The Following Blog Description Explains Why My Blog is named: "Four Books of Scripture Testify of Jesus Christ!
Jesus the Christ -by Del Parson
 |
| Jesus the Christ -by Del Parson |
WELCOME, NEW AND REGULAR VIEWERS OF THIS BLOG: In this and in every additional post of this blog you will be led on a carefully and prayerfully planned exciting and inspiring journey as you prepare by means of a guided study of the four sacred books of scripture I am shown holding above; which will assist you in becoming more righteously happy now and more fully prepared for eventual After-Mortality Eternal Endeavors on your part, along with your loved ones and countless other mortals who are seeking to qualify as our Heavenly Father's worthy children.
Those enabling Books of Scripture were brought about through the love of the Heavenly Father of our immortal spirits which now inhabit our mortal bodies; and were a key part of the Restoration of the Gospel, and of the establishment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, through the Prophet Joseph Smith early in the Nineteenth Century. Leading out in all of this, was of course, Our Heavenly Father's Only Begotten Son who is our Lord, Savior, and Redeemer, Jesus Christ (who initially was our eldest spirit brother and is the only one of us our Heavenly Father will have ever sired into mortality).
Jesus accomplished His Infinite Atonement, the Ultimate Mortal Sacrifice, along with His infallibly witnessed Resurrection. He is our Redeemer and Savior and has opened the way for each of us to learn with certainty through those four books of scripture, and through the inspired teachings of His prophets, seers and revelators of our day and those authorized by them; that some time after our mortal deaths, because of His atonement and resurrection, and depending on the level of individual righteousness we each attain to, through His grace, we can eventually experience Eternal Life in our own resurrected bodies, which in the case of those who fully heeded all of His scriptural guidance and the guidance of His authorized living servants, there will be full possession of Godly capabilities! J. Neil Birch
To Access This Blog's Index, Please Scroll Down To the Fifth Paragraph From the End of This Post! For Those of You Who May Be In a Hurry to Access it, Here it is now: Neil Birch's Blog Index.
****
TODAY'S THEME:
I, J. Neil Birch, Author of this Blog Post as you have been
informed in my Introduction, have chosen this week
to feature the October 2013 General Conference talk
given by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First
Presidency of the Church mentioned above. First,
I desire that you each learn about his background
before he was called to his position as a Councilor
to the President of the Church. You will also be
informed about his family.
http://www.lds.org/church/leader/dieter-f-uchtdorf
Now I invite each of you to listen to the General
Conference Talk He gave in the October 2013 General
Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints:
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/come-join-with-us?lang=eng
Now yours will be the opportunity of allowing me,
Blogger J. Neil Birch, to assist you to more fully benefit
from the Notes which President Uchtdorf provides
throughout the printed version his conference talk, which
is found in the November Ensign Magazine which is pub-
lished by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I do so by providing you greater access to them through
my Internet accessible Blog which is not possible for you
to do by reading his talk in the Ensign Magazine.
Come, Join with Us
By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf,
Second Counselor in the First Presidency
of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints
****
TODAY'S THEME:
I, J. Neil Birch, Author of this Blog Post as you have been
informed in my Introduction, have chosen this week
to feature the October 2013 General Conference talk
given by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First
Presidency of the Church mentioned above. First,
I desire that you each learn about his background
before he was called to his position as a Councilor
to the President of the Church. You will also be
informed about his family.
http://www.lds.org/church/leader/dieter-f-uchtdorf
Now I invite each of you to listen to the General
Conference Talk He gave in the October 2013 General
Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints:
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/come-join-with-us?lang=eng
By President Dieter F. Uchtdorf,
Second Counselor in the First Presidency
of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints
informed in my Introduction, have chosen this week
to feature the October 2013 General Conference talk
given by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First
Presidency of the Church mentioned above. First,
I desire that you each learn about his background
before he was called to his position as a Councilor
to the President of the Church. You will also be
informed about his family.
http://www.lds.org/church/leader/dieter-f-uchtdorf
Now I invite each of you to listen to the General
Conference Talk He gave in the October 2013 General
Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints:
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/come-join-with-us?lang=eng
Now yours will be the opportunity of allowing me,
Blogger J. Neil Birch, to assist you to more fully benefit
from the Notes which President Uchtdorf provides
throughout the printed version his conference talk, which
is found in the November Ensign Magazine which is pub-
lished by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I do so by providing you greater access to them through
my Internet accessible Blog which is not possible for you
to do by reading his talk in the Ensign Magazine.
