Laying the foundation for understanding Prophecy

On occasion I have spoken with others about how to study the scriptures topically. These individuals were interested in developing the skill set themselves. In an effort to transfer what I have learned, I thought it may be helpful to do an actual study on this blog to demonstrate how I have learned to apply topical study of scripture.

As stated before, topical study of doctrine is more straightforward than topical study of prophecy because of the sheer volume written on doctrine. The study of doctrine can be accomplished by merely choosing a word like "faith" and examining every reference relating to that word (this includes derivations and synonyms.)

The study of prophecy is more complex and requires greater thought and reflection. Key words and phrases, templates, types, shadows and symbols are all part of the process. It sounds more complex than it is, particularly when done under the guidance of the Holy Ghost.

In hindsight I believe topical study of prophecy is immeasurably helped if you have a template, pattern or overview to follow. Perhaps the most relevant pattern is one oft repeated in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The pattern is: "The first shall be last, and the last shall be first." How does it apply to prophecy? This template tells us what the Lord has done in the past and what He intends to do in the future. The pattern is a template of how God has cultivated a covenant relationship first with Israel and then with the Gentiles following the crucifixion of Jesus. Following Peter's revelation to take the Gospel of Christ (including covenants) to the Gentiles is a period of apostasy when all covenant relationships with God are removed from all collective bodies of people, Israel or Gentile. Evidence of this is the fact additional books of revelation were not continually added to the scripture library. Instead a line was drawn on what would comprise the standard and the Bible was declared complete.

Religious reformation and expansion of both access to the Bible and individual interpretation laid the groundwork for Joseph Smith's grove experience and the beginning of the Gentile opportunity to lead in entering a covenant relationship with God. Just as the first half of the template involved a covenant transition from Israel to the Gentiles, the second half of the template involves a transition from the Gentiles back to Israel. We are currently closing into the end of the Gentile covenant opportunity and witnessing increasing velocity in moving toward the gathering of Israel.

Modern scholars tend to blur the line between the Gentile covenant opportunity and Israel last, concluding covenant opportunity. The historical reasons support the notion that the Lord moves the covenant relationship from one group to another because of covenant disobedience/rejection. The implication being the Gentiles, including some members of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints have not kept their Melchizedek covenant which involves actively and diligently pursuing the face of God as Moses plainly taught:

"And without the ordinances thereof, and the authority of the priesthood, the power of godliness is not manifest unto men in the flesh; For without this no man can see the face of God, even the Father, and live. Now this Moses plainly taught to the children of Israel in the wilderness, and sought diligently to sanctify his people that they might behold the face of God; But they hardened their hearts and could not endure his presence; therefore, the Lord in his wrath, for his anger was kindled against them, swore that they should not enter into his rest while in the wilderness, which rest is the fulness of his glory." (D&C 84:22-23)

When Israel ceased to diligently follow the instructions of Moses to be sanctified and return to the presence of God, instead they "hardened their hearts" and their invitation to stand in the presence of God was rescinded. This sets the pattern for covenant rejection that likely leads to a transition from the Gentiles to Israel.

This does not imply the entire Church will forfeit their covenant relationship but only a remnant will remain to administer the Melchizedek Covenant to the tribes of Israel that are scattered.

Understanding we stand at the threshold of the transition from the Gentiles to Israel means the topic we are about to study has enormous relevance to our time. There are many words we can study that will get us to the heart of the manner but I suspect none will bear more fruit than "gather." The topical study of the word gather I will, (I suspect) yield much fruit for those willing to put in the time. We will begin our study of "gather" on the next post.

Incidentally, if you want to read Joseph Smith's explanation of "the first shall be last and the last shall be first" you can read it in "Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith", pgs. 13-18.

The Great and Abominable Whore

I inherited from my mother a first edition of McConkie's "Mormon Doctrine" wherein Elder McConkie asserts the Catholic Church is the Church of the Devil. This was redacted from volumes published after the first edition and later renounced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Tonight I present an alternate explanation. It is not authoritative and is only my opinion based upon my research.

Let's begin with a quotation from the first edition of Mormon Doctrine:

"Similar visions were given to John as recorded in the 17th and 18th chapters of Revelation. He saw this evil church as a whore ruling over people, multitudes, nations and tongues; as being full of blasphemy, abominations, filthiness, and fornication; as having the name, "MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH"; as drunken with the blood of the saints; as revelling in wealth and the delicacies of the earth; as ruling from Rome, the city built on "seven mountains"; as making merchandise of all costly items and of "slaves, and souls of men." And then John, as did Nephi, saw the fall and utter destruction of this great church whose foundation is the devil." ("Mormon Doctrine", Bruce R. McConkie, Deseret Book, 1958, pg.130)

Elder McConkie deduced the whore sitting on seven mountains must refer to the Catholic Church because Rome was built on or around seven mountains. I will suggest an altogether different interpretation.

A whore is a woman willing to prostitute herself for money. For a price she reveals her most sacred parts and exposes her nakedness for compensation. Payment for services and a willingness to sell even her most sacred private parts for a price expose the desires of her heart. Money, not personal sanctity is the desire of her heart. She willingly sells even herself to obtain it.

The seven mountains has duel meaning. Seven is a symbol/sign meaning perfection or completion, suggesting the seven mountains that support the whore embody their perfect support for her perfect wickedness. The seven also plays a numerical role in identifying how many nations support the whore. Avraham Gileadi was the first author with which I am familiar that suggests the word "mountain" in the book of Isaiah was a synonym for the word "nation." If this applies in Isaiah it should also apply in the book of Revelation. Consequently the "seven mountains" symbolically represent seven nations who support and sustain the whore. They have intercourse with the whore and sustain her in her livelihood. Having arrived at these conclusions I have come to believe the whore is not a literal church but a church upon which all men and women approach the alter in false worship to differing degrees. They worship the object of their desire and that object is money. Paul wrote to Timothy that "For the love of money is the root of all evil", (1 Timothy 6:10) so I believe the seven nations that support the whore are the seven central banks from G-7 central banking system.

The Savior taught "For where your heart is, there will your treasure be also." (Matthew 6:21) If your heart is focused on treasure it distracts your focus away from God. The Lord said to Jeremiah: "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart...," (Jeremiah 29:13) If even a portion of your heart is on treasure it prevents us from finding God. Hence the Lord explained to Joseph:

"Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen? Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one lesson- That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness." (D&C 121:34-36)

Currency is a powerful tool when used to divert man's attention away from God and the acquisition of true, Priesthood power. Men and woman become focused on rewards from the material world they are easily distracted or misdirected from acquiring the Holy Melchizedek Priesthood and reintroduction to the knowledge and presence of God. (See D&C 84:19-26) Not only do they not pursue these blessings but they cease believing they exist.

The Lord has a two fold objective in destroying the whore sitting on the seven mountains. First, God wants our distractions removed to regain our attention and turn our focus toward Him. He intends to destroy our man made crutches so we come to realize how powerless and foolish we really are and how dependent we truly are on God. The second objective is remove evil from the earth. If the love of money is the root of all evil, God intends to tear evil up by its roots. Consequently, if you want to destroy evil, destroy money. If money is gone, there is no money to love or compete for our devotions.

