@@CwicShow Elder Holland said to the youth a few months ago that there must be more emphasis on living the law of Chastity to keep LGBT members on the covenant path rather than placing more emphasis on sexual identity issues which don't keep them firmly on the covenant path. We don't teach people in the Church to come onto the covenant path and then just abandon it after they get on the covenant path. But in the Church we teach people to stay on the covenant path. Which means to stay on it they have to live the law of chastity if unable to marry here in this life because of deep ongoing serious conflicts with unresolved SSA issues. SSA is a job-like trial for some..
@@CwicShowwhen looking at statements on polygamy, do you feel that the prophets in the past were perhaps even more clear? For example, Brigham Young said "The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy. Others attain unto a glory and may even be permitted to come into the presence of the Father and the Son; but they cannot reign as kings in glory, because they had blessings offered unto them, and they refused to accept them." The third prophet of the church, John Taylor, said "All those who would enter into my glory must and shall obey my law and have I not commanded men, that if they were Abraham's seed and would enter into my glory they must do the works of Abraham? I have not revoked this law nor will I, for it is everlasting and those who will enter into my glory must obey the conditions thereof. Even so Amen" I mean, these are literally statements where he says this is God's own voice. Notice John Taylor said this is God speaking. But did they keep their word?
When the Church leaders said that tough times and confusion is coming our way in the near future I didnt think they were referring to actual church leadership and its universities being the source of that confusion.
Totalitarianism attack all the foundation of a society to gain power. Education, medical, business, government, the youth, and the hardest to defeat, the church!
Um I’m not sure about that. The parable of the ten virgins are ten people in the church. I think there will be a lot of people who aren’t ready trying to convince you to leave the path. The scriptures also warn of wolves (members) in sheep’s clothing. I think the hardest part of the confusion will be people in the church preaching doctrines of man mingled with scripture.
I appreciate this point, but there's no one in the church who isn't teaching doctrine mixed up with philosophies of men. We just get angry when it's the philosophies of men we think we don't like. @@brainhunter1000
Heber C Kimball: “I want to say to you, my brethren, the time is coming when we will be mixed up in these now peaceful valleys to that extent that it will be difficult to tell the face of a Saint from the face of an enemy to the people of God. Then, brethren, look out for the great sieve, for there will be a great sifting time, and many will fall; for I say unto you there is a test, a Test, a TEST coming, and who will be able to stand? This church has before it many close places through which it must pass before the work of God is crowned with victory. To meet the difficulties that are coming it will be necessary for you to have knowledge of the truth of this work for yourselves. The difficulties will be of such character that the man or woman who does not possess this personal knowledge or witness will fall. If you have not got the testimony, live right and call upon the Lord and cease not ‘till you obtain it. If you do not, you will not stand. ” (Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. Kimball, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1945, p. 446.) Heber C Kimball: “An army of Elders will be sent to the four quarters of the earth to search out the righteous and warn the wicked of what is coming. All kinds of religions will be started and miracles performed that will deceive the very elect if that were possible. Our sons and daughters must live pure lives so as to be prepared for what is coming. After a while the Gentiles will gather by the thousands to this place, and Salt Lake City will be classed among the wicked cities of the world. A spirit of speculation and extravagance will take possession of the Saints, and the results will be financial bondage.
As a new convert to the Church and an old school liberal, it has been difficult unraveling my true beliefs from my cultural programming. Thank you for helping me with this. We can love those different from us with out buying in to a change in what we know about the path of exaltation.
Thank you Greg! I really believe you have been blessed with clarity and understanding that you’re able to use your skills platform to help support faithful people who wish to stay on the covenant path! I appreciate you
I've always said to myself and to my kids that not even the living prophet could tell me this church and gospel are false. I know what I know, and no matter what idiotic people do or say within the church, it will never change what I know and do. Now is the worst time to stop going to church. It's exactly now when Christ needs his true disciples to defend Him and His gospel. If any member stops going because of what men do in our church, then Satan wins. Stay strong. Follow Christ, not any man. We are never asked if we have faith and a testimony in any man other than Jesus.
Follow Christ. I agree with you. So then, tell me, what is the point of having living prophets? Why not just skip the middle man and go straight to God? And I think you are assuming if someone stops going to church that they stop associating with good. I think sometimes we don't give our "non-church hours" enough credit and the church time too much.
My dad always said "the church is true, the people aren't". In relation to going to church, I would remind people that there are very faithful members who don't go to church. There are many reasons why so please don't assume they don't have testimonies, relationships with our Saviour and Heavenly Father. If someone you know isn't at church find out why. I am pretty young (50ish) and can't go due to health reasons yet constantly am thought of as inactive, apostate etc. Thank goodness I have had some nice missionaries pop by because the members don't, I do live in a ward where there is a majority of senior people and that makes it hard. I know it is very difficult at the moment for everyone. I have watched Jacobs video and looked into the church's policy on trans issues and I thought about it, read D&C 101 and thought about my experiences and also the eternal nature of the plan of Salvation. The church has not changed its stand on eternal families and marriage and continues to stand by the proclamation of family. We stand at the precipice (as you say Greg, a knives edge). The Lord knows the beginning from the end and has mercy for those who are his followers (wherever they are and whoever they are), he will bring his justice to those who oppose him (wherever they are and whoever they are). I do not know if will offer anyone, any hope, I personally think based on this knowledge we can look towards the eternities and know the Lord will win.
