I am loving my study of Jesus the Christby James Edward Talmage. I have read it before but its been a long time, and it is an excellent companion to my current study of the New Testament. In 1905, the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, requested Talmage to write the book that would later come to be known as Jesus the Christ. They requested he compile his lectures (as a professor of religion), into a book that could be widely available to church members and other readers. At the time, Talmage had many responsibilities with his church callings, his family, and his profession that kept him from starting the book but nearly ten years later, following another request from the First Presidency, he began in earnest writing Jesus the Christ. Such was the importance the First Presidency placed on the writing of this book, that they set aside space in the Salt Lake Temple for him to work uninterrupted and without the usual distractions of everyday life. Just under one year from starting it, Jesus the Christ was published in September 1915.
I am utterly amazed with every page that I read. Especially when I consider the conditions and time that Brother Talmage wrote. Writing in the world in which I live, I have at my fingertips, this computer – that I not only type on, but edit my own thoughts, and through which I can research almost any subject or printed work I desire. Most works on the life and ministry of the Saviour were written after Talmage’s time, though I am certain he had a few respected works that he read from. The most important sources of information however, were the scriptures themselves. and of course continual communion with the spirit of the Lord throughout the project. Clearly the fruits of his work were meant to be shared. It is my highest recommendation that everyone read it – at least once, hopefully several times. I promise that you will feel the spirit as you do, and that your testimony of Jesus the Christ will expand. You will refer back to the things you learn for many years to come.
What a joy it is for me to read it again with a few other women friends who are also reading in conjunction with their current study of the New Testament. We are taking turns reviewing chapters, and this chapter fell to me to share. In the interest of time (as I tend to be too wordy anyway) I chose to focus on Zacharias, as his story spoke to me.
My thoughts on chapter 7, the Annunciation of John and Jesus.
The story of the annunciation of the most important birth in the history of the world, and the annunciation of the forerunner that accompanies it, are in my opinion commonly skipped over, as to be almost a postscript of the Christmas story. We are all familiar with the stories. We could relate them briefly from memory: Gabriel visited the elderly priest Zacharias in the temple, and told him his prayers had been heard and that he and his wife Elisabeth would soon have a son. The angel told Zacharias that this boy would be great in the sight of the Lord, and that his name was to be John. We know that the priest was amazed to the point of doubting that such a thing was even possible, due to the age of he and his wife. He asked for a sign and was given one – that he would be dumb until the foretold events unfolded. And so it was.
We know that the same angel visited the young Mary a few months later, and gave her similar news. That she would conceive and bear a son whom she should name Jesus. We know that Mary was a virgin – which was integral to the story because no mortal man would be the father of this child. He would be the Son of God. Nothing doubting she willingly submitted herself completely, to her role in this wondrous plan. We know that the angel told her about her older cousin Elisabeth’s condition and that Mary went to visit her. We know that the two women, old and young – found solace in each other as they sorted out their respective roles. And then we get to the real event: Christmas story about the birth and the shepherds and the heavenly choir and the wisemen who came from the east. And we leave the annunciations to the side for another year, and another brief recounting.
I love that an entire chapter in JESUS THE CHRIST is devoted to fleshing out these two stories because in them lie truths and context that will aid us greatly in our understanding. Beginning with the story of Zacharias and Elisabeth, Elder Talmage explains that many generations had passed in Israel since any heavenly contact had been noted, even in the temple. In fact, the people had come almost to believe that those were things of the past and that there were no longer prophets in Israel. So it is not difficult to imagine the surprise, and even a healthy trepidation when Zacharias found himself no longer alone as he fulfilled his singular responsibilities in a part of the temple that was forbidden to everyone except for a chosen priest when called upon to be there. And even that priest would likely only be there once in his lifetime.
It may seem unnecessary but I believe it is important to Re-emphasize that Zacharias was a ‘good’ man. Such a good man that Luke described both he and his wife as “righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless“. I’d love to be described that way. Truly they “walked the covenant path” as we would say today. They had lived their lives out, never having been blessed with children – which no doubt was a great sorrow for them (for a number of reasons). The angel implied that that sorrow had been the subject of many a prayer on the part of Zacharias when he said “Fear not Zacharias; for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.” He further said that the couple would have joy and gladness and that many others as well “would rejoice at his birth, for he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb.” The angel said that John will go before the Lord teaching, and making ready the people for the Lord.