Blogger J. Neil Birch, to assist you to more fully benefit
from the Notes which President Uchtdorf provides
throughout the printed version his conference talk, which
is found in the November Ensign Magazine which is pub-
lished by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I do so by providing you greater access to them through
my Internet accessible Blog which is not possible for you
to do by reading his talk in the Ensign Magazine.
Come, Join with Us
Second Counselor in the First Presidency
of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints
Regardless of your circumstances,
your personal history, or the
strength of your testimony, there
is room for you in this Church.
Once there was a man who dreamed that he was in a great hall
where all the religions of the world were gathered. He realized
that each religion had much that seemed desirable and worthy.
He met a nice couple who represented The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints and asked, “What do you require
of your members?”
“We do not require anything,” they replied. “But the Lord
asks that we consecrate all.”
The couple went on to explain about Church callings, home
and visiting teaching, full-time missions, weekly family home
evenings, temple work, welfare and humanitarian service, and
assignments to teach.
“Do you pay your people for all the work they do?”
the man asked. “Oh, no,” the couple explained. “They offer
their time freely.”
“Also,” the couple continued, “every six months our
Church members spend a weekend attending or watching 10
hours of general conference.”
“Ten hours of people giving talks?” the man wondered.
“What about your weekly church services? How long are
they?”
“Three hours, every Sunday!”
“Oh, my,” the man said. “Do members of your church
actually do what you have said?”
“That and more. We haven’t even mentioned family
history, youth camps, devotionals, scripture study,
leadership training, youth activities, early- morning
seminary, maintaining Church buildings, and of course
there is the Lord’s law of health, the monthly fast to
help the poor, and tithing.”
The man said, “Now I’m confused. Why would anyone
want to join such a church?”
The couple smiled and said, “We thought you would never
ask.”
Regardless of your circumstances,
your personal history, or the
strength of your testimony, there
is room for you in this Church.
your personal history, or the
strength of your testimony, there
is room for you in this Church.
Once there was a man who dreamed that he was in a great hall
where all the religions of the world were gathered. He realized
that each religion had much that seemed desirable and worthy.
where all the religions of the world were gathered. He realized
that each religion had much that seemed desirable and worthy.
He met a nice couple who represented The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints and asked, “What do you require
of your members?”
Christ of Latter-day Saints and asked, “What do you require
of your members?”
“We do not require anything,” they replied. “But the Lord
asks that we consecrate all.”
asks that we consecrate all.”
The couple went on to explain about Church callings, home
and visiting teaching, full-time missions, weekly family home
evenings, temple work, welfare and humanitarian service, and
assignments to teach.
and visiting teaching, full-time missions, weekly family home
evenings, temple work, welfare and humanitarian service, and
assignments to teach.
“Do you pay your people for all the work they do?”
the man asked. “Oh, no,” the couple explained. “They offer
their time freely.”
the man asked. “Oh, no,” the couple explained. “They offer
their time freely.”
“Also,” the couple continued, “every six months our
Church members spend a weekend attending or watching 10
hours of general conference.”
Church members spend a weekend attending or watching 10
hours of general conference.”
“Ten hours of people giving talks?” the man wondered.
“What about your weekly church services? How long are
they?”
they?”
“Three hours, every Sunday!”
“Oh, my,” the man said. “Do members of your church
actually do what you have said?”
actually do what you have said?”
“That and more. We haven’t even mentioned family
history, youth camps, devotionals, scripture study,
leadership training, youth activities, early- morning
seminary, maintaining Church buildings, and of course
there is the Lord’s law of health, the monthly fast to
help the poor, and tithing.”
history, youth camps, devotionals, scripture study,
leadership training, youth activities, early- morning
seminary, maintaining Church buildings, and of course
there is the Lord’s law of health, the monthly fast to
help the poor, and tithing.”
The man said, “Now I’m confused. Why would anyone
want to join such a church?”
want to join such a church?”
The couple smiled and said, “We thought you would never
ask.”
ask.”
Why Would Anyone Join Such a Church?
At a time when many churches throughout the world are
experiencing significant decreases in numbers, The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—though small in
comparison with many others—is one of the fastest growing
churches in the world. As of September 2013 the Church has
more than 15 million members around the world.
There are many reasons for this, but may I offer a few?
At a time when many churches throughout the world are
experiencing significant decreases in numbers, The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—though small in
comparison with many others—is one of the fastest growing
churches in the world. As of September 2013 the Church has
more than 15 million members around the world.
experiencing significant decreases in numbers, The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—though small in
comparison with many others—is one of the fastest growing
churches in the world. As of September 2013 the Church has
more than 15 million members around the world.
