#Christian Discipleship in the LDS Faith

[trberman]

A Royal Priesthood: Understanding Our Sacred Calling as Bridge builders for the Kingdom of God

1975-76 Personal study Guide for the Melchizedek Priesthood Quorums of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Part One | Introductory Lesson: “Teach One Another the Doctrine of the Kingdom” D&C 88:77 NOTE TO READER: This is an update and adaptation of the 1975-76 Melchizedek Priesthood personal Study guide published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints. This is part of a…

[mindfulldsliving]

Exploring Unity and Faithfulness in Clement's First Epistle: Lessons from Early Church Fathers

Clement’s First Epistle to the Corinthians offers a striking look into the early Christian church’s struggles and priorities. Written as a response to division and discord in the Corinthian congregation, it emphasizes unity, obedience, and service—principles that still resonate today. These early teachings encourage believers to live in harmony and remain faithful to Christ’s example. Exploring…

[not-so-superheroine]

i giving a talk using Zenos' allegory of the olive tree.

i sorta know what i'm doing, but this has got to be one of the most complex allegories i have ever read.

this is a long one, but here's what i got so far. lmk what you think.

trying to get my thoughts on paper. i talked with my pastor and an friend who was an apostle (they can retire in the Reorganization/ Community of Christ). she suggested that I focus on the parts that speak to me, make it known that it isn't in its fullest form when i give the message, and encourage members to read and study it themselves.

i am going to use the OG olive tree to represent the universal church (and also more specifically the wider latter day saint movement), and then scattering of and grafting on to other trees, as schism/ the scattering of the Saints. the OG tree coming back together could be ecumenism. us a christians (and further more latter day saints bc i think our sects/branches tend to be more antagonistic towards each other). because despite our differences, we must be one in Christ. and we can do this without losing our individual distinctiveness of how we worship, how we believe, and how we express faith in God, but must be one as the Universal Church (and as Saints/Mormons). and that is very hard (ex. having convos with ppl who think i am cursed for example), but the work must be done bc in the D&C Christ says "If ye are not one, ye are not mine". we have a responsibility towards each other, encouraging our siblings, brothers and sisters to grow in their discipleship and extend Christ's compassion.

the scattering of the Saints was necessary for survival, but the total separation has detrimental effects. the pruning of the branches bearing bad fruit, could be the traditions, practices, and policies our faith communites that cause harm / do not carry out our mission of building Christ's peaceable kingdom. man's rule should not bar anyone from Christ's table, as ALL are welcome at Christ's table. this is necessary for healthy trees (our faith communites) and for ecumenism to take place. because otherwise we would be perpetuating harm to vulnerable members (and others).

examples of pruning branches bearing bad fruit could be the RLDS/CoC church beginning to ordain women and the LDS church ordaining Black men (both imperfectly implemented admittedly). and the UMC going through growing pains of acceptance for LGBTQ+ ordination and Baptists churches pursuing ordination and more rights for Baptist women.

I should probably mention things that we (CoC) still need to prune. We had a February policy banning non-monogamists from the preisthood. also discrimination in ordination of LGBTQ+ persons in priesthood, as much as we like to pretend we're all accepting.

So there is work to be done to be that ecumenical tree (the gathering of the saints/ building of Zion together as a home for all). and that i believe Christ calls us to do it.

i am still rather new to the Book of Mormon, and i was selected specifically because i do ecumenical work, especially with other latter day saint sects, to build bridges to understanding, not be so cloistered, and ease contentions and not (sometimes literally) attack each other.

wdyt? appreciate any feedback. mostly lefty congregation, but other sects can be a touchy subject if the schism is too close to home.

though it is important to talk about it anyway, i think.

[mormonmonastery]

i don't know if you agree with this, but i feel like president oaks is one of those people that when they say something good, they say something really good but when they say something bad, it's really bad. for example, i found an old talk of his where he says, "Of course, there will be differences in the personal standards and social activities of faithful Latter-day Saints and members of other groups. But these differences are no excuse for ostracism, arrogance, or unkindness by LDS people"

but then he says things like in october conference and it’s like …… (also i’ve tried to send this like 4 times so if you received multiples, i’m sorry & my b)

Yeah, I’d basically agree. He’s obviously well-educated and rhetorically talented, which shows in the clear and precise way he’s able to treat a wide variety of topics, esp. in regards to ecclesiastical practice. Oaks would probably disagree with this next compliment I’m willing to give him, but I think the linguistic distinction he made between priesthood keys and priesthood authority has done a great amount of good shifting conversation within the Church closer towards being ready to accept gender equality as the divine truth it is (see 2 Nephi 26:33). He can do really good when he wants to and the quote you offer is a good example!

