrifice because
he seeks to do His will, he does know, most assuredly, that God does and will accept his sacrifice and offering
and that he has not sought nor will he seek His face in vain. Under these circumstances, then, he can obtain
the faith necessary for him to lay hold on eternal life.
Why Faith and Knowledge Are Dependent upon Sacrifice

A major consideration at this point is why perfect faith can be obtained only by the willingness to sacrifice all
earthly things. The quick answer may be: "God has so ordered it." No doubt this is true, but we may want to
understand more about it. A large factor inherent in the willingness to sacrifice all earthly possessions is the
knowledge that the plan of redemption neither begins nor ends with this mortal life. It began in the premortal
world and extends to the postmortal one. This plan is founded in God's wisdom, God's knowledge, and God's
power. Through the fall of Adam all mankind have become subject to two deaths—the physical death of the
body, which is caused by the separation of the body and the spirit; and the spiritual death, which is caused by
the separation of the person from the things of God, that is, to "die" as to things of righteousness.
Because of these two deaths, all human beings are cut off from a knowledge of God; they have no conscious
memory of God, and no memory of a premortal life, nor any understanding of a postmortal one after this
mortal probation. Our knowledge in this natural, mortal, fallen state is earthbound. Our affections, interests,
ambitions, and desires are centered on this present mortal life. The natural man knows none of the things of
God. Neither can he know them for they are only obtained by the Holy Ghost (1 Cor 2:14). As we learn the first
principles of the gospel, the Holy Ghost gives us a testimony of the reality of God, of heaven, and of Jesus
Christ. As we advance in righteousness, there comes a time when we will be asked to consecrate all that we
have for the kingdom of God on earth. What better test of our faith and testimony is there than to be asked to
forego our honors, possessions, reputations, and such things, to gain a future inheritance in a time and place
which as natural man we didn't even know existed, nor did we know that the willingness to sacrifice all things is
the way to get there.
In view of the conditions that exist with the natural, mortal world, it is obviously the right thing for the Lord to
require of those of us who would partake of the fulness of salvation to consecrate all that we have to his work,
and to be willing to serve him at all costs. Anything short of that would not be a complete and adequate test of
our confidence and faith in the Almighty God. Nor could anything less measure the progress we have made in
overcoming the natural man. It is in this way that mortality serves most effectively as a probationary and
preparatory state.
Why the Miraculous Is Necessary in the Gospel

Due to the nature of fallen man, a true revealed religion must of necessity be miraculous in its nature. The
knowledge, blessings, communications, and powers of a heavenly, divine system have to be extra-terrestrial.
The power and the knowledge to save fallen mankind must come from outside the earth itself; outside of us
ourselves. It cannot originate with us. It must come from God, or there can be no salvation or redemption in it.
Hence God tests his children by asking them to do something entirely outside of the natural style of mortality.
All of the commandments of God are that way. Baptism, ordination, faith, sacrifice, prayer, repentance,
obedience to specified commandments, personal cleanliness of thought, etc.—all are contrary to what comes
naturally to us. Acts of obedience are responses that we must learn and do deliberately; they cannot happen
by chance, happenstance, or accident. And obeying the commandments is not the kind of thing we would do
naturally. Doing what comes naturally does not lead to celestial glory and godhood. Only by doing what is not
natural, because of our faith, do we find salvation. We wouldn't consistently keep all the commandments if we
didn't have faith, and that is why we can see the truth of Paul's declaration, "Without faith it is impossible to
please [God]" (Heb 11:6).
Natural man, with the natural, unregenerated mind, is given to rationalization and to discounting the validity of
divine revelation and the importance of obedience, and even the need for a redemptive sacrifice and death of
a God. Rationalization thus becomes the great usurper, the eroder and the robber of our faith. This is
demonstrated very clearly in the book of Helaman just previous to the time of Jesus' birth. Even though so
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many "signs ... [had been] wrought among the people," those who did not believe in the gospel said: "It is not
reasonable that such a being as Christ shall come" (16:18-23; emphasis added). The unbelievers' idea of
"reasonableness" caused them to miss the message of redemption through Jesus Christ.
The Role of Revelation and Testimony

It is totally clear from the content of the Lectures on Faith that there can be no true religion among men and
women on this earth without revelation and testimony from God. Without revelation from heaven, mankind
would not know what kind of being God is, and any ideas about his attributes and perfections could only be
guesswork. The God of heaven must reveal himself, or he must remain forever unknown. First, as we have
seen, we could not exercise true faith in a God we knew nothing about. True faith cannot take root and thrive
in ignorance. Second, our faith would not be strong and unshaken unless we knew by continuing revelation
that our lifestyle was pleasing to God. It would simply be impossible for any of us to exercise the kind of pure
faith that is described in these lectures in the absence of direct, immediate, and personal revelation.
Such necessary revelation does not often come by an angelic visitor or personal open vision, but it comes
most often by the personal manifestations and whisperings of the Holy Ghost. The Prophet Joseph Smith
explained, "the Holy Ghost is a revelator," and "no man can receive the Holy Ghost without receiving
revelations" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith 328; hereafter TPJS). Revelation and testimony come to
us through the Holy Ghost and are miraculous occurrences, outside the normal realm of man's five natural
senses.
A religion without revelation is but a philosophical network of human ideas, no matter how ingenious and
astute it may be. Without revelation its adherents and believers could not know whether the God they
worshiped even existed—much less whether or not he was pleased with the way they worshipped him or even
whether he cared. When it comes to the matter of man's relationship to God, not to have any revelation from
him leaves everything to supposition and opinion. This is the idea given in Doctrine and Covenants 93:19,
wherein the Lord says: "I give unto you these sayings that you may understand and know how to worship, and
know what you worship, that you may come unto the Father in my name, and in due time receive of his
fulness."
As we have discovered in the Lectures on Faith, revelation from God must cover several subject areas. First, it
must reveal that there is a God. Second, it must reveal the traits of his character and attributes, and show that
these attributes are perfect in him. Third, it must reveal what God wants man to do and what he wants him not
to do. And fourth, it must assure us that what we are doing is what God would have us do. Receiving this last
revelation is the basic message of the sixth lecture.
For a person to receive a direct, individual and personal revelation from God is an experience not obtained
merely for the asking. To be told by the Almighty God, the Creator of the Universe, that he has noticed us and
that he is pleased by our service and obedience is a blessing worth years of search and toil. Such a reward is
the theme of both the parable of the "treasure hid in a field" and that of the "pearl of great price" ( Matt 13:44,
45-46). The message of both parables is that giving all that we have would not be giving too much to gain such
favor with God. Heaven, knowing the proper price to place on all its goods, has so ordained that the kind of
faith that is powerful enough to enable us to lay hold on eternal life is available only on the basis of our being
willing to sacrifice all earthly goods and honors.
There are records in the scriptures of those who have made this kind of sacrifice. Jesus is the greatest
example. He said to the Nephites:
I am the light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me,
and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world, in the which I have suffered the will of
the Father in all things from the beginning (3 Nephi 11:11).
Saul of Tarsus, later known as Paul, was a learned man, accepted within his own Pharisee group, valiant
above those his own age, and had position, power, and influence. He was determined to prevent Christianity
from destroying the religion of the Jews. He was not an evil man; he simply did not understand. And in his
error he viewed the doctrine of Christ as an enemy to the revelations God had given to Moses and to
Abraham. What did the Lord require of Paul? The same thing that he requires of all who seek salvation and a
place with him in eternity. He required total obedience and the willingness to sacrifice all things. When Paul
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was first converted by a vision of Jesus on the road to Damascus, he little knew what awaited him. At that time
the Lord said in a vision to Ananias, who had some doubts about Paul's reputation: "[Paul] is a chosen vessel
unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: for I will shew him how
great things he must suffer for my name's sake" (Acts 9:15-16).
Paul had many visions, many revelations and many trials, and suffered intense persecution and hardship,
including imprisonment, whippings, character assassination, loss of friends, privation, and illness. Yet he
stayed true to his testimony and came off victorious. In speaking of himself and of his companions who were
thus tried and tested to the uttermost, Paul wrote:
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not
forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed (2 Cor 4:8-9).
Later, while in a Roman prison, he wrote:
But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss
for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things,
and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ (Philip 3:7-8).
Why was Paul willing to continue on in the face of so much opposition? It was because he knew what God
required, and that the God of heaven had accepted his efforts, and that his salvation was sure. We read from
2 Timothy 4:6-8, as Paul wrote from a prison cell in Rome:
For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have
finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which
the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his
appearing.
Paul knew that his life was acceptable to God and that his calling and election were sure.
Paul's convert, Timothy, whom he affectionately called "my own dear son in the faith," was a man like Paul,
dedicated to the work of the Lord above his own interests. Paul, writing to the Church at Philippi, said of
Timothy:
For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things
which are Jesus Christ's. But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me
in the gospel (Philip 2:20-22).
The Book of Mormon also is a record of faithful disciples who sacrificed all things. We read of Nephi, that
righteous, wondrous prophet-son of Helaman who lived just before the advent of Jesus among the Nephites,
that he was absolutely single-minded to God. In return for his obedience, the Lord trusted him and gave him
power in the ministry and promised to bless him forever. We read from Helaman 10:3-5:
And it came to pass as he was thus pondering—being much cast down because of the wickedness of the
people of the Nephites, their secret works of darkness, and their murderings, and their plunderings, and all
manner of iniquities—and it came to pass as he was thus pondering in his heart, behold, a voice came unto
him saying:
Blessed art thou, Nephi, for those things which thou hast done; for I have beheld how thou hast with
unwearyingness declared the word, which I have given unto thee, unto this people. And thou hast not feared
them, and hast not sought thine own life, but hast sought my will, and to keep my commandments.
And now, because thou hast done this with such unwearyingness, behold, I will bless thee forever; and I will
make thee mighty in word and in deed, in faith and in works; yea, even that all things shall be done unto thee
according to thy word, for thou shalt not ask that which is contrary to my will.
There can be no question that after receiving this revelation, Nephi knew his life was acceptable to God and
he would be saved.
These valiant souls (Jesus, Paul, Timothy, and Nephi, among many others) gave all that they had, their time,
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talents, possessions, and desires, to the building up of the kingdom of God on the earth. Some of them also
gave their lives. And they knew that God was aware of their struggles and would not forget them.
But not all the heroes were in olden times. Those who lay in Richmond Jail, Liberty Jail, and Carthage Jail
suffered in like manner as did the former prophets. And the Latter-day Saints who were driven out of Missouri
and out of Illinois suffered as much in cold weather, prison, loss of family, loss of goods, and in death, as did
the Former-day Saints in the lions' dens and the arenas of Rome.
It was in this light that the Prophet Joseph Smith viewed the sufferings of the Latter-day Saints in the early
days of this Church:
Such inhumanity, and relentless cruelty and barbarity as were practiced against the Saints in Missouri can
scarcely be found in the annals of history (TPJS 126).
We also read in the Prophet's epistle to the Church, written 25 March 1839 from Liberty Jail, Missouri:
And now, beloved brethren, we say unto you, that inasmuch as God hath said that He would have a tried
people, that He would purge them as gold, now we think that this time He has chosen His own crucible,
wherein we have been tried; and we think if we get through with any degree of safety, and shall have kept the
faith, that it will be a sign to this generation, altogether sufficient to leave them without excuse; and we think
also, it will be a trial of our faith equal to that of Abraham, and that the ancients will not have whereof to boast
over us in the day of judgment, as being called to pass through heavier afflictions; that we may hold an even
weight in the balance with them; but now, after having suffered so great sacrifice and having passed through
so great a season of sorrow, we trust that a ram may be caught in the thicket speedily, to relieve the sons and
daughters of Abraham from their great anxiety, and to light up the lamp of salvation upon their countenances,
that they may hold on now, after having gone so far unto everlasting life (TPJS 135-136).
We now continue from Lecture 6:8:
It is in vain for persons to fancy to themselves that they are heirs with those, or can be heirs with them, who
have offered their all in sacrifice, and by this means obtained faith in God and favor with him so as to obtain
eternal life, unless they in like manner offer unto him the same sacrifice and through that offering obtain the
knowledge that they are accepted of him.
Trials and Tests Are Custom-made