There are many reasons for this, but may I offer a few?
The Savior’s Church
First, this Church was restored in our day by Jesus Christ
Himself. Here you will find the authority to act in His name
—to baptize for the remission of sins, to confer the gift of the
Holy Ghost, and to seal on earth and in heaven.1
Matthew 16: 18-19 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. 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.
Christ's Image -by Heinrich Hofmann
Those who join this Church love the Savior Jesus Christ and
they wish to follow Him. They rejoice in the knowledge that
God speaks to mankind again. When they receive sacred
priesthood ordinances and make covenants with God, they
Doctrine and Covenants 84: 20 Therefore, in the
ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest:
Taking the Sacrament (an Ordinance)
lang=eng (Please access that link!) When our members enter any of the
holy temples, they sense they are in His
presence:
When they read the holy scriptures3 and
live the teachings of His prophets, they
grow closer to the Savior they love so much.
Matthew 16:18 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.
First, this Church was restored in our day by Jesus Christ
Himself. Here you will find the authority to act in His name
—to baptize for the remission of sins, to confer the gift of the
Holy Ghost, and to seal on earth and in heaven.1
Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
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. 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.
 |
| Christ's Image -by Heinrich Hofmann |
Those who join this Church love the Savior Jesus Christ and
they wish to follow Him. They rejoice in the knowledge that
God speaks to mankind again. When they receive sacred
priesthood ordinances and make covenants with God, they
Doctrine and Covenants 84: 20 Therefore, in the
ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest:
ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest:
 |
| Taking the Sacrament (an Ordinance) |
holy temples, they sense they are in His
presence:
When they read the holy scriptures3 and
live the teachings of His prophets, they
grow closer to the Savior they love so much.
Matthew 16:18 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.
live the teachings of His prophets, they
grow closer to the Savior they love so much.
Matthew 16:18 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.
Helaman 10:7 Behold, I give unto you power,
that whatsoever ye shall seal on earth shall be
sealed in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose
on earth shall be loosed in heaven; and thus shall
ye have power among this people.
An Active Faith
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.
Helaman 10:7 Behold, I give unto you power,
that whatsoever ye shall seal on earth shall be
sealed in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose
on earth shall be loosed in heaven; and thus shall
ye have power among this people.
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.
Helaman 10:7 Behold, I give unto you power,
that whatsoever ye shall seal on earth shall be
sealed in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose
on earth shall be loosed in heaven; and thus shall
ye have power among this people.
An Active Faith
Another reason is because the Church provides
opportunities for doing good.
Believing in God is commendable, but most people
want to do more than listen to inspirational sermons
or dream of their mansions above.4
President Uchtdorf at this point in his Conference talk
suggests in his Note 4 that you readers need to know
about the LDS Hymn: "Have I Done Any Good?"
I, Neil Birch, Blogger now give each of you an
opportunity of singing that LDS Hymn. You can invite
others who may be nearby to sing with you and even
sing various parts: i.e. Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass.
The music is provided as you click on the following Link:
http://www.lds.org/music/library/hymns/have-i-done-any-
good?lang=eng
They want to put their faith into practice. They want to
roll up their sleeves and become engaged in this great cause.
And that is what happens when they join with us—they have
many opportunities to transform their talents, compassion,
and time into good works. Because we have no paid local
clergy in our worldwide congregations, our members
perform the work of ministry themselves. They are called
by inspiration. Sometimes we volunteer; sometimes we are
“volunteered.” We see assignments not as burdens but as
opportunities to fulfill covenants we gladly make to serve
God and His children.
Another reason is because the Church provides
opportunities for doing good.
opportunities for doing good.
Believing in God is commendable, but most people
want to do more than listen to inspirational sermons
or dream of their mansions above.4
President Uchtdorf at this point in his Conference talk
suggests in his Note 4 that you readers need to know
about the LDS Hymn: "Have I Done Any Good?"
I, Neil Birch, Blogger now give each of you an
opportunity of singing that LDS Hymn. You can invite
others who may be nearby to sing with you and even
sing various parts: i.e. Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass.
The music is provided as you click on the following Link:
http://www.lds.org/music/library/hymns/have-i-done-any-
good?lang=eng
They want to put their faith into practice. They want to want to do more than listen to inspirational sermons
or dream of their mansions above.4
President Uchtdorf at this point in his Conference talk
suggests in his Note 4 that you readers need to know
about the LDS Hymn: "Have I Done Any Good?"
