Jesus is Everlasting to Everlasting

The Christus

Preface: Some of the issues addressed in the following essay enter into a doctrinal territory that is not well defined by LDS theology. As usual, my statements reflect solely my own opinion. Further, this essay has NO pretense of being a final resolution to the problems raised. Instead, this essay represents a personal exercise in search for my own answers. I will be happy to hear from others with differing perspectives, both LDS and non-LDS. I am sure there is much to learn.

Warning: This essay is designed for readers who enjoy pondering some of the deeper questions about the nature of Godhead.

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Critics of LDS doctrine often love to build straw men and knock them over. One such straw man is the accusation that Mormons believe in a God who was a former sinning human. Another accusation is that Mormons believe in a Jesus who was not always deity, not always the Son, and less than eternal. One main purpose of this essay is to refute such accusations.

One place on the Internet where one can find such accusations about Mormon belief in God is at: www.godneversinned.com. This film misrepresents mainstream LDS views with some cringing “on the street” interviews of LDS individuals evidently in need of more homework about their own religion. A strong refutation of the "sinning god" accusation can be found in an essay by W. John Walsh.

Another prompt for my concerns about this issue was raised in a recent interview of Elder Bruce Porter of the 1st Quorum of Seventy by R. R. Reno from First Things, a Catholic oriented Internet magazine. Actually, Elder Porter did an excellent job of fielding some challenging questions. A podcast of the interview is linked here. At 13:50 minutes into the interview Reno asked this question: "Was there ever a time when the Son was not?" This was a question designed by the interviewer to detect heresy as defined by Catholicism.

Elder Porter answered: "Well, in the Pearl of Great Price and the Doctrine and Covenants the Son is described as being from eternity to eternity, neither beginning or end."

Reno chuckled and said, "Well, that answers that question."

Elder Porter continued, "So, no, we do not believe there was a time that the Son was not."

Elder Porter did not cite specific verses, but he clearly knew where the justification for his position could be found. For example, the following illustrate Elder Porter’s claims from the sources he mentioned [emphasis mine]:

D&C 29:33
33 Speaking unto you that you may naturally understand; but unto myself [Jesus Christ] my works have no end, neither beginning; but it is given unto you that ye may understand, because ye have asked it of me and are agreed.

D&C 39:1
1 HEARKEN and listen to the voice of him who is from all eternity to all eternity, the Great I AM, even Jesus Christ—

Moses 6:67
67 And thou art after the order of him [Jesus Christ; see v. 57] who was without beginning of days or end of years, from all eternity to all eternity.

Moses 7:29
29 And Enoch said unto the Lord: How is it that thou canst weep, seeing thou art holy, and from all eternity to all eternity?

Was there a time when Jesus was NOT deity or NOT the Son? No. One would have to violate standard meanings of “eternity” to make an argument otherwise.

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One figurative expression for the eternal nature of Christ is found in the book of Revelations: “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end” (Revelation 1:8, 11; 21:6; 22:13). The same phrase in reference to Christ is found in scripture unique to the LDS religion, such as: 3 Nephi 9:18; D&C 19:1; 35:1; 38:1; 45:7; 54:1, 61:1; 63:60; 68:35; 75:1; 81:7; 84:120; 112:34; and 132:66. In the previous list of citations one should note how often this special phrase occurs as a first verse in a Section of the Doctrine & Covenants. This phrase represents an important initial announcement of the special nature of the divine source in six LDS revelations.

Latter-day Saints equate Jesus with the God of Moses, that is the Lord Jehovah. Notice the following names of God found in the Book of Moses:

Moses 1:3
3 And God spake unto Moses, saying: Behold, I am the Lord God Almighty, and Endless is my name; for I am without beginning of days or end of years; and is not this endless?

Similar expressions can be found in the Doctrine & Covenants:

D&C 76: 1-4
1 Hear, O ye heavens, and give ear, O earth, and rejoice ye inhabitants thereof, for the Lord is God, and beside him there is no Savior.
2 Great is his wisdom, marvelous are his ways, and the extent of his doings none can find out.
3 His purposes fail not, neither are there any who can stay his hand.
4 From eternity to eternity he is the same, and his years never fail.

D&C 20:28
28 … Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen.

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The ONENESS of the Godhead has the potential to create confusion. Latter-day Saints do believe in a three-part Godhead with separate identities. God the Eternal Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are distinct individuals. One foundation for this belief comes from Joseph Smith’s first vision in 1820:

Joseph Smith History 1: 17-19
17 It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other--This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!

In 1844, a few weeks before his untimely death, Joseph Smith preached:

Joseph Smith (Nauvoo, June 16, 1844), History of the Church, Vol. 6, p. 474
It has been preached by the Elders for fifteen years. …I have always declared God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a separate and distinct personage from God the Father, and that the Holy Ghost was a distinct personage….

Although God the Eternal Father and Jesus are distinct individuals, they are perfectly unified in purpose. Latter-day Saints do view Jesus as the only begotten Son of the Father. Yet, we also believe that Christ (and God) existed before the world was ever formed. (See Abraham ch. 4 and my essay on pre-mortal existence).

Why would critics accuse Mormons of believing in a God who had sinned in the past? This accusation arises from unsubstantiated speculation based upon the following, taken from a Joseph Smith sermon known as the “King Follett discourse:”

Joseph Smith (Apr. 7, 1844, Nauvoo, Illinois) History of the Church, 6:305; a composite based upon reports by Thomas Bullock, William Clayton, and others; first published in Times and Seasons of August 15, 1844:
“God Himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens!”

Does the above teaching imply that God the Father is something less than eternal? No. Just as Christ, who came to earth, is eternal, Latter-day Saints believe that God the Father is eternal. Such a belief is clearly stated in the the 1st Article of Faith.

So, what did Joseph Smith mean when he referred to God as an “exalted man?” First, we must understand the context of this quoted phrase above. To do so, it is useful to return to the recorders’ notes (taken from individuals who heard the discourse in Nauvoo, 1844). Thomas Bullock was an official recorder of the Church:

Thomas Bullock version (The Words of Joseph Smith, compiled by Ehat & Cook, p. 349-350; abbreviations expanded):
God himself who sits enthroned in yonder Heavens is a man like unto one of yourselves who holds this world in its orbit and upholds all things by his power. … Adam walked, talked and conversed with him as one man talks and communicates with another. … It is necessary to understand the character and being of God … for he was God from the beginning of all Eternity … . They are the simple and first principles of truth to know for a certainty the character of God that we may converse with him same as a man, and God himself the father of us all dwelt upon a Earth same as Jesus himself did. …

Note that in the text above the Father is described as having dwelt upon an earth the same as Jesus did. Jesus, as a mortal deity on earth, led a sinless life. By comparing the mortal life of God the Father with that of Jesus, Joseph Smith was implying that God the Father led a sinless existence.

William Clayton, another official recorder for Joseph Smith, recorded some following wording not as well defined in the Bullock version:

William Clayton version (The Words of Joseph Smith, compiled by Ehat & Cook, p. 357; abbreviations expanded): These are incomprehensible to some but are the first principle[s] of the gospel – to know that we may converse with him as one man with another, and that he was once as one of us, and was on a planet as Jesus was in the flesh. … What did Jesus say? As the father hath power in himself even so hath the son power to do what? Why what the father did, to lay down his body and took it up again. Jesus what are you going to do? To lay down my life as my father did that I may take it up again. …

In the Clayton version, Jesus is described as having laid his life down to be resurrected as was done by the Father. Again, the implication is the Father had set a pattern for Jesus to follow -- a sinless existence.

In any case, the first publication of this sermon (August 15, 1844) came after Joseph Smith's death. It is unlikely that Joseph had a chance to approve any printed version. Many of the teachings in the "King Follett sermon" were new to the Latter-day Saints. The recordings of the sermon were primitive and subject to error. Consequently, extrapolations beyond the text, such as conclusions about God having lived a former life of sin, are completely unwarranted.

A full composite version of the King Follett discourse can be found here. A useful parallel version (based upon the several recorded transcripts) of the King Follett discourse is found here. A useful perspective to the question: "What do the Latter-day Saints mean when they say that God was once a man?" can be found here. This latter essay, associated with FARMS, takes a view with which I would be slightly uncomfortable, since it argues that God’s eternalness has more to do with “his divine attributes-his love, constancy, and willingness to bless his people” than with his endless time. To me, God’s everlasting nature has to do with BOTH his constant love and his constant divine nature. The Encyclopedia of Mormonism states a slightly different opinion: "the Father became the Father at some time before 'the beginning' as humans know it, by experiencing a mortality similar to that experienced on earth" (see " God the Father : Overview"). The implication in the previous statement appears to be that mortality was a necessary step towards the Father's Godhood. Again, I might have some struggles with that claim, since it waters down the solidly established concept of God's eternity. Although there can be various LDS perspectives on this matter, there is no justification for concluding God was a former sinner. Again, see: the strong refutation of God as past sinner by W. John Walsh.

*****

LDS scripture provides a strong sense of the special unity between the Father and the Son. By LDS interpretation, the unity is NOT being of one substance, because the identities are distinct. However, there is extreme unification in other ways. The unity of God the Father and Jesus is such that it is entirely appropriate to refer to Jesus as “God the Father.” See the following verses with my emphasis:

2nd Nephi 26:12
12 And as I spake concerning the convincing of the Jews, that Jesus is the very Christ, it must needs be that the Gentiles be convinced also that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God;

Mosiah 15:2-4
2 And because he dwelleth in flesh he shall be called the Son of God, and having subjected the flesh to the will of the Father, being the Father and the Son--
3 The Father, because he was conceived by the power of God; and the Son, because of the flesh; thus becoming the Father and Son--
4 And they are one God, yea, the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth.

Alma 11:38-39
38 Now Zeezrom saith again unto him: Is the Son of God the very Eternal Father?
39 And Amulek said unto him: Yea, he is the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth, and all things which in them are; he is the beginning and the end, the first and the last;

3rd Nephi 9:15
15 Behold, I am Jesus Christ the Son of God. I created the heavens and the earth, and all things that in them are. I was with the Father from the beginning. I am in the Father, and the Father in me; and in me hath the Father glorified his name. …

Again, such verses make it clear that the LDS regard Jesus as a fully defined deity, eternal in nature. Jesus is an ESSENTIAL part of the Godhead. In fact, I would go so far as to say that if Jesus were subtracted (eliminated) from LDS theology, then there would be nothing left.

*****

Conclusions: Latter-day Saints do NOT believe in a temporary God the Father or a temporary Jesus. These two individuals are conceptualized as ETERNAL. Further, they are conceptualized as sinless. Yes, both lived mortal lives on some earth, but there also was a pre-mortality that extended back into eternity.

The issue of God's mortal phase raised here in this essay DOES NOT preoccupy LDS theology. We have little information on the topic of God the Eternal Father being an exalted man. The issue is rarely discussed, and modern revelation has not expanded our knowledge about it.

Instead, we have a flood of scriptures testifying to the eternal nature of deity. God should be conceptualized as a morally pure and eternal being . This italicized statement, if taught in an LDS Sunday School, would be accepted without controversy.

Who is God the Eternal Father? He is the entity to whom we pray, in the name of Jesus. He is an immortal physical being, omniscient, omnipotent, and with a commanding influence that is omnipresent. He is the Supreme Being defining all purity and all morality. He is the Father of Christ. There is much we still have to learn about the nature of the Father. Our best exemplar of that nature is the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Post Script: Again, I invite alternate opinions, LDS and non-LDS. I would be happy to hear from you, and I am open to corrections or refinements.

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] c0m; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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A Missionary Preparation Class for Pre-Missionaries

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My #2 Son has been home from the mission field for about a year and a half, but he has NOT stopped being a missionary. In our Stake he teaches a Missionary Preparation Class for Pre-missionaries. He takes it very seriously. Below is his syllabus (which is very rigorous), which he has permitted me to post.

He has asked that the following disclaimer be provided with the syllabus below:

"In my opinion, these are important tools to gain in preparation to LDS Missionary service. Feel free to use this material in your own Mission Preparation Course/Missionary Preparations. But I hope you will not hinder the Spirit by simply using the material as posted. I do hope you will seek God's council on how to individualize mission preparation for the persons within the class. If it sanctioned by God to use this material please do, but please seek the Spirit in doing so."