We do not mean to imply by all these examples that only martyrs will be saved or that only those who are
driven out of their homes or who lose their farms, businesses, and health to a mob are saved. What we find in
the revelations and in the teachings of the brethren is that the Lord requires such undivided allegiance, that a
person who expects to inherit a celestial glory must be willing to sacrifice all things if called upon to do so. The
gospel provides a way for a person to show that willingness by solemn oath and covenant, in the Lord's own
way and according to his plan of redemption. This is a covenant of total consecration. The Prophet Joseph
Smith has said:
When we consecrate our property to the Lord it is to administer to the wants of the poor and needy, for this is
the law of God; it is not for the benefit of the rich, those who have no need; and when a man consecrates or
dedicates his wife and children, he does not give them to his brother, or to his neighbor, for there is no such
law.... For a man to consecrate his property, wife and children, to the Lord, is nothing more nor less than to
feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the widow and fatherless, the sick and afflicted, and do all he can to
administer to their relief in their afflictions, and for him and his house to serve the Lord. In order to do this, he
and all his house must be virtuous, and must shun the very appearance of evil (TPJS 127).
The Lord's plan of redemption requires men and women to consecrate all their belongings and abilities to the
service of God. This they do by covenant. The Lord may then test them to see how sincere they are and how
much they are willing to sacrifice.
We cannot say what, in the economy of God, he will require of any one of us individually. There is a universal
requirement of all mankind to "endure to the end," and we also know that "where much is given much is
required." Some commandments pertain to everyone. Some individual tests, however, are "tailor-made" and
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suited to the particular person and circumstances. When a person has been obedient to the first principles and
the universal requirements, it appears that the Lord then devises more searching, individualized tests for a
specific purpose in relation to a specific individual. The most popular example of this is the commandment
God gave to Abraham to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. It seems to have had at least two immediate
purposes. One was to test Abraham's faith and obedience; and the other was to give Abraham experience
whereby he would learn something about himself and about godliness that he had not understood sufficiently
before. We read from President John Taylor:
I heard the Prophet Joseph say, in speaking to the Twelve on one occasion: "You will have all kinds of trials to
pass through. And it is quite as necessary for you to be tried as it was for Abraham and other men of God, and
(said he) God will feel after you, and He will take hold of you and wrench your very heart strings, and if you
cannot stand it you will not be fit for an inheritance in the Celestial Kingdom of God" (JD 24:197).
And again from another talk by President Taylor:
I heard Joseph Smith say and I presume Brother Snow heard him also—in preaching to the Twelve in Nauvoo,
that the Lord would get hold of their heart strings and wrench them, and that they would have to be tried as
Abraham was tried....And Joseph said that if God had known any other way whereby he could have touched
Abraham's feelings more acutely and more keenly he would have done so. It was not only his parental feelings
that were touched. There was something else besides. He had the promise that in him and in his seed all the
nations of the earth should be blessed; that his seed should be multiplied as the stars of the heaven and as
the sand upon the sea shore. He had looked forward through the vista of future ages and seen, by the spirit of
revelation, myriads of his people rise up through whom God would convey intelligence, light and salvation to a
world. But in being called upon to sacrifice his son it seemed as though all his prospects pertaining to posterity
were come to naught. But he had faith in God, and he fulfilled the thing that was required of him. Yet we
cannot conceive of anything that could be more trying and more perplexing than the position in which he was
placed (JD 24:264).
Speaking also of the test given to Abraham, President George Q. Cannon said:
Why did the Lord ask such things of Abraham? Because, knowing what his future would be and that he would
be the father of an innumerable posterity, he [sic] was determined to test him. God did not do this for His own
sake for He knew by His foreknowledge what Abraham would do; but the purpose was to impress upon
Abraham a lesson and to enable him to attain unto knowledge that he could not obtain in any other way. That
is why God tries all of us. It is not for His own knowledge for He knows all things beforehand. He knows all
your lives and everything you will do. But He tries us for our own good that we may know ourselves; for it is
most important that a man should know himself.
He required Abraham to submit to this trial because He intended to give him glory, exaltation and honor; He
intended to make him a king and a priest, to share with Himself the glory, power and dominion which He
exercised. And was this trial any more than God himself had passed through? (89).
We Receive No Witness Until After the Trial of Our Faith

There is always a spiritual reward and benefit from obeying any commandment of God, and there is always a
divine reason for that commandment, although the one so commanded may not be able to comprehend it until
later. If we fail the small tests, we may never have the opportunity to take the large ones. Consequently, we
may not realize what was really taking place. I think this is the point the prophet Moroni was making when he
said, "dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith" (Ether 12:6).
One of the lessons we learn from the scriptures is that trials are not always a penalty for sins. Sometimes, as
with Abraham, Job, or Joseph Smith, trials have an educational purpose and are designed to "give experience,
and shall be for thy good" (see D&C 122:7).
Sacrifice Is an Educational Experience

A significant reason for the Lord's requiring the willingness to sacrifice all things is the experience it gives
those who do it. It is not only necessary that we have confidence in God, but there is also a dimension to be
gained about ourselves through the experience and the discipline of making a sacrifice. Our own acts tell us
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something about ourselves. Sacrificing all that we have in obedience to the Lord's commandments greatly
increases our own self-confidence. We know for ourselves that we can keep the commandments—we have
done it. This has a powerful effect upon our attitude about ourselves. Notice the language of the Lord given in
Doctrine and Covenants 97:8-9:
Verily I say unto you, all among them who know their hearts are honest, and are broken, and their spirits
contrite, and are willing to observe their covenants by sacrifice—yea, every sacrifice which I, the Lord, shall
command—they are accepted of me. For I, the Lord, will cause them to bring forth as a very fruitful tree which
is planted in a goodly land, by a pure stream, that yieldeth much precious fruit.
In speaking on this same subject—of a person's knowing and being aware that he or she has been obedient,
even at a cost—President David O. McKay said that "spirituality is the consciousness of victory over self"
(351).
Anciently, King David understood something of the importance of sacrifice, when on one occasion a friend
wanted to give him oxen to sacrifice to the Lord. David's reply was:
I will surely buy it of thee at a price: neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth
cost me nothing. So David bought the threshingfloor and the oxen for fifty shekels of silver ( 2 Sam 24:24).
The concept of customized tests is very important. We do not all have the same tests, and we can benefit from
what Elder Boyd K. Packer said on this theme in the October 1980 General Conference:
Our lives are made up of thousands of everyday choices. Over the years these little choices will be bundled
together and show clearly what we value.
The crucial test of life, I repeat, does not center in the choice between fame and obscurity, nor between wealth
and poverty. The greatest decision of life is between good and evil.
We may foolishly bring unhappiness and trouble, even suffering upon ourselves. These are not always to be
regarded as penalties imposed by a displeased Creator. They are part of the lessons of life, part of the test.
Some are tested by poor health, some by a body that is deformed or homely. Others are tested by handsome
and healthy bodies; some by the passion of youth; others by the erosions of age.
Some suffer disappointment in marriage, family problems; others live in poverty and obscurity. Some (perhaps
this is the hardest test) find ease and luxury.
All are part of the test, and there is more equality in this testing than sometimes we suspect.
It is possible to be both rich and famous and at the same time succeed spiritually. But the Lord warned of the
difficulty of it when He talked of camels and needles (see Matt 19:24) (21).
Elder Neal A. Maxwell spoke along the same lines to some students at Brigham Young University:
God knows what his children can become and tries them to help them reach their potential.... In time each
person will receive a "customized challenge" to determine his dedication to God ("Link Truths" 11).
Trials and adversities may often be blessings in disguise and are part of the "sacrifice of all things" required for
the development of true faith. Several great prophets of this dispensation have spoken on this subject.
President Harold B. Lee said the following in addressing Church Office employees at the annual Christmas
Devotional in the Tabernacle on Temple Square on 13 December 1973:
We are tested, we are tried.... We don't realize perhaps the severity of the tests that we are going through. In
[the early days of the Church], there were murderings, there were mobbings.... [The Saints] were driven out
into the desert, they were starving and they were unclad, they were cold. We are the inheritors of what they
gave to us. But what are we doing with it? Today we are basking in the lap of luxury, the like of which we've
never seen before in the history of the world. It would seem that probably this is the most severe test of any ...
we've ever had in the history of this Church (4-5).
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And President Ezra Taft Benson (then President of the Council of the Twelve) told the Regional
Representatives on 30 September 1977:
Every generation has its tests and its chance to stand and prove itself. Would you like to know of one of our
toughest tests? Hear the warning words of President Brigham Young: "The worst fear I have about this people
is that they will get rich in this country, forget God and His people, wax fat, and kick themselves out of the
Church and go to hell. This people will stand mobbing, robbing, poverty and all manner of persecution and be
true. But my greatest fear is that they cannot stand wealth."
Ours then seems to be the toughest test of all for the evils are more subtle, more clever. It all seems less
menacing and it is harder to detect. While every test of righteousness represents a struggle, this particular test
seems like no test at all, no struggle, and so could be the most deceiving of all tests.
Do you know what peace and prosperity can do to a people—it can put them to sleep (2).
Sacrifice Seen in Perspective