This ‘forerunner’ had been prophesied by Old Testament prophets, just as the coming Messiah had been prophesied, and there is little doubt that Zacharias recognized the prediction of what the angel now referred to. And THIS is where we should remind ourselves how good a man Zacharias was, because he had a ‘weak moment’, and for that weak moment – that temporary lack of faith, he was severely chastised. Gabriel stood tall and let Zacharias know just who exactly he was speaking to. “I am GABRIEL, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. And behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words[!]” Take that Zack! That good and faithful man’s worst day was recorded for the rest of Christendom to reflect on for two thousand years. And sadly, it is the thing he became best known for. How would you like your worst moment – the one you regretted from the get-go, to be what you are immortalized for?
If John was foretold, and set apart before the world began for his great calling – as we believe those “noble and great ones” that Abraham spoke of were, then it was also known who his parents would be. Brigham Young said of Joseph Smith’s heritage “The Lord had his eyes upon him, and upon his father, and upon his father’s father, and upon their progenitors clear back to … Adam. He has watched that family and that blood as it has circulated from its fountain to the birth of that man.” John too, would have had chosen parentage, chosen and set apart for their respective roles and responsibilities. Zacharias was special and so was Elisabeth. Long before they knew they’d be the parents of the one who would introduce the Saviour of the world to humanity, it was known who they would be. Zacharias was no ordinary-joe; he was a noble servant of God, who ultimately gave his life protecting his son when Herod slew the innocents in and around the hills of Bethlehem. And yet, in a critical moment he hesitated / he doubted. No heavenly visitations recorded in Israel, no prophets speaking to Israel in over 500 years! That the first one in half a millennia would tell you something as unexpected as what Gabriel told that aged priest – who could blame him for doubting? Would we do any better?
Zacharias lived with that sad sign for nearly a year – unable to verbally communicate with anyone, including Elisabeth – about the wondrous-ness of what they were experiencing. Talmage refers to him as “highly blessed though sorely smitten”, the penalty for his doubt already operative before he left the temple, and in place till his tongue was loosened on the day of John’s circumcision when he burst forth in prophecy saying among other things “And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; to give knowledge of salvation unto his people, by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God ….” Talmage said “The last words Zacharias had uttered prior to the infliction of dumbness, were words of doubt and unbelief, words in which he had called for a sign as proof of authority of one who came from the presence of the Almighty; the words with which he broke his long silence were words of praise unto God in whom he had ALL assurance …”
Yes, I think there may have been a little ‘shame’ in Zacharias having to live with the consequence of his doubt and challenge to the angel – so unbecoming of someone like himself. And yes, I think there might have been some tears as he confessed to Elisabeth why he had lost his power to speak. How could he not have felt it? But he was a better man than to wallow in it. He had learned a good lesson that I doubt he’d ever forget. He and Elisabeth had nine silent months to draw closer to God and to feel of His great love for them, and to marvel at the fact that they were about to have a son, and not just any son! It’s insightful to consider the humility that would naturally accompany the assignment to parent such a child! Such a privilege. Oh, I am SURE they knew they were loved and trusted – notwithstanding past mistakes.
There may be times in our lives when we’re not our best selves. Times when our faith wavers, when we doubt and question things we never thought we’d doubt or question. Or perhaps someone we love lets us down in the moment they should have done better. I believe Zacharias would have some counsel for us. I believe he would own his ‘moment’ and refer to it as the great lesson it was for him. I’d love to hear his counsel. I believe he would ask us to allow ourselves a little grace, and that he’d reassure us God never stops loving us – even when we have to live out some natural consequences of our actions. “Let God prevail” I think he would say. And surely God WILL prevail.
Thank you Zacharias for moving forward in faith. And for never wavering again. Thank you for telling your story so that Luke could write it down many years later. Thank you for being brave enough to let your weak moment be known, so that we could learn from it, and more understand the nature of God. Thank you for the important role you played in events that you never lived to see transpire. Thank you for living your life in such a way that God chose you to play that role.