Consistent with these objectives is the Lord's mission statement for restoring the Gospel and Church of Jesus Christ:

"The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones, that man should not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh-" (D&C 1:19)

God intends to remove every single man made support. FDIC insurance, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and the Federal Government of all countries. (D&C 87:6) At the end of the day when all these man made supports are removed our lives become condensed down and simplified, turning our focus back to basic's. Things that truly matter like God, family and food. Everything else is window dressing. Those who long for Babylon and her man made indulgences, supports and assurances will be candidates for "pillarhood" with Lots wife. (Genesis 19:26)

Continuation

I thought I had exhausted the subject in previous posts but I suspect the Lord wants continued discussion on the subject because He continues to place information in front of me that is relevant.

Before I begin to address additional information I wanted to refer you to an article written by Peggy Fletcher Stack for the Salt Lake Tribune. It talks about the inclination to assign infallibility to the Brethren. It was interesting reading and so I refer you to the following link:

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/lifestyle/51489143-80/lds-says-leaders-church.html.csp

I suspect the reason for discussing this subject is linked to the proximity of General Conference which begins next weekend. That said, I am going to return to the text of Denver Snuffer's book, "Second Comforter, Conversing with the Lord Through the Veil" and add Denver's insightful observations on the subject:

"In this dispensation, God came to a fourteen-year-old boy. And one, who came from an environment steeped in folk magic. Joseph was not a scholar and did not live long enough to become one. Rather, in all things which mattered most he was one whose mind was educated from on high. That suited the Lord's purpose much better thatn the formal education the ministers of his day possessed. There is a powerful and sobering lesson in that. You should choose your teachers carefully. Avoid what Nephi says will occur in our day from those who "teach with their learning, and deny the Holy Ghost, which giveth utterance. And they deny the power of God." (2 Nephi 28:3-5) The "utterance" (teaching) should come from the Holy Ghost. Church authorities should speak by the power of the Holy Ghost. For "no power or influence can, or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood" according to Joseph. (D&C 121:36-42) That command, of course,does not deter all teachers who ought to not be teaching. But whether it deters an uninspired teacher or not, it should act as a caution to you in evaluating and accepting teachers.

Nephi continues: "Yea, and there shall be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die; and it shall be well with us. And there shall also be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry, nevertheless, fear God- he will justify in committing a little sin; yea, lie a little, take the advantage of one because of his words, dig a pit for thy neighbor; there is no harm in this; and do all these things, for tomorrow we die; and if it so be that we are guilty, God will beat us with a few stripes, and at last we shall be saved in the kingdom of God." (2 Nephi 28:7-8) Here we have the notions "we shouldn't try and be devoted to any teachings which limit you, curtail your misconduct or personal indulgences, or require you to rein in your appetites." "There is no absolute standard which God intends to hold you to." When, in reality, the Lord has told us to the contrary He "cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance." (D&C 1:31) There is no second chance. Now is the time to prepare for the judgment. Every moment of this life is precious. Every moment of this life, including the thoughts of your hear, will require an accounting.

Nephi continues in his discussion of us:

Yea, and there shall be many which shall teach after this manner, false and vain and foolish doctrines, and shall be puffed up in their hearts, and shall seek deep to hide their counsels from the Lord; and their works shall be in the dark. And the blood of the saints shall cry from the ground against them. Yea, they have all gone out of the way; they have become corrupted. Because of pride, and because of false teachers, and false doctrine, their churches have become corrupted, and their churches are lifted up; because of pride they are puffed up. They rob the poor because of their fine sanctuaries; they rob the poor because of their fine clothing; and they persecute the meek and the poor in heart, because in their pride they are puffed up. (2 Nephi 28:9-13)

False, vain and foolish doctrines are going to be taught in our day. Any of the teachers among the Saints who are puffed up in their hearts are unworthy of their discipleship. You should not buy their books, attend their lectures, or listen to their tapes. They offer you nothing, but charge you for doing so. Choose your teachers carefully. some of them will poison your mind and retard your progress because they are not on higher ground and therefore cannot lead you to higher ground. They are like the Scribes and Pharisees about whom Christ warned they "neither go in [themselves], neither suffer them that are entering to go in." (Matthew 23:13.) You can't follow a false teacher and find heaven at the end of the trail. You are accountable for measuring all teachings against the scriptures and against the voice of the Spirit. You cannot rely upon others and blame them for your own responsibilities. You cannot even push this responsibility onto the Prophet.

(Included at this point is a very important footnote: Joseph said to the Relief Society "they were depending on the Prophet, hence were darkened in their minds, in consequence of neglecting the duties devolving upon themselves." (TPJS, p.238) Further, the explanation in D&C 121:34-42 places decided limits upon the kind of deference that a person in authority in the priesthood should receive. Implicit in this Section is unless the authority actually does persuade you by the Spirit, then they are as other men and not entitled to any greater deference than any other man.)

Now we get to the alarming warnings of verse 14: "They wear stiff necks and high heads; yea, and because of pride, and wickedness, and abominations, and whoredoms, they have all gone astray save it be a few, who are the humble followers of Christ; nevertheless, they are led, that in many instances they do err because they are taught by the precepts of men." (2 Nephi 28:14) This inspired warning about our day should trouble any faithful Saint. We have "all gone astray." Not just some belonging to false, apostate Christianity where the Restoration has not been accepted. This chapter speaks prophetically about our day and specifically mentions "Zion" in the same discussion. Nephi does not use the term "Zion" to mean anyone other than us. So including Zion within the Chapter requires us to include Zion within the "all" in our day who have these problems. It was meant to personalize this message. It was meant to make us reevaluate our own conduct and beliefs.

If that is not enough, the Doctrine and Covenants warns the members of the Church directly: "And your minds in times past have been darkened because of unbelief, and because you have treated lightly the things you have received- Which vanity and unbelief have brought the whole church under condemnation. And this condemnation resteth upon the children of Zion, even all. And they shall remain under this condemnation until they repent and remember the new covenant, even the Book of Mormon and the former commandments which I have given them, not only to say, but to do according to that which I have written-" (D&C 84:54-57) President Ezra Taft Benson reiterated that this warning remains in effect, and the Saints remain under this condemnation still today. ("Lord Increase our Faith," Ezra Taft Benson, Provo Utah Tabernacle Rededication, 21, September, 1986 & April 1986, Ensign [May 1986]:78.)


The substance of these quotations from Denver Snuffer is found in his chapter titled, "Becoming as a Little Child." I highly recommend the book to anyone who has not read it. I am on my fourth reading and anticipate reading it many more times.

How we should follow the Brethren

Lest anyone be mistaken, I wanted to clarify yesterday's point. I am not advocating ignoring or disobeying "the Brethren." I am not telling anyone to be rebellious and go out on your own, (because that would be trusting in the arm of flesh as much as wrote obedience on the Brethren is trusting in the arm of flesh. My point is best expressed in a quotation from Denver Snuffer's book, "Second Comforter, Conversing with the Lord Through the Veil":

"What this modern revelation specifically tells you NOT to do is to accept someone merely because of position. If it were status alone that mattered, the contemporaries of Christ's day would have properly rejected Him. They had to listen for the voice of truth. It is the same in our day. We must also listen for the voice of truth, whether it comes from unlikely sources or not.