In this paper we have spoken much of sacrifice and the spiritual influence it has on those who do it and the
loss to those who do not. In one sense, however, there is no lasting sacrifice as President George Q. Cannon
explained:
If we expect to attain the fulfillment of the promises God has made to us, we must be self-sacrificing. There is
no sacrifice that God can ask of us or His servants whom He has chosen to lead us that we should hesitate
about making. In one sense of the word it is no sacrifice. We may call it so because it comes in contact with
our selfishness and our unbelief (89).
And Elder Bruce R. McConkie said:
Sacrifice pertains to mortality; in the eternal sense there is none. Sacrifice involves giving up the things of this
world because of the promises of blessings to be gained in a better world. In the eternal perspective there is
no sacrifice in giving up all things—even including the laying down of one's life—if eternal life is gained through
such a course (664).
We conclude and summarize this discussion by quoting excerpts from Lecture 6:9-12:
In the last days before the Lord comes, he is to gather together his saints who have made a covenant with him
by sacrifice.
... Those who do not make the sacrifice cannot enjoy this faith, because men are dependent upon this
sacrifice in order to obtain this faith. Therefore, they cannot lay hold upon eternal life, because the revelations
of God do not guarantee unto them the authority so to do; and without this guarantee faith could not exist.
All the Saints of whom we have account in all the revelations of God which are extant obtained the knowledge
which they had of their acceptance in his sight through the sacrifice which they offered unto him. And through
the knowledge thus obtained, their faith became sufficiently strong to lay hold upon the promise of eternal
life....
But those who have not made this sacrifice to God do not know that the course which they pursue is well
pleasing in his sight. For whatever may be their belief or their opinion, it is a matter of doubt and uncertainty in
their mind; and where doubt and uncertainty are, there faith is not, nor can it be. For doubt and faith do not
exist in the same person at the same time. So persons whose minds are under doubts and fears cannot have
unshaken confidence, and where unshaken confidence is not, there faith is weak. And where faith is weak, the
persons will not be able to contend against all the opposition, tribulations, and afflictions which they will have to
encounter in order to be heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ Jesus. But they will grow weary in their minds,
and the adversary will have power over them and destroy them.
Making a serious study of the Lectures on Faith is a sobering experience. I can assure you that one cannot
examine and absorb these lectures and afterwards be flippant or indifferent about what God requires of us in
this life. To study these lectures and to prepare a paper on them is a deep spiritual experience.
10 of 11
NOTES
Robert J. Matthews is dean of Religious Education and professor of Ancient Scripture at Brigham Young
University.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Benson, Ezra Taft. "Our Obligation and Challenge." Address given at Regional Representative Seminar, 30
Sep 1977.
Cannon, George Q. Gospel Truth. Ed. Jerreld L. Newquist. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1987.
Journal of Discourses. 26 vols. 1854-86.
Lee, Harold B. Address given at Christmas Devotional for LDS Church Employees, 13 Dec 1973.
"Link Truths, Students Told Wednesday." Daily Universe (7 Oct 1983) 37:11.
McConkie, Bruce R. Mormon Doctrine. 2nd ed. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1979.
McKay, David O. "Choose You This Day Whom Ye Will Serve." Improvement Era (May 1949) 52:270-71,
350-51; also in Conference Report (Apr 1949) 10-17.
Packer, Boyd K. "The Choice." Ensign (Nov 1980) 10:20-22; also in Conference Report (Oct 1980) 26-30.
Pratt, Parley P. The Key to the Science of Theology. 3rd ed. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1966.
Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Comp. Joseph Fielding Smith. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1976.
Larry E. Dahl, Charles D. Tate, Lectures on Faith in Historical Perspective, 241-262.
© 2004 Deseret Book. Printed from GospeLink.com
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Lecture 7 power. It is by reason of it that they are enabled to
descend from heaven to earth. And were it not for the
ON FAITH power of faith, they never could be ministering spirits
to them who should be heirs of salvation, neither
1. In the preceding lectures, we treated what faith could they act as heavenly messengers. For they
was and the object on which it rested. Agreeable to would be destitute of the power necessary to enable
our plan, we now proceed to speak of its effects. them to do the will of God.
2. As we have seen in our former lectures that faith is 5. It is only necessary for us to say that the whole
the principle of action and of power in all intelligent visible creation as it now exists is the effect of faith. It
beings both in heaven and on earth, it will not be was faith by which it was framed, and it is by the
expected that we will attempt to unfold all its effects power of faith that it continues in its organized form
in a lecture of this description. Neither is it necessary and by which the planets move round their orbits and
to our purpose so to do, for it would embrace all sparkle forth their glory. So, then, faith is truly the
things in heaven and on earth and encompass all the first principle in the science of theology, and, when
creations of God with all their endless varieties. For no understood, it leads the mind back to the beginning
world has yet been framed that was not framed by and carries it forward to the end, or, in other words,
faith, neither has there been an intelligent being on from eternity to eternity.
any of God's creations who did not get there by
reason of faith as it existed in himself or in some 6. As faith, then, is the principle by which the
other being. Nor has there been a change or a heavenly hosts perform their works and by which they
revolution in any of the creations of God but it has enjoy all their felicity, we might expect to find it set
been effected by faith. Neither will there be a change forth in a revelation from God as the principle upon
or a revolution in any of the vast creations of the which his creatures here below must act to obtain the
Almighty unless it is effected in the same way, for it is felicities enjoyed by the Saints in the eternal world.
by faith that the Deity works. And when God would undertake to raise up men for
the enjoyment of himself, he would teach them the
3. Let us here offer some explanation in relation to necessity of living by faith, and the impossibility of
faith that our meaning may be clearly comprehended. their enjoying the blessedness of eternity without it,
We ask, then, what are we to understand by a man's seeing that all the blessings of eternity are the effects
working by faith? We answer: we understand that of faith.
when a man works by faith he works by mental
exertion instead of physical force. It is by words, 7. Therefore, it is said, and appropriately too, that
instead of by exerting his physical powers, with which "without faith it is impossible to please him [God]"
every being works when he works by faith. God said, (Heb 11:6). If it should be asked why it is impossible
"Let there be light: and there was light" (Gen 1:3). to please God without faith, the answer would be that
Joshua spake and the great lights which God had without faith it is impossible for men to be saved. As
created stood still (Joshua 10:12-13). Elijah God desires the salvation of men, he must, of course,
commanded and the heavens were stayed for the desire that they should have faith; and he could not
space of three years and six months, so that it did not be pleased unless they had it, or else he could be
rain; he again commanded and the heavens gave pleased with their destruction.
forth rain (1 Kings 17:1; 18:1, 41-45). All this was
done by faith. And the Savior says: "If ye have faith 8. From this we learn that the many exhortations to
as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this have faith in him which have been given by inspired
mountain, Remove . . . and it shall remove" (Matt men to those who had received the word of the Lord
17:20); or "say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou were not mere common-place matters, but were for
plucked up . . . and . . . planted in the sea; and it the best of all reasons. And that reason is that without
should obey you" (Luke 17:6). Faith, then, works by it there is no salvation, neither in this world nor in
words; and with these its mightiest works have been that which is to come. When men begin to live by
and will be performed. faith, they begin to draw near to God; and when their
faith is perfected, they are like him. And because he is
4. It surely will not be required of us to prove that this saved, they are saved also; for they will be in the
is the principle upon which all eternity has acted and same situation he is in, because they have come to
will act, for every reflecting mind must know that it is him. And "when he shall appear, we shall be like him;
by reason of this power that all the hosts of heaven for we shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:2).
perform their works of wonder, majesty, and glory.
Angels move from place to place by virtue of this
9. As all the visible creation is an effect of faith, so is 10. The Lord said unto Moses, "Speak unto all the
salvation also. (We mean salvation in its most congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto
extensive latitude of interpretation, whether it is them, Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am
temporal or spiritual.) In order to have this subject holy" (Lev 19:2). And Peter says, "But as he which
clearly set before the mind, let us ask, what situation hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of
must a person be in in order to be saved? or, what is conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I
the difference between a saved man and one who is am holy" (1 Peter 1:15-16). And the Savior says, "Be
not saved? We answer from what we have before ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in
seen of the heavenly worlds that they must be heaven is perfect" (Matt 5:48). If any should ask, why
persons who can work by faith and who are able, by all these sayings? the answer is to be found from
faith, to be ministering spirits to them who shall be what is before quoted from John's epistle, that when
heirs of salvation. They must have faith to enable he (the Lord) shall appear, the Saints will be like him;
them to act in the presence of the Lord; otherwise, and if they are not holy, as he is holy, and perfect, as
they cannot be saved. And what constitutes the real he is perfect, they cannot be like him. For no beings
difference between a saved person and one not saved can enjoy his glory without possessing his perfections
is the difference in the degree of their faith. One's and holiness, no more than they could reign in his
faith has become perfect enough to lay hold upon kingdom without his power.
eternal life, and the other's has not. But to be a little
more particular, let us ask, where shall we find a 11. This clearly sets forth the propriety of the Savior's
prototype into whose likeness we may be assimilated, saying: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that
so we may be made partakers of life and salvation? believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also;
or, where shall we find a saved being? For if we can and greater works than these shall he do; because I
find a saved being, we may ascertain without much go unto my Father" (John 14:12). This taken in
difficulty what all others must be in order to be connection with some of the sayings in the Savior's
savedCthey must be like that individual or they prayer recorded in John 17 gives great clearness to
cannot be saved. We think that it will not be a matter his expressions. He says, "Neither pray I for these
of dispute that two beings who are unlike each other alone, but for them also which shall believe on me
cannot both be saved; for whatever constitutes the through their word; that they all may be one; as thou,
salvation of one will constitute the salvation of every Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be
creature which will be saved. And if we find one saved one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast
being in all existence, we may see what all others sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have
must be or else not be saved. We ask, then, where is given them; that they may be one, even as we are
the prototype? or, where is the saved being? We one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be
conclude as to the answer of this question that there made perfect in one; and that the world may know
will be no dispute among those who believe the Bible that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou
that it is Christ. All will agree that he is the prototype hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom
or standard of salvation, or in other words, that he is thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they
a saved being. And if we should continue our may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for
interrogation and ask how it is that he is saved, the thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world"
answer would be that he is a just and holy being. If (John 17:20-24).
he were anything different from what he is, he would
not be saved; for his salvation depends on his being 12. All these sayings put together give as clear an
precisely what he is and nothing else. For if it were account of the state of the glorified Saints as
possible for him to change in the least degree, surely language could giveCthe works that Jesus had done
Christ would fail of salvation and lose all his dominion, they were to do, and greater works than those which
power, authority and glory, which constitute salvation. he had done among them should they do, and that
For salvation consists in the glory, authority, majesty, because he went to the Father. He does not say that
power and dominion which Jehovah possesses and in they should do these works in time; but they should
nothing else; and no being can possess it but himself do greater works, because he went to the Father. He
or one like him. Thus says John: "Beloved, now are says, "Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast
we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what given me, be with me where I am; that they may
we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, behold my glory" (John 17:24). These sayings taken
we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. together make it very plain that the greater works
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth which those who believed on his name were to do
himself, even as he is pure" (1 John 3:2-3). Why were to be done in eternity, where he was going and
purify themselves as he is pure? Because if they do where they should behold his glory. He had said in
not, they cannot be like him. another part of his prayer that he desired of his
Father that those who believed on him should be one saved beings. For any portion of the human family to
in him, as he and the Father were one in each other. be assimilated into their likeness is to be saved, and
"Neither pray I for these [the apostles] 1 alone, but to be unlike them is to be destroyed. On this hinge
for them also which shall believe on me through their turns the door of salvation.
word; that they all may be one"; that is, they who
believe on him through the apostles' words, as well as 17. Who cannot see, then, that salvation is the effect
the apostles themselves, "that they all may be one; as of faith? For as we have previously observed, all the
thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also heavenly beings work by this principle; and it is
may be one in us" (John 17:20-21). because they are able so to do that they are saved,
for nothing but this could save them. And this is the
13. What language can be plainer than this? The lesson which the God of heaven has been
Savior surely intended to be understood by his endeavoring to teach to the world by the mouth of all
disciples, and he spake that they might understand his holy prophets. Hence we are told that "without
him. For he declares to his Father, in language not to faith it is impossible to please him [God]" (Heb 11:6),
be easily mistaken, that he wanted his disciples, even and that salvation "is of faith, that it might be by
all of them, to be as himself and the Father are, for as grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the
he and the Father were one so they might be one seed" (Rom 4:16). And "Israel, which followed after
with them (John 17:21). And what is said in the 22nd the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law
verse is calculated to establish this belief more firmly, of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it
if it needs anything to establish it. He says: "And the not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law.
glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that For they stumbled at that stumblingstone" (Rom
they may be one, even as we are one" (v 22). This is 9:31-32). And Jesus said unto the man who brought
as much as to say that unless they have the glory his son to him to get the devil who tormented him
which the Father had given him, they could not be cast out: "If thou canst believe, all things are possible
one with them. For he says he had given them the to him that believeth" (Mark 9:23). These references
glory that the Father had given him that they might with a multitude of other scriptures which might be
be one, or, in other words, to make them one. quoted plainly set forth the light in which the Savior,
as well as the Former-day Saints, viewed the plan of
14. This fills up the measure of information on this salvation. It was a system of faithCit begins with
subject and shows most clearly that the Savior wished faith, it continues by faith, and every blessing which is
his disciples to understand that they were to be obtained in relation to it is the effect of faith, whether
partakers with him in all things, not even his glory it pertains to this life or that which is to come. All the
excepted. revelations of God bear witness to this. If there were
children of promise, they were the effects of faith, not
15. It is scarcely necessary here to observe what we even the Savior of the world excepted. "Blessed is she
have previously noticed: that the Father and the Son that believed," said Elizabeth to Mary, when she went
have the glory they have because they are just and to visit her, "for there shall be a performance of those
holy beings; and if they were lacking in one attribute things which were told her from the Lord" (Luke
or perfection which they have, they could never enjoy 1:45). Nor was the birth of John the Baptist any the
the glory which they have, for it requires them to be less a matter of faith. For in order that his father
precisely what they are in order to enjoy it. And if the Zacharias might believe, he was struck dumb. And
Savior gives this glory to any others, he must do it in through the whole history of the scheme of life and
the very way set forth in his prayer to his Father: by salvation, it is a matter of faith. Every man received
making them one with him as he and the Father are according to his faith: according as his faith was, so
one. In so doing he would give them the glory which were his blessings and privileges. And nothing was
the Father has given him; and when his disciples are withheld from him when his faith was sufficient to
made one with the Father and Son, as the Father and receive it. He could stop the mouths of lions, quench
the Son are one, who cannot see the propriety of the the violence of fire, escape the edge of the sword,
Savior's saying, "The works that I do shall [they] 2 do wax valiant in fight, and put to flight the armies of the
also; and greater works than these shall [they] 3 do; aliens; women could, by their faith, receive their dead
because I go unto my Father" (John 14:12). children to life again (see Heb 11:33-35). In a word,
there was nothing impossible for them who had faith.
16. These teachings of the Savior most clearly show All things were in subjection to the Former-day Saints,
unto us the nature of salvation and what he proposed according as their faith was. By their faith they could
unto the human family when he proposed to save obtain heavenly visions and the ministering of angels.
them: he proposed to make them like unto himself, They could have knowledge of the spirits of just men
and he was like the Father, the great prototype of all made perfect, of the general assembly and church of
the Firstborn whose names are written in heaven, of excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord,"
God, the Judge of all, and of Jesus, the Mediator of because he had to suffer "the loss of all things" to
the new covenant. And they could become familiar obtain the faith by which he could enjoy the
with the third heavens, see and hear things which knowledge of Christ Jesus the Lord (Philip 3:7-8). This
were not only unutterable but were unlawful to utter. is the reason that the Former-day Saints knew more
Peter, in view of the power of faith, says to the and understood more of heaven and of heavenly
Former-day Saints: "Grace and peace be multiplied things than all others beside, because this information
unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus is the effect of faithCto be obtained by no other
our Lord, according as his divine power hath given means. And this is the reason that men, as soon as
unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, they lose their faith, run into strifes, contentions,
through the knowledge of him that hath called us to darkness, and difficulties. For the knowledge which
glory and virtue" (2 Peter 1:2-3). In the first epistle, tends to life disappears with faith, but returns when
he says: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord faith returns. For when faith comes, it brings its train
Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy of attendants with itCapostles, prophets, evangelists,
hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the pastors, teachers, gifts, wisdom, knowledge, miracles,
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an healings, tongues, interpretation of tongues, etc. All
inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that these appear when faith appears on the earth and
fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are disappear when it disappears from the earth. For
kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation these are the effects of faith and always have
ready to be revealed in the last time" (1 Peter 1:3-5). attended and always will attend it. For where faith is,
there will the knowledge of God be, also, with all
18. 4 These sayings put together show the Apostle's things which pertain thereto: revelations, visions, and
views most clearly, so as to admit of no mistake in the dreams, as well as every other necessary thing, so the
mind of any individual. He says that all things that possessors of faith may be perfected and obtain
pertain to life and godliness were given unto them salvation. For God must change; otherwise, faith will
through the knowledge of God and our Savior Jesus prevail with him. And he who possesses it will obtain
Christ. And if the question is asked, how were they to all necessary knowledge and wisdom through it until
obtain the knowledge of God? (For there is a great he shall know God and the Lord Jesus Christ, whom
difference between believing in God and knowing he has sent, whom to know is eternal life. Amen.
himCknowledge implies more than faith. And notice
that all things that pertain to life and godliness were
given through the knowledge of God.) The answer is
that through faith they were to obtain this knowledge;
and, having power by faith to obtain the knowledge of
God, they could with it obtain all other things which
pertain to life and godliness.
19. By these sayings of the Apostle Peter, we learn