Thank you for your voice of reason and clarity. Please do not stop speaking out. It gives us confidence to hold our ground, both spiritually and philosophically.
EXACTLY..many of Us need a clear voice outside our own to know We are not alone . I heard a well known conservative voice talk today about the churches in America , he is evangelical but interesting . He talked about how TRUE principles of Christ have been replaced by “being nice “ in most churches . I thought of my own Church ( LDS ) and how true it is . I am NOT advocating being unkind to anyone BUT gospel principles seem to be taking a back seat to who is the “nicest “ in the Church . Tolerance of ALL sins seems do be the ultimate sign of your righteousness with many in the Church today . Good to hear others who don’t accept these false doctrines .
Thank you Greg! Your point of putting hope and bringing our lives to the altar of the atoning sacrifice versus having hope in change really brought light to my mind and peace to my heart. Between your and Jacob's video, I got the point that we sustain the brethren, hold to the Rod of Iron, and put our hope in Christ. Thank you!
Well said. Clear and concise. For me, the choice is either a foundation built on rock (Christ) or another built on sand (philosophies of man). Not a hard call.
Greg, keep it up, brother, you keep defending the doctrine of the family, and temple marriage between a man and a woman, and keep sustaining the Brethren, and defending them and our dear Savior. There are many of us that are strengthened and encouraged by your words on these issues. Good job, pointing out the words of the Prophet, Pres. Oakes, and Elder Christofferson from their Oct. talks. Like you said, the doctrine of eternal marriage and families is not going to change... NOT. GONNA. HAPPEN. 😊
That would be a deal breaker for me and my family. If they ever tried to alter or change the definition of marriage we would leave in a heart beat. There is no way anyone could convince me that was revelation from God. Never. Keeping my fingers crossed you are correct and it's not going to happen.
Great video. I have used the conference talks you reference here to talk a few people "back from the ledge". I don't think we should expect to have our hands held on this; the Church has taught "correct principles", and now we must govern ourselves. This last conference could not have been clearer.
I’ve been faithful in the gospel and active in the church my entire life but this has shaken me to the core and I am astounded by the ambivalence of those around me. Am I the only one who sees this for what it really is?
You are not alone with your concerns. There are a lot of strange things happening in the church in SLC lately. If Jesus returned today and saw what was going on in his church, and what it has become, what would he say? I can testify to you that he would shed a tear and say something like "No brethren, no, this is not what I meant."
@@allthingsarepossiblethruchrist that is... Assuming he's still the one at the helm. Will he correct the course of a ship he's not even piloting anymore?
@@djvee25 the Church has been in apostasy since BY took over. But the cleansing will still start with the temple like Jesus did in Jerusalem but much worse. If you study Isaiah, Jeremiah about these subjects you will see its not going to be pretty.
This is the perfect response to Jacob Hansen’s video, and the people who are disillusioned with what’s going on. I’m glad that you mentioned all of the times that the man and woman doctrine kept being brought up by the Brethren during Conference. We all needed this.
Thank you for this show. It reminds me of Elder Hollands speech " What are you thinking". We need to trust our prophet and leaders and stay on the path and stay close to our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you so much . I really enjoy Cwic Media
I know you don’t always see eye to eye with the few comments I make but I do want to say that you did a great job on explaining this. Keep them coming.
This new hire and Sharon Banks, and Deseret Book is causing a lot of doubt and confusion among church members including myself. However, when you listen to Oaks, Nelson, Holland, they are FIRM about The Family Proclamation. Because the church is a corporation, I think they may be forced to comply with government regulations to a certain extent such as who they hire. We have been warned that we MUST be able to receive Personal Revelation. The brethren may have to speak in code as some do on the internet to prevent being canceled. Read the footnotes on their talks.. and listen with the Spirit. And dont be afraid to stand and bear testimony when apostates preach false doctrine IN church. Awhile back I received a strong impression that I would be called upon to defend the Brethern. And I will.
Thank you, Greg, for stating the simple facts and not engaging in baseless speculation like some podcasts. The doctrine of the family is as core as anything in the Restored Gospel and won't change. Some individual members may fail to understand or support this doctrine, which is proving to be a great sifter, but the teachings of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve and the scriptures have been consistent on this.
The brethren are anything but firm and succinct on this. You can't say one thing and act the opposite. If they are making goes like this to sift, they are playing a game with the eternal souls of the members. A Prophet can absolutely lead astray, and it certainly appears we are at that juncture.
Great message. We are here now because we are up to the challenges of these last days. We just need to remember who we are and who sent us here. He will help us💙🙏🏻💙
Well said, Greg. The foundation you provide is a ready anchor to those who are being tossed to and fro. Thank you for your strong commitment, courage, and conversion.