*****SYLLABUS*****

Instructor: C. Faux

MISSION PREPARATION COURSE

Hello and Welcome! This is an exciting time in your life as you near the beginning of your missionary service. Be assured that the Lord is pleased with your desires to serve. It is my hope that this course will increase those desires. Please feel free to ask me any questions, during the class or in private, about concerns or the material. Also, if you have any suggestions regarding the course, I am willing to consider them.

COURSE OBJECTIVE: To develop a clear understanding of the Lord’s expectations for his Representatives and make the necessary preparations to become such.

INSTRUCTOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES: To help the class understand what it means to be the Lord’s Representative and to prepare the class to become successful Missionaries. I will do my best to give you truths that will allow you to govern yourself. We are hungry, this is one sure truth. Unless I run out of money I will try and bring some crackers, or something that we can eat, during our sessions. I will do my best to cater not only to our physical hunger but spiritual. And most importantly, I will serve you and follow up with you on assignments, questions, concerns, etc. If you feel I am not doing an adequate job with my responsibilities, please tell me where you think I may improve.

Class Expectations: This is a six month course, outside of the regular church block. I expect you to come to class! Otherwise it will be lonely. If you are going to miss a class, please let me know. We may be able to arrange for another meeting time. Please bring these materials with you to each class:

Scriptures
"Preach My Gospel" (PMG)
White handbook
Folder (manila x2, folders will be provided)
Notebook
Pen

I expect you to seek your potential. Your potential is a gift given by God that manifests itself through your hard work! As you work hard during this course, you will be better prepared to reach your Missionary potential. Such hard work will include: reading (before class) the material assigned, turning in written assignments, and the best way to learn by experience. You will have many opportunities to work with the local Missionaries.

COURSE SCHEDULE


ASSIGNMENTS

Part of the blessings that come from obedience is the experience gained from living the commandment. These assignments are designed to help a person gain Missionary experiences prior to Missionary deployment. Similar to commandment living, those who do these assignments will gain meaningful experiences. These experiences will better prepare a person for Missionary work.

St. John 7:17 -- If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.

Do what I say and see if it comes from God. If it does, you have gained an important doctrine. If it does not, you can tell me my words taste like feet. I encourage you to do your best in these assignments. I have given you a college level curriculum. You are capable of accomplishing everything on this syllabus that God wants you too. You are capable☺, exercise your faith and ask for strength.

CLASSROOM RELATED ASSIGNMENTS

Class Readings- Before each class you will be asked to read certain material. Most of the material we discuss in class will be from Preach my Gospel. For example, if on Oct 26th we are discussing chapter 1 in Preach my Gospel, read chapter 1 previous to Oct 26th.Read the material before class so we can analyze the text rather than simply read it. (Assignment due: every class meeting)

Questions- I will assign a weekly question. Questions will range from the next class discussion’s readings, to personal Book of Mormon reading, to Missionary experiences. Responses need to be written (pen/paper or typed is fine) ¼ to ½ page is fine. (Assignment due: every class meeting)

Missionary Mantras- Memorize Doctrine and Covenants section 4 and The Standard of Truth. An individual will be given the opportunity to recite one or both of these Missionary Mantras at the beginning of each class session. In your assigned Mission field, a Missionary is given plenty of opportunities to recite these statements from memory. (Assignment due: Nov 2nd)

Personal Book of Mormon Reading- If you are currently reading from the Book of Mormon, continue where you are reading. If you are not reading from the Book of Mormon, start from the beginning. Three times during this course you will be asked to write a response to these questions: “From the chapters that I have read, what knowledge has God revealed to me? From the chapters that I have read, how has my testimony of the Book of Mormon grown? From these readings, how has the Spirit directed me? And will I do as the Spirit directs?” Response length is your choice. (Assignment due: Nov 7th, Feb 1, and March 15th/22nd)

‘Our Heritage’ Book Review- Read ‘Our Heritage’ and write a review under the guidelines that will be given later. (Assignment due: April 19th)

Lesson Outlines- Class project. Two class periods will be dedicated for each lesson in chapter 3 of Preach my Gospel. Hold onto these outlines and improve them throughout your Missionary service.

MISSIONARY RELATED ASSIGNMENTS

Give away a Book of Mormon- This is an unlimited assignment! Once is required. You may give a Book of Mormon to a friend, family member, acquaintance, while you’re out with the Missionaries, all are God’s children! After giving away the Book of Mormon, write about your feelings, how God helped you give out the book, the person’s reaction, and an appropriate action you can take to help further the recipient’s reading. Response length is your choice. (Assignment due: ongoing, before Christmas)

Memorize the First Vision- Restating Joseph Smith’s experience in his own words, with your own convictions, will bring a powerful testifying spirit. Memorize Joseph’s statement as it is written in Preach my Gospel (Chapter 3, Lesson 1, Principle 6). Give the memorized passage to Mission Prep Instructor and have instructor sign off the assignment. (Assignment due: Nov 23rd)

Missionary exchanges- You will have eight opportunities to experience missionary life. Organize with the Missionaries a time when you can tract and perform other finding activities, teach a lesson principle, participate in a personal and companionship study, and be involved with a weekly planning session. Have the missionaries sign off on the Assignment Sheet: Missionary exchange. (Assignment due: ongoing, turn in April 26th)

Correlation meeting- Correlation meeting is a time designated for the Missionaries to explain the work that is being done in a particular Ward. Correlation for the DSM 3rd Ward meets weekly on Wednesdays starting at 6:30pm. Attend one Correlation meeting a month. Have the Ward Mission Leader (Bro. McIntire for the 3rd Ward) sign off on the Assignment Sheet: Correlation. (Assignment due: ongoing, April 26th)

District Training meeting- Once a week Missionaries within a district (6-8 missionaries) will meet together. During this meeting, Missionaries will receive training and be held accountable from their District Leader. If your schedule permits, sit in on one District Training Meeting. Have the District Leader sign off on the Missionary exchange assignment sheet. (Assignment due: Feb 22nd)

Zone Conference- Once a transfer (6 weeks) Missionaries within a zone (16-24 missionaries) will meet together. During this conference Missionaries will receive training from their Mission President, Assistants to the President, and Zone Leaders. If your schedule permits, sit in on one Zone Conference. Have the Zone Leader sign off on the Missionary exchange assignment sheet. (Assignment due: March 1st)

Final- One page minimum write a response to this question: In what ways do you feel better prepared to serve a full-time Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a Representative of Jesus Christ now than six months ago? (Assignment due: April 26th)

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Assignment Sign-off Sheet


Name:


Memorized Statement
1. First Vision memorized statement (November)

Instructor Sign:_________________________________Date:__________

Missionary Exchanges
1. Missionary Exchange: Personal and Companionship study (October)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

2. Missionary Exchange: Tract/Finding activity (November)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

3. Missionary Exchange: Teach a lesson principle (December)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

4. Missionary Exchange: Tract/Finding activity (January)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

5. Missionary Exchange: Teach a lesson principle (February)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

6. Missionary Exchange: Tract/Finding activity (March)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

7. Missionary Exchange: Weekly Planning Session (April)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

8. Missionary Exchange: Preparation Day Activity (Whenever)

Missionary Sign:________________________________Date:__________

District Training Session
District Leader Sign:_____________________________Date:__________

Zone Conference
Zone Leader Sign:_______________________________Date:__________

Correlation Meetings
October
Ward Mission Leader Sign:_________________________________Date:___________

November
Ward Mission Leader Sign:_________________________________Date:___________

December
Ward Mission Leader Sign:_________________________________Date:___________

January
Ward Mission Leader Sign:_________________________________Date:___________

February
Ward Mission Leader Sign:_________________________________Date:___________

March
Ward Mission Leader Sign:_________________________________Date:___________

April
Ward Mission Leader Sign:_________________________________Date:___________

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] c0m; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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Missionary Lessons from the Land of Oz

Preface: I wrote the following letter to my missionary son in June of 2005. He had just been promoted to the rank of "Trainer." A missionary trainer is assigned to work with a green missionary who is just beginning his/her service. The role of trainer is considered to be a position of high responsibility.

*****

Dear Elder Faux:

Congrats on being made trainer. That is quite an honor for an Elder who has been out only five months. This means to me that your Mission President must be impressed with you. Good work.

Every new Elder has the right to expect his trainer to teach the best of what there is on a mission. So, do it. I know you will. Be happy and diligent.

Immerse yourself in the scriptures, and determine that it will become a life-long habit. It is the scriptures that give us the standard for truth; not Nauvoo history; not Joseph Smith’s wrestling habits; not Brigham Young’s tendency toward hyperbole; not attacks from the internet; not our ancestors on the Mormon trail; not Bruce R. McConkie’s Mormon Doctrine; and so on.

Know the scriptures, because they are the true justification for the Church. Other books fall by the wayside.

Provide support for the Elders. Not all Elders are going to get letters each week. Not all Elders have family rooting for them. As the senior and the trainer you need to watch over the young Elders on all levels – spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental. Lend your strength. Teach them to rely on the enabling power of the atonement. This is the great lesson: “In all things I can be strengthened through Christ.” Once one has that knowledge, everything comes easier. (I didn’t say easy, but I did say easier).

Teach the power of revelation. Bruce R. McConkie in his Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, Vol. 1, p. 433) said, [I]t is not a matter of knocking on every door, but seeking out the honest in heart; missionaries must have the spirit to guide them in where they go… .” These are the instructions that were given by the Savior to the Seventy when he said, “Go not from house to house” (Luke 10: 7).

Teach the power of prayer, especially the continual prayers that persist through tracting, giving lessons, dealing with members, etc. Especially, teach 2 Nephi 32:9.

So, here is another secret: Dorothy of the “Wizard of Oz” obtained the ruby slippers because her house landed on the Wicked Witch of the East. As the story goes, she spent the rest of her time in the Land of Oz trying to get back to Kansas, but Kansas was always within her grasp. Why? Because all she had to do was click the heels of the magic slippers together and make a wish. Dorothy had made a quest of getting home when she could have accomplished it instantly.

Lesson #1: Getting home fast means clicking your heels. In your case, clicking heels means to keep pounding the pavement and wearing out your shoes. Working hard fills your obligation to the Lord but also passes the time quickly. Before you know it … you will be home.

Lesson #2: We struggle and struggle not fully realizing that the powers of God are with us all the time. From the moment you were set apart as an Elder, you were given the figurative ruby slippers. Now you have the power to move mountains when it comes to missionary work. Use that power. Also, don’t abuse that power.

Lesson #3: We crush evil by doing good, and never giving up. Hang onto the iron rod (follow the yellow brick road) and you will go where you need to go. No road maps are needed other than the scriptures.

Lesson #4: Your companions will always be a little goofy. You know the type: the tin man, the cowardly lion, and the straw man. Make your companions more than they are, more than they know they can be.

Lesson #5: Confront evil by throwing water on it. I don’t know what that means, but it sounded smart. Maybe it means that you have all the tools at your disposal. You need never feel too small for the job.

Lesson #6: Ignore the man behind the curtain. Watch out for the pretenders. Be a little skeptical. Don’t be taken in. But, find the good in everybody. Smile and then take the high road. Let others take the low road.

Love the Wizard of Faux

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] c0m; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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The Source of Apostolic Authority

The Twelve Apostles

This essay is a description of the duties and requirements of those individuals holding the office or title of apostle (in transliterated Greek: apostolos, Strong's #G652) -- especially among the original Twelve, as described in the New Testament (e.g., Matthew 10:2). A basic question needing an answer is: Did the duties of apostle become obsolete?

This essay does not pretend to be a comprehensive analysis of all relevant verses. The purpose of this essay is more humble. In the many cited verses below, I hope to demonstrate the continuing relevance of the apostolic calling.

[Note: Quotations from the New Century Version Bible will be indicated with the abbreviation NCV. Most modern translations, like the NCV, do NOT dilute the concept of authority when compared to the King James Version (KJV). However, the KJV is the standard Bible among Latter-day Saints.]