that it was by obtaining a knowledge of God that men
got the knowledge of all things which pertain to life
and godliness, and this knowledge was the effect of
faith. So all things which pertain to life and godliness
are the effects of faith.
20. From this we may extend as far as any

circumstances may require, whether on earth or in
heaven, and we will find it the testimony of all
inspired men or heavenly messengers that all things
that pertain to life and godliness are the effects of
faith and nothing else. All learning, wisdom, and
prudence fail, and everything else as a means of
salvation but faith. This is the reason that the
fishermen of Galilee could teach the world, because
they sought by faith and by faith obtained. And this is
the reason that Paul counted all things but filth and
drossCwhat he formerly called his gain he called his
loss. Yea, he counted "all things but loss for the
Chapter 22 has acted and will act," the Prophet reasons, "for
The Fruits of Faith every reflecting mind must know that it is by reason
(Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of of this power that all the hosts of heaven perform
Faith, 192-201) their works of wonder, majesty, and glory. Angels
move from place to place by virtue of this power; it is
The Eternal Fruits of Faith by reason of it that they are enabled to descend from
Faith is known by its fruits—on earth, in heaven to earth; and were it not for the power of
heaven, everywhere. Where the fruits of faith are faith they never could be ministering spirits to them
found, there is faith; where there are no fruits, there who should be heirs of salvation, neither could they
is no faith. It is an eternal law of the universe that like act as heavenly messengers, for they would be
begets like, that every tree brings forth after its own destitute of the power necessary to enable them to
kind, and that the tree of faith bears, always and do the will of God." Thus, it is by faith that gods and
everlastingly, the fruit of faith. It is no more possible angels live and move and have their being. It is by
to pick the fruit of faith from the tree of unbelief than faith that the Lord God Omnipotent operates and
it is to harvest grapes from bramble bushes or figs performs his wondrous works. It is by faith that the
from thistles. universe was created and is upheld and preserved.
There is no better way to envision the infinite "It is only necessary for us to say that the
and eternal nature of faith than to see its infinite and whole visible creation, as it now exists, is the effect of
eternal fruits, the fruits that transcend the bounds of faith. It was faith by which it was framed, and it is by
our lone earth. Thus we find the Prophet Joseph the power of faith that it continues in its organized
Smith saying that the effects of faith "embrace all form, and by which the planets move round their
things in heaven and on earth, and encompass all the orbits and sparkle forth their glory." All that God does
creations of God, with all their endless varieties." is done by the power of faith. "So, then, faith is truly
How, we ask, can faith have such immanent, the first principle in the science of THEOLOGY, and,
indwelling, ever-present, omnipotent power? We when understood, leads the mind back to the
hear the answer: "No world has yet been framed that beginning, and carries it forward to the end; or, in
was not framed by faith, neither has there been an other words, from eternity to eternity." (Lectures on
intelligent being on any of God's creations who did Faith 7:2, 4-5.)
not get there by reason of faith as it existed in himself
or in some other being"—worlds are created and Faith Among Mortals
men are saved by faith!—"nor has there been a "As faith, then, is the principle by which the
change or a revolution in any of the creations of God, heavenly hosts perform their works, and by which
but it has been effected by faith; neither will there be they enjoy all their felicity," our account continues,
a change or a revolution, unless it is effected in the "we might expect to find it set forth in a revelation
same way, in any of the vast creations of the from God as the principle upon which his creatures
Almighty, for it is by faith that the Deity works." here below must act in order to obtain the felicities
Thus, faith precedes and accompanies all enjoyed by the saints in the eternal world." How can
things. It is as near to being the First Great Cause of [page 195] mortals become either gods or angels
which philosophers speak as anything can be. Let the unless they obtain the same powers, the same
wise and the learned speak of the laws of nature or of attributes, and the same holiness that such eternal
the universe; in reality, as the weak and [page 194] beings now possess? God is God and angels are
the simple know, they are viewing the effects of faith, angels because they possess the powers and
the faith that dwells independently in the Supreme perfections that now are theirs. If men gain these
Being. And thus the fruits of faith include this earth same states of glory and exaltation, can they do it
and all earths, our atmospheric heavens and the without becoming like those who already have so
sidereal heavens, and all forms of life that have inherited?
existed and do exist in every sphere of life, whether God created all men in his own
temporal or spiritual. image—physically, mentally, morally, spiritually. His
"It surely will not be required of us to prove offspring inherited from him the power and ability to
that this [faith] is the principle upon which all eternity become like him. Men are patterned after their
Eternal Father, and if they ever become as their they must have faith to enable them to act in the
Maker, they must gain the same faith or power presence of the Lord, otherwise they cannot be
embodied in the Deity. To the extent that fallen men saved. And what constitutes the real difference
gain faith, they become like God and exercise his between a saved person and one not saved is—the
power. To the extent that they live in unbelief, they difference in the degree of their faith—one's faith has
are without God in the world, do not exercise his become perfect enough to lay hold upon eternal life,
power, are not in process of becoming like him, and and the other's has not." (Lectures on Faith 7:6-9.)
cannot and will not be saved. Here on earth we are far removed from our
"Therefore it is said, and appropriately too, heavenly home and can know only by revelation of
that 'Without faith it is impossible to please God.' If it the laws that prevail in that holy place. To the extent
should be asked—Why is it impossible to please God that we accept and obey the divine laws that prevail
without faith? The answer would be—Because in that realm whence we came, we gain faith and thus
without faith it is impossible for men to be saved; and prepare ourselves to return to the presence of Him
as God desires the salvation of men, he must, of whose we are. And salvation, as we have and shall set
course, desire that they should have faith; and he forth, is to be like Christ and inherit, receive, and
could not be pleased unless they had, or else he could possess as he does in the kingdom of the Father.
be pleased with their destruction. From this we learn
that the many exhortations which have been given by Faith Like the Ancients
inspired men, to those who had received the word of Faith unto life and salvation has dwelt in the
the Lord to have faith in him, were not mere hearts of righteous men from the days of Adam to the
common-place matters, but were for the best of all present moment. They have overcome the world,
reasons, and that was—because without it there was and amid suffering and sorrow, and even death, they
no salvation, neither in this world nor in that which is have pursued the one and only course back to the
to come." The two alternatives that face all men are presence of Him by whom faith comes. Indeed, as it
salvation or damnation. Though there are degrees of is written: "Through the whole history of the scheme
each, any who fall short of becoming as God is fail to of life and salvation, it is a matter of faith." It is faith,
inherit eternal life, which status is the fulness of and faith alone, that opens the door to peace in this
salvation. life and eternal life in the world to come. Beginning
"When men begin to live by faith they begin to with father Adam and continuing down through all
draw near to God; and when faith is perfected they succeeding generations, "every man [has] received
are like him; and because he is saved they are saved according to his faith—according as his faith was, so
also; for they will be in the same situation he is in, were his blessings and privileges; and nothing [page
because they have come to him; and when he 197] was withheld from him when his faith was
appears they shall be like him, for they will see him as sufficient to receive it." How could it be otherwise
he is. As all the visible creation is an effect of faith, so when faith is the power of God?
is salvation also." Manifestly there neither is nor can Thus, of all and any who had faith, it is
be anything [page 196] greater than God. If men written: "He could stop the mouths of lions, quench
become like him, they ascend the throne of eternal the violence of fire, escape the edge of the sword,
power, are exalted to the highest state that exists in wax valiant in fight, and put to flight the armies of the
all the endless expanse of created things, and are aliens; women could, by their faith, receive their dead
themselves gods. Thus salvation is not only the children to life again; in a word, there was nothing
greatest of all the gifts of God, it is also the chief and impossible with them who had faith. All things were
most glorious of all the fruits of faith. in subjection to the Former-day Saints, according as
At this point our account asks: "What situation their faith was. By their faith they could obtain
must a person be in in order to be saved? or what is heavenly visions, the ministering of angels, have
the difference between a saved man and one who is knowledge of the spirits of just men made perfect, of
not saved?" In describing saved beings, the Prophet's the general assembly and church of the first born,
words attest: "They must be persons who can work whose names are written in heaven, of God the judge
by faith and who are able, by faith, to be ministering of all, of Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and
spirits to them who shall be heirs of salvation; and become familiar with the third heavens, see and hear
things which were not only unutterable, but were Enoch, it being after the order of the Son of God;
unlawful to utter." (Lectures on Faith 7:17.) which order came, not by man, nor the will of man;
An account of the faith of the ancients has neither by father nor mother; neither by beginning of
been preserved in holy writ to serve as a pattern for days nor end of years; but of God; and it was
us. What God did for them, he will do for us; in like delivered unto men by the calling of his own voice,
circumstances and when importuned with like faith, according to his own will, unto as many as believed
the same unchangeable God will always respond in on his name." The priesthood here spoken of is called
the same way. A miracle today need be no different the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God,
than a miracle anciently. A soul is just as precious in which we and the ancient saints call the Melchizedek
the sight of the Lord today as it has ever been. And Priesthood, to avoid the too frequent repetition of the
what matter the perils of the present and the future if name of Deity.
we have faith in God? His power can and will It is of this Melchizedek Priesthood and of all
preserve the faithful now as in days gone by, all in the faithful ones who hold it that the scripture attests:
harmony with his will and purposes. Let us then, "For God having sworn unto Enoch and unto his seed
bring into holy remembrance the faith of the ancients. with an oath by himself; that every one being
By faith, Adam, dwelling in the peace and ordained after this order and calling should have
serenity of Eden, chose to fall that mortal man might power, by faith, to break mountains, to divide the
be; this he did knowing that such a course opened the seas, to dry up waters, to turn them out of their
door to immortality and eternal life. By faith, he course; to put at defiance the armies of nations, to
offered sacrifices, received revelations, entertained divide the earth, to break every band, to stand in the
angels, and learned of the great plan of redemption. presence of God; to do all things according to his will,
By faith, he assembled his righteous posterity in the according to his command, subdue principalities and
valley of Adam-ondi-Ahman, where the Lord powers; and this by the will of the Son of God which
appeared unto them all, and where Adam "being full was from before the foundations of the world. And
of the Holy Ghost, predicted whatsoever should men having this faith, coming up unto this order of
befall his posterity unto the latest generation." (D&C God, were translated and taken up into heaven." (JST,
107:56.) Genesis 14:26-32.)
By faith, Enoch walked with God, founded a By faith, Abraham "looked forth and saw the
City of Holiness called Zion, and with his whole city days of the Son of Man, and was glad, and his soul
was translated and [page 198] taken up into heaven found rest, and he [page 199] believed in the Lord;
without tasting death. "And so great was the faith of and the Lord counted it unto him for righteousness."
Enoch, that he led the people of God, and their (JST, Genesis 15:12.) Through faith, Abraham, Isaac,
enemies came to battle against them; and he spake and Jacob, each in turn, received promises concerning
the word of the Lord, and the earth trembled, and their seed. With them Jehovah covenanted that their
the mountains fled, even according to his command; seed, the fruit of their loins, should continue, both in