Thank you Elisabeth for loving the man that he was, and for being patient in living with the consequence of his mistake, not your own. Thank you for being a true mother in Zion even when you despaired of ever having your own children, and for devoting the rest of your life to raising this one very special son.
Thank you Luke for being kind to Zacharias as you shared his story, and for emphasizing that notwithstanding what we were about to learn about him, he was an exceptionally good and obedient man, walking blameless before the Lord.
Thank you Brother Talmage for feeling a love for Zacharias, and for helping me to see him through a different lens.
I’d love to hear your thoughts Reader, on this great and humble figure in the New Testament – who would have lived his life out in obscurity except for the son he would sire. And of course his one weak moment.
Warmly,
Cindy Suelzle
*quote about Joseph Smith’s heritage found in Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young (1997), pg 96. *other quotes found in the chapter reviewed here
Okay, yes, the simple answer is that the Articles of Faith are a summary of Latter-Day Saint doctrine, coming from a letter Joseph wrote to a journalist named Wentworth, and that letter has come to be called “the Wentworth letter”. I think most of us could recite that little fact. But who was John Wentworth and why would Joseph feel that much of a commitment to take the kind of time he devoted to drafting up this extensive discourse for him? He was an extremely busy man, and couldn’t possibly dedicate that much time in responding to everyone’s curiousity. And more importantly, at least for me, where did each point of doctrine come from? How did Joseph gain a testimony of each of them? And what do each of them tell of his personal journey?
In 1842 a request was made of Joseph Smith for a brief review of the history of the “Mormons” and what they believed. Who better to ask right? Though the request was made by John Wentworth, editor of the Chicago Democrat Newspaper, it was ultimately not for him. He made the request on behalf of his friend George Barstow, who was writing a book about the history of New Hampshire. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints up till that point, had been the target of much persecution and continuous slander in newspapers across the country. You might say “the Mormons” were used to being misrepresented – even joked about, in the papers. Certainly honest inquiry for a fair understanding was not often made. Since Joseph judged that Mr. Barstow had taken the proper steps to obtain correct information, he agreed to provide it, with one stipulation: that “he publish the account entire, ungarnished and without misrepresentation.”
Wentworth Letter in THE TIMES AND SEASONS March 1842
The result was what Joseph entitled “The Rise, Progress, Persecutions and Faith of the Latter-day Saints”. It contained not just a history beginning with his First Vision, but a prophetic declaration of the Church’s future success in the earth under the protective hand of the Great Jehovah, and several important details not found elsewhere in the Prophet’s teaching. It was the first time that Joseph Smith published his own account of the First Vision, and it concluded with a summary of the basic beliefs of the Church in 13 distinct declarations of faith. Interestingly for his own reasons, the essay was never used by Mr. Barstow in his book, but it was published in the Times & Seasons – the Church’s twice monthly publication from their printing press in Nauvoo – in March of 1842, and has become of tremendous worth to the members of the Church. It’s funny how important things come out of unexpected opportunities. The letter itself became known as THE WENTWORTH Letter, and the 13 points of doctrine became known as THE 13 ARTICLES OF FAITH. Later that year, on October 10, the Articles of Faith were formally accepted as scripture by vote of the members of the Church. They are as important today as they were then, as they encapsulate beautifully and concisely, the basic tenets of our religion.
He succinctly summarized the amazing and moving history of the church, made even more amazing since it was not quite even a dozen years old, and included what he called the inhuman treatment of his people at the hands of mobs (winked at by politicians). Notwithstanding the stumbling blocks continually put in the Church’s path, including his own multiple arrests and lengthy imprisonments, Joseph gave a review of the progress the church was making. That they made any progress at all – is miraculous. “Persecution has not stopped the truth,” he said “but has only added fuel to the flame, it has spread with increasing rapidity. … Amidst calumny and reproach, …” he names states and countries where Elders of the Church had travelled teaching the gospel, and from which thousands of converts were springing. He concludes his heartfelt historical summary up till that point, with this announcement, beloved by members of the Church till this day for its stirring message:
“The Standard of Truth has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done.” (the Wentworth Letter)
Take THAT! A powerful statement that has proved true in the almost two centuries since he wrote it.