Implicitly, the topic of authority in LDS theology is all about priesthood. The main thrust of this essay is NOT about that connection, but the following should be said about Christ and his priesthood:

NCV: Hebrews 7:16-17
16 He was not made a priest by human rules and laws but through the power of his life, which continues forever. 17 It is said about him, 


"You are a priest forever, a priest like Melchizedek." — Psalm 110:4

Of course, NO human being is equivalent to Christ or His powers, and yet the king of Salem held the priesthood of Christ and still does:

NCV: Hebrews 7:3
3 … Melchizedek is like the Son of God; he continues being a priest forever.

The intended lesson here is that human beings can share in this priesthood. We do NOT claim that humans can replace Christ, but Latter-day Saints do claim that authorized priesthood holders may act in His behalf.

The temple is often associated with priesthood. Jesus opened the temple doors for us:

NCV: Hebrews 6:19-20
19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, sure and strong. It enters behind the curtain in the Most Holy Place in heaven, 20 where Jesus has gone ahead of us and for us. He has become the high priest forever, a priest like Melchizedek.

Modern LDS temple operations are conducted under the authority of the Melchizedek priesthood. There is a real need for priesthood, just as there is a real need for temples.

From latter-day revelation we know the full name of this priesthood, which is: the Holy Priesthood after the Order of the Son of God (D&C 107:3). As shorthand and a way of avoiding frequent repetition of the name of God, ancient peoples called this priesthood after Melchizedek (D&C 107:3).

In short, the Melchizedek priesthood can be summarized as follows:

Doctrine & Covenants 107:18
18 The power or authority of the higher, or Melchizedek Priesthood, is to hold the keys of all the spiritual blessings of the church --

The remainder of this essay equates authority with Melchizedek priesthood, even if not explicitly stated as such.

*****God sent Jesus*****

Speaking to skeptical Jews, Jesus taught the source of his authority:

NCV: John 8:42
Jesus said to them, "… I did not come by my own authority; God sent me."

Did Jesus establish an organization that carried His authority? This is a question that is answered by much of what follows.

*****The Twelve were sent by Jesus*****

The appointment of the twelve is established in the synoptic gospels. For example, see:

NCV: Mark 3:13-19
13 Then Jesus went up on a mountain and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 Jesus chose twelve and called them apostles. He wanted them to be with him, and he wanted to send them out to preach 15 and to have the authority to force demons out of people.

See also: Matthew 10: 1-4 and Luke 6: 12-16.

Mark 4:14 (KJV) says that Jesus "ordained twelve." The Greek word for "ordained" is poieō (Strong's #G4160), meaning to authorize, make, constitute, or appoint someone. We need to use care in the interpretation of poieō, since the phrase "I will make you fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19), which uses poieō, probably should not be interpreted as "I will ORDAIN you fishers of men." Another Greek word, kathistēmi (Strong's #G2525) is more strongly associated with the bestowal of leadership authority (e.g., Matthew 25:23; Acts 7:27; Titus 1:5).

In LDS theology (as well as in other theological systems) the title "apostle" was reserved to those who were called as such by Christ. (This is not to suggest that the New Testament was always precise in its usage of the term). The LDS Bible Dictionary defines "apostle" as: "a special witness of the name of Jesus Christ in all the world, particularly of his divinity and of his bodily resurrection from the dead."

We need not presume that the twelve were given their FULL authority from the beginning of their ministry. For example, conferral of some of the authority ("the keys" in LDS parlance) probably took place during the reappearance of Christ to the apostles after the resurrection:

NCV John: 20: 21
"As the Father sent me, I now send you"

It is useful to read this statement in context (see John 20:21-25). Jesus bestowed upon "the twelve" the Holy Spirit and the ability to forgive sin. In verse 23 (of the NCV) we read: "If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven. If you don't forgive them, they are not forgiven."

Jesus went to an extreme effort to teach his apostles about the physicality of his resurrection. He asked them to touch him, and he ate a piece of fish in front of them (Luke 24: 39-43). He made the apostles witnesses. In these last moments on earth, the resurrected Jesus met before these gathered 11 apostles, and he told them their powers would be fully activated after he left.

NCV: Luke 24:46-49
46 He said to them, "It is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day 47 and that a change of hearts and lives and forgiveness of sins would be preached in his name to all nations, starting at Jerusalem.48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I will send you what my Father has promised, but you must stay in Jerusalem until you have received that power from heaven."

This activation of the full keys (see also Acts 1:8) presumably occurred on the Day of Pentecost (see Acts 2). Before ascending to heaven, Jesus blessed the apostles (see Luke 24: 50).

After the Day of Pentecost, Peter and John were thrown in jail, and they were made to stand before the High Priest, rulers, elders, and teachers of Jerusalem. The apostles were asked, "By what power or authority did you do this?" The answer was: "by the power of Jesus Christ" (see NCV: Acts 4: 7 and 10). The name of Jesus carried power (see, e.g., (D&C 107:3-19).

*****The Twelve were Servants*****

The NCV subtitles 1st Corinthians chapter 4 as: "Apostles are Servants of Christ." Here are the relevant verses:

NCV: 1 Corinthians 4:1-2, 6, 8-11, 14-16, 18-21
1 People should think of us as servants of Christ, the ones God has trusted with his secrets. 2 Now in this way those who are trusted with something valuable must show they are worthy of that trust. …

6 Brothers and sisters … learn through us the meaning of the saying, "Follow only what is written in the Scriptures." …

8 You think you already have everything you need. You think you are rich. You think you have become kings without us. I wish you really were kings so we could be kings together with you.9 But it seems to me that God has put us apostles in last place, like those sentenced to die. … 11 Even to this very hour we do not have enough to eat or drink or to wear. We are often beaten, and we have no homes in which to live.12 We work hard with our own hands for our food. When people curse us, we bless them. ….

14 I am not trying to make you feel ashamed. I am writing this to give you a warning as my own dear children. 15 For though you may have ten thousand teachers in Christ, you do not have many fathers. Through the Good News I became your father in Christ Jesus, 16 so I beg you, please follow my example. …

18 Some of you have become proud, thinking that I will not come to you again. 19 But I will come to you very soon if the Lord wishes. Then I will know what the proud ones do, not what they say, 20 because the kingdom of God is present not in talk but in power. 21 Which do you want: that I come to you with punishment or with love and gentleness?

In these verses above, we learn that apostles are servants entrusted (and authorized) with something special. True apostles teach the scriptures. We should keep in mind that Paul's scriptures were the contents of the Old Testament and perhaps a collection of sayings of Jesus. Did Paul have a conception that scripture could expand? Well, he certainly thought of the words of Jesus as scripture, contrary to the views of contemporaneous Jews, who believed scripture was complete and should NOT be expanded.

Apostles worked with their hands and lived by their own labor. True, assistance from others also was available (1st Corinthians 9: 13-14).

Paul said there were many teachers in Christ, but to the Corinthians he, Paul, should function something like a father, someone requiring special respect.

*****Greek Words for Authority*****

In 1st Corinthians 4:20, quoted above, Paul argued that the kingdom of God is NOT built upon talk but upon POWER. The Greek word for power as used in this verse is dynamis (Strong's #G1411), suggesting a special ability, strength, influence, and authority. To the Latter-day Saint such a word is suggestive of priesthood power (see also: Mark 14:62).

Another Greek word more often used for power or authority is exousia (Strong's #G1849), meaning the right of power. It is found for example in the following verse:

NCV: 2 Corinthians 10:8
8 It is true that we brag freely about the authority the Lord gave us. But this authority is to build you up, not to tear you down. So I will not be ashamed.

A common verb associated with authority is: hēgeomai (Strong's #G2233), meaning ruling over. English derives the word "hegemony" from this Greek word. An example of usage comes in this verse:

NCV: Hebrews 13:17

17 Obey your leaders and act under their authority. They are watching over you, because they are responsible for your souls. Obey them so that they will do this work with joy, not sadness. It will not help you to make their work hard.

Thus, "authority" in the first sentence could be converted to a verb format and retranslated as: "Obey them that rule over you."

Sometimes the inference of authority and power is strong enough that translators merely insert the word, such as in the following phrase, "You know what we told you to do by the authority of the Lord Jesus" (NCV: 1 Thess. 4:2). Multiple translations insert the word "authority" into this verse, such as the New International Version, New American Standard Bible, and the Amplified Bible. Admittedly, I do not understand the full justification for this word insertion by translators.

*****Apostles are Witnesses*****

One of the job duties of the apostle was to bear witness of the resurrection of Christ. In the following passage we learn of the criteria that were considered before choosing Matthias as the replacement for Judas as one of the twelve.

NCV: Acts 1: 21-26
21-22 "So now a man must become a witness with us of Jesus' being raised from the dead. He must be one of the men who were part of our group during all the time the Lord Jesus was among us—from the time John was baptizing people until the day Jesus was taken up from us to heaven."
23 They put the names of two men before the group. One was Joseph Barsabbas, who was also called Justus. The other was Matthias. 24-25 The apostles prayed, "Lord, you know the thoughts of everyone. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to do this work. Show us who should be an apostle in place of Judas, who turned away and went where he belongs." 26 Then they used lots to choose between them, and the lots showed that Matthias was the one. So he became an apostle with the other eleven.

Clearly, the existing apostles wanted a replacement with as much Christian experience as possible and who could serve as a witness of the resurrected Christ. Were these precise criteria for any future apostles? Apparently not.

Paul made it clear that he was an apostle and that he saw the Lord (e.g., 1 Corinthians 9:1). The apostle Paul was not part of the early Christian group from the time John was baptizing until Jesus was taken into heaven. Paul, however, was a witness to the resurrected Christ, at least by revelation.

*****Duties of the Apostle*****

Even if the precise criteria for future apostles was not clear, there is no doubt that there were job requirements and skills:

Apostles had the power to command and correct. Paul states, "So, in Christ, I could be bold and order you to do what is right" (NCV: Phile. 1:8). Apostles pray for those in their jurisdiction, and seek to give followers the tools they need to make their "faith strong" (NCV: 1 Thess. 3:10). Paul taught the following:

NCV: 2 Corinthians 5:20
20 So we have been sent to speak for Christ. It is as if God is calling to you through us. We speak for Christ when we beg you to be at peace with God.

Paul was convinced that in the apostolic calling, "It is God who makes us able to do all that we do" (NCV: 2 Cor. 3:5). He taught that signs, wonders, and miracles follow the Apostles (2 Cor. 12:12), and that the apostles' "weapons have power from God that can destroy the enemy's strong places" (NCV: 2 Cor. 10:4). Even so, apostolic authority builds people up, as opposed to tearing them down (2 Cor. 10:8; 13:10; 1 Thess. 2:7).

*****Apostolic Duties are Eternal*****

Priesthood is the power and authority to bind in heaven that which is bound on earth, and to loose in heaven that which is loosed on earth. The following famous passage makes this very point:

King James Version: Matthew 16:15-19
15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed [it] unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Do the scriptures say explicitly that these apostolic powers will disappear forever in one generation? No. They seem to say the reverse – until the end of the world:

Contemporary English Version : Matthew 28:16-20
16 Jesus' eleven disciples went to a mountain in Galilee, where Jesus had told them to meet him. 17 They saw him and worshiped him, but some of them doubted.
18 Jesus came to them and said: I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth! 19 Go to the people of all nations and make them my disciples. Baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, 20 and teach them to do everything I have told you. I will be with you always, even until the end of the world.

The ultimate requirements for the job of apostle would seem to be: 1) have instruction from Christ, and 2) to be a witness of the resurrection. The job duties of the Apostle are always needed, just as there is a continuing need for Christ.

*****Offices Overseen by Apostles*****

Going beyond the office of apostle, was there a Church organization with various offices and gifts? This question will be addressed briefly. The Greek New Testament refers to a variety of offices, some of which were as follows:

The terms prophet or prophets (prophetes / prophetai, Strong's #G4396) are used extensively in the New Testament (e.g., 1 Corinthians 12:28).

The terms elder or elders (presbyteros / presbyteroi, Strong's #G4245) clearly referred to officers within the Church (see e.g.,: Acts 11:30, 14:23, 15:2-6; 1 Timothy 5:17-19; James 5:14).

The terms bishop or bishops (episkopos / episkopoi, Strong's #G1985) referred to overseers or superintendents (see e.g.,: Acts 20:28; Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 4:22; Titus 1:7, 3:15; 1 Peter 2:25).