and the rivers of water were turned out of their the world and out of the world, as many as the stars
course; and the roar of the lions was heard out of the in the sky or innumerable as the sand upon the
wilderness; and all nations feared greatly, so powerful seashore. Each of them, by faith, gained the divine
was the word of Enoch, and so great was the power promise that in them and in their seed all generations
of the language which God had given him." (Moses should be blessed and that their seed after them
7:13.) should have the right to the priesthood and to the
By faith, Noah preached the gospel, prepared gospel and to eternal life.
an ark, and saved seed through the flood. And as to By faith, Moses caused the waters of the Red
Melchizedek, he was like unto Enoch. Of him the holy Sea to part, to congeal, and to form a wall of water
word says: "Now Melchizedek was a man of faith on the right hand and on the left, that the fleeing
who wrought righteousness; and when a child he Israelites might escape the chariots of Pharaoh. By
feared God, and stopped the mouths of lions, and faith, he fed the chosen seed with manna from
quenched the violence of fire. And thus, having been heaven for forty years, during all of which time their
approved of God, he was ordained an high priest clothes did not wear out and their shoes did not wax
after the order of the covenant which God made with old. By faith, and to prepare them to receive their
Messiah, he gave them the law that bears his name, As to faith among the ancients, our inspired
and finally, like Enoch and those whose faith moved author continues: "Behold it was by faith that they of
mountains, Moses the man of God was translated and old were called after the holy order of God.
taken into heaven without tasting death. Wherefore, by faith was the law of Moses given. But
All of these things and other miracles without in the gift of his Son hath God prepared a more
number have been wrought by faith by the prophets excellent way; and it is by faith that it hath been
and saints of all dispensations. And always faith fulfilled. For if there be no faith among the children of
precedes the miracle; always the power of faith men God can do no miracle among them; wherefore,
performs the miracle; always the miracle proves that he showed not himself until after their faith."
faith was present and in active operation. For Moroni speaks of the faith of Alma and
instance: "The brother of Jared said unto the Amulek "that caused the prison to tumble to the
mountain Zerin, Remove—and it was removed." earth"; of the faith of Nephi and Lehi "that wrought
Those few words tell all we know about what must the change upon the Lamanites, that they were
have been a mighty struggle of one of earth's greatest baptized with fire and with the Holy Ghost"; of the
prophets. To them Moroni appends the rather wry faith of Ammon and his brethren "which wrought so
understatement: "And if he had not had faith it would great a miracle among the Lamanites." Then he
not have moved." (Ether 12:30.) makes this all-comprehensive, prophetic declaration:
"Faith is things which are hoped for and not "Yea, and even all they who wrought miracles
seen," Moroni says; "wherefore, dispute not because wrought them by faith, even those who were before
ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the Christ and also those who were after." There neither
trial of your faith." Some may suppose that the has been, nor is, nor ever shall be an exception to this
various miracles and historical events recorded in the eternal law. God never changes, and his laws are
scriptures took place simply because of some divine everlastingly the same.
providence being shown forth in the lives of men. As his crowning illustration of faith among
True it is that divine providence controls the destinies mortals, Moroni names the translation of the Three
of men and nations, but behind each miracle is divine Nephites. "And it was by faith that the three disciples
power, and that power is named faith. "For it was by obtained a promise that they should not taste of
faith that Christ showed himself unto our fathers, death," he says, "and they obtained not the [page 201]
after he had risen from the dead," [page 200] Moroni promise until after their faith." What greater miracle
continues; "and he showed not himself unto them could there be among us mortals than the miracle of
until after they had faith in him." That is, the Risen translation? What power but the power of God can
Lord came to the Nephites because they had faith, extend the life of mortal man on earth for thousands
not simply to fulfill a divine providence that called, for of added years? And what power does Deity possess
instance, for his teachings to be preserved for us in except the power of faith?
the Book of Mormon. And out of it all, our inspired author reaches
After his resurrection "he showed himself not this grand conclusion: "And neither at any time hath
unto the world" in general, only to those who were any wrought miracles until after their faith; wherefore
prepared by faith to feel the nail marks in his hands they first believed in the Son of God." (Ether 12:6-18.)
and in his feet and to thrust their hands into his riven Truly, as the Lord Jesus said: "All things are possible
side. "But because of the faith of men he has shown to him that believeth." (Mark 9:23.)
himself unto the world," that is, unto those in the
world who had faith, and he has "glorified the name
of the Father, and prepared a way that thereby
others might be partakers of the heavenly gift, that
they might hope for those things which they have not
seen. Wherefore, ye [meaning us and all men] may
also have hope, and be partakers of the gift, if ye will
but have faith."
Chapter 23 you." Thus, all true believers, in all ages, who ask the
Faith and Salvation Father, in the name of Christ, in faith, for anything
(Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of that is right and good shall receive that which they
Faith, 202-211) desire. In this connection the inspired account of
Mormon preserves for us these words of Christ: "If
Faith and Miracles ye will have faith in me ye shall have power to do
Faith and salvation are linked together whatsoever thing is expedient in me."
everlastingly. They attend and strengthen each other What, then, is the destiny of those who have
and are perfectly united in all things. By faith, faith? It is to work miracles while in this mortal
salvation comes, and salvation is nothing more and probation and to gain eternal life in the estate ahead.
nothing less than perfect faith in active operation. Of them the scripture says, Christ "claimeth all those
God is a saved being because faith dwells in him who have faith in him." None such shall be lost; all
independently, and men will be saved when they who have faith will be saved.
become like God and faith dwells in them How may those who have faith be known?
independently. Hence, mortals who are in process of What witness do they bear that sets them apart from
gaining salvation are in process of perfecting their the masses of men? "They who have faith in him
faith. The gospel is the law and system whereby men [Christ] will cleave unto every good thing," Mormon
grow in faith until they gain salvation. And thus, says. Signs will attend their mortal ministries and
where the gospel is, there is faith; and where faith is, angels will minister unto them while they yet dwell on
there will be the fruits of faith. Hence, signs and earth.
miracles always attend, identify, and bless true Faith and angels go together. "Angels,"
believers. according to the Book of Mormon account, show
"When faith comes," the Prophet Joseph Smith "themselves unto them of strong faith and a firm mind
taught, "it brings its train of attendants with in every form of godliness." Why do they minister
it—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, unto men? "The office of their ministry is to call men
gifts, wisdom, knowledge, miracles, healings, tongues, unto repentance, and to fulfill and to do the work of
interpretation of tongues, etc. All these appear when the covenants of the Father, which he hath made
faith appears on the earth, and disappear when it unto the children of men, to prepare the way among
disappears from the earth; for these are the effects of the children of men, by declaring the word of Christ
faith, and always have attended, and always will, unto the chosen vessels of the Lord, that they may
attend it. For where faith is, there will the knowledge bear testimony of him. And by so doing, the Lord
of God be also, with all things which pertain God prepareth the way that the residue of men may
thereto—revelations, visions, and dreams, as well as have faith in Christ, that the Holy Ghost may have
every necessary thing, in order that the possessors of place in their hearts, according to the power thereof;
faith may be perfected, and obtain salvation; for God and after this manner bringeth to pass the Father, the
must change, otherwise faith will prevail with him. covenants which he hath made unto the children of
And he who possesses it will, through it, obtain all men."
necessary knowledge and wisdom, until he shall Mormon, whose words we are quoting,
know God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, whom he has viewing the decadent and fallen religions of an
sent—whom to know is eternal life." (Lectures on apostate world, breaks forth [page 204] with these
Faith 7:20.) [page 203] words of doctrine and of warning: "It is by faith that
Our Blessed Lord, ministering to the Nephites miracles are wrought." There is no other way. "And it
in resurrected glory, gave this divine promise: is by faith that angels appear and minister unto men."
"Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, Without faith they remain hidden from mortal eyes.
which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it "Wherefore, if these things have ceased wo be unto
shall be given unto you." (3 Nephi 18:20.) Nearly four the children of men, for it is because of unbelief, and
hundred years later Mormon gave this rendition of all is vain. For no man can be saved, according to the
Jesus' promise: "Whatsoever thing ye shall ask the words of Christ, save they shall have faith in his
Father in my name, which is good, in faith believing name." Faith and salvation go together. "Wherefore, if
that ye shall receive, behold, it shall be done unto these things"—the working of miracles and the
ministering of angels—"have ceased, then has faith Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is
ceased also; and awful is the state of man, for they unto all, even unto the ends of the earth. For behold,
are as though there had been no redemption made." thus said Jesus Christ, the Son of God, unto his
Without faith they cannot be redeemed from their disciples who should tarry [the Three Nephites who
spiritual fall and they remain forever cast out of the were translated], yea, and also to all his disciples, in
presence of the Lord. Such is Mormon's evaluation of the hearing of the multitude: Go ye into all the world,
apostate peoples and of those who belong to other and preach the gospel to every creature; and he that
churches than the Lord's. And having so stated, he believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that
says of those who have forsaken the world and taken believeth not shall be damned." This is the same
upon themselves the name of Christ: "If ye have not commission given the apostles who were with Jesus
faith in him then ye are not fit to be numbered among in Jerusalem. The message to all men was and is and
the people of his church." (Moroni 7:26-39.) ever shall be that salvation is in Christ and his holy
"Miracles are the fruits of faith," the Prophet gospel. Believe the true gospel and be saved; believe
said. "Faith comes by hearing the word of God. If a a false gospel and receive a lesser reward.
man has not faith enough to do one thing, he may But how is the true gospel to be known? One
have faith to do another: if he cannot remove a voice cries out that Christ and salvation are here;
mountain, he may heal the sick. Where faith is there another affirms they are there. There is unending
will be some of the fruits: all gifts and power which discord and division among men, including those who
were sent from heaven, were poured out on the profess to be Christians. To his legal administrators
heads of those who had faith." (History of the Church on both continents Jesus said: "And these signs shall
5:355.) Also: "Because faith is wanting, the fruits are. follow them that believe—in my name shall they cast
No man since the world was had faith without having out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they
something along with it. The ancients quenched the shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly
violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, thing it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the
women received their dead, etc. By faith the worlds sick and they shall recover; and whosoever shall
were made. A man who has none of the gifts has no believe in my name, doubting nothing, unto him will I
faith; and he deceives himself, if he supposes he has. confirm all my words, even unto the ends of the
Faith has been wanting, not only among the heathen, earth." (Mormon 9:19-25; Mark 16:14-20.)
but in professed Christendom also, so that tongues, Signs follow true believers! Miracles are the
healings, prophecy, and prophets and apostles, and all fruits of faith! Healings and gifts of the Spirit are
the gifts and blessings have been wanting." (History of always found in the true church! Where these are,
the Church 5:218.) there is the gospel that saves; where these are not,
any supposed system of salvation has no saving [page
Signs Attend True Believers 206] power. Faith and signs are inseparably
Moroni raises his voice alongside that of his connected. There is no such thing as having one
father, Mormon, in proclaiming the gospel truths without the other.
relative to faith, [page 205] miracles, and signs. As "an The law governing faith and signs is eternal