But WHERE did those points of doctrine come from? There were not direct revelation, as were so many other doctrines Joseph brought to us. Upon close scrutiny, it is clear they sprang from specific and accumulative milestones in Joseph’s life. Teaching milestones. I find it helpful to privately review them, and to consider the possible life experiences that proceeded them, and that caused Joseph to affirm each individual doctrinal testimony – for that is exactly what they are. Testimonies.
We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ and in the Holy Ghost.
Joseph taught that the most important thing we could ever know was the true nature of God. Before the spring of 1820, like the rest of us, he had no idea what that might have been. The concept of the Trinity had infiltrated most Christian religions although to explain it, was most difficult. Joseph learned first hand, visually, audibly and spiritually that the Father and the Son are two separate, distinct beings, and that together with the Holy Ghost – they constitute the Godhead. Not one in being, but one in purpose. It is not surprising then, that the Articles of Faith should begin at the beginning – with revealed truth as taught where his mission began, in a grove of trees. It came to be known as “the FIRST VISION”, for there would be others, many others.
What was the First Vision?
In the years leading up to 1820, the eastern region of the United States was afire with religious fervor, a veritable explosion of religious revivalism. These were the decades following the Revolutionary War, most families still had grandfathers who fought in that war. Recent climate upheavals owing to the volcanic eruption of Mount Tambora in the Dutch Indies (present day Indonesia) triggered extreme global affects. April 10, 1815 was the day Mount Tambora reached its violent climax, but increased steaming and smaller eruptions continued to occur for the following three years. The resulting ash dispersed around the world and lowered global temperatures in a way that has not been observed in recorded history before or since. In many parts of the world, 1816 became known as the Year-Without-a-Summer.
Many people interpreted this to be a manifestation of divine disapproval. It is not surprising that it sparked religious intensity. But as we all know, religion does not always imply peace, and there was anything but peace in the revivals that sprang up and traveled among the American states. In Joseph’s words, “the cry and tumult were great and incessant“. Communities and even families were split between factions. Joseph’s family was no exception, some filing off to the Methodists, some to the Presbyterians.
1820 was Joseph’s 14th year, and as an earnest youth he was anxious to find the right church for himself. “While I was labouring under the extreme difficulties caused by the contest of these parties of religionists” he said, “I was one day reading the Epistle of James, first chapter and fifth verse which reads: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again, knowing that if any person needed wisdom from God, I did; for how to act I did not know, and unless I could get more wisdom than I then had, I would never know; for the teachers of religion of the different sects understood the same passages of scripture so differently as to destroy all confidence in settling the question by an appeal to the Bible. At length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion, or else I must do as James directs, that is, ask of God. I at length came to the determination to ‘ask of God’ . . .”
The Desires of My Heart by Walter Rane
In accordance with his determination, Joseph retired to a spot in the woods near his home and kneeled down to offer up the desires of his heart to God. The result, as any Latter-day Saint knows, was not only the answer to his prayer, but the answer to the prayers of thousands of pure hearted truth seekers for centuries. The time was at hand, and this young American plough boy – who had been prepared from the foundation of this world to be the prophet of the Restoration, got his first glimpse of what the rest of his earthly mission would entail.
The first Article of Faith states firmly and without distraction, what Joseph observed with his own two eyes that day. That God the Eternal Father, and His Son Jesus Christ were two separate and distinct, tangible beings of pure light and glory. Their relationship as stated by the Father, is undeniably that of Father and Son. He also experienced first hand, the power of the Holy Ghost. Everything else he learned would come after this foundational truth.
Why do WE Believe this principle? Well, I don’t know why you believe it, but I believe it because as I have learned the doctrine and studied the account, and come to know my Saviour personally, the Holy Ghost has testified to me that it is true.