Thank you for this. I really needed to hear this. I have also listened to our leaders and have felt comfort but I’m so disheartened y the confusion and hope this has brought to those waiting for the doctrine to change. God bless!
For far too many people, compassion has become a higher value than truth. They have placed the second great commandment above the first. This goes back to the War in Heaven. How do you suppose Lucifer was able to convince so many to join his side? He portrayed Heavenly Father's plan as unfair. How can a loving God have a plan where some of His children would not make it back? Lucifer proposed that he would bring everyone back, therefore making him even more compassionate than God. "Equity" is Satan's plan.
Thank you for the video. I saw the Thoughtful Faith video this morning just a couple hours after it was posted and I've been stewing over it all day. Dark days ahead, but there are people with their heads on straight and they need to make their voices heard. Thanks.
I thought it was too. Very concerning but well done and in the right spirit. I communicated with my priesthood leaders regarding the issues Jacob discussed. He said it better than I could have.
Stewing all day over here as well. And grieving. (Literally shed tears by the time I climbed in bed.) So tired of being disappointed when the priesthood brethren --who covenanted to stand as protectors and defenders --keep letting us down. We are all called upon in The Proclamation on the Family to defend the doctrine of the family but many actual leaders with callings and special stewardships don't do so?!? Why no consequences?? Where is the priesthood??
@@jmut714ummm, the first presidency condoned a man who changed his name and goes by a woman, to get baptized. And p pole support it. That's crossing the line. We need to stop pretending people are perfect and follow the spirit. An apostle betrayed Jesus for crying out loud.
Thank you so much for clarifying this but it is still troubling to me. I fear that women’s spaces, rest rooms etc, might in the future be used by men who now identify as women. If these are genuine transitions I can cope with that but how will women and girls be protected from men who are saying they identify as women so they can get into women’s spaces, changing rooms etc. This is seriously scary for women and girls especially those who have suffered sexual abuse.
I'm not as disturbed about the Church supporting gay marriage as I am about the fact that the First Presidency approved the baptism of a man who claims he is a woman and that the Relief Society Presidency put a stamp of approval on a woman who supports the LGBTQ movement and has openly stated she doesn't support the Family Proclamation. I'm holding onto the Iron Rod but I'm honestly confused why this is happening.
2 Nephi 4 34 O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm. 35 Yea, I know that God will give aliberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I bask cnot amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the drock of my erighteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen.
@@KimballCody Much of this section gives me a very interesting perspective on our day. Salt, watchtower, wheat and tares...I'm going to study this today.
@lauries.nicewaner3876 Can you explain why the baptism thing is such a big deal? We ALL believe things when we are baptized that are false. I see no issue as long as the person also decided they will live a chaste life. In my mind, Gender dysphoria is a mental issue not all that different from depression. As long as they follow the doctrine and will be chaste, let them be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, and progress to a more complete understanding.
Thank you for your sincere effort to help find truth and share it. It is something we all need to hear, because it is hard to know where to look and you are so right, the scriptures and doctrines of the gospel are the truth that we need to hold on to.
I’m with you on this! Holding fast to the iron rod and keeping my focus on Jesus Christ. Stay at the tree! Another amazing talk to add to your list: I just re-listened to the talk John Pingree of the seventy gave this last conference called Eternal Truth. It has 63 footnotes filled with so much doctrine! ❤️🙏🏻
General Conference is about three months away. I hope to hear something from church leaders that will bring peace to my mind over some of these issues. I need a "thus sayeth the Lord" moment. I am beginning to understand what President Nelson meant when he warned us that in coming days it would be impossible to survive spiritually without the constant and sustsining influence of the Holy Ghost. Right here in my own stake many good men and women, people who I thought were rock solid in the faith, have left the church. One was a bishop. They did not leave over LGBTQ issues they left over questions about church history and other administrative issues that they did not agree with. But this seems to becoming more widespread. There is a spitit of apostasy that is permeating the church right now. And its scary. I find myself asking "Lord, is it I?" Will I be one to betray my covenants? Will I be one to abandon my faith when serious questions arise? I consider my testimony irrevocable but I was sure this bishop's was too. I am immersing myself in the scriptures now, especially The Book of Mormon, trying to fortify myself against the secularism that is creeping into the church.
You'll be just fine..cling to the iron rod. It's been a rough couple of weeks. I'm numb...hurt...but even if 10 of the 12 went rogue...I'm still in. Too many Spiritual experiences to ever turn away.
@@GAILandROD thank you for your encouraging words. I am not thinking about turning away. But I am confused right now. And I have no answers for family members who are critical of the church.
Thanks, Greg. You and Jacob have been two of the greatest defenders of the faith over last couple of years that I’ve been aware of. I see this confusion as our (traditional conservative minded disciples) trial of faith. Will we stay true and follow the footsteps of those covenant makers who endured to the end or will we follow in the footsteps of so many who have lost their testimony in living prophets of all eras. I too know of the truthfulness of eternalism over secularism and that our living prophets have consistently taught the true doctrines. Thanks for the continued effort to counter Satans imitations today.