unchangeable Being," by whose power miracles have and everlasting; it is the same in all ages and among all
been wrought from the beginning, Deity is "a God of peoples, and it has been given to us in our day in
miracles," he says. "And the reason why he ceaseth to these words: "It shall come to pass that he that hath
do miracles among the children of men is because faith in me to be healed," saith the Lord, "and is not
that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the appointed unto death, shall be healed." The exercise
right way, and know not the God in whom they of faith is always subject to the overriding
should trust." There is no such thing as faith unto life providences of the Lord. If it is the will of the Lord to
and salvation in a false god. Either men believe in the take one of his children from this life to the next, then
true and living God or they wear out their lives in the Lord's will prevails. Faith cannot be exercised
faithless unbelief. contrary to the order and will of heaven.
"Behold, I say unto you," Moroni continues, Nevertheless, "he who hath faith to see shall see. He
"that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, who hath faith to hear shall hear. The lame who hath
whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of faith to leap shall leap. And they who have not faith to
do these things, but believe in me"—the Lord is Why must those who seek salvation pursue
speaking—"have power to become my sons; and the course charted in these scriptures? Because if
inasmuch as they break not my laws thou shalt bear they do not, they cannot be like Christ. If they are not
their infirmities." (D&C 42:48-52.) pure as he is pure, "holy, as he is holy, and perfect, as
To his people in these last days, the Lord has he is perfect, they cannot be like him; for no being
promised that signs shall follow those who truly can enjoy his glory without possessing his perfections
believe. "But a commandment I give unto them," he and holiness, no more than they could reign in his
cautions and warns, "that they shall not boast kingdom without his power." (Lectures on Faith 7:10.)
themselves of these things, neither speak them It is on the basis of these principles that men
before the world; for these things are given unto you are able to do the works of Christ. "He that believeth
for your profit and for salvation." (D&C 84:73.) on me," Jesus said, "the works that I do shall he do
As faith precedes the miracle, so signs follow also; and greater works than these shall he do;
those who believe. Belief comes first; then its fruits because I go unto my Father." (John 14:12.) When
are shown forth. Hence the saints seek faith, not and why and how can men do greater works than the
signs. "Faith cometh not by signs, but signs follow Lord Jesus did when he ministered among men? The
those that believe. Yea, signs come by faith, not by answers are found in his great Intercessory Prayer.
the will of men, nor as they please, but by the will of "Holy Father, keep through thine own name those
God. Yea, signs come by faith, unto mighty works, for whom thou hast given me," Jesus prayed, "that they
without faith no man pleaseth God; and with whom may be one, as we are." The apostles are to be one
God is angry he is not well pleased; wherefore, unto with the Father and the Son. "Neither pray I for these
such he showeth no signs, only in wrath unto their alone," the Lord continued, "but for them also which
condemnation." (D&C 63:9-11.) shall believe on me through their word; that they all
Being One with Christ may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee,
To be saved is to be like Christ, inheriting, that they also may be one in us: that the world may
receiving, and possessing as he does. To gain believe that thou hast sent me." All true believers, all
salvation is to grow in faith until we have the faith of who have faith, all the saints, all the righteous of all
Christ and thus are like him. Our nearness to him and the ages are to be one with the Father and the Son.
to salvation is measured by the degree of our faith. Then of the Twelve, Jesus prayed: "And the
To gain faith is to attain the power of Christ, which is glory which [page 208] thou gavest me I have given
God's power. To believe in Christ in the full and true them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in
sense is to "have the mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect
2:16), that is, to [page 207] believe what he believes, in one; and that the world may know that thou hast
think what he thinks, say what he says, and do what sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
he does. It is to be one with him by the power of the Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given
Holy Ghost. me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my
What say the scriptures about being one with glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me
Christ? "By faith," Mormon says, we "become the before the foundation of the world." (John 17:11, 20-
sons of God." (Moroni 7:26.) Speaking of true 24.)
believers, John says: "Now are we the sons of God, After quoting the scriptures that we have
and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we quoted, the Prophet Joseph Smith said: "All these
know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; sayings put together give as clear an account of the
for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath state of the glorified saints as language could
this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure." give—the works that Jesus had done they were to do,
(1 John 3:2-3.) "Ye shall be holy," the Lord says to his and greater works than those which he had done
saints, "for I the Lord your God am holy." (Leviticus among them should they do, and that because he
19:2.) As Christ "which hath called you is holy," Peter went to the Father. He does not say that they should
pleads with the saints, "so be ye holy." (1 Peter 1:15.) do these works in time; but they should do greater
And the great exhortation of the Lord Jesus himself is: works, because he went to the Father." That is to say:
"I would that ye should be perfect even as I, or your "The greater works which those that believed on his
Father who is in heaven is perfect." (3 Nephi 12:48.) name were to do were to be done in eternity, where
he was going and where they should behold his by the mouth of all his holy prophets, has been
glory." They were to be done by those who were one endeavouring to teach to the world."
with him and his Father. "For he declares to his Thus, we see "the light in which the Saviour,
Father, in language not to be easily mistaken, that he as well as the Former-day Saints, viewed the plan of
wanted his disciples, even all of them, to be as himself salvation. That it was a system of faith—it begins with
and the Father, for as he and the Father were one so faith, and continues by faith; and every blessing which
they might be one with them." is obtained in relation to it is the effect of faith,
Jesus is thus saying "that unless they have the whether it pertains to this life or that which is to
glory which the Father had given him they could not come. To this all the revelations of God bear witness.
be one with them; for he says he had given them the If there were children of promise, they were the
glory that the Father had given him that they might be effects of faith, not even the Saviour of the world
one; or, in other words, to make them one. . . . They excepted." (Lectures on Faith 7:12-17.)
were to be partakers with him in all things, not even
his glory excepted." Faith and Knowledge
What is this New Testament doctrine but a In the eternal sense, because faith is the
proclamation that as God now is, man may become? power of God himself, it embraces within its fold a
Continuing his exposition of such a transcendent and knowledge of all things. This measure of faith, the
glorious concept, Joseph Smith says that "the glory faith by which the worlds are and were created and
which the Father and the Son have is because they which sustains and upholds all things, is found only
are just and holy beings; and that if they were lacking among resurrected persons. It is the faith of saved
in one attribute or perfection which they have, the beings. But mortals are in process, through faith, of
glory which they have never could be enjoyed by gaining eternal salvation. Their faith is based on a
them, for it requires them to be precisely what they knowledge of the truth, within the meaning of Alma's
are in order to enjoy it; and if the Saviour gives this statement that "faith is not to have a perfect
glory to any others, he must do it in the very way set knowledge of things," but that men have [page 210]
forth in his prayer to his Father—by making them faith when they "hope for things which are not seen,
one with him as he and the Father are one. In so which are true." In this sense faith is both preceded
[page 209] doing he would give them the glory which and supplanted by knowledge, and when any person
the Father has given him; and when his disciples are gains a perfect knowledge on any given matter, then,
made one with the Father and Son, as the Father and as pertaining to that thing, he has faith no longer; or,
the Son are one, who cannot see the propriety of the rather, his faith is dormant; it has been supplanted by
Saviour's saying—The works that I do shall he do pure knowledge. (See Alma 32:21-34.)
also; and greater works than these shall he do; Once the saints gain faith, because they have
because I go to my Father." believed in the true and living God, their assured
What, then, is the relationship between faith hope in the unseen is the basis by which they may
and salvation? "These teachings of the Saviour most acquire knowledge; that is, they gain knowledge by
clearly show unto us the nature of salvation," the faith. Thus, Peter said to those saints who had
Prophet continues, "and what he proposed unto the "obtained like precious faith" with the apostles:
human family when he proposed to save them—that "Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the
he proposed to make them like unto himself, and he knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according
was like the Father, the great prototype of all saved as his divine power hath given unto us all things that
beings; and for any portion of the human family to be pertain unto life and godliness, through the
assimilated into their likeness is to be saved; and to knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and
be unlike them is to be destroyed; and on this hinge virtue." (2 Peter 1:1-3.)
turns the door of salvation. Who cannot see, then, Thus, for those who desire to gain all things
that salvation is the effect of faith? for, as we have that pertain to life and godliness, the great issue is
previously observed, all the heavenly beings work by one of coming to know God in the full and true sense
this principle; and it is because they are able so to do of the word. In expounding upon this, our modern
that they are saved, for nothing but this could save prophet said: "How were they to obtain the
them. And this is the lesson which the God of heaven, knowledge of God? (for there is a great difference
between believing in God and knowing of the earth. For he had said unto him in times
him—knowledge implies more than faith. And notice, before, that if he would believe in him that he could
that all things that pertain to life and godliness were show unto him all things—it should be shown unto
given through the knowledge of God) the answer is him; therefore the Lord could not withhold anything
given—through faith they were to obtain this from him, for he knew that the Lord could show him
knowledge; and, having power by faith to obtain the all things." (Ether 3:19-20, 25-26.)
knowledge of God, they could with it obtain all other "And there were many whose faith was so
things which pertain to life and godliness. By these exceedingly strong, even before Christ came, who
sayings of the apostle, we learn that it was by could not be kept from within the veil, but truly saw
obtaining a knowledge of God that men got the with their eyes the things which they had beheld with
knowledge of all things which pertain to life and an eye of faith, and they were glad." (Ether 12:19.)
godliness, and this knowledge was the effect of faith;
so that all things which pertain to life and godliness
are the effects of faith."
Building, then, on this foundation, the Prophet
set forth this concept: "From this we may extend as
far as any circumstances may require, whether on
earth or in heaven, and we will find it the testimony
of all inspired men, or heavenly messengers, that all
things that pertain to life and godliness are the effects
of faith and nothing else; all learning, wisdom and
prudence fail, and every thing else as a means of
salvation but [page 211] faith. . . . This is the reason
that the Former-day Saints knew more, and
understood more, of heaven and of heavenly things
than all others beside, because this information is the
effect of faith—to be obtained by no other means.
And this is the reason that men, as soon as they lose
their faith, run into strifes, contentions, darkness, and
difficulties; for the knowledge which tends to life
disappears with faith, but returns when faith returns."
(Lectures on Faith 7:20.)
The brother of Jared stands out as a good
illustration of how the knowledge of God is gained by
faith, and also of how that perfect knowledge, from a
mortal perspective, replaces faith. He received the
most complete revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ
that had been given down to his day. After recording
some of the details of this incomparable outpouring
of divine truth, Moroni says: "And because of the
knowledge of this man he could not be kept from
beholding within the veil; and he saw . . . the finger of
the Lord; and he had faith no longer, for he knew,
nothing doubting. Wherefore, having this perfect
knowledge of God, he could not be kept from within