2. We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.
In the years following his First Vision, Joseph had some growing up to do; he wasn’t above the usual follies of youth. Those and the painful lessons he learned surrounding Martin Harris’ loss of the 116 pages, regarding the principles of agency and personal accountability, became foundational in his testimony about how we are accountable for our own actions: sins or mistakes. Lessons that would shape his future life, and influence every decision he made from that time forward. He was not a perfect man, and that imperfection was made so abundantly clear repeatedly as he went through the refiner’s fire of his short life. Those who loved him most knew he had his weaknesses. Who doesn’t? Being a prophet didn’t make him a perfected being? Even Abraham had his weaknesses.
But what a tender mercy it is to know that the mistakes we’ll pay for, will be our own, and not someone else’s. Understanding Choice and Accountability gives us responsibility for our own actions. It is made even more marvelous when considered in the light of the following doctrinal truth.
3. We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.
Though he feared for his soul after the loss of the 116 pages, he learned about mercy in section 3 of the D&C. The Lord laid out the situation, and exactly where the problem lay – fearing the opinion of men more than God. And who could blame Joseph for being concerned about the good opinion of men such as Martin Harris? and his father in law Isaac Hale? To his mortal way of seeing things, they were integral to moving the work forward. Without them Joseph had no means, and his ability to make a living could sustain his family only, not the additional expense of such a project as he was currently involved in, that of translating the record and its eventual publication. “You should have been faithful” the Lord tenderly chastised “and he would have extended his arm and supported you against all the fiery darts of the adversary and he would have been with you in every time of trouble.” (v8)
The Lord reminded him that what had happened was not conclusionary, and that though Satan constantly seeks to thwart the plan of God, yet “The works, and the designs, and the purposes of God cannot be frustrated, neither can they come to naught.” (v1) “Remember, … it is not the work of God that is frustrated, but the work of men.” (v3) Joseph needed to keep in mind who’s errand he was on. He was reminded that he had been given strict guidelines to follow regarding the plates, which were not only intended to protect them, but also to arm him. Promises that if he was diligent in their protection, the Lord would reach out and protect them, but at the same time – if he failed in his due diligence he had no such promise. Strict obedience regarding the plates, was crucial. (v5) He was comforted by the reassurance that “God is merciful” and though the situation was indeed serious, it was not unredeemable, and if he repented, he was still chosen, called to do the work. (v10,11) The Atonement of Christ overcomes all. The price was in fact – paid.
Why do I believe this principle? Because I too, have made mistakes. I too have carried the weight of not being right with my Father in Heaven. I too have been accountable for unhappiness (mostly my own), resulting from my actions. I too have judged too harshly, spoken too sharply, and reacted too swiftly. I too have felt the weight of repentance – a literal “turn” of my heart and actions. And I too have felt the redeeming joy of letting go that the Atonement has allowed. I literally know for myself that through the Atonement of Christ, I am saved. And through the Atonement of Christ, I can repeatedly put my life to rights again and again, and again.
4. We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Throughout the Book of Mormon, Joseph was taught that two principles always precede the ordinance of baptism. No privilege and blessing comes from God without repentance, but there was no point in repenting if one doesn’t first have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. With a measure of faith and following repentance, baptism is the first ordinance of the gospel – necessary to join with the Church of God and to progress. In 3 Nephi 11, he learned that the Father would visit those who were baptized with the Holy Ghost. “I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me. And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved . . . [And the Father] will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost.” (3N 11:32-33, 35)
5. We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.
Restoration by Liz Lemon Swindle
Joseph learned throughout his translation of the Book of Mormon, that men of God did not act without authority. And when they did not have authority, they deferred to someone who did – postponing important ordinances until one with authority could perform them.
The perfect example of this is found in Mosiah in the story of Limhi. Limhi was the son of King Noah, himself a good man not withstanding the terrible precedent set by his father. At the time Ammon and his search party found them, Limhi’s people were in bondage to the Lamanites, forced to pay high tribute, unable to escape, and nowhere to go if they did. The arrival of Ammon and his friends brought hope and joy to Limhi’s people, and more than that – they learned more of the gospel as taught by Abinadi.