I, Neil Birch, Blogger now give each of you an
opportunity of singing that LDS Hymn. You can invite
others who may be nearby to sing with you and even
sing various parts: i.e. Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass.
The music is provided as you click on the following Link:
http://www.lds.org/music/library/hymns/have-i-done-any-
good?lang=eng
roll up their sleeves and become engaged in this great cause.
And that is what happens when they join with us—they have
many opportunities to transform their talents, compassion,
and time into good works. Because we have no paid local
clergy in our worldwide congregations, our members
perform the work of ministry themselves. They are called
by inspiration. Sometimes we volunteer; sometimes we are
“volunteered.” We see assignments not as burdens but as
opportunities to fulfill covenants we gladly make to serve
God and His children.
many opportunities to transform their talents, compassion,
and time into good works. Because we have no paid local
clergy in our worldwide congregations, our members
perform the work of ministry themselves. They are called
by inspiration. Sometimes we volunteer; sometimes we are
“volunteered.” We see assignments not as burdens but as
opportunities to fulfill covenants we gladly make to serve
God and His children.
Treasured Blessings
A third reason why people join the Church is because
walking the path of discipleship leads to precious blessings.
We see baptism as the starting point in our journey of
discipleship. Our daily walk with Jesus Christ leads to peace
and purpose in this life and profound joy and eternal
salvation in the world to come. Those who follow this path
faithfully avoid many of the pitfalls, sorrows, and regrets of
life.
The poor in spirit and honest of heart find great treasures
of knowledge here.
Those who suffer or grieve find healing here. Those
burdened with sin find forgiveness, liberty, and rest.
A third reason why people join the Church is because
walking the path of discipleship leads to precious blessings.
We see baptism as the starting point in our journey of
discipleship. Our daily walk with Jesus Christ leads to peace
and purpose in this life and profound joy and eternal
salvation in the world to come. Those who follow this path
faithfully avoid many of the pitfalls, sorrows, and regrets of
life.
The poor in spirit and honest of heart find great treasures
of knowledge here.
Those who suffer or grieve find healing here. Those
burdened with sin find forgiveness, liberty, and rest.
walking the path of discipleship leads to precious blessings.
We see baptism as the starting point in our journey of
discipleship. Our daily walk with Jesus Christ leads to peace
and purpose in this life and profound joy and eternal
salvation in the world to come. Those who follow this path
faithfully avoid many of the pitfalls, sorrows, and regrets of
life.
The poor in spirit and honest of heart find great treasures
of knowledge here.
Those who suffer or grieve find healing here. Those
burdened with sin find forgiveness, liberty, and rest.
To Those Who Leave
The search for truth has led millions of people to The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However,
there are some who leave the Church they once loved.
One might ask, “If the gospel is so wonderful, why
would anyone leave?”
Sometimes we assume it is because they have been
offended or lazy or sinful. Actually, it is not that simple.
In fact, there is not just one reason that applies to the
variety of situations.
Some of our dear members struggle for years with the
question whether they should separate themselves
from the Church.
In this Church that honors personal agency so strongly,
that was restored by a young man who asked questions
and sought answers, we respect those who honestly search
for truth. It may break our hearts when their journey takes
them away from the Church we love and the truth we have
found, but we honor their right to worship Almighty God
according to the dictates of their own conscience, just as
we claim that privilege for ourselves.5
Articles of Faith 1:1
http://classic.scriptures.lds.org/en/a_of_f/1
The search for truth has led millions of people to The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However,
there are some who leave the Church they once loved.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However,
there are some who leave the Church they once loved.
One might ask, “If the gospel is so wonderful, why
would anyone leave?”
Sometimes we assume it is because they have been
offended or lazy or sinful. Actually, it is not that simple.
In fact, there is not just one reason that applies to the
variety of situations.
Some of our dear members struggle for years with the
question whether they should separate themselves
from the Church.
In this Church that honors personal agency so strongly,
that was restored by a young man who asked questions
and sought answers, we respect those who honestly search
for truth. It may break our hearts when their journey takes
them away from the Church we love and the truth we have
found, but we honor their right to worship Almighty God
according to the dictates of their own conscience, just as
we claim that privilege for ourselves.5
would anyone leave?”
Sometimes we assume it is because they have been
offended or lazy or sinful. Actually, it is not that simple.
In fact, there is not just one reason that applies to the
variety of situations.
Some of our dear members struggle for years with the
question whether they should separate themselves
from the Church.