It is always true that "many are called, but few are chosen. No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue priesthood." (D&C 121:40-41.) If your sole source of what you regard as "bona fide" knowledge is the authorities in a priestly group, or in a scholarly discipline, or a philosophical school of thought, then you would be among those who would have rejected the carpenter's son. He came with nothing more than the truth. He came with exactly what he asks you to follow now., armed only with the tools of "persuasion,... long suffering,... gentleness and meekness, and ...love unfeigned; By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile-." (Id., vs. 41-42.) He came as he comes now. It is a test. It has always been a test. The test is no different now than it was then. Do you hear Him? Do you listen to Him? His voice resonates in the words the words of His true disciples. They do not resonate in the words of the pretenders and faithless. His voice cannot be faked. The voice of inspiration cannot be breathed into the lifeless words of a false or faithless or disobedient disciple.

The first place to look for the Master's voice is, of course among the presiding authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But they are not entitled to anyone's blind trust. They are ordained to speak with the voice of inspiration, however, and they should be listened to carefully. As the scriptures inform us: "And, behold, and lo, this is an ensample unto all those who were ordained unto this priesthood, whose mission is appointed unto them to go forth- And this is the ensample unto them, that they shall speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord and the power of God unto salvation." (D&C 68:2-4.) The inspired leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are assigned by the Lord to lead His Saints in these latter-days. They are entrusted with keys and authority which is necessary for salvation. If you want to make personal covenants with God, you must do so through His established system for allowing that. And those who are chosen by Him to preside in His Church are entitled to receive the voice of inspiration to assist them in the process. When they do speak with the voice of inspiration, you should hear them as the "voice of the Lord." But, this relates to those times when their voice is inspired by the Holy Ghost. It is possible for any man to err. Joseph Smith confessed his numerous faults and shortcomings, as we have discussed earlier. Certainly no mortal is free from error. Therefore, it is up to you to distinguish between moments of inspiration from the rest." ("Second Comforter, Conversing with the Lord Through the Veil", Denver C. Snuffer, Jr., Millcreek Press, pgs. 228-229)

Several additional quotes from Denver's book are applicable here:

"George Q. Cannon also expressed concern over following men, rather than the voice of the Spirit. He put it in this way: "Put trust in no man. Do not, brethren, purt your trust in man though he be a Bishop, an Apostle or a President; if you do, they will fail you at some time or place; they will do wrong or seem to, and your support be gone; but if we lean on God, He never will fail us. When men and women depend on God alone and trust in Him alone, their faith will not be shaken if the highest in the Church should step aside. They could still see that He is just and true, that truth is lovely in His sight and the pure in heart are dear to Him." (Cannon, George Q. Gospel Truth: Discourses and Writings of President George Q. Cannon, Selected, arranged and edited by Jerreld L. Newquist. Salt Lake City: Zion's Book Store, 1957, p.249.)

When men speak as men, no matter their role in society or church, they are not entitled to your faith. If you give it to them, you are an idolater and following a Telestial standard. When prophets speak by the voice of inspiration, then it is the voice of inspiration you follow. We are disciples of the Master, and not the Master's servants. Brigham Young, once again, made the distinction most clear:

"How...are we to know the voice of the Good Shepherd from the voice of a stranger? Can any person answer this question? I can, it is very easy. To every philosopher upon the earth, I say, Your eye can be deceived, so can mine; your ear can be deceived, so can mine; the touch of your hand can be deceived, so can mine; but the Spirit of God filling the creature with revelation and the light of eternity, cannot be mistaken- the revelation which comes from God is never mistaken...When an individual, filled with the Spirit of God, declares the truth of heaven, the sheep hear that, the Spirit of the Lord pierces their inmost souls and sinks deep into their hearts; by the testimony of the Holy Ghost light springs up within them and they see and understand for themselves. This is the way the Gospel should be preached by every Elder in Israel, and by this power every hearer should hear; and if we would know the voice of the Good Shepherd, we must live so that the Spirit of the Lord can find its way to our hearts." (JD 16:74-75)

So you see it is you who are responsible for these things. You cannot defer them to another. Even trusted others cannot be the ones your rely upon for exaltation. Following Christ is a rugged and individual responsibility each must should for him or herself. If you elect to defer to another for your source of truth, then you cannot hope to rise above a Telestial inheritance, for you are among those who "are of Paul, and of Apollos, and of Cephas. These are they say they are some of one and some of another-some of Christ and some of John, and some of Moses, and some of Elias, and some of Esaias, and some of Isaiah, and some of Enoch; But received not the gospel, neither the testimony of Jesus, neither the prophets, neither the everlasting covenant." (D&C 76:99-101.) We must follow the Father, and not the messengers of the Son, even if they are truly sent by Him. Worship of anyone or anything other than the true God is idolatry; and, therefore, worthy only of the Telestial beings.

The Gospel requires us to proceed carefully, to be sure. we are required to find the voice of the Spirit ourselves. Every Saint must become, in their own right, a prophet or prophetess. Not to lead others but for themselves. For each must choose for him or herself to find and follow the Master's voice in his or her life. The only sure rock upon which salvation remains to be found is that same rock of revelation which Christ assured Peter was secure to trust. If you follow President Hinckley solely because he is the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you are following a man. But if you follow President Hinckley because you hear the Master's voice in his counsel and teaching, then you are following the Lord and not the man. There is great difference between the two. One honors the Lord and leads to exaltation. The other misses the mark and makes such followers Telestial. This distinction is pivotal to salvation itself. It is not merely rhetorical, but of such substance if you fail to understand it you fail in the test of mortality itself. This is what we signed up for in coming to mortality. We accepted this challenge and expected it. Now it confronts us. So the test is afoot and must be taken with caution and humility." "Second Comforter, Conversing with the Lord Through the Veil", Denver C. Snuffer, Jr., Millcreek Press, p.231-233)

Wrote obedience to Moses was the reason Israel was rejected by the Lord. Jesus wants all of His sheep to know His voice. To reject His invitation to know Him personally makes a mockery of the Atonement and the tremendous gift of exaltation he offers to all those who diligently seek His face. It is incumbent upon all of us to do so.

The Heretic in the Room

A few Sunday's ago I found myself sitting in a Stake Presidency Meeting which begins with prayer and scripture study. The first counselor in the presidency was responsible for the discussion topic and assigned people in the room to read various passages. I found it ironic I would be asked to read Ezekiel 37:24-25. This passage is controversial because it refers to a David figure who plays a key role in the gathering of Israel.

There are two lines of thinking on this issue. Church scholars generally agree with Elder Bruce R. McConkie's view expressed under the heading of "The Davidic Myth." Elder McConkie says: This wresting of the written word assumes that someone of prophetic stature will arise in the Church in the last days, to preside as a Second David, and to prepare the way before the Second Coming of the Son of Man. That there may be one or many brethren called David who preside over the Church in this dispensation is of no moment. The scriptures that speak of King David reigning in the last days are Messianic; they have reference to the Millenial reign of the Lord Jesus Christ." ("A New Witness for the Articles of Faith", Bruce R. McConkie, Deseret Book, 1985 edition, pg.518)

I assume Elder McConkie draws his opinion from the Book of Revelation, chapter 5, verses 5-6 which say: "And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof, And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth." (Side note: the Joseph Smith Translation changes verse 6 to say there are twelve horns and twelve eyes and twelve servants instead of spirits of God, in all likelihood a reference to the Apostles of Christ.) In this passage the "Lion of the tribe of Juda," the "Root of David," and the "Lamb" clearly refers to Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Everything appears very straightforward and compelling at this point. Generally, Church scholars have "staked" their position on Elder McConkie's point view because of this passage and because Elder McConkie had the power of Apostleship backing him. Elder McConkie's interpretation was not always the scholarly position in the key position in the Church. Elder Ezra Taft Benson speculated that David Ben-Gurion might be the latter-day David spoken of in the scriptures until Elder Benson had the opportunity to meet Mr. Ben-Gurion. It was a subject of much speculation prior to Elder McConkie's declaration of "The Davidic Myth."