You speak about walking the edge of a sword. I like to say that being a devout Christian these days is very much like "walking on water". We need to keep our attention squarely on the Savior
Thank you Brother Cwic for sharing your thoughts and beliefs. Very inspiring! I live outside of Utah and I don’t feel like these concerns for change in church doctrine are thought about very much. I feel like the fellow saints in my area are concentrated on how we can build our relationships with our savior and much less about social issues.
Another GREAT episode, Greg!! You hit the nail on the head when you stated that critical theory allows people to ignore the changes we need to make within ourselves, blame others, and NOT HAVE TO RELY on the atonement of Jesus Christ. I am really beginning to think that this ideology is the “great and abominable church” spoken of in Nephi’s vision.
Heber C. Kimball who once said that the Church has many close places through which it must yet pass and that those living on borrowed light will not be able to stand when those days come. That time has come.
Respect for your comments on The Mormon Book review show. I've grown to deeply respect and appreciate you, Greg. Your takes, though I disagree often, are rational and consistent. I love your take on conservatism and the Church. So well put.
Thanks for your perspective Greg. I was feeling quite worked up and unsettled after seeing Jacob’s video this morning. The evidence he presented is highly concerning to me. I think the church is absolutely sending out conflicting messages which are highly confusing to me and so many others and I certainly wish that would be stopped. However, I do sincerely appreciate your perspective that we are still on solid ground and that the doctrine of the family will not and cannot change. I completely agree. Ultimately the church is either led by the Savior or it isn’t. I happen to believe that it is and that He will correct these things in time. I don’t believe He will allow His church to apostatize before he comes again. I have always been and will remain loyal to the brethren and it was very clear this past conference where they stand.
Bro Sherinan was hired by church employees right? How can we better vet those doing the hiring to make sure they aren’t activists hiring other activists to represent the church? The first presidency and quorum of the twelve are tremendously occupied with their callings that church staff is obviously not hired by them. I just want to make sure church employees aren’t trying to bring in agendas and proclaiming those beliefs to be church doctrines
@@CwicShow I absolutely agree. As difficult as it was to hear I think it was spot on. I thought it was so interesting in our Come Follow Me study tonight we read the verse from 1 Nephi 11:36 “And it came to pass that I saw and bear record, that the great and spacious building was the PRIDE of the world; and it fell, and the fall thereof was exceedingly great. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me again, saying: Thus shall be the destruction of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, that shall fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb.” I thought that was so fitting for everything going on.
We have been told, that our greatest enemy will come from within. This is now happening, if we don’t have the companionship of the Holy Spirit, we will be dragged into this secularism. Follow the Saviour and his Prophet should be our mantra. All is not well in Zion.
The law of chastity has never been easy to live, but it is easy to understand. There are people inside the Church working like termites to create loopholes in the law of chastity where they currently do not exist.
Actions have always spoke louder than words. Anyone can speak a good speech but as we see then turn around and do something totally different. The Church lately has been talking out both sides of their mouth. This is why people are confused! It saddens me so greatly that the Church of my youth does not exist anymore.
Our two out of four children are now LGBTQIA+ . It is so heart breaking. Yet, my husband and I do not support their life styles/ideology nor what the world is trying to change-making upside down the God's absolute standards. Thank you for the brave statement.
Thanks Greg, good as usual. I struggle with teaching true doctrine these days in the church, as there are so many that will get upset if you teach the "irrevocable doctrine" of the proclamation on the family. I am teaching EQ this week, and our lesson is Elder Oaks talk from the last general conference; wish me luck!
I taught that with the sealing power 2 weeks ago. The Spirit taught it. Focus on eternal posterity and sealing of each ordinance in next life, from what I remember. 2nd witnesses from other sisters.
Teach truth clearly and with love. If people get upset, they are upset with the doctrine, they are upset with truth. But you may also help some fence sitters feel the spirit as you teach truth. Which is far more important.
Holding onto the iron rod is of course the best course action. Which iron rod are you going to hold on to. The iron rod from the late 1900s, maybe the iron rod from the 40s. I was born in the 60s. The iron rod now has a lot of differences then the iron rod back in the 60s.
Thank you again! I love the quotes! People need to read things more carefully before getting upset and jumping to conclusions. Your work in these last days are inspirational!
This is a time where we can learn to love our neighbors more. It also puts us in a position of opposition. Two different ideologies. What are we going to do. A perfect storm to help us grow or make us go. Sifting. Hence the urgency in president Nelsons talks. Whos on the Lords side who? NOW is the time to show!
Actions speak louder than words. So while there may be zero indication from the words of our leaders, there is plenty of indication from their actions.
Church moves with the times! They change with society! Always have always will! I once commented that the church would allow and accept LGBTQ…you replied with a simple “nah”. This is the first steps, we all may be dead by the time it happens, but it will! The church changes with society! Mark my words!