Contrary to much popular understanding, the concept of "president" is not foreign to the New Testament. The Greek word of concern here is proïstēmi (Strong's #G4291) meaning to preside over. The word is found in verses such as 1 Thessalonians 5:12 and Romans 12: 8 (see preceding link). In Greek Orthodoxy the presiding priest or bishop is known as proistamenos.

Obscure in the New Testament were the seventy officers who were sent out in twos into every city (Luke 10:1, 17). In Greek these seventy were known as hebdomēkonta (Strong's #G1440). These men were often thought of as assistants to the apostles.

Although Latter-day Saints have nothing against the term "pastor" (poimēn, Strong's #G4166), it literally means herdsman, a leader of a flock. In the KJV New Testament the term is mostly translated as "shepherd," and there is NO official title in the LDS Church using that term.

Among the gifts of the Church, we find the following:

NCV: Romans 12:6-8 – gift of prophecy, serving, teaching, encouraging others, giving, being a leader, showing mercy.

NCV: 1st Corinthians 12:8-10 – ability or power to: speak with wisdom, speak with knowledge, heal, do miracles, prophesy, distinguish good and evil spirits, speak in different languages, and interpret different languages.

NCV: 1st Corinthians 12:27-30 – the Church has given a place to: apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, gifts of healing, those who can help, those who can govern, those who can speak different languages, and those who can interpret different languages.

NCV: Ephesians 4:7, 11 – Christ gave the following gifts: grace, apostles, prophets, tellers of the good news (euaggelistēs, Strong's #G2099), workers caring for God's people (poimēn, Strong's #G4166), teachers of God's people (didaskalos, Strong's #G1320).

*****Conclusions*****

The Latter-day Saints believe in priesthood authority and the gifts of the spirit, as described above. We do NOT place limits on the power of God. Offices of the priesthood have NOT ceased. Gifts of the spirit have NOT ceased.

Latter-day Saints do NOT claim to have a monopoly on truth or a monopoly on Christ. We do claim, however, to have the authorized Melchizedek priesthood. We DO claim to have modern day apostles and prophets who lead us in all humility. Such officers walk with metaphorical (if not literal) holes in their shoes.

The Bible, although ancient, is still relevant to our times. However, living apostles amplify the message of the Bible, increasing its relevant message, just as in times past.

There will be plenty who express skepticism over this claim of modern apostles. So be it. Far more important is self-determination. See for yourself at www.LDS.org.

*****

Scripture taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scriptures marked as "(CEV)" are taken from the Contemporary English Version Copyright © 1995 by American Bible Society. Used by permission.

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] c0m; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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The Interaction of Grace and Works:

More Thoughts Sparked by the Book of James

Generated using http://wordle.net

A favored technique in my study of the King James Bible involves examination of modern translations. Recently, I purchased the New Century Version Bible (NCV; Center-column, compact edition, Nelson Bibles). The King James Version Bible serves as my standard, but I think of it sort of like a graduate school text. It is nice to have the NCV at my side providing simplicity and clarity when the King James Version confuses me. The NCV is NOT the final word on translation clarity, but it is a good start.

In any case, gospel knowledge of the scriptures takes work and study. There is no easy way to gain command of the Bible, Book of Mormon and other LDS scripture. True faith compels study. This is how the Book of James expresses it:

New Century Version: James 1: 22, 25
22 Do what God's teaching says; when you only listen and do nothing, you are fooling yourselves. … . 25 But the truly happy people are those who carefully study God's perfect law that makes people free, and they continue to study it. They do not forget what they heard, but they obey what God's teaching says. Those who do this will be made happy.

There is very little in the NCV that suggests to me that it has a slanted interpretation. Although it is clearly a Bible with a Protestant flavor, it is generally fair in its translations. Consider this verse from James:

New Century Version: James 2:12-13
12 In everything you say and do, remember that you will be judged by the law that makes people free. 13 So you must show mercy to others, or God will not show mercy to you when he judges you. But the person who shows mercy can stand without fear at the judgment.

No one can read the NCV without understanding that there are commandments and that there is a final judgment. It is clear that faith without works is dead, such as:

New Century Version: James 2:14-17
14 … if people say they have faith, but do nothing, their faith is worth nothing. Can faith like that save them?15 A brother or sister in Christ might need clothes or food.16 If you say to that person, "God be with you! I hope you stay warm and get plenty to eat," but you do not give what that person needs, your words are worth nothing. 17 In the same way, faith by itself—that does nothing—is dead.

One cannot honestly translate the Book of James from its Greek into another language and underplay the role of works. In that context, it is a bit humorous that Martin Luther had this reaction to the Book of James: "I almost feel like throwing Jimmy into the stove…" (Luther's Works vol. 34: 317; see also, Section 7 of this WikiChristian post). Contrary to Luther, James makes it clear that works grow from faith and lead to the ultimate safety. Faith is a first step, although it must continue to develop over a lifetime.

*****

Latter-days Saints rely upon God's good grace to allow the production of good works. A life of Christian good works is based upon an appreciation of Christ's atonement, a love for God, love for neighbors, praying, fasting, attending Church and Temple, study of scripture, and MUCH humility.

The gospel is all about faith coming alive through WORKS. Yet, Christ lifts the burden by making those works possible through His grace and atonement. Through God's strength, all WORKS are possible (Philippians 4:13).

It is great fun to be a new or reactivated (renewed) member of the Church. Such a person becomes sort of a temporary celebrity in his or her congregation. The first stage of membership is full of great faith and fun. The second stage, however, is more challenging than the first, because it requires making a transition from being the “star of the show” to serving and giving attention to others. True service requires minimizing attention to the self, and giving credit to Christ. It is in this second stage that testimonies start to gain a firm foundation.

Service firms our testimonies. Book of Mormon verses do suggest again and again that God helps us in our good works. Notice how grace contributes to the strength of one's service in the following verses.

Alma 26: 11-12
11 But Ammon said unto him: I do not boast in my own strength, nor in my own wisdom; but behold, my joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God.
12 Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.

I have tried to teach my boys that whatever I have accomplished in my life has been a result of handing it to God. This concept has never meant to me, “I am going to make God do all the work.” No, I have always known I had to work extremely hard. Instead, I knew God would give me the strength to work really hard.

True prophets have always understood the nature of prayer. When Nephi was tied and bound by his rebellious brothers, he might have been tempted to pray: “Lord, remove these ropes from my hands.” Instead, notice how Nephi actually prayed:

1 Nephi 7: 16-18
16 And it came to pass that when I, Nephi, had spoken these words unto my brethren, they were angry with me. And it came to pass that they did lay their hands upon me, for behold, they were exceedingly wroth, and they did bind me with cords, for they sought to take away my life, that they might leave me in the wilderness to be devoured by wild beasts.
17 But it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord, saying: O Lord, according to my faith which is in thee, wilt thou deliver me from the hands of my brethren; yea, even give me strength that I may burst these bands with which I am bound.
18 And it came to pass that when I had said these words, behold, the bands were loosed from off my hands and feet, and I stood before my brethren, and I spake unto them again.

The bands did NOT magically come off of Nephi. From prayer, Nephi gained the strength of mind and body to get out of those binds. What a metaphor for our lives!! (For a superior sermon on this subject, see Elder David Bednar's talk: "In the Strength of the Lord").

We need God’s strength in ALL that we DO. Faith moves mountains, not by magic, but by prayer, vision, sweat, and determination. Consequently, we have tunnels that literally go through mountains to allow the passage of trains, cars, and trucks. Great mounds (if not mountains) are leveled so that buildings can fill cities. Temples are sometimes associated with mountains (e.g., Isaiah 2:3). Was God involved in those constructions projects? I have no doubt of it. Our works are but instruments in the hands of God, if we allow God to use us.

We Mormons are famous for reciting:

2 Nephi 25:23

23 For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.

The term “AFTER” does NOT mean that we are on our own until God makes up the difference. Instead, it is by grace that we are saved, DESPITE all we can do. God is with us BEFORE, DURING, and AFTER the challenging tasks we face.

God’s grace is an enabling power that provokes us to plan, begin, and succeed in the challenging tasks of life. God’s help is always with us.

As 2 Nephi 25:23 suggests, parents labor over their children. Such labor is necessary for testimonies to develop, but it is God ONLY that grants testimonies – despite all the efforts of parents.

The gospel is NOT just to discover God but is to discover our true nature. This life is to teach us our limitations, but those limits are few with the help of God.

*****

See my earlier essays on the Book of James in the following:

Double-0 Heaven (Part #1)

Double-0 Heaven (Part #2)

*****
Scripture taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] c0m; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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The Woman at Jacob's Well

Treating People on the Margins with Dignity

Henryk Siemiradzki. "Christ and the Samaritan Woman." 1890. The Lvov Picture Gallery, Lvov, Ukraine. Obtained from www.abcgallery.com.

How should we treat individuals who have a different race, sex, ethnicity, religion, nationality, social class, or who have disregarded standard marital / sexual practices? How should we behave towards individuals found on the margins of “mainstream” society? The answer to these questions is found in Christ’s treatment of the Samarian woman at Jacob’s well. The story of the Samaritan woman at the well is found in the 4th chapter of John.

The story will be recited using the Bible in Basic English, because of its very clear language.

Bible in Basic English: John 4: 7-23
7. A woman of Samaria came to get water, and Jesus said to her, Give me some water.
8. For his disciples had gone to the town to get food.
9. The woman of Samaria said to him, Why do you, a Jew, make a request for water to me, a woman of Samaria? She said this because Jews have nothing to do with the people of Samaria.
10. In answer Jesus said, If you had knowledge of what God gives freely and who it is who says to you, Give me water, you would make your prayer to him, and he would give you living water. [See Jeremiah 2:13 below in which God is likened to “living waters].
11. The woman said to him, Sir, you have no vessel and the fountain is deep; from where will you get the living water?
12. Are you greater than our father Jacob who gave us the fountain and took the water of it himself, with his children and his cattle?
13. Jesus said to her, Everyone who takes this water will be in need of it again:
14. But whoever takes the water I give him will never be in need of drink again; for the water I give him will become in him a fountain of eternal life.
15. Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be in need again of drink and will not have to come all this way for it.
16. Jesus said to her, Go, get your husband and come back here with him.
17. In answer, the woman said, I have no husband. Jesus said to her, You have said rightly, I have no husband:
18. You have had five husbands, and the man you have now is not your husband: that was truly said.
19. The woman said to him, Sir, I see that you are a prophet.
20. Our fathers gave worship on this mountain, but you Jews say that the right place for worship is in Jerusalem.
21. Jesus said to her, Woman, take my word for this; the time is coming when you will not give worship to the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem.
22. You give worship, but without knowledge of what you are worshipping: we give worship to what we have knowledge of: for salvation comes from the Jews.
23. But the time is coming, and is even now here, when the true worshippers will give worship to the Father in the true way of the spirit, for these are the worshippers desired by the Father.

*****

Keep in mind that Jews of the time were taught to stay away from Samaritans, who were thought to be an inferior people and unclean. Although they strongly believed much found in the books of Moses, Samaritans were non-Jews, and were a mix of cultures. They worshipped a mix of gods (see 2 Kings 17:24-40).

If the woman at the well did not have enough strikes against her by simply being Samaritan, then the balance was probably tipped because of her sexual problems. The Pharisees and the Sadducees would have expected Jesus to NOT go near the woman. Yet, Jesus interacted with her in a kind and gentile manner. Ultimately, the story of the Samaritan woman at the well is all about removing prejudice, removing sexual sin, and worshipping God in the proper spirit. Jesus was respectful to the woman at Jacob's well, and he changed her life.

God loves all individuals equally well. Therefore, we have no excuse in speaking derogatively about any class of people. Individuals deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Latter-day Saints know all too well about the effects of being persecuted. We need NEVER be dispensers of it. Why? The maximal good is achieved by treating ALL individuals as our brothers and sisters. Our scriptures teach this, and our temples require it.

*****

The verses of John above cannot be fully understood until one understands that Jewish beliefs about the Samaritans were an expression of racial and ethnic prejudice. These views are encapsulated in verse 9, which is restated from the King James Version:

John 4:9
9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.