Among Jews the concept of a latter-day David has always been an integral part of their faith tradition. The fact Jesus never lived up to their prophetic expectations was a primary reason the Jews rejected Him as their Messiah. They looked for a Davidic figure often spoken of in prophecies of the Old Testament. They studied these prophecies and vigorously debated the subject. Modern Christian claims that the life of Jesus fulfilled these prophecies could never be squared with their understanding of the prophecies. Never the less, Christians have a difficult time understanding how the Jews can be so blind as to not recognize nor understand Jesus is their long awaited Messiah.

So how did the question of a latter-day David become a "Mormon" issue? Joseph Fielding Smith, (Elder McConkie's father in law) compiled the oft quoted, "Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith." In President Smith's compilation appears the following quotation attributed to Joseph Smith:

"Although David was a king, he never did obtain the spirit and power of Elijah and the fullness of the Priesthood; and the Priesthood that he received and the throne and kingdom of David is to be taken from him and given to another by the name of David in the last days, raised up out of his lineage." ("Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith," Joseph Fielding Smith, Deseret Book, 1974, pg.339)

Hence, Pandora's box opens. In addition to this reference referring to a latter-day David, Joseph Smith applies the concept of a latter-day David to the gathering of Israel:

"Christ, in the days of His flesh, proposed to make a covenant with them, (Israel/Judah) but they rejected Him and His proposals, and in consequence thereof, they were broken off, and no covenant was made with them at that time. But their unbelief has not rendered the promise of God of none effect: no, for there was another day limited in David, which was the day of His power; and then His people, Israel, should be a willing people;-and He would write His law in their hearts, and print it in their thoughts; their sins and their iniquities He would remember no more." ("Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith", Joseph Fielding Smith, Deseret Book, 1974, pgs.14-15)

This brings us back to the passage in Ezekiel 37 I was asked to read. What does it say? After Ezekiel informs us of the union between the "stick of Judah" and the "stick of Joseph", (Chronological markers that establish a latter-day time frame for the occurrence of these events) we read the following:

"And the sticks whereon thou writest shall be in thine hand before their eyes. And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will take the children of Israel from among the heathen, whither they be gone, and will gather them on every side, and bring them into their own land: And I will make them one nation in the land upon the mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king to them all: and they shall be no more two nations, neither shall they be divided into two kingdoms any more at all: Neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions: but I will save them out of all their dwellingplaces, wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so shall they be my people and I will be their God. And David my servant shall be king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them. And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, even they, and their children, and their children's children for ever: and my servant David shall be their prince for ever." (Ezekiel 37:20-25)

At the conclusion of our scripture study an Assistant Clerk asked the Stake President what the reference to David was talking about. Knowing I shared a different opinion from his and as if to make a preemptive strike, the President (Dean of Religious Education at BYU) quickly said it symbolically referred to Christ and we were not going to discuss it. He then made a passing and dismissive reference to several points I have made regarding the subject and then closed the conversation.

I have thought a lot about this experience. I know from prior experience most Church educators or scholars either are unaware of the subject or refuse to discuss it because their minds are already made up and their opinions cemented in stone if they are aware of the subject. From the moment I was asked to read the passage I decided not to broach the subject. It would not have come up if the Clerk had not raised the question.

The point I find humorous about the whole experience is that my view is considered heretical in the scholarly community even though it sides with Joseph Smith over Elder McConkie's view.

So, what is my purpose in sharing this post. Is it my objective to prove there is a latter-day David? Not really. I believe the point is valid but not my major concern.
What I find disconcerting is the willingness to accept a position by virtue of an individuals calling or academic credentials. Church academics frequently seek to reinforce their point by invoking anonymous references to "the brethren" to support their opinion that may or may not be supported by the scriptures. Whenever I hear a Church Educator say this I wonder if they receive private e-mails or belong to a select club that meets once a month with "the brethren?"

Another incredibly annoying experience is to have someone authoritatively declare that some doctrine has not as yet been revealed. The real presumption behind this statement is the belief the person in perceived authority knows everything worth knowing and if they don't know it, it has not been revealed. I have spent my entire adult life studying the scriptures and have never felt confident enough to believe I knew it all. Yet to have someone stand in front of me and say it has not been revealed when I have read it in the standard works and seen traces of it in the words of living Prophets and Apostles is unbelievably annoying.

Church scholars have elevated the Brethren to the same infallibility the Catholic Church attributes to the Pope. The Brethren don't believe or claim infallibility themselves. I suspect when asked they would be embarrassed and good humored about the question. Logic behind these inflated views of infallibility and unquestioned authority is to promote wrote obedience by self appointed guardians of the orthodoxy. The logic supporting wrote obedience is misguided and the very thing that weakens church membership and undermines the development of spirituality and true discipleship. Christ wants us devoted to Himself and His servants (when they speak His words under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.) To presume they always speak under this influence is a false assumption. Their words must be discerned by the Spirit of God or we are at risk of being misled.

Brigham Young expressed frequent concern over the Saints willingness to follow the Brethren blindly: "What a pity it would be if we were led by one man to utter destruction! Are you afraid of this? I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire of themselves of God whether they are led by Him. I am fearful they settle down in a state of blind self-security, trusting their eternal destiny in the hands of their leaders with a reckless confidence that in itself would thwart the purpose of God in their salvation, and weaken that influence they could give to their leaders, did they know for themselves, by the revelations of Jesus, that they are led in the right way. Let every man and woman know, by the whispering of the Spirit of God to themselves, whether their leaders are walking in the path that the Lord dictates, or not. This has been my exhortation continually." (Journal of Discourses 9:150)

How important is it to learn this principle and live it? It may mean the difference between a Celestial inheritance in the next life and a Telestial inheritance. Again, referring to Brigham Young:

"Now those men, or those women, who know no more about the power of God, and the influences of the Holy Spirit, than to be led entirely by another person, suspending their own understanding, and pinning their faith upon another's sleeve, will never be capable of entering into the celestial glory, to be crowned as they anticipate; they will never be capable of becoming Gods. They cannot rule themselves, to say nothing of ruling others, but they must be dictated to in every trifle, like a child. They cannot control themselves in the least, but James, Peter, or somebody else must control them. They never can become Gods, nor be crowned as rulers with glory, and eternal lives. They never can hold scepters of Glory, majesty, and power in the celestial kingdom. Who will? Those who are valiant and inspired with the true independence of heaven, who will go forth boldly in the service of their God, leaving others to do as they please, determined to do right, though all mankind besides should take the opposite course. (Journal of Discourses 1:312)

Finally we read more words from Joseph:

“I cannot believe in any of the creeds of the different denominations, because they all have some things in them I cannot subscribe to, though all of them have some truth. I want to come up into the presence of God, and learn all things; but the creeds set up stakes [limits], and say, ‘Hitherto shalt thou come, and no further’ [Job 38:11]; which I cannot subscribe to.”