You're right. Paraphrasing BY and other "inspired" apostles of the time: - Blacks will never be given the priesthood until after the start of the millennium - A man must be a polygamist in order to attain the highest degree in the celestial kingdom - Polygamy will never end but will expand to fill the whole earth. Where are these and other key doctrines that "will never change"?
@cwicshow Thank you for this episode, that clarifies your sustaining support of the brethren while raising the flag of awareness. Not easily done….but successfully well done.♥️
Greg, you say that this change from current marriage doctrine will never happen, but we have historical precedents when something like this did change. During the late 1800’s polygamy was being taught as the gate way to the highest order of the celestial kingdom. Leaders saying that polygamy will never be removed and yet it was removed. Yes, government pushed that but this could be a similar situation with maybe a different face, like societal pressure. It would be a disaster but not impossible to happen.
I feel this is one of many tests. We were just asked to become peacemakers and a Zion people… then this…There is a lot of contention over this. It is easy to be a peacemaker when there aren’t challenges. Can we be peacemakers when we don’t understand? Is this a sifting process? Maybe. We are reading “for a wise purpose known only unto the Lord.” We need to trust in the Lord and His gospel. The Prophet and leaders have made it clear regarding marriage and gender. God is in control. Hope in Christ!
While we consider this problem I think we need to also consider that it involves our own brothers and sisters. As President Monson said, “Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved.” No qualifications or exemptions seem to fit that mandate. Our leaders, chosen by God, have taken this to heart. They certainly stand for truth and declare it boldly, but when it comes to individuals, all of whom are flawed in some way, they must treat them with love. It appears that some of us would like to just kick others off the path, rather than attempt to help them along it. While you’ve shown us examples that are or seem contradictory to doctrine, you’ve found nothing related to what has happened since, regarding those apparent infractions. As if the Church ignored them. It is unlikely that they’ve been ignored and much more likely, that they’ve been dealt with, or are being so. Those dealings are consistently not done publicly, so we may never know. Personally, I feel great compassion for our leaders who have to wrestle with such issues, probably much more than we are aware. One final note, Sister Cheiko Okazaki once said, “In principles great clarity, in practices, great charity.” It seems that each of us could extend more charity and grace to those who don’t fully conform to our views, including our leaders. Elder J. Reuben Clark said, “I believe that our Heavenly Father wants to save every one of His children,…that in his justice and mercy He will give us the maximum reward for our acts, give us all He can give, and in the reverse, I believe that he will impose upon us the minimum penalty which it is possible for Him to impose.” Ought we not to do the same?
My question is.....they condoned a man (that thinks he's a woman and changed his name)❤, to get baptized. Does that mean that an alcoholic can stay an alcoholic as long as he's an alcoholic before he's baptized? So many double standards. No wonder why people are confused. They will tell the alcoholic he needs to be sober or get consequences, but we are not giving consequences to people slandering the sacredness of men and women.
Thank you. Such a good reminder to trust the brethren. It is a refining time where I think the wrestle is the point like Jacob. Your podcast pointed out so well that the point is right now to focus on the savior and the covenant and learn as much about it as we can. My sense is that this is a time for building up the stakes of Zion and building temples so that when we do have a separation there are places for people to find refuge. I do trust that the brethren have the Longview in mind even though it is still discouraging to wrestle with these things over and over when they make certain decisions. Thank you always and I love your come follow me insights as well they are my favorite.
Actually, Bednar’s tone and message have definitely changed in the last few years. It is quite alarming. He went from saying he didn’t like to describe any members of the church as “homosexual” to saying he is thankful for “our LGBTQ brothers and sisters” in the church. He is now using the political activist term “LGBTQ” which legitimizes the notion that people are inherently that way.
Does the Church not have control over what is taught at BYU or sold at Deseret? Does the church not govern who is hired to be the media director of the Church? Can the Church have one foot in the Church and one foot in Gamora?
Prophet and some of the apostles sit on the board of trustees at BYU and a few years ago fired several professors for doing less than what is being done today. And Deseretbook submissions page states " Deseret Book is a publisher and retailer that publishes and promotes a variety of books, *all of which reflect the values espoused by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" * And last I heard church leaders sit on the board of directors. And the prophet and apostles would most definitely be the ones to oversea who is hired to be the media director of the church. Even if they weren't giving their stamp of approval they certainly could put a stop to anything that doesn't reflect the value and teachings of the church.
I want to BYU for a little bit back in the seventies, my kids went there in the late 80s early 90s. I've had family members who taught it BYU. As far as I'm concerned BYU now is just a den of iniquity. The higher perverted professors that openly believe and teach doctrines of the world.
"The altar of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ is moving from a hope in Christ to a hope in change, something that is a nontruth and is not helping anyone." The doctrine of the family is an eternal principle.
Adding to the confusion is how every time we go to the temple we hear: “For God will NOT be mocked.” Yet it is apparent that He will be mocked because certain decisions within the church are enabling the mocking of God & His doctrine inside the Church itself.