It is not just that the Jews would have “no dealings” with or were segregated from the Samaritians. The Greek phrase being used here (v. 9) for “no dealings” was “ou sugchraomai” (pronounced oo -- soong-khrah'-om-ahee; see Strong’s #G4798), which also had the meaning “not to use jointly.” When Jesus took a drink from the Samaritan woman, he would be drinking from the same container that she touched and out of which she drank. In other words, Jews did not share drinks with Samaritans. To deal or share with this woman was to be “contaminated.” Jesus saw through the nonsense in all of this cultural belief.

*****

If the woman at the well were to follow Jesus, the Jewish people would recognize her as a Samaritan. Her dress, her habits, and her speech would be hard to hide. She would have to give up her lover. She would have to give up her old traditions and study new ways. We do not know much about this woman, but the gospel of John tells us that she became a believer (see John 4: 39-42).

Jesus seemed to recognize that there are many physical desires in life, but the only true satisfaction is through God. He was saying that true worship indeed may occur outside of Jerusalem. Place of worship does not matter as much as whether our hearts are clean and whether we worship in the proper spirit.

Individuals with sexual problems need to set aside their sexual concerns and try to find fulfillment in the “living waters.” The only strength comes from the knowledge that what one is doing is what God wants one to do. Even so, the challenge is very great. Yet, Jesus can lift the burden.

*****

It is useful to know a little more about Jacob and what is meant by the term "Jacob's well." There is much that could be said, but the following seems essential:

Jacob (renamed Israel; see Genesis 32:28, 35:10) was the son of Isaac and the grandson of Abraham. In the Bible Jacob is often associated with a dreamed ladder, a stone-pillar, and two wells. Thus, we sometimes talk about "Jacob’s ladder", and Jacob’s pillar, but when we get to the “wells” we need to make a distinction.

The First Well: In Genesis 28:2 Isaac called his son Jacob and commanded him to look for a wife in Padan-aram (or Haran – shown as location #8 in LDS Bible map #9), which is in northwest Mesopotamia, part of the Euphrates River valley. As instructed, Jacob headed for the city of Haran, where he stayed with his mother's brother, Laban (Genesis 29:13-14). It was near Haran at a well where Jacob met Rachel, the daughter of Laban. She was attempting to water her sheep at this well (Genesis 29: 9-10). The story is long and complicated, but eventually Jacob married Rachel. Clearly, this well was important to Jacob, but it was not known as "Jacob's well."

The Second Well: We learn in Joshua 24:32 that Jacob purchased land at or near Shechem. Shechem in New Testament times was a Samarian city known as Sychar (see: location C-4 on LDS Bible map #4). At some early point in history, a well was dug at this location and was named “Jacob’s well.” It is possible that Jacob dug this well, but scholars think this is unlikely. When Jesus met the woman at Jacob's well, he had just arrived in Sychar from a long journey begun in Jerusalem. Undoubtedly, he was thirsty. In his conversation with the woman, the well was described as given by Jacob. It was a place where Jacob, his family, and his flocks drank. Please note that this second well, is at a completely different location than the first well where Jacob met Rachel. Thus, one should NOT confuse the two wells associated with Jacob. This second well goes by the name: Jacob's well.

*****

It is useful to place the story of the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well into the context of local roadways and the travels of Jesus. Why are roadways important?

Jesus was headed north to Galilee (John 4:43) from Jerusalem upon completion of Passover (John 2:13). The standard road to travel from Jerusalem to Galilee would be by way of Jericho to the east, and then continuing by following a northern route near the Jordan River for almost the rest of the trip. (For a map of roadways: see here). While no roads of the time were easy, this particular road avoided some mountains and kept the traveler near water for drinking. It also went around Samaria, a location Jews would rather avoid. Jesus must have used this road many times (see e.g., Mark 10:46 – 11:1).

Another relatively flat route was to the west of Jerusalem on the coast. But, Jesus did not spend much time on the coast, the exceptions were his brief visits to the coastal cities of Tyre and Sidon in the north (Matthew 15:21-22; Mark 7:24-25) late in his ministry. Coastal roads did not play much of a role in the ministry of Jesus.

Finished with Passover, Jesus on this particular trip from Jerusalem to Galilee decided to take an alternative route straight through the middle of Samaria by way of Sychar (John 4:4-5). (See map here). This road was full of hills and mountains, and one had to go longer distances to reach water. Jesus was not always permitted to go through Samaria (see Luke 9:52-55), and thus Jesus seemed to have had a goal in mind in using this difficult middle route. Perhaps he knew he would meet up with the woman at the well. She was NOT an insignificant person, despite the prejudgments of the Jewish culture upon her.

[A map of the hills and mountains can be found here. For a really good sense of geographic proportion, see the top panel of Map #14 in the LDS Bible, entitled "Holy Land Elevations in Bible Times: South to North Orientation."]

*****

When Jesus was speaking to the Samaritan woman, he must have had the following verse in mind:

New Century Version: Jeremiah 2:13

 13 "My people have done two evils: They have turned away from me, the spring of living water. And they have dug their own wells, which are broken wells that cannot hold water.

When we repent we must recommit ourselves to the love of God, the spring of living water. Second, we must stop putting ourselves into impaired wells – that is, we must stop the sinful behaviors. It is only Jesus that fully quenches the spiritual thirst.

*****

To conclude: The following promise applies just as much to the Samaritan woman as to anyone else:

New Century Version: Romans 11:25-27
25 I want you to understand this secret, brothers and sisters, so you will understand that you do not know everything: Part of Israel has been made stubborn, but that will change when many who are not Jews have come to God.26 And that is how all Israel will be saved. It is written in the Scriptures: 


"The Savior will come from Jerusalem; 
 he will take away all evil from the family of Jacob. 
 27 And I will make this agreement with those people 
 when I take away their sins." — Isaiah 59:20–21; 27:9

The woman at the well was a non-Jew who came to God.

Note the significance of this prophecy. The Savior will come from Jerusalem, yet the Savior was born in Bethlehem.

Readers of the Book of Mormon should find some significance in that geographic relationship (Alma 7:10).

*****

Scripture taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

1949/1964 Bible in Basic English
-- Public Domain.
The Bible In Basic English was printed in 1965 by Cambridge Press in England.

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] c0m; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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Electoral Maps and False Messiahs

My predictions

Here are my electoral predictions for the U.S. Presidency:

Obama will win 327 electoral votes from: Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Colorado Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Arkansas, Louisiana, Georgia, Tennesee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticutt, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

McCain will win 211 electoral votes from: Alaska, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia.

You can generate your own predictions by going to USA Today.

I am NOT a political scientist, and therefore my opinions need to be taken with a grain of salt. However, one can come up with differing election scenarios that are reasonably plausible, but one outcome is clear: It is hard to see how Obama loses.

*****

The following is intended to be an equal opportunity criticism that applies equally to Obama and McCain. It always bothers me when political candidates promote themselves as the answer to the world's problems. Such messianic claims seem counterproductive. I am reminded of these words from Matthew:

Matthew 24:24
24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

While I lack faith in individual politicians, I do NOT lack faith in America. Elections matter and elections have consequences. I urge everyone to study the issues and vote. Too many do not vote. The strength of this nation depends upon the strength of its people.

The Book of Mormon supports democracy as a strong source of wisdom as long as the people of the democracy are moral and informed:

Mosiah 29:26
26 Now it is not common that the voice of the people desireth anything contrary to that which is right; but it is common for the lesser part of the people to desire that which is not right; therefore this shall ye observe and make it your law--to do your business by the voice of the people.

In these times of difficulty, I pray for this nation and its people.

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] com; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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My Dad: Scientist, Soldier, and Songsmith

Frank Faux

Today is my Dad's 83rd birthday.

He has Parkinson's motor disorder, but he is NOT too sick because he still plays the piano prelude music at Church each Sunday. During the week, he practices for hours and hours to be ready for the 15 or 20 minutes he will play on Sunday.

He is NOT too sick, because when he is not playing the piano, he still walks for hours in the warm weather of southern California. His walk is slow (very slow), but that just gives him time to say hello to all the neighbors, which he loves to do.

He is NOT too sick because he still likes to argue science, and he loves to catch some fallacy in Sunday School. If he does, he may very well point it out. When these things stop – piano playing, walking, and arguing, then we will get worried and say he is sick.

He was (is) a heroic son who helped his widowed mother. His father Eugene died in 1930 at the beginning of the great depression. My father was five years old at the time.

At age 19 he was a soldier/photographer who assisted in the invasion of Europe shortly after D-day. His mother insisted that he was the personal photographer of General Eisenhower. He was not, but he did help photographically document the victims of German concentration camps.

When our family lived in southern Utah, my Dad made sure we were exposed to Mormon history. He took us to all the important sites -- such as Jacob Hamblin's home, Brigham Young's summer home, the MMM site, Silver Reef, Kolob of the Three Fingers, Zion's, Bryce, and many, many more.

In the early 1960s he took our family to Louisiana to live for two summers. We were exposed to the Mississippi River, shanties, the effects of real poverty on the underprivileged, and racial segregation. My Dad made sure we understood the nature of social injustices.

He was a teacher of chemistry in High School and College. As a scientist, he was a true "Show Me" Missourian. He has never liked claims without data.

For many years he worked for the Los Angeles Air Pollution Control District. Daily, and he would drive from one of the distant suburbs to downtown L.A. The effort was heroic. As a chemist he was better at the bench-top than most automated Perkin-Elmer photospectometers. Sometimes they calibrated the machines by his bench-top results using test tubes and graduated cylinders.

He has always been a lover of classical music. His love of music must be expressed. When his Parkinson's medication was not working well, his fingers could not move. So, to express himself musically, he typed out songs note by note on a computer until a melody could be produced in Midi format. He has a website where one can easily listen to the songs he typed in little note by little note. He was a dedicated songsmith.

For many years my Dad (well into his retirement) was in charge of the printed Church program for Sacrament meeting. He produced some of the most unique program covers in Church history. The covers sometimes included pictures of galaxies depicting "God's universe."

One Sunday he clearly went a little too far in his scientific enthusiasm. It was a Fast Sunday and the program cover consisted of a diagram of the sex organs of a plant. The diagram was labeled "God's handiwork." After the program had been distributed, he began to feel guilty and realized that maybe a picture of Jesus would have worked better. During the testimony portion of the meeting he went to the podium and apologized for turning the program into something X-rated for plants. The Ward loved my Dad and knew he was just struggling to get it right. (I am not sure, though, how visitors may have reacted).

My Dad is just a typical Faux. We are independent minded. We think, and we study. We can be at times challenging. But, in the final analysis there is a strong love for people. After all, it is people who make music and make science. Or, he might say, it really all boils down to God's handiwork.

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] com; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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The Bible is Where the Wild Things Are:

A Short Essay about a Short Essay

One of my most favorite essays on the Bible comes from a devotional by Angela Smith (dated April 20, 1997) with the title "Where the Wild Things Are." It was previously posted on the website of the University Baptist Church (UBC) in Austin, Texas. The old website of the UBC has been replaced with a new site. However, an imprint of the old site has preserved Angela Smith's essay. I hope it stays preserved. Her brilliantly written essay needs to be widely read and discussed.

Angela Smith's essay got its title and theme from Maurice Sendak's award winning and best-selling children's book Where the Wild Things Are. An excellent cartoon of the book can be found on YouTube.

Evidently, Maurice Sendak was told by a mother that his book was too frightening for her child. The mother said, "Every time I read the book to my daughter, she screams" He replied, "[I]f a child does not like a book, throw it in the trash." His book is indeed a wild place.

*****

After rereading Angela Smith's essay, I wrote the following thoughts. Admittedly, Smith has influenced me. (Even so, my writing is NOT an adequate substitute for Smith's).

The Bible is a wild place. It is a portrait of humanity full of murder, mayhem, and misery followed by miracles, manna, and mirth. One can try to take the wildness out of it by taming it and sanitizing it, but to actually READ the Bible is to be consumed by it. Selective quotes might make it seem palatable, socially acceptable, and safe, but in reality it is wild and unruly. If the Bible were a wrestling ring, then in it would contain a "no-holds barred" match.