“And now since the coming of Ammon, king Limhi had also entered into a covenant with God, and also many of his people, to serve him and keep his commandments. And it came to pass that king Limhi and many of his people were desirous to be baptized; but there was none in the land that had authority from God. And Ammon declined doing this thing, considering himself an unworthy servant.” (Mosiah 21:32-33) Whether Ammon lacked the authority or not, is unclear, but with or without authority he did not consider himself worthy to act in the name of God. “Therefore they did not at that time form themselves into a church, waiting upon the Spirit of the Lord. . . . They were desirous to be baptized as a witness and a testimony that they were willing to serve God with all their hearts; nevertheless they did prolong the time . . . ” (Mosiah 21:34,35)
Where does one get the authority to baptize? Joseph and Oliver Cowdery (his friend and scribe), saw how Jesus gave his disciples authority to baptize in the Book of Mormon – even giving specific instructions about how to do it, and the words to use. (3N:18) We know that this doctrine brought Joseph and Oliver to the realization that they had not been baptized, and they were very aware that they did not then posses the proper authority. That question was answered in the visitation of John the Baptist who conferred upon them the Aaronic Priesthood which he held and which thereby gave them the proper authority to baptize. As they continued to translate and write, they realized there was more. Line upon line, precept upon precept. More questions led to more revelation, and to them receiving the higher priesthood at the hands of Peter, James and John – which gave them authority to impart the gift of the Holy Ghost not only to each other, but to all those they would baptize.
They knew how that Priesthood authority was conferred because they personally experienced it, first at the hands of the resurrected being John the Baptist, then at the hands of Peter, James and John. Such was the restoration of authority to perform gospel ordinances, which led directly into the establishing of the Church, or rather restoring of the Church.
6. We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelist and so forth.
Without Purse or Script by Liz Lemon Swindle
With power and authority of the Holy Priesthood, as established by Jesus Christ in His primitive Church, Joseph followed the same patterns that existed in that ancient Church. The process began in Fayette, New York on April 6 1830, and continues till today, one step at a time as revelation directs. Within the first five years, offices and quorums of the Priesthood were organized, and as in the original church, apostles and prophets were called. From there, line upon line, principle upon principle – the Church of Jesus Christ unfolded as revelation directed and as the people were ready.
And almost two hundred years later, it is still unfolding line upon line, as revelation directs and as the people are ready. The Lord speaks today as He always did, through the mouth of His prophets. Why would it be any different? Can Heavenly Father love us less than he loved the Jews in the Old Testament or the Nephites in the Book of Mormon? Can all that we should ever know really have been provided two thousand years ago? Is God not still living? And if so, why would He not be involved in our doings? Why would He leave us without direction?
I am so grateful for the blessing of a living prophet on the earth today. I eagerly listen to every word he speaks in his position as President of the Church, and I happily align my life to the direction and counsel he gives.
7. We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues and so forth.
An outpouring of gifts of the Spirit were evident throughout the establishment of the Restored Church, but in Kirtland the Saints were blessed with unparalleled spiritual manifestations including all of the gifts mentioned in the seventh Article of Faith. All members of the Church were converts, and most had joined after only a few meetings with travelling missionaries – themselves new converts. While doctrinal understanding may have been minimal, the Saints were fueled by a constant flow of recorded revelation from a modern-day prophet and the Holy Ghost which testified of its truthfulness. It was an unbeatable combination.
Kirtland Temple dedicated March 27, 1836
The sacrifice that those early Saints were called to make astound us, but as Joseph later taught “A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things, never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation”. (Lectures on Faith 6:7) They certainly had experience with sacrifice, especially in the early Kirtland days, and they were rewarded with spiritual gifts of pentecostal proportions.