In this Church that honors personal agency so strongly,
that was restored by a young man who asked questions
and sought answers, we respect those who honestly search
for truth. It may break our hearts when their journey takes
them away from the Church we love and the truth we have
found, but we honor their right to worship Almighty God
according to the dictates of their own conscience, just as
we claim that privilege for ourselves.5
Articles of Faith 1:1
http://classic.scriptures.lds.org/en/a_of_f/1
http://classic.scriptures.lds.org/en/a_of_f/1
Unanswered Questions
Some struggle with unanswered questions about things
that have been done or said in the past. We openly
acknowledge that in nearly 200 years of Church history
—along with an uninterrupted line of inspired, honorable,
and divine events—there have been some things said and
done that could cause people to question.
Sometimes questions arise because we simply don’t
have all the information and we just need a bit more
patience.
When the entire truth is eventually known, things that
didn’t make sense to us before will be resolved to our
satisfaction.
Sometimes there is a difference of opinion as to what
the “facts” really mean. A question that creates doubt
in some can, after careful investigation, build faith in others.
Some struggle with unanswered questions about things
that have been done or said in the past. We openly
acknowledge that in nearly 200 years of Church history
—along with an uninterrupted line of inspired, honorable,
and divine events—there have been some things said and
done that could cause people to question.
that have been done or said in the past. We openly
acknowledge that in nearly 200 years of Church history
—along with an uninterrupted line of inspired, honorable,
and divine events—there have been some things said and
done that could cause people to question.
Sometimes questions arise because we simply don’t
have all the information and we just need a bit more
patience.
have all the information and we just need a bit more
patience.
When the entire truth is eventually known, things that
didn’t make sense to us before will be resolved to our
satisfaction.
didn’t make sense to us before will be resolved to our
satisfaction.
Sometimes there is a difference of opinion as to what
the “facts” really mean. A question that creates doubt
in some can, after careful investigation, build faith in others.
the “facts” really mean. A question that creates doubt
in some can, after careful investigation, build faith in others.
Mistakes of Imperfect People
And, to be perfectly frank, there have been times when
members or leaders in the Church have simply made
mistakes.
There may have been things said or done that were not in
harmony with our values, principles, or doctrine.
I suppose the Church would be perfect only if it were run
by perfect beings. God is perfect, and His doctrine is pure.
But He works through us—His imperfect children—
and imperfect people make mistakes.
In the title page of the Book of Mormon we read,
“And now, if there are faults they are the mistakes of men;
wherefore, condemn not the things of God, that ye may be
found spotless at the judgment-seat of Christ.”6
This is the way it has always been and will be until the
perfect day when Christ Himself reigns personally upon
the earth.
It is unfortunate that some have stumbled because of
mistakes made by men. But in spite of this, the eternal
truth of the restored gospel found in The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not tarnished,
diminished, or destroyed.
As an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ and as one
who has seen firsthand the councils and workings of this
Church, I bear solemn witness that no decision of
significance affecting this Church or its members is
ever made without earnestly seeking the inspiration,
guidance, and approbation of our Eternal Father.
This is the Church of Jesus Christ. God will not allow His
Church to drift from its appointed course or fail to fulfill
its divine destiny.
And, to be perfectly frank, there have been times when
members or leaders in the Church have simply made
mistakes.
There may have been things said or done that were not in
harmony with our values, principles, or doctrine.
I suppose the Church would be perfect only if it were run
by perfect beings. God is perfect, and His doctrine is pure.
But He works through us—His imperfect children—
and imperfect people make mistakes.
members or leaders in the Church have simply made
mistakes.
There may have been things said or done that were not in
harmony with our values, principles, or doctrine.
I suppose the Church would be perfect only if it were run
by perfect beings. God is perfect, and His doctrine is pure.
But He works through us—His imperfect children—
and imperfect people make mistakes.
In the title page of the Book of Mormon we read,
“And now, if there are faults they are the mistakes of men;
wherefore, condemn not the things of God, that ye may be
found spotless at the judgment-seat of Christ.”6
This is the way it has always been and will be until the
perfect day when Christ Himself reigns personally upon
the earth.
“And now, if there are faults they are the mistakes of men;
wherefore, condemn not the things of God, that ye may be
found spotless at the judgment-seat of Christ.”6
This is the way it has always been and will be until the
perfect day when Christ Himself reigns personally upon
the earth.
It is unfortunate that some have stumbled because of
mistakes made by men. But in spite of this, the eternal
truth of the restored gospel found in The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not tarnished,
diminished, or destroyed.
mistakes made by men. But in spite of this, the eternal
truth of the restored gospel found in The Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not tarnished,
diminished, or destroyed.