the veil; therefore he saw Jesus; and he did minister
unto him." And further: "The Lord . . . showed unto
the brother of Jared all the inhabitants of the earth
which had been, and also all that would be; and he
withheld them not from his sight, even unto the ends
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The Challenge to Become ―All that I have I desire to give you—not
Dallin H. Oaks, Ensign, Nov 2000, 32–34 only my wealth, but also my position and standing
among men. That which I have I can easily give
you, but that which I am you must obtain for
The Apostle Paul taught that the Lord’s
yourself. You will qualify for your inheritance by
teachings and teachers were given that we may all
learning what I have learned and by living as I
attain ―the measure of the stature of the fulness of
have lived. I will give you the laws and principles
Christ‖ (Eph. 4:13). This process requires far more
by which I have acquired my wisdom and stature.
than acquiring knowledge. It is not even enough
Follow my example, mastering as I have mastered,
for us to be convinced of the gospel; we must act
and you will become as I am, and all that I have
and think so that we are converted by it. In
will be yours.‖
contrast to the institutions of the world, which
This parable parallels the pattern of heaven.
teach us to know something, the gospel of Jesus
The gospel of Jesus Christ promises the
Christ challenges us to become something.
incomparable inheritance of eternal life, the fulness
Many Bible and modern scriptures speak of
of the Father, and reveals the laws and principles
a final judgment at which all persons will be
by which it can be obtained.
rewarded according to their deeds or works or the
We qualify for eternal life through a process
desires of their hearts. But other scriptures enlarge
of conversion. As used here, this word of many
upon this by referring to our being judged by the
meanings signifies not just a convincing but a
condition we have achieved.
profound change of nature. Jesus used this
The prophet Nephi describes the Final
meaning when He taught His chief Apostle the
Judgment in terms of what we have become: ―And
difference between a testimony and a conversion.
if their works have been filthiness they must needs
Jesus asked His disciples, ―Whom do men say that
be filthy; and if they be filthy it must needs be that
I the Son of man am?‖ (Matt. 16:13). Next He
they cannot dwell in the kingdom of God‖ (1 Ne.
asked, ―But whom say ye that I am?
15:33; emphasis added). Moroni declares, ―He that
―And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou
is filthy shall be filthy still; and he that is righteous
art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
shall be righteous still‖ (Morm. 9:14; emphasis
―And Jesus answered and said unto him,
added; see also Rev. 22:11–12; 2 Ne. 9:16; D&C
Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and
88:35). The same would be true of ―selfish‖ or
blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father
―disobedient‖ or any other personal attribute
which is in heaven‖ (Matt. 16:15–17).
inconsistent with the requirements of God.
Peter had a testimony. He knew that Jesus
Referring to the ―state‖ of the wicked in the Final
was the Christ, the promised Messiah, and he
Judgment, Alma explains that if we are condemned
declared it. To testify is to know and to declare.
by our words, our works, and our thoughts, ―we
Later on, Jesus taught these same men
shall not be found spotless; … and in this awful
about conversion, which is far more than
state we shall not dare to look up to our God‖
testimony. When the disciples asked who was the
(Alma 12:14).
greatest in the kingdom of heaven, ―Jesus called a
From such teachings we conclude that the
little child unto him, and set him in the midst of
Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum
them,
total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It
―And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye
is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts
be converted, and become as little children, ye
and thoughts—what we have become. It is not
shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
enough for anyone just to go through the motions.
―Whosoever therefore shall humble himself
The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of
as this little child, the same is greatest in the
the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be
kingdom of heaven‖ (Matt. 18:2–4; emphasis
made in some heavenly account. The gospel of
added).
Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become
Later, the Savior confirmed the importance
what our Heavenly Father desires us to become.
of being converted, even for those with a testimony
A parable illustrates this understanding. A
of the truth. In the sublime instructions given at
wealthy father knew that if he were to bestow his
the Last Supper, He told Simon Peter, ―I have
wealth upon a child who had not yet developed the
prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when
needed wisdom and stature, the inheritance would
thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren‖ (Luke
probably be wasted. The father said to his child:
22:32).
In order to strengthen his brethren—to callings—are the setting in which the most
nourish and lead the flock of God—this man who important part of that development can occur. The
had followed Jesus for three years, who had been conversion we must achieve requires us to be a
given the authority of the holy apostleship, who good husband and father or a good wife and
had been a valiant teacher and testifier of the mother. Being a successful Church leader is not
Christian gospel, and whose testimony had caused enough. Exaltation is an eternal family experience,
the Master to declare him blessed still had to be and it is our mortal family experiences that are best
―converted.‖ suited to prepare us for it.
Jesus’ challenge shows that the conversion The Apostle John spoke of what we are
He required for those who would enter the challenged to become when he said: ―Beloved, now
kingdom of heaven (see Matt. 18:3) was far more are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear
than just being converted to testify to the what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall
truthfulness of the gospel. To testify is to know and appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him
to declare. The gospel challenges us to be as he is‖ (1 Jn. 3:2; see also Moro. 7:48).
―converted,‖ which requires us to do and to I hope the importance of conversion and
become. If any of us relies solely upon our becoming will cause our local leaders to reduce
knowledge and testimony of the gospel, we are in their concentration on statistical measures of
the same position as the blessed but still unfinished actions and to focus more on what our brothers
Apostles whom Jesus challenged to be ―converted.‖ and sisters are and what they are striving to
We all know someone who has a strong testimony become.
but does not act upon it so as to be converted. For Our needed conversions are often achieved
example, returned missionaries, are you still more readily by suffering and adversity than by
seeking to be converted, or are you caught up in comfort and tranquillity, as Elder Hales taught us
the ways of the world? so beautifully this morning. Father Lehi promised
The needed conversion by the gospel his son Jacob that God would ―consecrate [his]
begins with the introductory experience the afflictions for [his] gain‖ (2 Ne. 2:2). The Prophet
scriptures call being ―born again‖ (e.g., Mosiah Joseph was promised that ―thine adversity and
27:25; Alma 5:49; John 3:7; 1 Pet. 1:23). In the thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; and
waters of baptism and by receiving the gift of the then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on
Holy Ghost, we become the spiritual ―sons and high‖ (D&C 121:7–8).
daughters‖ of Jesus Christ, ―new creatures‖ who Most of us experience some measure of
can ―inherit the kingdom of God‖ (Mosiah 27:25– what the scriptures call ―the furnace of affliction‖
26). (Isa. 48:10; 1 Ne. 20:10). Some are submerged in
In teaching the Nephites, the Savior service to a disadvantaged family member. Others
referred to what they must become. He challenged suffer the death of a loved one or the loss or
them to repent and be baptized and be sanctified postponement of a righteous goal like marriage or
by the reception of the Holy Ghost, ―that ye may childbearing. Still others struggle with personal
stand spotless before me at the last day‖ (3 Ne. impairments or with feelings of rejection,
27:20). He concluded: ―Therefore, what manner of inadequacy, or depression. Through the justice and
men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as mercy of a loving Father in Heaven, the refinement
I am‖ (3 Ne. 27:27). and sanctification possible through such
The gospel of Jesus Christ is the plan by experiences can help us achieve what God desires
which we can become what children of God are us to become.
supposed to become. This spotless and perfected We are challenged to move through a
state will result from a steady succession of process of conversion toward that status and
covenants, ordinances, and actions, an condition called eternal life. This is achieved not
accumulation of right choices, and from continuing just by doing what is right, but by doing it for the
repentance. ―This life is the time for men to right reason—for the pure love of Christ. The
prepare to meet God‖ (Alma 34:32). Apostle Paul illustrated this in his famous teaching
Now is the time for each of us to work about the importance of charity (see 1 Cor. 13).
toward our personal conversion, toward becoming The reason charity never fails and the reason
what our Heavenly Father desires us to become. As charity is greater than even the most significant
we do so, we should remember that our family acts of goodness he cited is that charity, ―the pure
relationships—even more than our Church love of Christ‖ (Moro. 7:47), is not an act but a
condition or state of being. Charity is attained principle of repentance show that we should never
through a succession of acts that result in a give up on loved ones who now seem to be making
conversion. Charity is something one becomes. many wrong choices.
Thus, as Moroni declared, ―except men shall have Instead of being judgmental about others,
charity they cannot inherit‖ the place prepared for we should be concerned about ourselves. We must
them in the mansions of the Father (Ether 12:34; not give up hope. We must not stop striving. We
emphasis added). are children of God, and it is possible for us to
All of this helps us understand an important become what our Heavenly Father would have us
meaning of the parable of the laborers in the become.
vineyard, which the Savior gave to explain what the How can we measure our progress? The
kingdom of heaven is like. As you remember, the scriptures suggest various ways. I will mention only
owner of the vineyard hired laborers at different two.
times of the day. Some he sent into the vineyard After King Benjamin’s great sermon, many
early in the morning, others about the third hour, of his hearers cried out that the Spirit of the Lord
and others in the sixth and ninth hours. Finally, in ―has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our
the eleventh hour he sent others into the vineyard, hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil,
promising that he would also pay them but to do good continually‖ (Mosiah 5:2). If we are
―whatsoever is right‖ (Matt. 20:7). losing our desire to do evil, we are progressing
At the end of the day the owner of the toward our heavenly goal.
vineyard gave the same wage to every worker, The Apostle Paul said that persons who
even to those who had come in the eleventh hour. have received the Spirit of God ―have the mind of
When those who had worked the entire day saw Christ‖ (1 Cor. 2:16). I understand this to mean
this, ―they murmured against the goodman of the that persons who are proceeding toward the
house‖ (Matt. 20:11). The owner did not yield but needed conversion are beginning to see things as
merely pointed out that he had done no one any our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, see
wrong, since he had paid each man the agreed them. They are hearing His voice instead of the
amount. voice of the world, and they are doing things in His
Like other parables, this one can teach way instead of by the ways of the world.
several different and valuable principles. For I testify of Jesus Christ, our Savior and our
present purposes its lesson is that the Master’s Redeemer, whose Church this is. I testify with
reward in the Final Judgment will not be based on gratitude of the plan of the Father under which,
how long we have labored in the vineyard. We do through the Resurrection and Atonement of our
not obtain our heavenly reward by punching a time Savior, we have the assurance of immortality and
clock. What is essential is that our labors in the the opportunity to become what is necessary for
workplace of the Lord have caused us to become eternal life. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
something. For some of us, this requires a longer
time than for others. What is important in the end
is what we have become by our labors. Many who
come in the eleventh hour have been refined and
prepared by the Lord in ways other than formal
employment in the vineyard. These workers are like
the prepared dry mix to which it is only necessary
to ―add water‖—the perfecting ordinance of
baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. With that
addition—even in the eleventh hour—these workers
are in the same state of development and qualified
to receive the same reward as those who have
labored long in the vineyard.
This parable teaches us that we should
never give up hope and loving associations with
family members and friends whose fine qualities
(see Moro. 7:5–14) evidence their progress toward
what a loving Father would have them become.
Similarly, the power of the Atonement and the