“I say to all those who are disposed to set up stakes for the Almighty, You will come short of the glory of God. To become a joint heir of the heirship of the Son, one must put away all his false traditions.”

“The great thing for us to know is to comprehend what God did institute before the foundation of the world. Who knows it? It is the constitutional disposition of mankind to set up stakes and set bounds to the works and ways of the Almighty. … That which hath been hid from before the foundation of the world is revealed to babes and sucklings in the last days [see D&C 128:18].”

“When men open their lips against [the truth] they do not injure me, but injure themselves. … When things that are of the greatest importance are passed over by weak-minded men without even a thought, I want to see truth in all its bearings and hug it to my bosom. I believe all that God ever revealed, and I never hear of a man being damned for believing too much; but they are damned for unbelief.”

“When God offers a blessing or knowledge to a man, and he refuses to receive it, he will be damned. The Israelites prayed that God would speak to Moses and not to them; in consequence of which he cursed them with a carnal law.”

“I have always had the satisfaction of seeing the truth triumph over error, and darkness give way before light.”
(“Chapter 22: Gaining Knowledge of Eternal Truths,” Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, (2007),261–270)

The more I study, the more I believe this brand of ignorance is the greatest threat to the Church and our individual salvation. To the extent we follow those who promote wrote obedience by virtue of position or academic standing will be a measure and determining factor deciding who stands and who falls in the last days.

"The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones, that man should not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh- But that every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world:" (D&C 1:19-20)

May we learn to never drive stakes (beliefs)into the ground so deeply God Himself cannot pry them from our consciousness.

I conclude with words attributed to Will Roger's I have grown quite fond of:

"It's not what people don't know that hurts them. It's what they do know that just ain't so."

When a Church Scholar cannot openly discuss doctrine with anyone but his or her peers they have reached this point and should wake up to the danger of their own situation and the perils they spread to others who trust and believe them.

Fruitful, Fascinating morning

When I first began studying the scriptures I failed to see the relevance of the Old Testament. I believed it contained old stuff like the law of Moses that lost relevance when the Savior was born. This morning exemplifies why this is not the case. I have been working my way through the Prophets that follow Ezekiel and find myself currently reading Zechariah, specifically chapter 3.

Chapter 3 has tremendous relevance to those endowed in the Temple. Zechariah is shown Joshua the high priest (little h, little p because Joshua was an Aaronic high priest, not Melchizedek.) On one hand an angel stands next to Joshua to support and instruct him. Angels minister by authority of the Aaronic Priesthood, additional evidence Joshua's Priesthood was Aaronic. On Joshua's right hand stands Satan as an accuser. The angel is an advocate.

Satan is rebuked in the name of the Lord and dismissed. Once Satan is removed we see Isaiah's language applied to Joshua wherein Zechariah says, "is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?" This language points to Isaiah's personal cleansing and prophetic calling in Isaiah 6:5-8:

"Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts. Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his tongs from off the altar: And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away and thy sin purged."

Joshua, like Isaiah, is keenly aware of his unworthiness before the Lord as evidenced by his filthy garments. The angel is instructed to remove Joshua's filthy garments and replace them them. "Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment." (vs.4) After Joshua is cleansed a "mitre" or crown is placed upon his head and he is clothed in royal garments. This is a crowning ceremony similar to the initiatory and endowment.

After sanctifying Joshua and crowning and clothing him in special garments the angel gives Joshua a Prophetic commission:

"Thus saith the Lord of Hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by." (the elect who are sanctified.)

Joshua is promised that he and the others who have been sanctified will witness the Lord bringing forth "my servant the BRANCH." (vs.8) The word BRANCH is capitalized because scholars believe Christ is the "BRANCH" and this prophecy is Messianic. I disagree and will explain why. In John 15:1 Jesus taught his disciples

"I am the true vine..., Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." (John 15:1)

Christ is the "true vine" and His servants are "branches" who are pruned and purged until they bring forth fruit. (righteousness) The BRANCH I believe refers to a righteous branch promised to Joseph who was sold into Egypt. Said Joseph:

"..., I have obtained a promise from the Lord, that out of the fruit of my loins, the Lord God will raise up a righteous branch out of my loins...,And it shall come to pass that they shall be scattered again; and a branch shall be broken off, and shall be carried into a far country; nevertheless they shall be remembered in the covenants of the Lord, when the Messiah cometh; for he shall be made manifest unto them in the latter days, in the Spirit of power; and shall bring them out of darkness into light; out of hidden darkness, and out of captivity..., And the Lord sware unto Joseph that he would preserve his seed forever...," (JST Genesis 50:24-25,34)

When the Lord brings the BRANCH to light, Joshua, the high priest is given a stone. I believe this is a reference to D&C 130:10-11 that says:

"Then the white stone mentioned in Revelation 2:17, will become a Urim and Thummim to each individual who receives one, whereby things pertaining to a higher order of kingdoms will be made known. And a white stone is given to each of those who come into the celestial kingdom, whereon is a new name written which no man knoweth save he that receiveth it. The new name is the keyword." (D&C 130:10-11)

The stone has seven eyes, meaning perfection (the number seven is a symbol for perfection) and eyes (Light,knowledge, understanding.) The stone given to the recipient puts him into possession of perfect knowledge or the knowledge of God. (D&C 84:19-26)

After Joshua receives the stone and is given access to perfect knowledge Zechariah records: "behold, I will engrave the graving thereof...," I believe this relates to Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 3:2-3:

"Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men. Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in the tables of stone, but in the fleshy tables of the heart."

I believe this to be another variation of the prophecy from Jeremiah quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith:

Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the Lord: But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more." (Jeremiah 31:31-34)

Consistent with Jeremiah's prophecy, Zechariah concludes verse 9 with, "I will remove the iniquity of that land in one day."

"In that day" is a key phrase from Isaiah that indicates the Prophet is speaking of the last days. Every man and his neighbor will be under the vine (Christ, John 15:1) or the fig tree (Aaronic Covenant, Judges 9:7-13, Genesis 3:7.)

Reference to the "vine" and "fig tree" require some explanation. Judges 9:7-13 is a parable that relates to selecting a king over Israel. Three types of trees are approached about serving as a king over the people, first the Olive tree, then a fig tree and then a vine. The Olive tree generally relates symbolically to the house of Israel (see Jacob 5) The fig tree has it roots in the garden of Eden where Adam & Eve, upon discovering their nakedness made aprons out of fig leaves to "cover" their nakedness. (Genesis 3:7) The fig leaf aprons were a temporary solution that was soon replaced by the shedding of blood so their covering would be more lasting. In this context the fig tree applies to the Aaronic covenant which is both temporal in nature and temporary. As previously mentioned, the "vine" symbolically refers to Christ (John 15:1) When Zechariah 3:10 talks of "every man his neighbour under the vine and under the fig tree, the vine refers to Christ/Melchizedek Covenant and the fig tree refers to the Branch/Aaronic Covenant. The later is preparatory for the former.

This should convince most everyone the Old Testament still has much to offer those interested in searching its words for truth.

Sunday Dinner Discussion

What follows relates to a family conversation around the Sunday dinner table with my daughter Lauren and son Chad. The conversation was impromptu and I did not have the benefit of framing my points as I will now.