As an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ and as one
who has seen firsthand the councils and workings of this
Church, I bear solemn witness that no decision of
significance affecting this Church or its members is
ever made without earnestly seeking the inspiration,
guidance, and approbation of our Eternal Father.
who has seen firsthand the councils and workings of this
Church, I bear solemn witness that no decision of
significance affecting this Church or its members is
ever made without earnestly seeking the inspiration,
guidance, and approbation of our Eternal Father.
This is the Church of Jesus Christ. God will not allow His
Church to drift from its appointed course or fail to fulfill
its divine destiny.
Church to drift from its appointed course or fail to fulfill
its divine destiny.
There Is Room for You
To those who have separated themselves from the Church,
I say, my dear friends, there is yet a place for you here.
Come and add your talents, gifts, and energies to ours.
We will all become better as a result.
Some might ask, “But what about my doubts?” It’s
natural to have questions—the acorn of honest inquiry
has often sprouted and matured into a great oak of
understanding.
There are few members of the Church who, at one time
or another, have not wrestled with serious or sensitive
questions. One of the purposes of the Church is to nurture
and cultivate the seed of faith—even in the sometimes
sandy soil of doubt and uncertainty.
Faith is to hope for things which are not seen but which
are true.7
Hebrews 11:1 1. Now faith is the substance of things
hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Alma 32:21 And now as I said concerning faith—
faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things;
therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are
not seen, which are true.
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters—my dear friends
—please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.8
We must never allow doubt to hold us prisoner and keep us
from the divine love, peace, and gifts that come through faith
in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Some might say, “I just don’t fit in with you people in the Church.”
If you could see into our hearts, you would probably find that
you fit in better than you suppose. You might be surprised to
find that we have yearnings and struggles and hopes similar to
yours. Your background or upbringing might seem different
from what you perceive in many Latter-day Saints, but that
could be a blessing.
Brothers and sisters, dear friends, we need your unique talents
and perspectives. The diversity of persons and peoples all
around the globe is a strength of this Church.
Some might say, “I don’t think I could live up to your
standards.”
All the more reason to come! The Church is designed to
nourish the imperfect, the struggling, and the exhausted.
It is filled with people who desire with all their heart to
keep the commandments, even if they haven’t mastered
them yet.
Some might say, “I know a member of your Church
who is a hypocrite. I could never join a church that
had someone like him as a member.”
If you define hypocrite as someone who fails to live
up perfectly to what he or she believes, then we are all
hypocrites. None of us is quite as Christlike as we know
we should be. But we earnestly desire to overcome our
faults and the tendency to sin. With our heart and soul
we yearn to become better with the help of the
Atonement of Jesus Christ.
If these are your desires, then regardless of your
circumstances, your personal history, or the strength
of your testimony, there is room for you in this Church.
Come, join with us!
Some might ask, “But what about my doubts?” It’s
natural to have questions—the acorn of honest inquiry
has often sprouted and matured into a great oak of
understanding.
natural to have questions—the acorn of honest inquiry
has often sprouted and matured into a great oak of
understanding.
There are few members of the Church who, at one time
or another, have not wrestled with serious or sensitive
questions. One of the purposes of the Church is to nurture
and cultivate the seed of faith—even in the sometimes
sandy soil of doubt and uncertainty.
or another, have not wrestled with serious or sensitive
questions. One of the purposes of the Church is to nurture
and cultivate the seed of faith—even in the sometimes
sandy soil of doubt and uncertainty.
Faith is to hope for things which are not seen but which
are true.7
are true.7
Hebrews 11:1 1. Now faith is the substance of things
hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Alma 32:21 And now as I said concerning faith—
faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things;
therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are
not seen, which are true.
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters—my dear friends
—please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.8
We must never allow doubt to hold us prisoner and keep us
from the divine love, peace, and gifts that come through faith
in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Some might say, “I just don’t fit in with you people in the Church.”
If you could see into our hearts, you would probably find that
you fit in better than you suppose. You might be surprised to
find that we have yearnings and struggles and hopes similar to
yours. Your background or upbringing might seem different
from what you perceive in many Latter-day Saints, but that
could be a blessing.
Brothers and sisters, dear friends, we need your unique talents
and perspectives. The diversity of persons and peoples all
around the globe is a strength of this Church.
—please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.8
We must never allow doubt to hold us prisoner and keep us
from the divine love, peace, and gifts that come through faith
in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Some might say, “I just don’t fit in with you people in the Church.”
If you could see into our hearts, you would probably find that
you fit in better than you suppose. You might be surprised to
find that we have yearnings and struggles and hopes similar to
yours. Your background or upbringing might seem different
from what you perceive in many Latter-day Saints, but that
could be a blessing.