But, like all of us, he has some blind spots when it comes to living out the gospel. Those blind spots are really overwhelmingly obvious to me because I grew up in a culture where the kind of bigotry and marginalization Oaks often shows to our LGBTQ+ friends and siblings-in-Christ has gradually come to be seen as (rightfully!) beyond the pale, as well as in a social setting where the kind of reflexive confidence in authority that Oaks and several people in his generation has repeatedly been shown to cause harm, perpetuate injustice, and create risk (for both a lawyer and religious leader, his grasp on epistemology in his most recent conference talk is, like, I’m trying to be charitable here but…glaringly shallow).

Our awareness of these blind spots, even in someone with such a major leadership role in the Church, should help us to turn inward and ponder what truths we’re ignoring and where God asks us to open our eyes. I don’t want to parrot that reflexive line that’s always tossed to members when they’re critical of something or someone in the Church about how they should stop criticizing and repent themselves–Oaks’ homophobia undoubtedly deserves and requires criticism; that’s an essential part of anything approaching a Christlike response to it. What I’m saying is: if the first counselor in the first presidency is backwards and unchristian in his approach on at least one issue…well, it’s pretty clear that God doesn’t just erase our prejudices for us or force us to live commandments like the Golden Rule. Overcoming those prejudices and living that higher law is a task that we either do or don’t do. Of course, God will and must support us as we move closer to light and truth, but the choice to do so or not is ours alone. That’s true of all the commitments that Christian discipleship asks of us and it’s a good thing to realize that, pop culture parable aside, Jesus isn’t gonna carry us anywhere we outright refuse to go.      

[forgivenseventytimesseven]

"And [I am] willing to enter into a covenant with [you] God to do [your] will, and to be obedient to [your] commandments in all things that [you] command [me], all the remainder of [my] days, that [I] may not bring upon [myself] a never ending torment as has been spoken by the angel, that [I] may not drink out of the cup of [thy] wrath [O] God".

- Mosiah 5:5 -

Its so cool likening the scriptures to ourselves and making them personal

[kuyavancreations]

For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 1 Timothy 6:7 

#missionarylife #missions #jesus #mission #gospel #christian #missionaries #love #church #ministry #bible #faith #missionarylife #jesuschrist #lds #god #prayer #evangelism #pastor #generalconference #missionarywork #christianity #bookofmormon #latterdaysaints #ywam #greatcommission #preacher #discipleship #evangelist #leadership

[shijumoni]

வெளி. 21 7: ஜெயங்கொள்ளுகிறவன் எல்லாவற்றையும் சுதந்தரித்துக்கொள்ளுவான்; நான் அவன் தேவனாயிருப்பேன், அவன் என் குமாரனாயிருப்பான். He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. (KJV) Thank you Jesus 💓 🙏 #Dailythought #dailythoughts #DailyThought #DailyTonic #BibleVerse #Nattytunes #OLLMNBPOEL #dailydevotional #discipleship #daybydaydiscipleship #lds #latterdaysaint #latterdaysaints #dailythought #faith #faithjourney #faithtransition #faithawakening #eternaltruths #davidbhaight #discipleofchrist #jeffreyrholland #christian #thebookofmormon #christianthoughts #followchrist #readthebookofmormon #salvationforadollar #byu #ldsquotes (at Chennai, India) https://www.instagram.com/p/B4ZIo9MAZUx/?igshid=28h497ciqpa0

[lincoln-cannon]

Each spring and fall, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the largest Mormon denomination) holds a worldwide conference. For ten hours over two days, top leaders of the Church speak in-person to over 20,000 members gathered in a conference center in Salt Lake City, and via Internet and television broadcast to a much larger audience (probably in the millions) gathered in homes and church buildings around the world. The most recent conference was held yesterday and today. Below are 90 of my own thoughts as I watched the conference. As is my custom, the thoughts include observations, and range from affirmations to criticisms, and from questions to assertions. My intent is to provoke reflection, questions, and comments. I feel this is essential to meaningful engagement with the conference, which is something I value as a member of the Church.

I wonder if we've already received Thomas Monson's last general conference sermon?

Eyring looks healthy and happy. Good. For me, he represents an important influence on Mormon tradition.

Uchtdorf suggests humans feel the call of heaven like non-human animals instinctually feel their way home across great distances.

Uchtdorf finds encouragement in the weaknesses of religious leaders in our history. If they can do divine work, so can we.