At the outset I will state that it is not my intent to judge anyone, past or present. Being fully aware of my own sins and weaknesses I am content to leave all judgment to the Lord. I do not want to be considered an accuser of my brethren so my conclusions are not intended to pass judgment on others who have been asked by the Lord to lead His flock. Their burden is difficult enough and I do not want to be a critic of faithful men and women committed to the cause of Christ.

Let's begin with a discussion of perspective. What has always been amazing to me is the phenomenon that occurs to witnesses of an auto accident. Multiple witnesses view the same event. What differs is their perspective. The witnesses each view the accident in the context of their own experience as well as angle from where they were standing. Standard investigative procedure calls for police to interview each witness and record their account.

As each person describes what they saw they draw on personal bias and past experience to interpret the event. In addition to describing what they saw, their explanation is influenced by their personal perception and prejudice. Is one of the cars a Mercedes driven by a well groomed driver or perhaps a Latino person in a small pick up truck? How might a person with prejudice allow their views to influence their description?

Time also plays a role in ever evolving perspective. Like reading accounts of historical events, the further away chronologically and geographically a person is from the event the more inclined they are to allow creative instincts to influence and alter their description of events.

I contend such may be the case with our view of early Church history. The early Saints suffered tremendous persecution and deprivation at the hands of their contemporaries. Driven from homes and property, the Saints moved west by handcart in a migration that cost the lives of many of the faithful. Rightfully, we acknowledge and revere their faith and sacrifice feeling tremendous pride in and gratitude for the righteous heritage we inherit.

Through the years our desire to acknowledge their accomplishments may skew our perspective of events prior to the westward trek. Again, I have no criticism of our early forefathers. They deserve our love, admiration and respect. That said, the answer to one question has greatly influenced my perspective on these events. It challenges the conventional wisdom of how we generally interpret the past so what I say may be uncomfortable for some.

The question I pondered that led to question traditional beliefs regarding early Church history is the subject of why the scriptures compare Joseph Smith to Moses. The two Prophets are compared in the prophecies of Joseph,who was sold into Egypt. (JST Genesis 50, 2 Nephi 3.) Why are Moses and Joseph a good comparison? What parallels did Joseph and Moses share?

Moses led the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage. Their deliverance was both spiritual and literal. When Israel left Egypt they were freed as slaves, but also freed culturally from false traditions that no doubt crept into Israel's religious tradition. After fleeing Egypt, Moses led Israel to Sinai to sanctify them and introduce them to self representation before the Lord at the veil:

"And this greater priesthood administereth the gospel and holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God. Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest. And without the ordinances thereof, and the authority of the priesthood, the power of godliness is not manifet unto men in the flesh; For without this no man can see the face of God, even the Father and live. Now this Moses plainly taught to the children of Israel in the wilderness, and sought diligently to sanctify his people that they might behold the face of God; But they hardened their hearts and could not endure his presence; therefore, the Lord in his wrath, for his anger was kindled against them, swore that they should not enter into his rest while in the wilderness, which rest is the fulness of his glory. Therefore, he took Moses out of their midst, and the Holy Priesthood also; And the lesser priesthood continued...," (D&C 84:19-26)

This marked the beginning of Israel's rejection of covenant promises and spiritual decline. In effect, Moses had the same objective as Joseph Smith and all Prophets called by God. Their divine commission is to sanctify their people, lead them to a mount or Temple where the higher ordinances can be administered by the power of the Melchizedek Priesthood. The ordinances are part of an empowerment ritual for the Lord's people and the restoration of Zion. When Moses failed in his commission he was withdrawn and translated into heaven.

In essence Joseph Smith repeated the same pattern with the Gentiles. Unlike ancient Israel, the Gentiles were not in literal bondage. The Gentiles were captive in "Babylon" which the Doctrine & Covenants defines as spiritual wickedness. (D&C 133:14) The name "Babylon" is a derivative of "Babel" which means confusion or mixture. (Cruden's Concordance, pg.578) To be led out of modern Babylon is to be led from confusion arising from mixed or blended doctrine. Turning to the words of Joseph Smith's account of early events we read:

"During this time of great excitement my mind was called up to serious reflection and great uneasiness; but though my feelings were deep and often poignant, still I kept myself aloof from all these parties, though I attended their several meetings as often as occasion would permit. In the process of time my mind became somewhat partial to the Methodist sect, and I felt some desire to be united with them; but so great were the confusion and strife among among the different denominations, that it was impossible for a person young as I was, and so unacquainted with men and things, to come to any certain conclusion who was right and who was wrong..., At length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion or I must do as James directs, that is ask of God." (Joseph Smith History 1:8)

Joseph led a small group out of Babylonian captivity by revealing new doctrine that led them to gather and seek to establish Zion. But Joseph's attempt at establishing Zion failed, even as Moses attempt did. "But, verily I say unto you all those to whom the kingdom has been given-from you it must be preached unto them, that they shall repent of their former evil works; for they are to be upbraided for their evil hearts of unbelief, and your brethren in Zion for their rebellion against you at the time I sent you." (D&C 84:76) Historically, it appears the restored Church suffered a similar fate as the children of Israel. They were driven west, suffered privation persecution and loss of property. They were also deprived of their inheritance.

As best as we can tell, the children of Israel never received their full endowment under the Melchizedek covenant. Unlike Israel, the latter-day Church did receive their endowments and the ordinances of the Temple are given to the Saints. This placed the Saints under the Higher covenants of the Melchizedek Priesthood. Failing to establish Zion (like Moses) led the Saints to rejection by the Lord and a western migration similar to Israel.

Given this perspective on our early history has the membership of the Church been scattered (following the example of ancient Israel) and currently endure a period of strategic retreat where we are in a state of regression/probation. Could this be why we are counseled by the brethren to "raise the bar?"

Why the need to raise the bar? Because the bar was never lowered. We have a role to play in the gathering of Israel. It just may not be as prominent as once thought.

Orson Scott Card

He says what I have been trying to say far more eloquently:

http://www.mormontimes.com/article/20103/Guessing-leads-to-knowing

Trading Truth for Tradition (conclusion)

Getting too detailed about this topic always seems to lead me where I do not want to go. For every positive experience I have had with Church scholars there are four or five that are not positive. That said, I do not want to become an "accuser of my brethren" because they are not bad men. Often they are among the most dedicated. They have studied all their adult lives and possess a great body of knowledge. Yet, when I approach many of them they too often assume a role that is not there's to claim. They become the guardians of the orthodoxy and presume to do what they think the "Brethren" want them to do. Regulate thought and interpret doctrine based on their academic standing. I have often been told by Church educators some bit of doctrine has not been revealed. I know their representation is incorrect because I have found it in the scriptures. What they are really saying is, "It has not been revealed to me, therefore, it has not been revealed."

Candor is reserved for their colleagues because professionally they have to worry about their comments getting back to their supervisors and the consequences that may bring. For others their reticence is based on a desire to advance professionally. Not all suffer from these things but my experience has led me to believe that most do to some degree or another.

Can you spend your life immersed in following the way of the scholar and remain immune to the toxicity that is found there. Can I drink I drink a glass of water mixed with poison and not feel the effects to some degree. If someone spends their lives learning at the feet of those whom Paul said would be "ever learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2 Timothy 3:7) will they somehow magically able to find truth or do they become part of perpetuating a false priesthood.

These men are not bad men, nor insincere but like the Ethiopian Eunuch taught by Philip, once he was baptized he was left to himself to seek the face of God through faith, prayer, revelation and obedience. That is how we come to know God and to the extent you turn to your fellow man you delay how quickly that may happen.