The Bible, like life, has times of great morality, and yet there are many times when darkness can dominate, because Biblical people also were sometimes blind. On a left page one can read about how rebellious sons were to be stoned to death (Deut. 21: 18-21), and just a few verses over on the right page one can read about the necessity of helping a brother lift a fallen ox back onto its feet (Deut. 22: 4). Condemned to death were false prophets (Deut. 18:20) and adulterers (Deut. 22: 22-24), and yet in preceding pages we are taught that there was mercy for the poor (Deut. 15: 11). The Bible, like an escaped animal, is full of ups and downs.


Children know the world is a scary place and they accept it. By contrast, adults are embarrassed to be frightened, and they often build up defenses with the illusion of safety. These defenses affect how they treat the Bible. Some adults defend against the Bible by worshipping it and making it infallible. Others defend against the Bible by ignoring it or turning it all into mythology. We should do neither extreme.

Angela Smith concludes:

Only [when we,] like Sendak's wild child, ... descend into the maelstrom of wildness can we really learn what the Bible has to teach.

Read the Bible, really read it and you will read the psyche of the western mind. Read it, and you will tremble at its legacy. Dare to read it and the power in it will touch you, touch your wildness, the place where you still rage and weep and lament and sing. ...

Resist worship [of the Bible] and analysis. Don't tame or prettify it. Dare to listen to it. That's the hardest thing you can do, because it means you will have to go where the wild things are.

The same basic principles apply to the Book of Mormon. It also is a wild place with much to teach. It also is a reflection of humanity with all its foils and fabulousness.

The mistake is to worship scripture by making it an idol on the bookshelf. Instead, we should read it and be consumed by it. We should take our red pens and mark it all up. Sure, the territories to which we are taken are wild, but the wildness must be faced.

Only when we confront the wildness in our scripture can we see our own frailties and then be turned around into the safety of our REAL (eternal) home where the meals are warm and made with love.

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] com; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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Early Teachings on Baptism by Authority

This essay will discuss some of the early history behind baptism. It will also try to answer some basic questions about the practice. For those unfamiliar with ancient Jewish concerns for cleanliness, it would be useful to review my essay: "Samaritans and Temple Cleanliness: An Analysis of Ritual Purity."

Was baptism performed by immersion?

The word “to baptize” is a derivation from the Greek verb baptizo (Strong’s #907), meaning to dip or immerse, and the associated noun “baptism” comes from the Greek baptisma (Strong’s #908). The Hebrew verb for immerse is tabal (Strong’s #02881). Thus, in Hebrew the term “John the Baptist” would have been more like: Yochanan [John] hattobel [the Baptist]. Did John really go by the name “Baptist?” Josephus, the ancient historian of the Jews, so indicated:

Antiquities of the Jews, 18.5.2 116-119 [my conceptual translation and paraphrase]
Now some Jews believed that the demolition of Herod’s army was God’s vengeance and a just punishment for what he did against John called the Baptist. For Herod murdered John, even though he was a good man, and had exhorted the Jews to be virtuous, being both righteous towards one another and having reverence towards God, and in so doing to join in baptism. … Now, when others crowded about him, being very pleased by his words, Herod feared that such great influence over the people would lead to a revolt – for they appeared ready to do anything John asked – and Herod believed it to be much better to stop the rebellion before it started than to have later regrets.

John “the dipper” was not known as John “the dripper.” John’s baptism was immersion by water, and thus he was named appropriately (see: James D. G. Dunn, Jesus Remembered for an interesting argument that John's baptism was unique – a view that Latter-day Saints generally would reject).

The Book of Acts, our best source of early Christian practice, confirms the conclusion that baptism involved immersion. Acts 8:26 describes how the Apostle Philip was traveling in the Gaza desert. Verses 27-35 indicate that Philip encountered a eunuch who was suddenly converted. Verse 36 then indicates as they went on their way together they encountered water, and the eunuch, referring to the water, said, “What doth hinder me to be baptized?” Here are the remaining relevant verses:

Acts 8:38-39
38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.

Based upon the description, Philip baptized the eunuch by immersion. Traveling in the Gaza desert, Philip was no doubt carrying a container of water with him. Using that portable water he could have sprinkled the eunuch, but instead immersion was used in a body of water.

Immersion is necessary to capture the full symbolism of baptism: death (going down), burial (immersion), and resurrection (coming up). As the Apostle Paul says,

Romans 6:3-5
3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also [in the likeness] of [his] resurrection.

What other historical evidence suggests immersion rituals?

The following is an apparent quotation from an ancient Roman manuscript (A.D. 100) cited in the www.time.com archive.

TIME magazine, December 5, 1955
The deacon raised his hand, and Publius Decius stepped through the baptistry door. Standing waist-deep in the pool was Marcus Vasca the wood-seller. He was smiling as Publius waded into the pool beside him. "Credis . . . ?" [Latin for “Do you believe?”] he asked. "Credo," [Latin for “I believe?”] responded Publius. "I believe that my salvation comes from Jesus the Christ, Who was crucified under Pontius Pilate. With Him I die that with Him I may have Eternal Life." Then he felt strong arms supporting him as he let himself fall backward into the pool, and heard Marcus' voice in his ear—"I baptize you in the Name of the Lord Jesus’ ---- as the cold water closed over him."

[Nota Bene: Although the quoted text above is widely cited on the Internet, there appears to be no authenticating source other than Time. Therefore, the quotation must regarded with reservation.]

Amazing evidence comes from the archeological discovery of "The Cave of John the Baptist” (see: Shimon Gibson's book, so titled). Actually, the evidence is weak that John ever used the cave, but the evidence is overwhelming that the cave was used by Christians for an ancient practice of baptism by immersion in the first or second century. The British archeologist Shimon Gibson headed the project, described below:

Cave Linked to John the Baptist
By Karin Laub, Associated Press
Aug. 16, 2004
KIBBUTZ TZUBA, Israel -
Tradition says [John the Baptist] was born in the village of Ein Kerem, which today is part of modern Jerusalem. Just 2.5 miles away, on the land of Kibbutz Tzuba, a communal farm, the cave lies hidden in a limestone hill — 24 yards (meters) long, 4 yards deep and 4 yards wide. [emphasis mine]

It was carved by the Israelites in the Iron Age, sometime between 800 B.C. and 500 B.C, the scientists said. It apparently was used from the start as a ritual immersion pool… .

Crude images were carved on the walls, near the ceiling, and Gibson said they tell the story of John’s life.

One is the figure of the man Gibson spotted on his first visit to the cave. The man appears to have an unruly head of hair and wears a tunic with dots, apparently meant to suggest an animal hide. He grasps a staff and holds up his other hand in a gesture of proclamation. James Tabor, a Bible scholar from the University of North Carolina, said there is little doubt this is John himself. …

“Unfortunately, we didn’t find any inscriptions” that would conclusively link the cave to John, Tabor said.

Although it is implausible that John the Baptist actually used this cave, the following conclusions are very reasonable: 1) The cave was man-made between 800 and 500 B.C., and was used for ancient Hebrew rituals of immersion. 2) Art on the walls suggest the cave was used as a font by first or second century Christians.

Did ancient Jews baptize for the remission of sin?

The Book of Mormon leaves no doubt that some Hebrew peoples practiced a baptism nearly identical to the modern one. The following passages are a small sample:

2 Nephi 31:13
13 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, I know that if ye shall follow the Son, with full purpose of heart, … repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism--yea, by following your Lord and your Savior down into the water, according to his word, behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, then cometh the baptism of fire… .

2 Nephi 31:17
17 … For the gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism by water; and then cometh a remission of your sins by fire and by the Holy Ghost.

There is no doubt in archeological terms that some form of ritual bath was common in ancient Hebrew culture. Plastered stepped pools carved out of rock are found throughout Galilee and Jerusalem in Judea. The singular noun miqveh (Strong’s #04723) or mikvah, often refers to a pool of water, and the word derives from qavah (Strong's #6960), meaning "to bind." One must wonder whether this latter meaning could relate to the making of binding covenants. About 300 such pools have been excavated dating to the Roman period. These baths appear to have been used primarily to remove ritual impurities discussed in Leviticus 11 – 15. These pools are rarely discussed in the Bible, but there are occasional references, such as Lev. 11:36.

Pictures of ancient miqveh can be seen: here, here, and here.
The miqweh looked very much like a baptismal font for immersion. Before we get too excited, there are some differences. First of all, Jews distinguished impurity from sin. A man could be impure and require ritual cleansing just because he had prepared a relative’s body for burial. Being impure in this case would not have been a sin. Plus, we need to consider the real strong possibility that ancient Jews at different times and different places practiced immersion and /or partial bathing. Nonetheless, there is evidence that complex ritual bathing did occur for various reasons, possibly including remission of sin.

James D.G. Dunn, a respected New Testament scholar states the following (2002, "Jesus and purity," New Testament Studies, 48: 449-467):

The archaeological evidence provides surprisingly robust confirmation that [ritual bathing] was widely practised in the Judaism of Jesus’ day. Of direct relevance is what J. Reed calls four indicators of Jewish religious identity: stone vessels (chalk or soft limestone), attesting a concern for ritual purity; plastered stepped pools, that is, Jewish ritual baths (miqwaoth [the plural for miqveh); burial practices, reflecting Jewish views of the afterlife; and bone profiles without pork, indicating conformity to Jewish dietary laws. Such finds have been made across Galilee, whereas they are lacking at sites outside the Galilee and the Golan. This confirms the growing consensus that the population of Galilee at this time was characteristically Jewish, and that as such, maintenance of purity was a consistent concern for them, an integral part of their being Jewish. … [T]here is no doubt that there were some miqwaoth at a distance from the Temple, that is, at a distance which rules out the likelihood that they functioned to purify only in preparation for attendance at the Temple. And given the other indications of active purity concerns in the Galilee of Jesus’ time, it remains likely that a good many of the pools thus far discovered did indeed function as miqwaoth.

Only the Book of Mormon is conclusive that some Hebraic peoples used baptism for the remission of sin. However, this claim was considered an anachronism and ridiculous for many years after its publication in 1830. Now days, modern science has confirmed that ritualized bathing, even immersion practices, were common among ancient Jews. With that understanding, the following passage comes into clearer focus:

Isaiah 1:16
16 ¶ Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;

Why did some Christians practice infant baptism?

The New Testament is ambiguous on the issue of infant baptism. It suggests that entire households were baptized (e.g., 1 Corinthians 1:16), but does “household” imply that little babies were immersed along with the adults and older children? Of course, the Book of Mormon, explicitly written for our times, is unambiguous on the matter:

Moroni 8:15
15 For awful is the wickedness to suppose that God saveth one child because of baptism, and the other must perish because he hath no baptism.

Clear historical evidence of a practice of infant baptism appears in the 2nd century and beyond. While the practice is incorrect by LDS doctrine, one can sympathize with the Christians who engaged in it. By that time, Apostolic authority had disappeared and along with it any doctrinal control. However, within the practice of infant baptism was a vestige of a true early belief: “baptism is necessary to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” If so, one can imagine frantic parents becoming concerned about their infants who were ill and at risk for dying. Remember that infant mortality was high in those days. Infant baptism would have had a consoling and reassuring effect, even if founded in false doctrine.

Once infant baptism took hold, then one can easily understand why immersion would have been abandoned. Full immersion of infants would have frightened both parents and kids. Immersed babies in cold water would be very likely to cry. Sprinkling simply would have been far more convenient than immersion. Within three hundred years, the practice of John’s baptism would considerably change.

Does baptism give the gift of the Holy Ghost?

Some modern Christians seem to believe that the Holy Ghost comes with baptism. Again, one can sympathize with why some might believe this. For example, Jesus seemed to get the Holy Ghost at the time of baptism:

Luke 3:21-22
21 ¶ Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,
22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

Scripture is not always very clear on procedural details. Evidence for the lack of clarity abounds in the wide variety of Christian practices that rely upon the Bible as the sole authority. Of course, this fact only furthers the need for true priesthood authority, prophets, and apostles.