Uchtdorf says God works through us if we make an effort, learning and applying. Christian discipleship must be an active faith.

Oscarson is the first woman to speak at LDS conference. Maybe she thought too few women spoke last time. ;)

Oscarson wants to have a face-to-face conversation with me rather than have me tweet about her! :)

The main limitation of tech communication compared to face-to-face is its relatively low bandwidth, for now. That will change.

Oscarson just shared a picture of her daughter-in-law and my friend, Marie-Laure Oscarson, who taught me French in the MTC.

Oaks says exaltation is more than salvation, and that exaltation is a family matter. Isn't all of humanity our family?

Oaks construes progressive marriage law as worldly, but most of the world is conservative on marriage law.

Oaks points out that the Proclamation explicitly promotes straight marriage. But it does not explicitly demote gay marriage. Why?

Dear Elder Oaks, why did God NOT inspire you and the other authors of the Proclamation to demote gay marriage explicitly?

Pingree says God uses ordinary persons to accomplish extraordinary things. How about immortality and eternal life!

We often over-emphasize criticisms of the world and under-recognize that Mormon scripture teaches that Earth will become heaven.

Christofferson says we ought to fully and completely incorporate the life and character of Christ in our being. This is theosis.

Christofferson encourages holiness, as we esteem God holy. This is the sublime esthetic, the holy esthetic, the holy spirit.

I like the French translation of "Holiness to the Lord" on LDS temples, transliterated back to English: Sanctity to the Eternal.

Christofferson points out that we're not alone in salvation. We are the Body of Christ. Salvation is not individual after all.

Holland jokes about the apparent impossible weight of Jesus' command to be perfect as God is perfect.

Holland encourages personal improvement in a way that doesn't include ulcers, anorexia, or depression.

Holland points out that we now "live in a Telestial kingdom". So let it be settled: progression between heavens must be possible.

Holland points out our only hope for perfection is as a gift of grace. Exactly. Forgive. Give grace as received. It's the only way.

Holland is perhaps the most empathetic advocate of divine grace that Mormon leadership has ever produced.

Holland discourages toxic expectations of ourselves, each other, and Church leaders. Good advice. We all need each other's grace.

Holland points out the sublime Mormon teaching that Jesus himself progressed "grace for grace" and extends it to us.

Amen, Elder Holland. Amen.

Salvation is not an individual matter. It requires grace, of God and of each other. We are saved as the Body of Christ, not alone.

I know I'm not the only Mormon who finds the Scandinavian Jesus with an Oxford accent incredibly distracting from the message.

Remember. Technology is not the enemy. Technology empowers our participation in the work and glory of God.

I look forward to the day when technology empowers the average person, if she chooses, to heal others as medical doctors do today.

Uchtdorf is letting Eyring take his turn at facing the opposition votes. :)

"I'm trying to be like Jesus." This may be the most dangerous song Mormons teach our children to sing. ;)

Stevenson compares the solar eclipse to small mundane matters that block our vision of large sublime matters. Interesting analogy.

Stevenson rightly points out that technology is not inherently good or evil. It's just power to use for good or evil.

Stevenson reminds us that the carefully crafted self-presentations on social media are always incomplete. Life is complex.

Stevenson says, "Let us use technology to help each other ... become our finest."

I'm not sure Stevenson's "gospel glasses" metaphor works as well as his "gospel eclipse" metaphor.

Owen points out that repentance should be framed as uplifting progress. It is change, taking on Christ. It is transfiguration.

Owen says the Atonement is not merely for sinners. It's for saints too. At-one-ment requires all. Reconciliation requires all.

Framing repentance in context of "atonement," as Mormons do, has interesting ramifications. Change. Be one.

Cook says our time on Earth is as fleeting as a British summer. :)

Cook contrasts the smallness of humanity with our divine potential, no matter our race or gender.

Cook says Christ-character includes humility, righteousness, and intelligence. There's both some heart and some brain there.

Cook says emphasis of authenticity sometimes leads to arrogance. He's right.

Authenticity has no inherent value. It may have contextual value. Love the superhumanity in your neighbor as in yourself.

Cook quotes, "The test of greatness is how one meets the eternal everyday." I imagine the Gods reminding themselves of that.

Rasband rejects coincidence. I wonder if God rejects coincidence. Is there a way around Heisenberg and Godel? I doubt it.

Rasband says God orchestrates. I trust that to be the case. I also consider that completely compatible with coincidence.

It seems to me that there is no need for orchestration where there is no possibility of coincidence.