Brothers and sisters, dear friends, we need your unique talents
and perspectives. The diversity of persons and peoples all
around the globe is a strength of this Church.
Some might say, “I don’t think I could live up to your
standards.”
standards.”
All the more reason to come! The Church is designed to
nourish the imperfect, the struggling, and the exhausted.
It is filled with people who desire with all their heart to
keep the commandments, even if they haven’t mastered
them yet.
nourish the imperfect, the struggling, and the exhausted.
It is filled with people who desire with all their heart to
keep the commandments, even if they haven’t mastered
them yet.
Some might say, “I know a member of your Church
who is a hypocrite. I could never join a church that
had someone like him as a member.”
who is a hypocrite. I could never join a church that
had someone like him as a member.”
If you define hypocrite as someone who fails to live
up perfectly to what he or she believes, then we are all
hypocrites. None of us is quite as Christlike as we know
we should be. But we earnestly desire to overcome our
faults and the tendency to sin. With our heart and soul
we yearn to become better with the help of the
Atonement of Jesus Christ.
up perfectly to what he or she believes, then we are all
hypocrites. None of us is quite as Christlike as we know
we should be. But we earnestly desire to overcome our
faults and the tendency to sin. With our heart and soul
we yearn to become better with the help of the
Atonement of Jesus Christ.
If these are your desires, then regardless of your
circumstances, your personal history, or the strength
of your testimony, there is room for you in this Church.
Come, join with us!
circumstances, your personal history, or the strength
of your testimony, there is room for you in this Church.
Come, join with us!
In spite of our human imperfections, I am confident
that you will find among the members of this Church
many of the finest souls this world has to offer. The
Church of Jesus Christ seems to attract the kind and
the caring, the honest and the industrious.
If you expect to find perfect people here, you will
be disappointed. But if you seek the pure doctrine of
Christ, the word of God “which healeth the wounded
soul,”9
Book of Mormon: Jacob 8 And it supposeth me that
they have come up hither to hear the pleasing word of
God, yea, the word which healeth the wounded soul.
and the sanctifying influence of the Holy Ghost, then
here you will find them. In this age of waning faith —
in this age when so many feel distanced from heaven’s
embrace— here you will find a people who yearn to
know and draw closer to their Savior by serving God
and fellowmen, just like you. Come, join with us!
In spite of our human imperfections, I am confident
that you will find among the members of this Church
many of the finest souls this world has to offer. The
Church of Jesus Christ seems to attract the kind and
the caring, the honest and the industrious.
that you will find among the members of this Church
many of the finest souls this world has to offer. The
Church of Jesus Christ seems to attract the kind and
the caring, the honest and the industrious.
If you expect to find perfect people here, you will
be disappointed. But if you seek the pure doctrine of
Christ, the word of God “which healeth the wounded
soul,”9
be disappointed. But if you seek the pure doctrine of
Christ, the word of God “which healeth the wounded
soul,”9
Book of Mormon: Jacob 8 And it supposeth me that
they have come up hither to hear the pleasing word of
God, yea, the word which healeth the wounded soul.
they have come up hither to hear the pleasing word of
God, yea, the word which healeth the wounded soul.
and the sanctifying influence of the Holy Ghost, then
here you will find them. In this age of waning faith —
in this age when so many feel distanced from heaven’s
embrace— here you will find a people who yearn to
know and draw closer to their Savior by serving God
and fellowmen, just like you. Come, join with us!
here you will find them. In this age of waning faith —
in this age when so many feel distanced from heaven’s
embrace— here you will find a people who yearn to
know and draw closer to their Savior by serving God
and fellowmen, just like you. Come, join with us!
Will Ye Also Go Away?
I am reminded of a time in the Savior’s life when
many abandoned Him.10 Jesus asked His twelve disciples:
“Will ye also go away? (John 6:66)
“Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom
shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.”
John 6: 67-68
There are times when we have to answer the
same question. Will we also go away? Or will we,
like Peter, hold fast to the words of eternal life?
If you seek truth, meaning, and a way to
transform faith into action; if you are looking for
a place of belonging: Come, join with us!
If you have left the faith you once embraced:
Come back again. Join with us!
If you are tempted to give up: Stay yet a little longer.
There is room for you here.
I plead with all who hear or read these words: Come,
join with us. Come heed the call of the gentle Christ.
Take up your cross and follow Him.12 (Matthew 16:24)
24 ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man
will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up
his cross, and follow me.