Throughout these two centuries, spiritual blessings have never ceased. We live in a day of witnessing prophecy fulfilled, of continual revelation unfolded before our very eyes, of healings and all manner of miracles associated with the Holy Spirit. It is our responsibility to see the hand of God in all things and to acknowledge His hand, in fact “in nothing doth man offend God, …. save those who confess not His hand in all things…” (D&C 59:21)
8. We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
Joseph grew up in a God loving, Bible reading family. He believed in, and honoured it as the word of God. He was accustomed to studying it, and as a young man with a troubling problem turned to it for help, with revelatory results. Shortly after the establishment of the Church, Joseph was engaged in the work of the translation of the Bible (1831 – 1833). It is important to note that in Joseph Smith’s day, the word translate not only meant to take something from one language into another; it also implied – to transfer, convey, interpret, or explain. Joseph frequently “used the word ‘translation’ in the wider sense of transmission, having reference to copying, editing, adding to, taking from, rephrasing, and interpreting“. (John F. Hall) When he said the Bible was not translated correctly, he wasn’t necessarily referring to the many languages it has been translated into, but also to the text having suffered at the hands of editors, copyists, and revisionists through centuries of transmission. This cannot be disputed or what explanation could there possibly be for having so many different interpretations of the Bible, as Joseph Smith experienced, and as we also experience.
Bible and the Book of Mormon Testify of Christ by Greg Olson
In law, a witness is someone who has knowledge about a matter. The fact that Latter-Day Saints refer to the Book of Mormon as “Another Testament of Jesus Christ” implies that there are primary testaments or witnesses. In fact there are two ‘other’ witnesses: the Old ‘testimony‘, and the New ‘testimony‘, and we continue to use both of them – the Bible – alongside of the Book of Mormon. Using the Book of Mormon: Another Testament(or testimony) of Jesus Christ along side of it, second witnesses many of the important truths, clarifies many conflicting points of doctrine, and resolves many doctrinal stumbling blocks. That is the beauty of an additional witness.
To the phrase “as far as it is translated correctly” the Prophet provides further insight in this statement “I believe the Bible as it read when it came from the pen of the original writers. Ignorant translators, careless transcribers, or designing or corrupt priests have committed many errors.” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, edited by Joseph Fielding Smith 1938)
Do we revere the Bible to be the word of God? YES! A resounding Yes. As far as it is translated correctly. We also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.
9. We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.
Joseph was an intimate witness of the fact that God continued to reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God. His entire adult life was a revelatory affair, many of which are recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants. What God had previously revealed was in scripture – which we reverently believe, and in those pre-1842 days referenced in the Wentworth Letter, Joseph received countless revelations – big and small. We believe that while a prophet lives, there is continual revelation – a literal outpouring of truth.
10. We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; and that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and the the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.
In 1838, the Saints moved west to Missouri. There they laid the foundation for the establishment of Zion, and from there the Lord called missionaries to go forth unto all the world, (D&C 114:1) expanding the work worldwide in gathering and restoring the tribes of Israel.
Although the article of faith refers to a physical gathering of Israel, the spiritual gathering of Israel refers to a complete conversion to Jesus Christ. In the early days of the church, baptism most often included a call to Zion that inspired tens of thousands to leave all they knew behind, sail an ocean and walk across a continent to be with people who believed as they did. They heeded the call to ‘gather’ to Zion in the 19th century.
This work of Gathering is no less in effect today, although physically converts remain in their own countries as the Church is established there. It remains of primary importance in the Church – so says President Russel M. Nelson. In speaking to the youth of the church in 2018 he clarified “When we speak of the gathering, we are simply saying this fundamental truth: every one of our Heavenly Father’s children, on both sides of the veil, deserves to hear the message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. They decide for themselves if they want to know more.” How important is it? He added “This is the mission for which you were sent to earth.” (Russell M. Nelson, Hope of Israel June 3, 2018)
11. We claim the privilege of worshipping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where or what they may.
Freedom of Worship by Norman Rockwell
How bitter it had to have been for the early members of the church to experience the intense hateful persecution they endured throughout their history. From the first hour Joseph shared his vision with a certain clergyman, he felt the sting of religious intolerance which escalated into vicious bullying. Everyone who followed him, shared in the same fate. This, in the “land of the free”, the land where their fathers and grandfathers fought in the Revolutionary War against tyranny, the land that boasted of inherent freedoms, one of which was Freedom of Religion. The American Constitution said “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” And yet, members of the new church were denounced, reviled, threatened, beaten, driven from their homes, imprisoned and even murdered. From New England to Ohio, from Ohio to Missouri, from Missouri to Illinois and after Joseph’s murder, to Indian Territory in the Valley of the Great Salt Lake.