Again, the Book of Acts is the best source of actual practice. In it is one of the most important scriptural passages on baptism:

Acts 8:5-20
5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.
6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.
7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed [with them]: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. …

12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
13 Then Simon [a new convert, not the Apostle] himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
14 ¶ Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,
19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.
20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

Think about all the theology that these verses teach. Philip baptized Samaritans, who were not traditional Jews or even necessarily Jewish. In a separate ordinance, Peter and John from Church headquarters, Jerusalem, bestowed the “Holy Ghost” by the laying on of hands. Simon, a new and confused member, offered Peter money to get the same power to bestow the Holy Ghost. Peter, of course, said, “Thy money perish with thee.” The process was orderly, conducted under authority of Apostles, and could not be bought with money.

Is priesthood authority necessary to baptize?

Shortly after Jesus was baptized, a group of John’s disciples came to John and notified him that Jesus was now baptizing others. There seemed to be some question whether Jesus had the authority to baptize or whether John should continue to baptize alongside Jesus.

John 3:22-28
22 ¶ After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.
23 And John also was baptizing in AEnon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.
24 For John was not yet cast into prison.
25 Then there arose a question between [some] of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.
26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all [men] come to him.
27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.
28 Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him.

The key verse is 27: “A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.” Clearly, the lesson was that one does not choose this honor by self-appointment (see also: Hebrews 5:4).

The issue of authority followed Jesus throughout his ministry:

Matthew 21:23-27
23 ¶ And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?
24 And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things.
25 The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him?
26 But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet.
27 And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.

Jesus side-stepped the issue of authority by invoking John the Baptist probably because he was not prepared to reveal his divinity at that time.

Although John the Baptist had the Aaronic priesthood and the authority to baptize, it is likely that many of his new disciples had a very limited understanding of the gospel. For example,

Acts 18:24 – 26
24 ¶ And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, [and] mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto [them], and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

The following passages give a clear description of the struggles that Paul had just to identify those who had been properly baptized from those who had not been. I imagine record keeping in those days was practically non-existent.

Acts 19:1 – 6
1 ¶ AND it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,
2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.
3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.
4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.
5 When they heard [this], they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
6 And when Paul had laid [his] hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Joseph Smith’s interpretation of these passages obviously carries more authority than my own:

Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Section Five 1842-43 p.263
It seems … some sectarian Jew had been baptizing like John, but had forgotten to inform them that there was one to follow by the name of Jesus Christ, to baptize with fire and the Holy Ghost: -- which showed these converts that their first baptism was illegal, and when they heard this they were gladly baptized, and after hands were laid on them, they received the gifts, according to promise, and spake with tongues and prophesied.

One must conclude that authority was necessary to baptize. One cannot take this honor unto himself. The power cannot be bought with money. The scriptures make clear that many new converts misunderstood the teachings.

It must have been a tremendous job to begin a new religion. The founding doctrine was “Jesus Christ.” This was a new concept, associated with a redefined baptism.

What are the basic doctrines of the Church?
What does one need to know at the time of baptism?

The answers to these questions are possibly contained in the following quotation:

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol.1, DOCTRINE
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, "The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended unto heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it" (TPJS, p. 121).

Some of the "appendages" that are explicitly identified in the scriptures as part of the doctrine of Jesus Christ are (1) faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God; (2) repentance of all sins; (3) baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; (4) the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying-on of hands by those in authority; (5) enduring in righteousness to the end; and (6) the resurrection of all human beings to be judged by Christ (3 Ne. 9:1-16; 11:23-39; 19:7-28; 27:13-21; D&C 10:62-69; 33:10-15; 39:5-6; 76:40-43). Additional teachings, or "things we know" (D&C 20:17), that are closely associated with this foundation include knowledge about the nature of God, the creation and the Fall of Adam, agency, continuing revelation, an open canon and the continual search for the truth of all things, premortal life, the gathering of Israel, the role of a covenant people, sharing the gospel, hope and charity, the establishment of Zion, the second coming of Christ, Christ's reign on earth for a thousand years, temple ordinances for the living and the dead, the preaching of the gospel in the postearth spirit world, the need for priesthood, degrees of glory in the hereafter, eternal marriage, and the concept of ultimate exaltation in the presence of God to share his glory and life.

It is interesting to ponder which teachings are elemental or basic. The quotation above expands on baptism and helps identify the elemental teachings of the gospel.

*****

Conclusions: Baptism was an ancient practice related to the cleansing rituals of the Hebrew people, and it involved immersion and remission of sin. There is a growing archeology on miqveh cleansing. Consequently, our knowledge on the topic is bound to grow over coming decades.

Baptism was by immersion in deep pools, and was for those who have sinned. Consequently it makes sense that infants were not involved in the earliest practices. Baptism was associated with the Holy Ghost, a gift that is difficult to imagine how a infant child would use.

Finally, baptism was strongly associated with lines of authority. One could not buy authority with money, and one could not be self-appointed to baptize. The process of baptism was performed in an orderly manner.

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] com; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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LDS Soldiers Can Stand in Holy Places

The fires of hell may rage in the battlefield, and yet soldiers can stand in holy places. Army photo taken in Iraq (7/30/08). Department of Defense.

Given all the war, sickness, and evil on earth, it is natural to wonder whether it is possible to stand in holy places where there is peace, the absence of scourge, and where goodness reigns. Three sections in the Doctrine and Covenants teach the Saints that it is possible amidst all the turmoil of the world to "stand in holy places" (see: D&C 45:32; 87:8; and 101:22). In two of these three instances, the following is taught: the Saints shall "not be moved" (D&C 45:32 and 87:8). All three sections make reference to seeing the face of the Lord or encountering Him (D&C 45:44; 87:8; 101:23, 38). We stand in holy places in order to be with God.

It is easy to understand that we can stand in holy places when those places are temples and chapels. However, we cannot stay in those locations permanently. Or, can we?

Much of what is taught in LDS chapels is a frame of mind. In the temple that frame becomes even more tangible. But, the point is that we must move about the world in our daily lives, and that which is holy CAN stay with us. A prime example would be the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Our concept of "holy place" is portable because WE can become holy places ourselves.

Are Latter-day Saints removed from holy places when they serve in war? No. Can soldiers be surrounded by holiness on the battlefield? I strongly believe the answer is affirmative – YES!

Excerpts of the three quoted sections are given below. Notice that each section deals with war or death, and scourges or evil. Each section affirms that we as Saints can still stand in holy places and encounter God.

*****

Section 45 tell us that in the last days events in the world will get rough. Even so, we will stand in holy places and NOT be moved.

D&C 45: 22-26, 31-32, 44 [emphasis mine]
22 Ye say that ye know that the end of the world cometh; …
23 … but these things which I have told you shall not pass away until all shall be fulfilled.
24 And this I have told you concerning Jerusalem; … a remnant be scattered among all nations;
25 But they shall be gathered again; but they shall remain until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.
26 And in that day shall be heard of wars and rumors of wars, and the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men's hearts shall fail them, and they shall say that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth. …

31 And there shall be men standing in that generation, that shall not pass until they shall see an overflowing scourge; for a desolating sickness shall cover the land.
32 But my disciples shall stand in holy places, and shall not be moved; but among the wicked, men shall lift up their voices and curse God and die. …

44 And then they shall look for me, and, behold, I will come; and they shall see me in the clouds of heaven, clothed with power and great glory; with all the holy angels; and he that watches not for me shall be cut off.

*****

Section 87 was written in 1832, and it prophesized of the civil war. Note: South Carolina, the first confederate state, seceded from the Union in 1860. During the war, 620, 000 soldiers on both sides died. The southern states did seek the help of Great Britain. On July 18, 1863 a black army, the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, stormed Fort Wagner in South Carolina.

D&C 87:1-4, 6-8 [emphasis mine]
1 Verily, thus saith the Lord concerning the wars that will shortly come to pass, beginning at the rebellion of South Carolina, which will eventually terminate in the death and misery of many souls;
2 And the time will come that war will be poured out upon all nations, beginning at this place.
3 For behold, the Southern States shall be divided against the Northern States, and the Southern States will call on other nations, even the nation of Great Britain … .
4 And it shall come to pass, after many days, slaves shall rise up against their masters, who shall be marshaled and disciplined for war. …

6 And thus, with the sword and by bloodshed the inhabitants of the earth shall mourn; …
7 That the cry of the saints, and of the blood of the saints, shall cease to come up into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth, from the earth, to be avenged of their enemies.
8 Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord. Amen.

Verse 7 refers to the Lord of Sabaoth, meaning the Lord of Hosts or the Lord of Armies. Given all the discussion about war in this section, notice the appropriateness of Lord of Sabaoth.

*****

Section 101 teaches that we stand in holy places to prepare for revelation. Yet, we may be persecuted and may even need to lay down our lives. Even so, our souls can be preserved and we can see the face of God.

D&C 101: 22-23, 35-38 [emphasis mine]
22 Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together, and stand in holy places;
23 And prepare for the revelation which is to come, when the veil of the covering of my temple, in my tabernacle, which hideth the earth, shall be taken off, and all flesh shall see me together. …

35 And all they who suffer persecution for my name, and endure in faith, though they are called to lay down their lives for my sake yet shall they partake of all this glory.
36 Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full.
37 Therefore, care not for the body, neither the life of the body; but care for the soul, and for the life of the soul.
38 And seek the face of the Lord always, that in patience ye may possess your souls, and ye shall have eternal life.

*****

American soldiers (especially LDS ones) would be wise to remember the words of the Apostle Paul to the Romans:

New Century Version: Romans 8: 31-39
31 … If God is for us, no one can defeat us. … 35 Can anything separate us from the love Christ has for us? Can troubles or problems or sufferings or hunger or nakedness or danger or violent death? 36 As it is written in the Scriptures:

"For you we are in danger of death all the time.
People think we are worth no more than sheep to be killed." — Psalm 44:22

37 But in all these things we are completely victorious through God who showed his love for us. 38 Yes, I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, 39 nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

NOTHING can remove us from the love of God. NOTHING can move us from the holy places in which we stand, except ourselves.

*****

Scripture taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] com; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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Latter-day Saints Honor Souls From All Religions:

Ecumenism and the Value of Religious Respect

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) is inclusive and it views ALL people as important and valuable. There are NO insignificant lives or peoples.

It was early on Monday, Aug. 21, 2006, and I was listening to the "Imus in the Morning" program, which at that time was on MSNBC. During that morning Imus was interviewing Jon Meacham, an editor of Newsweek magazine. Meacham discussed how he had recently interviewed Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the LDS Church. Somehow the topic turned to heaven. He said to President Hinckley, “I understand that Mormons believe there are different classes or layers of heaven sort of like types of tickets on a train: coach-class, business-class, and first-class.” He then said, “I am Episcopalian and I am never going to change. What are the chances that I will make it into the highest heaven?”

President Hinckley paused for a moment, and then said, “You look like a nice enough young man. I’ll see what I can do to get you on board.”

(For a confirmation of this story from a colleague of Meacham and co-interviewer, see: "Mormons: Heavenly Prophecy," from Newsweek).

There is no guarantee that President Hinckley actually would claim he was serious about his reaction to Meacham's question, but to me, the humorous words reflect a deeper more serious truth. Latter-day Saints have no interest in building an exclusive heaven that shuts everyone else out. Instead, heaven, as we understand it, is built upon faith, truth, righteousness, and the fact that we are ALL children of God. Latter-day Saints do temple work in order that everyone has the opportunity to find truth and accept it. In other words, non-LDS individuals (most of the world) are NOT condemned to hell because they did not join the Church in this life. Mormons believe that the power of the atonement of Christ is infinite and readily extends into life after death (1 Peter 3: 18-20, 4: 6; also see: 1 Corinthians 15: 29; Doctrine & Covenants 138).

All good people on earth are loved by God and have a valuable function and role. God speaks to all people in different ways. For example, President Monson taught the following to remind us how many different people played significant roles during the Reformation in establishing the foundation for the later Restoration:

President Thomas S. Monson, “Led by Spiritual Pioneers,” 
Ensign, August 2006
The day of the Reformation was dawning, but the path ahead was difficult. Persecutions would be severe, personal sacrifice overwhelming, and the cost beyond calculation. The reformers were pioneers, blazing wilderness trails in a desperate search for those lost points of reference that they felt would lead mankind back to the truth Jesus taught.