The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “I will give you a key that will never rust, if you will stay with the majority of the Twelve Apostles, and the records of the Church, you will never be led astray.”
The "majority" of the Twelve Apostles? That would almost seem to imply that there CAN be a minority amongst them that you shouldn't follow. Yet to get a temple recommend, we are required to state that we sustain them (I would assume that means all of them.) Starting some sort of "apostate" witch hunt or blame game within our leadership isn't the right answer. At the end of the day it is OUR responsibility to prayerfully follow the Spirit in the acceptance of our leader's words. It is a very difficult path to navigate... truly "a knife's edge" as Greg puts it in this video. But the Lord doesn't want complacent followers that accept precepts of men mingled with scripture as doctrine. He wants proactive doers who are truly converted; people who know how to use the Spirit to distinguish between precepts and doctrine.
The historical significance of this quote apropos the martyrdom of Joseph and the “succession crisis” is what I’m referring. Most of the Q12 were out on missions when Joseph was killed and needed to be recalled. It’s important to note that the majority of the Q12 made it back to the infamous Rigdon Young conference to testify of the endowment of keys in spring of 1844 to the Q12, thereby negating any succession crisis, but rather, solidifying the Church would be led by the Q12 (not Rigdon nor Strang nor Smith III). The other reference to this quote relates to the possibility that is ever present because men are human and there are multiple historical precedents, namely, the apostasy of a member of the 12 (see Judas, Law, Cowdry among others).
The problem for me is that I have always been taught to “Avoid the very appearance of evil.” All the primary lessons about not even pretending to smoke or drink, the stories about not seeing how close to the edge of the cliff you can drive your wagon and all the other stories and parables about staying as far away as possible from even looking like wickedness. Unfortunately I don’t feel like this is the example we are seeing from the Church as an organization when it comes to these issues and now they are so far down the road that they can’t go back.
I enjoy your shows Greg. You bring out such solid points that I agree with you on. It is wild I just listened to Elder Maxwell yesterday and that exact same quote about deck chairs made me laugh but cringe all at the same time. I bring this to your attention because it is through knowledge that we attain a hope for the promises of the Lord and to be able to go through trying times. I found these scriptures awhile back but your show brought them to the forefront of my mind. "Isaiah 24: 5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant." These are Isaiah's words to our day. Also Isaiah 28: 1 Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty is a fading flower, which are on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine! 2 Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one, which as a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, as a flood of mighty waters overflowing, shall cast down to the earth with the hand. 3 The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim, shall be trodden under feet: If you read the scriptures as going through an ordinance with that as your lens you get a greater understanding and backdrop. It has been a beautiful insight in my life. The trodden under foot is exactly as we are warned by Christ when salt loses is savour. Us being that Salt of the Earth and not being just that and broken and changed the new and Everlasting Covenant then the penalty is the same as we learn through the Endowment. In the Book of Mormon so many times the Lord lets the people over to the things of their hearts. If it be wickedness then they can have it for they have truly chosen it. We are organizing ourselves! Isaiah even refers directly to the Crown of Pride. I know I will not make any friends with that one. But neither did Isaiah. I show you these things that you might find wisdom and not be overcome by despair as you are viewing these things to share with others. It truly is a sifting process and we all individually will have to decide where we stand with the Lord. I know this is why President Nelson has counseled us to seek the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost to survive. He knows it will be confusing. But no worry... even if men do these things God's laws are sure and Eternal. The Lord warns us of all things to come so we can be prepared! Keep up the good work. I share to serve and inspire others. It is kinda my job in this life. I hope this helps you on your path of greater understanding in seeking light and knowledge. Thanks again Sis. Thomassen
By their fruits. A simple reading of the handbook of instruction leaves the temple doors wide open for an individual who has transitioned to be endowed and sealed.
I disagree. But baptizing a trans man (who has no misgivings about his identity change even after learning the gospel) opens that door a little. He will one day marry, and he’ll marry a man. A gay man, obviously. What happens then?
Really like what you have said in this one. It's interesting that there were 3 witnesses this last conference to such an important and strangely controversial topic. I wonder if at some point you could discuss your thoughts on Christian vs. Conservative... we had a discussion with the in-laws that believe that conservatives who do not want to help the homeless (I don't know where that came from) are not being Christian. Our discussion led us into what being a Christian meant, and how (we believe) the Conservative view of the role of government supports that. I would love to hear your thoughts as you speak so eloquently and bring up good points that I don't often think of right off, but seem to resonate well with my soul. Thank you for all you do
Your words bring peace and clarity. Thank you! The brethren are being very diplomatic right now while maintaining the Church's standards. Their messaging may seem "soft" to some, but "a soft answer turns away wrath" which may be more critical than we know in sparing the Church from the full wrath of the world.
100% I have a feeling that the global church has to obey the law of the land of each nation it is in. Therefore the church has to take the soft approach. The UK is a very LGBT+-friendly country because of what happened to Alan Turing the father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence as well as other LGBT+ issues.