Rasband says agency fits into the plan of God. I wonder if he thinks God always knows our choices in advance of us making them.

Rasband quotes the Bible, which claims that all things will work together for good. That's an idea worth trusting -- actively.

Haleck points out that Church members in developing areas contribute as illustrated by the story of the widow's mite.

Nelson, speaking now, is most likely the next president of the LDS Church -- perhaps soon because Monson's health appears poor.

Nelson emphasizes "him" and "his" describing God. I wish our leaders would talk more about Heavenly Mother.

Nelson calls attention to the idea that progress continues after this life. I love this very Mormon conception of heaven.

Nelson says death allows us to progress to the next world. I wonder if he would tell the Three Nephites that? ;)

Renlund's reasoning on the relation between priesthood and atonement doesn't make sense to me. Wish we could ask questions.

Renlund seems to be suggesting there's some kind or extent of unique access to atonement for priesthood holders. Strange.

Evans encourages questioning and shows respect for good persons that question matters related to the Church. I like that.

I'm interested in an LDS leader talk comparing and contrasting scientific knowledge with confidence in trustworthiness of religion.

Uchtdorf is emphasizing a conception of spiritual light. For some inspiration, look at "light" references in D&C.

Uchtdorf points out that Mormon scripture equivocates between "light" and "spirit" and "truth". He could add "intelligence".

Nice to hear Uchtdorf mention Christ as the "light of the world" after previous talks on negative characterizations of the world.

I want to be OF that world of which Christ is the light -- to those with ears to hear. ;)

Eyring points out that it takes great faith to sustain imperfect leaders. He's right, but he's among the easier to sustain. :)

Eyring mentions that Bishops have a hard job because ward members know their weaknesses. Indeed. What a difficult job.

Eyring's persistent willingness to vulnerability about his own shortcomings is among the reasons he's relatively easy to sustain.

Bingham says Christ can relieve disasters and commotions in the world. I'd like to hear LDS leaders say more about those problems.

Hallstrom addresses the problem of evil. Without a solution, he praises faith in the face of evil. This is unsatisfying for many.

Bednar takes up the subject of theosis, taking on the divine nature, progressing grace by grace as exemplified by Jesus.

Zwick says we should look past easy assumptions and stereotypes. Amen.

Ballard encourages remembrance of Mormon pioneers. I'm often inspired by their practical perseverance in pursuit of our vision.

Ballard raises warnings against charlatans who promote supernatural healing. Good call. Science and medicine matter.

Ballard criticizes sexism, racism, and "nationalism." I wonder what he thinks constitutes the latter.

Callister describes the complexity of the production of the Book of Mormon. Strong point. It is strange book.

Callister rightly points out that the purpose of the Book of Mormon is to advocate the Gospel of Christ, and not history.

Koch encourages saying "Amen" after talks, to signify agreement. Okay. But I don't always agree! :)

I'm concerned that some may interpret Koch's thoughts to mean they should not express disagreements constructively.

I do not feel united with persons who withhold constructive expressions of their disagreements from me.

Ellis asks if we trust imperfect persons to lead us well? Sure. But I don't trust them to lead us perfectly.

Ellis says some people create businesses from nothing. Hmm. Not even God created the world from nothing, according to Mormonism.

Parrella also takes up the theme of authoritarian obedience. Our culture excessively emphasizes this.

I think we should give more attention to persuasion and less attention to obedience. And I suspect we would like the results.

Parrella quotes the Book of Mormon declaration that death is an "awful monster." I like that passage.

Andersen shared some visuals depicting light moving across the world. Conference would probably benefit from more use of visuals.

Andersen gives insight into how LDS leaders prepare conference talks. I appreciate the humanity of it.

Andersen repeats the denunciation of "nationalism." What do LDS leaders mean by this?

Andersen shares some thoughts and words in tribute to Elder Hales, who passed away during conference.

Anderson quotes Monson in conclusion, emphasizing love. That's a good way to end.

Originally published at lincoln.metacannon.net on October 01, 2017 at 05:06PM.