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Lectures on

From the School of

SEEK LEARNING BY FAITH

ACTION 2—WILLINGNESS TO LIVE

Trial of faith "Which hope cometh of faith, maketh an

I want to know if this is true, I desire this truth

PREREQUISITES "Ye shall have hope through the atonement of Christ

(See also Moro. 7:24-25; Rom. CONFIRMATION 1

HOPE 3—KNOWLEDGE AND ASSURANCE OF

"A more excellent hope" (Ether 12:32)

54. We have now shown how it was by reason of

55. Let us here observe that after any members of

56. We have now clearly set forth how it is, and

Thus when we find the Lord saying to Joseph Smith, "this

Let me suggest that you and I must be praying and

I conclude now by returning to where I began--the

ÌØÛ ÛÒÍ×ÙÒ ñßÐÎ×Ô îððî ïí

ÌØÛ ÛÒÍ×ÙÒ ñßÐÎ×Ô îððî ïë

ÌØÛ ÛÒÍ×ÙÒ ñßÐÎ×Ô îððî ïé

10. Those, then, who make the sacrifice will have

11. All the Saints of whom we have account in all

12. But those who have not made this sacrifice to

Great Faith Obtained Only Through Personal Sacrifice

And also paragraph 3 of Lecture 5:

Knowing That One's Life Is Acceptable to God

The matter is stated even more clearly in paragraph 5:

Being Willing to Sacrifice All Things

Why Faith and Knowledge Are Dependent upon Sacrifice

Why the Miraculous Is Necessary in the Gospel

The Role of Revelation and Testimony

Later, while in a Roman prison, he wrote:

We now continue from Lecture 6:8:

Trials and Tests Are Custom-made

And again from another talk by President Taylor:

We Receive No Witness Until After the Trial of Our Faith

Sacrifice Is an Educational Experience

Sacrifice Seen in Perspective

And Elder Bruce R. McConkie said:

Journal of Discourses. 26 vols. 1854-86.

Larry E. Dahl, Charles D. Tate, Lectures on Faith in Historical Perspective, 241-262.

© 2004 Deseret Book. Printed from GospeLink.com

19. By these sayings of the Apostle Peter, we learn

20. From this we may extend as far as any

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