Members of the Church knew first hand what that was like. All because of their religious affiliation. Is it any wonder that in Nauvoo, they established religious liberty? Away from the fires of Missouri, the horrific year surrounding their exile from the state, and Joseph’s imprisonment in Liberty Jail. A people who suffered like the early Saints suffered would not be able to idly stand by and watch the religious persecution of others. One year before the Wentworth Letter, Joseph published in the Times and Seasons newspaper “… we claim no privilege but what we feel cheerfully disposed to share with our fellow citizens of every denomination, and every sentiment of religion, and therefore say that, so far from being restricted to our own faith, let all those who desire to locate themselves in this place, or vicinity, come, and we will hail them as citizens and friends and shall feel it not only a duty, but a privilege …” (A Proclamation to the Saints Scattered Abroad,” Times and Seasons, 15 Jan. 1841) This was something intimate and personal to him.
12. We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honouring, and sustaining the law.
It is ironic that the law (or at least the people who represented the law), that chose not to protect the early Saints, was the very law that Joseph taught them to uphold. To do otherwise would be anarchy. In 1835, seven years prior to the Wentworth Letter Joseph Smith signed his name to the “laws and governments” that the leaders presented for the church, and now found in scripture: Doctrine & Covenants section 134. Verse 5 reads “We believe that all men are bound to sustain and uphold the respective governments in which they reside, while protected in their inherent and inalienable rights by the laws of such governments; and that sedition and rebellion are unbecoming every citizen, thus protected . . .” (D&C 134:5) Who could have imagined the horror that lay before them in the next few years? And yet, two years before he himself was murdered while awaiting trial, by a mob, their faces painted as black as their hearts, Joseph taught his people “We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honouring and sustaining the law.” Irony at its worst.
13. We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul – We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.
This is TRUE RELIGION. Practical Religion. This last profession is not one of doctrine, but of action. It is the walk that goes with the talk. It entails proper respect for oneself and love for one’s fellow men. “Religion without morality, professions of godliness without charity, church-membership without adequate responsibility as to individual conduct in daily life,” writes James E. Talmage “are but as sounding brass and tinkling cymbals – noise without music . . . . . Honesty of purpose, integrity of soul, individual purity, freedom of conscience, willingness to do good to all men even enemies, pure benevolence – these are some of the fruits by which the religion of Christ may be known. . . . . . . ” – James E. Talmage (Articles of Faith, pg 429)
“We have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things” summarizes over a decade of enduring experiences that taught values of Christian life better than an easier time might have. Joseph dedicated his entire adult life to learning these lessons. In summarizing them in these 13 Articles of Faith, he not only explained them to gentile readers, but taught them to members of the Church. They “are not abstract, theoretical, or theological propositions.” writes John W. Welch “They reflect real life. They crystalized out of the daily efforts and yearly struggles of faithful men, women, and children to do the will of God and to build His kingdom here on earth.” (John W. Welch is BYU Professor of Law, and Editor in Chief of BYU Studies)
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I learned the Articles of Faith when I was a girl of 11 years old. I memorized them then and they still reside in my mind, and in my heart. They are a comfort to me, and they put into words my foundational understanding of the gospel. They represent my core values. I thank my Heavenly Father for His Son, and for the gospel restored on the earth today through His Church. I thank Him for a living prophet and continued revelation. I thank Him for these 13 Articles of my Faith that solidify my testimony of critical principles. I often find myself rephrasing them in the first person: “I believe in God the Eternal Father, and in His Son Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost. I believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression. I believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. I believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. . . . . I believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly. I also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God. ….. I claim the privilege of worshipping almighty God according to the dictates of my own heart. And I allow all men the same privilege …. I believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed I may say that I follow the admonition of Paul – I believe all things, I hope all things, I have endured many things, and I hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, I seek after these things.”
I’d love to hear your thoughts on not only the Articles of Faith, and the experiences that led to their creation, but of how they affect you personally.