I have come to believe quite literally the Lord's expression in D&C 1:19, "..., that man shall not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh."

Listening to their fellow man is what has kept a veil over the minds of Israel and has restricted how much we in the Church receive because of false traditions we have traded for truth over the years.

Trading Truth for Tradition (part 2)

From a prophetic perspective I would like to consider what we are up against. In Revelation 12 John writes of the Devil's (Dragon/serpent)persecution of the Church of Christ (the woman.) After the Church is carried into the wilderness, Satan (Dragon/serpent)does the following: "And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood. And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." (Revelation 12:15-17)

The woman is the Church of Christ that is taken into the wilderness (apostasy) and hidden away. Satan opens his mouth and a flood pours out of it in pursuit of the Church of Christ. The flood is a flood of lies. Satan is the father of lies. (John 8:44)Satan floods the earth with falsehoods about Christ and His Church. Men and women are forced to search for truth amidst the flood of lies circulated by the devil. Satan is angry with the Church and declares war on those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus (which is the Spirit of Prophecy, Revelation 19:10)

Flood imagery metaphorically implies a complete covering of the earth with lies about Christ and His Church. This is the world in which we now live. It explains why there are conflicting beliefs about God and His commandments. It explains why we stray from the commandments. The flood of lies Satan immerses the world in led the Savior to say: "For there are many yet on the earth among all sects, parties, and denominations, who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it." (D&C 123:12)

The overwhelming lies and falsehoods that fill the world regarding religion and God has left everyone exclaiming what the Ethiopian Eunuch said to Philip when asked if he understood the words of Isaiah: "How can I, except some man should guide me." (Acts 8:39) Philip taught the Ethiopian of Christ and then baptized him. "And when they were come out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and went on his way rejoicing." (Acts 8:39) Philips testimony was only intended to spiritually carry the man to baptism. From there the Eunuch was left on his own, as are we.

Church curriculum is structured to the aptitude of the least knowledgeable in the Church. After baptism and reception of the Holy Ghost the Lord wants us to seek learning by the power of faith, prayer and the Spirit. The Spirit leads us to Christ and Christ leads us to the Father.

Hence, "The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones, that man should not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh- But that every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world;"

The problem with academics

Trading Truth for Tradition

This subject has been stewing for about three days. Early mornings tend to be when the Spirit speaks to me. A few days ago the title phrase of the post came to mind. When I dressed and went to my office it seemed everything I read related to: "Trading Truth for Tradition", so I guess I better address what has been on my mind.

Trading truth for tradition refers to the tendency for false traditions to supersede adherence to and search for truth. Examples of this are everywhere we look, from religion to politics. Religiously speaking, how did we get from Genesis 1:26 where Moses records: "And God said, let us make man in our image, after our likeness...," to the Nicene creed as the litmus test for "true" modern Christianity. All religions suffer from this tendency over time. It exists in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is the principle reason the Lord uses the word "strayed" in section 1, "For they have strayed from mine ordinances, and have broken mine everlasting covenant." (D&C1:15) To stray from something is to gradually turn from the original to different variations of the original. There is always some justification for changes that make sense at the time but inevitably lead a person or organization away from God's original intent. At some point the variation from the truth becomes so extreme it no longer qualifies as truth but is transformed into tradition. This process is a systematic process Satan employs over time to deceive mankind from what God intended to be the most credible source of instruction a child has, their parents. If the parents are righteous examples the children will generally follow, as Nephi, Sam, Jacob and Joseph followed Lehi to the Tree of Life. When parents depart from the path their children experience a broader departure until all righteous tradition is lost over several generations.

Section 93 contains the Lord's instruction on how Satan uses this process to deceive all mankind: "That wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers." (D&C 93:39) Satan's strategy is to remove light and truth from mankind. To accomplish his objective he is constantly working to patiently persuade mankind to disobey or alter the commandments. He does not have to completely deceive mankind to accomplish this. He only has to gradually institutionalize falsehood over time. Elder Uchtdorf uses the analogy of a large plane and how only slight variations in course often translate into missing the destination by hundreds of miles. The same is true with the commandments and ordinances of salvation.

For example, the word baptism means to immerse. Yet as straightforward as that seems there are Christian religions who find sprinkling sufficient because of convenience and practicality. The concept of being buried with Christ and rising from the grave to life seems to be of little significance to those who sprinkle.

Evidence of this type of thinking is found in the restored Church. Take for example, Elder Russell L. Nelson's instruction in General Conference that congregations should rise when the Prophet or Apostles enter a venue as a show of respect. Members of the Church obediently follow this counsel. It began with the Prophet and Apostles and was soon extended to Seventies and even Stake Presidents (as was the case in the Stake where I reside.) Recently a Seventy attended Stake Conference in our Stake and when he entered the chapel with the Stake President the congregation stood. The Seventy immediately went to the podium and gently nudged aside the Stake President (who was conducting) took control of the meeting. He expressed gratitude for the respect shown him but quickly counseled the congregation not to rise when anyone but the Prophet or Apostles entered the room. He expressed concern that if word were to get back to Elder Packer (President of the Quorum of the Twelve)the congregation had risen when he walked in there may be a stern conversation that followed.

Members of the Church can be over zealous in their desire to be obedient. Not only are they willing to comply with a commandment but some seek to display their devotion by taking the commandment to extreme applications.

Light and truth withdraw when we fail to follow commandments with exactness, neither under or over performing what we are commanded to do. When we fall short of obedience or become overly obedient light and knowledge are withdraw. People rationalize all types of wickedness by quoting precedence from the scriptures. Extreme cases are easily identified and obvious to the casual observer. It is the more subtle forms of deceit where Satan persuades us to gradually turn away from seeking light and knowledge by persuading us to be only slightly disobedient because he knows it eventually leads us away from our desired course.

Why Personal Scripture Study is Important

Section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants is the preface for that book of revelation. In this section the Lord declares His mission statement for the restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Included in His mission statement is the following objective:

"The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones, that man should not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh-
But that every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world;That faith might also increase in the earth; That mine everlasting covenant might be established." (D&C 1:19-21)

The Lord will do His latter-day work using the efforts of weak men. They are humble men (and women)who have faith and rely on God. Paul said to the Corinthians: "For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the mighty;" (1 Corinthians 1:26-27)

The Lord's reason for choosing the weak extends beyond the need to call people who are humble and pliable to God's will. Why would God want to confound the "wise?" Why does God want us to stop trusting in the arm of flesh? Do we seek to align our lives with God's stated objective? Is it the Lord's will that we "follow the Prophet" or is it the Lord's will that we become "Prophets?"

The Lord is not directing us to abandon the Prophet. He invites us to be like the Prophet. What does a Prophet do? The Prophet approaches the Lord, receives revelation and direction and then obeys the Lord's revelation.

What does the Lord's promise tell us this course does for the world? Faith will increase because all men and women will know and trust in the Lord. There will be harmony and unity because everyone knows the Lord's will and aligns themselves with it. No debate, no contention, no chance for deception. Zion will be established and the Lord will dwell among His people because one day those who survive the judgments of God turn to this course with more solemn resolve witnessed in modern times.