[mindfulldsliving]

Understanding Doctrine and Covenants Section 1: Hearken to the Lord’s Voice

Doctrine and Covenants Section 1 isn’t just an introduction—it’s the Lord’s own preface to revelations meant for our day. This section calls us to “hearken,” emphasizing the urgency of listening to His words. It’s a reminder that His voice pierces confusion, offering guidance and promises of peace. As we explore this preface, we’ll uncover its modern relevance and the eternal blessings that come…

[mindfulldsliving]

Are You Growing Spiritually? Responding to Misunderstandings About LDS Teachings on Grace and Discipline

Have you ever wondered if spiritual growth is a matter of worthiness or effort? Michelle Grimes’ recent take on Latter-day Saint (LDS) teachings around grace and discipline has raised questions about what it truly means to grow spiritually within the LDS faith. Unfortunately, her interpretation misses key principles about balancing divine grace and personal responsibility. LDS teachings offer…

[mindfulldsliving]

Understanding 3 Nephi 14:21-24: A Call to Authentic Faith

In the pursuit of true discipleship, words alone do not suffice. This timeless truth is powerfully illustrated in 3 Nephi 14:21-24, where actions, not mere proclamations, define our faith.

True Discipleship: Embracing Christ’s Words for Eternal Entry When it comes to true discipleship, 3 Nephi 14:21-24 offers a clear and powerful message: mere words aren’t enough to enter the kingdom of heaven. It’s a poignant reminder that faith and actions must align seamlessly, ensuring that we not only profess our beliefs with our lips but embody them in our daily lives1. In these verses,…

[mindfulldsliving]

Striving for Spiritual Perfection: Lessons from 3 Nephi 12:48

In the Book of Mormon, 3 Nephi 12:48 stands out as a pivotal scripture, calling individuals to pursue the ideal of spiritual perfection. Understanding its context within the larger narrative of the Book of Mormon helps illuminate its profound significance

Spiritual Perfection: Understanding 3 Nephi 12:48 in Modern Life How can we strive for spiritual perfection in a world full of distractions? 3 Nephi 12:48, “I would that ye should be perfect,” challenges us with this profound question. This call to spiritual and moral perfection resonates through history and remains relevant today. By aiming to become more like Christ, we’re urged to live a life…

[mindfulldsliving]

Daily Cross-Bearing: Living True Discipleship Today

Discipleship is a journey woven deeply into the fabric of Christian faith. It beckons us to follow in the footsteps of Christ, embodying His teachings day by day.

Understanding Discipleship: Taking Up Your Cross in 3 Nephi 12:30 and Matthew 16:24-26 When we consider the words of Jesus in 3 Nephi 12:30 and Matthew 16:24-26, we find a call that pierces the heart of true discipleship: “Take up your cross.” These teachings challenge us to weigh the essence of following Christ against the pull of worldly gain. Christ urges us to deny ourselves and embrace the…

[mindfulldsliving]

Bearing Your Cross: Keys to True Discipleship

n examining 3 Nephi 12:19-30, we find a powerful message on Christian discipleship. This passage calls us to embrace a broken heart and contrite spirit while rejecting anger and lust. It’s here that the path to true discipleship becomes clear.

Exploring Christian Discipleship: Broken Hearts, Anger, and Bearing the Cross In examining 3 Nephi 12:19-30, we find a powerful message on Christian discipleship. This passage calls us to embrace a broken heart and contrite spirit while rejecting anger and lust. It’s here that the path to true discipleship becomes clear. Jesus’ teachings challenge us to bear our cross with dedication and…

[mindfulldsliving]

Understanding 3 Nephi 12:9: A Call to Peace

As we explore 3 Nephi 12:9, we delve into one of the most profound teachings by the Savior: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." This verse carries a timeless message that resonates with individuals

Peacemakers: The Divine Call to Create Harmony in a Chaotic World In a world teetering on the edge of chaos, the need for peacemakers has never been more evident. The promise of 3 Nephi 12:9, “blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God,” serves as a timeless reminder of the power we hold in mending divides. Each day brings new challenges, yet the path of peace…

[kuyavancreations]

Starting a day by knowing a good ones are real blissful morning, Do you want that blissful morning by knowing real hereos missinonary stories throughout this year? Then contact us:   

நல்ல விஷயங்களை கேட்டு, பார்த்து, படித்து நம் நாளை துவங்குவது உண்மையில் ஓர் சிறந்த தினமாகக் தான் இருக்கும். உண்மையான நாயகர்களை பற்றிய மிஷனெரி கதைகளை அறிந்து இந்த வருடம் முழுவதும் ஆனந்தமான நாளை துவங்க உங்களுக்கு விருப்பமா?

#missionary #missions #jesus #mission #gospel #christian #missionaries #love #church #ministry #bible #faith #missionarylife #jesuschrist #lds #god #prayer #evangelism #pastor #generalconference #missionarywork #christianity #bookofmormon #latterdaysaints #greatcommission #preacher #discipleship #evangelist #leadership