Come, join with us! For here you will find what is precious
beyond price. I testify that here you will find the words of
eternal life, the promise of blessed redemption, and the
pathway to peace and happiness.
I earnestly pray that your own search for truth will impress
upon your heart the desire to come and join with us. In the
sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.
I am reminded of a time in the Savior’s life when
many abandoned Him.10 Jesus asked His twelve disciples:
many abandoned Him.10 Jesus asked His twelve disciples:
“Will ye also go away? (John 6:66)
“Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom
shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.”
John 6: 67-68
shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.”
John 6: 67-68
There are times when we have to answer the
same question. Will we also go away? Or will we,
like Peter, hold fast to the words of eternal life?
same question. Will we also go away? Or will we,
like Peter, hold fast to the words of eternal life?
If you seek truth, meaning, and a way to
transform faith into action; if you are looking for
a place of belonging: Come, join with us!
transform faith into action; if you are looking for
a place of belonging: Come, join with us!
If you have left the faith you once embraced:
Come back again. Join with us!
Come back again. Join with us!
If you are tempted to give up: Stay yet a little longer.
There is room for you here.
There is room for you here.
I plead with all who hear or read these words: Come,
join with us. Come heed the call of the gentle Christ.
Take up your cross and follow Him.12 (Matthew 16:24)24 ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man
will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up
his cross, and follow me.
Come, join with us! For here you will find what is precious
beyond price. I testify that here you will find the words of
eternal life, the promise of blessed redemption, and the
pathway to peace and happiness.
I earnestly pray that your own search for truth will impress
upon your heart the desire to come and join with us. In the
sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.
beyond price. I testify that here you will find the words of
eternal life, the promise of blessed redemption, and the
pathway to peace and happiness.
I earnestly pray that your own search for truth will impress
upon your heart the desire to come and join with us. In the
sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.
____________
DISCLAIMER This website is not owned by or affiliated with the Church
Of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (sometimes called the Mormon or LDS
Church). The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the position
of the Church.
____________
TO ACCESS NEIL BIRCH'S BLOG INDEX To Either Read the Full
Index Item Which Refers To This Blog Post, (Or An Item Which Refers To Any Other
Blog Post You May Desire To Access): After Reading All of This Paragraph Please
Click on the Post Title Shown at the End of this following paragraph:
When You See a Portrayal of Our Savior Jesus Christ Sitting Next To
a Little Boy, Please, Scroll Down To our Target: Come Join With Us!
This Blog Post is Based on the October 2013 General Conference Talk
of President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First
Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. -Post 47v
____________
"Four Books of Scripture Testify of Jesus Christ! Legal /Statement.
Thank you for visiting. The author retains intellectual property and
creative licensing rights. Permission to use or reprint must be given
in writing. © Est.2008 Neil Birch Legal /Statement.
____________
I deeply appreciate your readership and hope you found
very beneficial, that which was presented to you in this
blog post.
If you have any questions about what you have read or
viewed in this post or in any previous posts of mine,
or if you even have a curiosity about the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints, and or its teachings, please
e-mail me. I'm Neil and my e-mail address is:
jneilmelva@gmail.com. If you contact me I'll get back
to you just as soon as possible.
Neil Birch
____________
DISCLAIMER This website is not owned by or affiliated with the Church
Of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (sometimes called the Mormon or LDS
Church). The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the position
of the Church.
____________
TO ACCESS NEIL BIRCH'S BLOG INDEX To Either Read the Full
Index Item Which Refers To This Blog Post, (Or An Item Which Refers To Any Other
Blog Post You May Desire To Access): After Reading All of This Paragraph Please
Click on the Post Title Shown at the End of this following paragraph:
When You See a Portrayal of Our Savior Jesus Christ Sitting Next To
a Little Boy, Please, Scroll Down To our Target: Come Join With Us!
This Blog Post is Based on the October 2013 General Conference Talk
of President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First
Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. -Post 47v
____________
"Four Books of Scripture Testify of Jesus Christ! Legal /Statement.
Thank you for visiting. The author retains intellectual property and
creative licensing rights. Permission to use or reprint must be given
in writing. © Est.2008 Neil Birch Legal /Statement.
____________
I deeply appreciate your readership and hope you found
very beneficial, that which was presented to you in this
blog post.
If you have any questions about what you have read or
viewed in this post or in any previous posts of mine,
or if you even have a curiosity about the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints, and or its teachings, please
e-mail me. I'm Neil and my e-mail address is:
jneilmelva@gmail.com. If you contact me I'll get back
to you just as soon as possible.
Neil Birch
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