Great reflection on this situation. I definitely am confused and feel we need direct answers. Not from the PR wall but from the GA’s THEMSELVES. The Brethren can’t be ignorant of what these latest actions are doing to MANY seems odd and suspect. This could easily be diffused if a communication from the church that basically states something similar to your take on this is made. The longer the silence the worst this will have on membership. I was asked by the church to be part of Prop 8 and we did this with a understanding of why. What has changed since then. Would the new Communcations Director even have taken the job if we were doing a prop 8 now? Again, what has changed from then to now? Thanks Greg for all you do!!!
These are the times that try men’s souls. I mean, if the Lord wanted to really try our faith, this would be a great way to go about it. I’ve kinda noticed that He’s good at doing the unexpected.
I helped with Prop 8. One of the members told a woman that if Prop 8 passed, California public schools would start teaching LGBT curriculum to the children. She replied that it would never happen. It started even before the Prop 8 vote!
Doctrine is truth that NEVER changes...and the apostles and prophets teach it clearly to those who will receive it gladly. Pure and simple to those of us who have eyes to see clearly between truth and error.
I don't know how to make sense of all of this yet. like Greg said, we have to trust what the Brethren say over the pulpit. I would like to ask Brother Sherinian, while he was Bishop if his Elders Quorum President married a man, would he celebrate his name removal from the records of the Church? He did celebrate same-sex marriage while he was a Bishop.
This is the weeding of the saints. Come on. Where do you stand? Find peace in Christ. He is still in control. I trust the prophet. Do you? Look to yourself and make the changes in your life that you need to. Please find peace in Christ friends. Keep the faith. Love you Greg
Greg, I likely comment the most on your videos. You've responded back to me in such kind and wonderful ways. I want to echo some of the thoughts of previous posts. Your approach to subjects such as these difficult ones that seem to plague us, just confirms my views on the world about my testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Doctrine of Christ. My faith has been challenged ever since I've taken it seriously. While I was born in the church and have family connections that go back to the translation of the Book of Mormon and a young Prophet Joseph Smith, I've always had to do this balancing act you've stated as walking the edge of a sword. Thankfully I've been blessed with a wonderful daughter of God as my mate and she just seems to have such a strong connection to God, and to right and wrong based on the Gospel. Your explanation, analysis, and wisdom bring me peace in knowing I'm not alone in my approach and views. I have a gay son who came out nearly twenty years ago. I currently have children who are either not active or have cut us out of their lives; which as I see it is contrary to the most basic tenets of the Gospel. Both my wife and I are active, go to church, and attending the last session of General Conference in SLC in the Conference Center. It was a wonderful experience! I've had the privilege to meet many apostles and prophets; which only enhances my experiences that testifies to this sacred work. But because of the choices of those most dear to me, my wife and I often struggle, yet still maintain that hope in Christ based on eternal principles. They were all born under the covenant and my wife and I have chosen to look to, as you say, the atonement of Jesus Christ and His Gospel rather than the secular approach to understanding the world and our place in it. Our children know they are loved; which may be part of the reason for their behavior. They know we will never give up on them. But the also know we won't give up our hope in Christ. Thank you for all you do to help unscramble this world of sin, wickedness, hope, and love.
Great conversation here. I agree completely with the Conference talks by Oaks and President Nelson and their support for the eternal doctrine of marriage. Confusion definitely is rampant right now. I have no idea why the Church leadership hired someone who is so vocally opposed to Church doctrine as the new communications director. Only time will tell I guess. Maybe this guy will be a great asset to the Church and do a good job. OR....worst case scenario, he will be instrumental in influencing many members to leave or (Heaven forbid) influence the changing of doctrine somehow. Only time will tell, let's see where this goes and let it play out. There may be a reason for all of this. Crazy times we live in, the world is Satan's playground right now.
Thanks for this comforting video, Greg. About 50 years ago, I wrestled with the Lord about my homosexuality and gained the strength to change my life. My covenant with God included returning to actvity in the Church, not returning to former sins, and marrying a woman in the temple. Now I have a wife of 47 years, 5 amazing children, and 9 grandchildren. I'm still gay in the automatic and unentertained feelings I have, but I have never looked back with regret about that decision I made. How could I? I've been greatly blessed. These recent developments have been difficult for me. It's not because of regret, nor is it because I'm afraid the leaders are going to change the doctrine that I've built my life around. I fear for others. Well did Paul write, "If the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare to the battle?" I wonder if everyone in positions of responsibility know that they don't do anyone any favors by diluting the teachings of the Law of Chastiy. We talk about failures in morality as the sin next to death, but I've seen a lot of evidence among those leading young single people that the Law of Chastity is not being taken as seriously as it deserves.
The structure and function of the cosmos rests upon certain core principles. If there was eternal gay marriage, then chaos would destroy order and the second law of thermodynamics would come into play and matter would begin to break down. The quantum physics behind this assertion is conclusive. Too begin studying this principle, start with Hugh Nibley's "Temple and Cosmos"... First chapter especially. This says the framework.