The second outcome for those who align their will with the Lord's is the establishment of the covenant. The oath and covenant of the Priesthood is what opens the door for all men and women to become Prophets and Prophetesses. This is explained in section 84 of the Doctrine & Covenants:

"And this greater priesthood administereth the gospel and holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God. Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest.
And without the ordinances thereof, and the authority of the priesthood, the power of godliness is not manifest unto men in the flesh;
For without this no man can see the face of God, even the Father, and live." (D&C 84:19-22)

I believe the best kept secret in the Church is the purpose for the gospel. The gospel's purpose is to redeem mankind from the fall and restore him to God's presence. Man cannot return to God's presence without Priesthood keys and ordinances. Mankind is barred from accessing the knowledge of God without said keys and ordinances.

So why do we habitually turn to other people for guidance when those endowed are granted access to the knowledge of God and the mysteries of His kingdom when they make covenants and receive divine authorization when they enter the Temple? Until we understand these principles we are not living up to our privileges. We mirror the same course that led the Lord to reject His covenant with ancient Israel. That didn't end well.

So why does the Lord want us to avoid trusting in the arm of flesh? Because turning to men means we are not turning to God. When we counsel with our fellow men we turn away from the relationship building process of prayer and scripture study. The iron rod is the word God because the words of the Lord's servants are His words (D&C 1:38)and we acquaint ourselves with His voice when we study and become familiar with them, both written and spoken. (D&C 84:60) Counseling with our fellow man allows Satan time and opportunity to open his tool box of deceptive strategies of lies, half truth's, misdirection and misguided priorities, often with unaware allies.
Direct revelation closes the gap between God and man leaving Satan no avenue for deception. To ignore or minimize the importance of the covenant and the opportunity it provides to converse with God is to willingly engage in a dance with the devil.

Another reason for guiding us away from trusting in the arm of flesh is the way western society anoints its "seers." Education has become the alter and credentials the anointing for secular priests granted credibility because of credentials and tenure. Conventional wisdom assumes those who study the longest and assimilate the most information are best suited to guide the uneducated and uninitiated. How's that working? Look at Washington, the seat of our government and possibly the location of the highest collective IQ's in the country. Pick an agency or program. How easy is it to function in our society with accountants and attorney's? Layers of legislation and regulation have piled up so the Lilliputians of Washington have thrown so many ropes over the Gulliver like economy it can not get off the ground. The greatest handicap in modern society is arrogance that often accompanies academia.

The argument for not seeking counsel from our fellow man is understanding the foundation upon which that counsel is built. When one counsels with another it is presumably an effort to search for truth. Scattering amongst the bookshelves of academia are shards of truth surrounded by packs of lies and misdirection. In the 12th chapter of Revelation John sees the "dragon" (Satan)open his mouth to spew forth a flood that follows the woman (Church of Christ)to sweep her away.(Revelation 12:13-17) I have come to believe the flood that pours out of Satan's mouth is a flood of lies. The Church is not swept away in John's vision but the earth helps the woman/Church by swallowing the flood of lies. I have come to believe this is John's way of describing the "mists of darkness" that hedge the way to the tree of life. False conclusions, manufactured history and misguided research and untamed ego too often cloud the vision of scholar's in their search for truth.

The scholar performs research and then engages in various forms of peer review. The process essentially anoints certain conclusions to be "true" through social negotiation and reconciliation of personal bias. The veracity of conclusions are limited to the collective body of knowledge in the peer group. There is no way of policing subjective bias nor accounting for errors in judging prior research.

We are all aware of academic bias, particular at the collegiate level. The question is, "How does the academic approach influence scholarship in the Church? Can a person spend a lifetime in academia trying to balance the scholarly approach with divine instruction? Intellectually an argument can be made in favor of the Church scholar but my experience suggests balancing the two disciplines is extremely difficult to do and often blinds the scholar from seeing the weakness of their conclusions and bias. In some ways they become blind guides because they close their minds to when "What they know, just ain't so." (Will Rogers)

Case in point: My son has a mission companion to whom he recommended the book, "Second Comforter, Conversing with the Lord through the Veil" by Denver Snuffer. I am currently reading the book for the fourth time. In my opinion it may be the best practical explanation of basic doctrine ever written. My son's companion attends Brigham Young University and sought an opinion about the book from the professor of his religion class. The professor claimed to have read the book but discouraged the student from reading it with the powerful caveat that "The brethren don't approve of it." When my son informed me of this response I inquired, "Does the religion professor subscribe to a special e-mail list? Is there an exclusive newsletter for religion professors?" This young man has denied himself the opportunity of reading one of the most powerful doctrinal books ever written because of the personal bias of a religion professor.

Another one of my personal favorites is when someone says "It has not been revealed" in response to questions of doctrine or prophecy. What is really being said is: "It has not been revealed to me" or "If I don't know it, it has not been revealed."

Personal bias, political correctness, self appointment as a guardian of the orthodoxy often stand in the way of doctrinal discourse in the search for truth. Too often religion professor's in the church become as much an obstacle to truth as a source of truth because they assume the role of arbiter of what you should or should not be known. The scholar is justified because He knows what is best for you and only seeks to protect you from your own ignorance. That is a role better suited for the Lord.

The bottom line: you cannot trust anyone with your salvation or your search for truth. It should only be done in the Lord's way. That way is expressed in the following quotation from Denver Snuffer's book, "Second Comforter, Conversing with the Lord through the Veil":

"Rather than using the theologians tools, the Comforter can guide us to a clearer view of what the inspired writer was saying. It is as if the writer was attuned to and writing about music but using only words to describe the harmony. Without that tune in the mind of the reader, the music cannot be heard and the harmony is lost. The Holy Ghost allows you to resonate with the same frequency as the writer and to "hear" what he is writing about. The process is far more abstract than logic, reason, rhetoric and historic precedent will uncover. Capturing the thought of the inspired fisherman requires an inspired reader. The Holy Ghost is a guide to speak to you as you study the scriptures. It will lead you to understanding, harmony, clarity and truth. If you have not experienced this kind of awareness while studying the scriptures, then you need to attempt it. The scriptures are a great source of inspiration and revelation. Through them you can gain experience in listening to the Spirit. They tutor us, not just in doctrine, but they tutor us in hearing the voice of inspiration as well. Through scripture study you can develop a greater spiritual sensitivity. If you have not begun to do that, you will need to start.
Find time to be alone. Take the time to study, not just read, the scriptures. Pray before you begin. Think about the phrases used, and don't try to digest whole chapters at once. Be silent, so that you can hear the still small voice. If there is some serious sin in your life, repent of it. Let the Lord know you are doing so because you want the Spirit as a guide in your life. He will respond. You will find He is no respecter of persons. He will send His Spirit to any sincere seeker of truth. And when He does, it will be as a result of you seeking the light and obeying the commandments. The Comforters purpose is to guide you to greater truths. There is a library of truth waiting to be discovered inside the scriptures. Use this library and experience the inspiration it offers." (pgs.49-50)

My son's companion will likely never read those words because a religion professor whom he trusted not only turned him away from this book, but probably against it. Is that not Pharisaic? Does that not reflect the same attitude to lead scholars to persecute and crucify the Son of God?

Will we live up to our privileges? Only if we stop turning to the arm of flesh and turn to the Lord and begin building our relationship with Him.That is what I hope to do. The words of those who write about those who "do" are not of interest to me. Give me counsel from those who know for themselves and already walk the path. That is why Deseret Book sees very little of my money.