Wycliffe, Luther, Hus, Zwingli, Knox, Calvin, and Tyndale all pioneered during the period of the Reformation. Significant was the declaration of Tyndale to his critics: "I will cause a boy that driveth the plough shall know more of the scripture than thou doest."

Such were the teachings and lives of the great reformers. Their deeds were heroic, their contributions many, their sacrifices great—but they did not restore the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Of the reformers, one could ask: "Was their sacrifice in vain? Was their struggle futile?" I answer with a reasoned no. The Holy Bible was now within the grasp of the people. …

The long-awaited day of restoration did indeed come. …

*****

The statement above reminds us that contributions from many different types of people (especially Protestants and Catholics) were required to bring about the Restoration. Therefore, we LDS have many reasons to appreciate other Christian religions, as we recognize the great good that they do.

In the context of an ecumenical spirit (for lack of a better term) an important news release from the official LDS NEWSROOM entitled "Respect for Diversity of Faiths," gave the following important principles. Here are some excerpts:

"A respect for the diverse beliefs and unique contributions of all the world’s faiths is one of the hallmarks of Mormonism."

"Latter-day Saints accept all sincere believers as equals in the pursuit of faith and in the great work of serving humanity."

"We honor and respect sincere souls from all religions, no matter where or when they lived, who have loved God, even without having the fullness of the gospel. We lift our voices in gratitude for their selflessness and courage."

" People of good faith do not need to have the exact same beliefs in order to accomplish great things in the service of their fellow human beings."

*****

Latter-day Saints are NOT in the business of debating with other religions, at least directly. One does NOT find official LDS pamphlets, magazine articles, or Conference talks directed as attacks on specific religions. True, the LDS will take specific stands against misconceptions on the Trinity, grace, baptism of children, et cetera. But, the LDS very much believe in religious freedom (see Article of Faith #11).

Latter-day Saints seek to be good citizens in the religious community. Yet, we are not going to soften our principles for fear of offending outsiders.

*****

How did Jesus handle those who stood in opposition to him? Well, we cannot always do what Jesus did, as he had a special calling as Messiah. Jesus had the authority and ability to handle his attackers directly – probably something the rest of us should avoid.

Elder Robert D. Hales in his very inspirational talk during the morning session of General Conference on Sunday (Oct. 5, 2008) taught that Jesus altered his method of response to critics depending upon the circumstances. Sometimes he simply bore testimony or remained quiet, but at other times he was quite vocal and even stinging in his rebukes.

Consider the following exchange between Jesus and the Pharisees:

New Century Version: Matthew 22: 41-46
41 While the Pharisees were together, Jesus asked them, 42 "What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?"

They answered, "The Christ is the Son of David."

43 Then Jesus said to them, "Then why did David call him 'Lord'? David, speaking by the power of the Holy Spirit, said, 


44 'The Lord said to my Lord, 

"Sit by me at my right side, 

until I put your enemies under your control." ' — Psalm 110:1 


45 David calls the Christ 'Lord,' so how can the Christ be his son?"

46 None of the Pharisees could answer Jesus' question, and after that day no one was brave enough to ask him any more questions.

Jesus was able to shut down and confound his attackers in ways that escape the rest of us. After the exchange cited above, Jesus taught the following:

New Century Version: Matthew 23: 1-7
1 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his followers, 2 "The teachers of the law and the Pharisees have the authority to tell you what the law of Moses says. 3 So you should obey and follow whatever they tell you, but their lives are not good examples for you to follow. They tell you to do things, but they themselves don't do them. 4 They make strict rules and try to force people to obey them, but they are unwilling to help those who struggle under the weight of their rules.

5 "They do good things so that other people will see them. They enlarge the little boxes holding Scriptures that they wear, and they make their special prayer clothes very long. 6 Those Pharisees and teachers of the law love to have the most important seats at feasts and in the synagogues. 7 They love people to greet them with respect in the marketplaces, and they love to have people call them 'Teacher.'

In the King James Version, verse 2 says, "the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat." Evidently, the Pharisees would often speak to synagogue congregations and would read from scripture. In verse 3 Jesus was saying to listen to those scriptural readings and do what those readings say, but he also pointed out that the lives of the Pharisees were NOT good examples of their own teachings.

Also, note in verse 5 the reference to "little boxes holding Scriptures" that were worn on the head and the arm. These are tephillin (the Hebrew term) or phylacteries (singular: phylactery; see LDS Bible Deuteronomy 6: 8 and footnote b) containing four passages from the Torah: sometimes referred to in short-hand – "Sanctify unto me…" (Exodus 13: 1-10); "the LORD [or Hebrew substitute shem or ha-shem, meaning "the name"] shall bring thee…" (Exodus 13: 11-16); "Hear, O Israel …" ("Shema or Hear -- Deuteronomy 6: 4-9); and "if ye shall hearken diligently" (Deuteronomy 11: 13-21). The two Deuteronomy passages are used in the Shema ("Hear") prayer, along with verses from Numbers 15: 37-41. To many Jews it is a commandment to recite the Shema prayer morning and night.

In the Shema prayer we learn that God is one. There are NOT separate gods of the oceans and gods of the land. There is not a god of thunder and a separate god of peace and quiet. Ultimately, all people fall under the authority of ONE God.

*****

The name of God has special significance, especially to the ancient cultures represented in the Bible.

The Hebrew word shem (Strong's # H8034) and the Greek equivalent onoma (Strong's # G3686) means "name" (sometimes as in the name that cannot be spoken). However the meaning refers not just to a person's proper name, but also to the characteristics associated with the individual, such as rank, deeds, titles, reputation, and fame. Only when one understands this extended definition of the word "name" can one properly understand the following:

New Century Version: Revelation 19: 11-16
11 Then I saw heaven opened, and there before me was a white horse. The rider on the horse is called Faithful and True, and he is right when he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like burning fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him, which no one but himself knows. 13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven, dressed in fine linen, white and clean, were following him on white horses. 15 Out of the rider's mouth comes a sharp sword that he will use to defeat the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will crush out the wine in the winepress of the terrible anger of God the Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his upper leg was written this name: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

Jesus is the Word, the King, and the Lord. He is universal. He is NOT just the God of the Latter-day Saints.

*****

How does Jesus view the various sects of Christianity? It depends upon how they promote His name ( as in shem or onoma) – in the broad definition defined above.

A scriptural hint comes from the book of Luke:

Luke 9:49-50
49 And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbade him, because he followeth not with us.
50 And Jesus said unto him, Forbid [him] not: for he that is not against us is for us.

We know what we (LDS Christians) are supposed to do, but we do not always know what others (non-LDS Christians) are supposed to do. The passage cited above indicates that some person was performing ordinances in the name of God or Jesus, and the Apostles perceived the fellow as not having the (priesthood) authority of Jesus. The Apostles, therefore, forbid the person from continuing. Jesus responded, “He that is not against us is for us.”

Again, the job of the LDS missionary is NOT to castigate and demean other religions, especially other Christians. Their job is merely to preach gospel of Jesus and to baptize. The spirit of godliness that we must carry is NOT the spirit of contention.

*****

So, how do the ecumenical perspectives described above become compatible with the blunt language found in Joseph Smith's first vision of 1820? Joseph was told by Jesus not to join any of the sects "for they were all wrong." Here are the relevant verses:

Joseph Smith History 1: 17-19
17 It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other--This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!
18 My object in going to inquire of the Lord was to know which of all the sects was right, that I might know which to join. No sooner, therefore, did I get possession of myself, so as to be able to speak, than I asked the Personages who stood above me in the light, which of all the sects was right (for at this time it had never entered into my heart that all were wrong)--and which I should join.
19 I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt; that: "they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof."

As alluded in this essay, Jesus can be equated with truth. Given all the diverse creeds, doctrines, and beliefs in Christianity, it is NOT possible for all diverse views to be TRUE simultaneously. But, the first vision statement quoted above goes beyond the trivial point that contradictions cannot be simultaneously true.

Clearly, the different sects of Christianity in 1820 had some truths. For example, they promoted Christ. However, they had missing truths, half-truths, no priesthood authority, rigid creeds, a rejection of modern revelation, a rejection of modern prophets, and views that sometimes promoted sin.

Note how the strongest language in verse 19 above was directed to the professors (who were corrupt) and the creeds (which were an abomination). Sure, the existing religions were "wrong," but there was NO attack on faithful members of the general Christian church, and I believe that absence of language was by design. (See the essay: "For They were All Wrong" by one of my favorite bloggers, Tim Malone, including the attached comments).

One of the highest priorities of the First Vision of Joseph Smith was to establish the need for a Restoration. There was a need to restore missing truths; correct half-truths; re-establish the lost Melchizedek priesthood; eliminate obsolete creeds; re-establish revelatory communications with prophets; and strengthen the foundations of morality.

*****

Let me end this essay with these conclusions:

All religions are good; many are very, very good indeed. LDS missionaries are called to build the "New Jerusalem." Perhaps others are supposed to stay in the "Old Jerusalem." Latter-day Saints must keep the attitude of always trying to respect others' beliefs. In my opinion, "Mormon" doctrine adds to truths more than it corrects falsehoods.

*****

Copyright 2008 S.Faux (Email: foxgoku54 [at] gmail [d0t] com; URL: http://mormoninsights.blogspot.com). Readers may distribute this post for noncommercial purposes provided such distributing is of the entire post, including author's copyright and contact information. All other rights reserved.




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Which Was Your Favorite Anecdote in General Conference?

What was your favorite story told during Conference?

My three nominees are:

1) Elder Uchtdorf's very dramatic story about how his family was traveling by train to Germany during World War II. His mother disembarked from the train in search for food while her children were left behind. When she returned the train with her children were gone.

2) Elder Holland's very dramatic story about the boy on a horse looking for lost cows. While on his horse, he crossed an overflowing river and nearly drowned. The boy was rescued by his father who looked like an angel.

3) Elder Wirthlin's blind date story which might have been the funniest Conference story in several years. His daughter intending to go on a blind date allowed herself to be picked up by a young man who was expecting to pick up a baby sitter.

Do you have other favorites? Let me know.

*****

UPDATE: I recommend reading some of the interesting conversation Arthur Sido and I are having on the topic of the need for modern prophets in the comments section of General Conference of the Latter-day Saints. Arthur is a very articulate, thoughtful Christian and a former LDS.

General Conference of the Latter-day Saints (Mormons)

Recommended to all (even non-members of the Church) is the 178th Semiannual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which is this Saturday and Sunday, October 5th and 6th. This is a chance to learn what Latter-day Saints REALLY believe.

The Conference is held in the LDS Conference Center in Salt Lake City. If one wants to attend in person, then one must contact an LDS Bishop to obtain tickets. At this late date, there are not many left to distribute. However, most Latter-day Saints watch Conference on TV or Internet, or they listen on radio.

One way to watch Conference is by attending the broadcast at a LDS meetinghouse. Everyone is welcome, even babies and children. (Normally, people wear their "Sunday-best" to these broadcasts, but any form of modest clothing will be accepted). To find your local meetinghouse, see this map. Try to call before attending to make sure the broadcast is available in the meetinghouse of your choice.

Local cable carriers often broadcast conference. You would need to call to determine the channel. Beware that it is sometimes not broadcast live by these carriers.

Live TV broadcasts can be obtained by KBYU-TV, which is often carried by DISH Network and DirectTV.

KBYU broadcast schedule can be seen here.

Live video streams on the Internet can be obtained at:

LDS.org
BYU-TV #1
BYU-TV #2
BYU-TV #3
BYU-TV #4 (for language translations)

The General Conference Schedule is as follows:

MDT = Mountain daylight time—United States of America.

UTC = Coordinated Universal Time—the international time.

Saturday morning session (live broadcast)
MDT: Saturday, October 4, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.
UTC: Saturday, October 4, 2008, at 1600

Saturday afternoon session (live broadcast)
MDT: Saturday, October 4, 2008, at 2:00 p.m.
UTC: Saturday, October 4, 2008, at 2000

Sunday morning session (live broadcast)
MDT: Sunday, October 5, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.
UTC: Sunday, October 5, 2008, at 1600

Sunday afternoon session (live broadcast)
MDT: Sunday, October 5, 2008, at 2:00 p.m.
UTC: Sunday, October 5, 2008, at 2000

Each session is two hours long. For further schedule details see here.