If there was "eternal gay marriage" it would be the end of the species and it would cease to exist. None of it makes sense. A species can only survive if it procreates.
Our family is not confused. We will continue to walk the cutting edge of faith as covenated saved people in the blood of the Lamb. As the latter days progress and persecution returns, all i can say is let the hunger games come. We are already saved. I have enormous faith in Christ and His Atonement to make us all whole.
As a non-LDS viewer, I really appreciate your message regarding the defense of the core doctrines within your church. However, as it pertains to Jacob's "confusion" message (with all the content and examples he gave), I don't think it is going to help as the current leadership (who have more sway than Neil Maxwell) are bending to the social and political winds of change that are blatantly challenging the core doctrines on gender and marriage in the Restored gospel. I suspect it won't be too long (within a generation?) before the LDS God opens the heavens on even these core doctrines you are addressing. What I am seeing unfolding before my eyes over the past decade is the "Restoration of Fall Things"... meaning the restoration of ALL things pertaining to the Fall of Mankind. It seems like I am witnessing the acceptance of many sinful behaviors in this latter-day church which has prided itself in "obeying and keeping the commandments of God". Nevertheless, I think your attempt to quickly address this issue with more clarity is both noble and noteworthy... as I think the issue is going to rattle many, many conservative members.
These podcasts are grounding and it brings peace to come to a place of like-minded people.
I appreciate that feedback!
@@CwicShow Elder Holland said to the youth a few months ago that there must be more emphasis on living the law of Chastity to keep LGBT members on the covenant path rather than placing more emphasis on sexual identity issues which don't keep them firmly on the covenant path. We don't teach people in the Church to come onto the covenant path and then just abandon it after they get on the covenant path. But in the Church we teach people to stay on the covenant path. Which means to stay on it they have to live the law of chastity if unable to marry here in this life because of deep ongoing serious conflicts with unresolved SSA issues. SSA is a job-like trial for some..
@@CwicShowwhen looking at statements on polygamy, do you feel that the prophets in the past were perhaps even more clear?
For example, Brigham Young said "The only men who become Gods, even the Sons of God, are those who enter into polygamy. Others attain unto a glory and may even be permitted to come into the presence of the Father and the Son; but they cannot reign as kings in glory, because they had blessings offered unto them, and they refused to accept them."
The third prophet of the church, John Taylor, said "All those who would enter into my glory must and shall obey my law and have I not commanded men, that if they were Abraham's seed and would enter into my glory they must do the works of Abraham? I have not revoked this law nor will I, for it is everlasting and those who will enter into my glory must obey the conditions thereof.
Even so Amen"
I mean, these are literally statements where he says this is God's own voice. Notice John Taylor said this is God speaking. But did they keep their word?
When the Church leaders said that tough times and confusion is coming our way in the near future I didnt think they were referring to actual church leadership and its universities being the source of that confusion.
Totalitarianism attack all the foundation of a society to gain power. Education, medical, business, government, the youth, and the hardest to defeat, the church!
Um I’m not sure about that. The parable of the ten virgins are ten people in the church. I think there will be a lot of people who aren’t ready trying to convince you to leave the path. The scriptures also warn of wolves (members) in sheep’s clothing. I think the hardest part of the confusion will be people in the church preaching doctrines of man mingled with scripture.
I appreciate this point, but there's no one in the church who isn't teaching doctrine mixed up with philosophies of men. We just get angry when it's the philosophies of men we think we don't like. @@brainhunter1000
It's the wheat and the tares, they will grow together
Heber C Kimball: “I want to say to you, my brethren, the time is coming when we will be mixed up in
these now peaceful valleys to that extent that it will be difficult to tell the face of a Saint from the face
of an enemy to the people of God. Then, brethren, look out for the great sieve, for there will be a great
sifting time, and many will fall; for I say unto you there is a test, a Test, a TEST coming, and who will be
able to stand? This church has before it many close places through which it must pass before the work
of God is crowned with victory. To meet the difficulties that are coming it will be necessary for you to
have knowledge of the truth of this work for yourselves. The difficulties will be of such character that
the man or woman who does not possess this personal knowledge or witness will fall. If you have not
got the testimony, live right and call upon the Lord and cease not ‘till you obtain it. If you do not, you
will not stand. ” (Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. Kimball, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1945, p. 446.)
Heber C Kimball: “An army of Elders will be sent to the four quarters of the earth to search out the
righteous and warn the wicked of what is coming. All kinds of religions will be started and miracles
performed that will deceive the very elect if that were possible. Our sons and daughters must live pure
lives so as to be prepared for what is coming.
After a while the Gentiles will gather by the thousands to this place, and Salt Lake City will be classed
among the wicked cities of the world. A spirit of speculation and extravagance will take possession of
the Saints, and the results will be financial bondage.
As a new convert to the Church and an old school liberal, it has been difficult unraveling my true beliefs from my cultural programming. Thank you for helping me with this. We can love those different from us with out buying in to a change in what we know about the path of exaltation.
I have a lot of classical liberal in me. Thank you for the feedback.
Classical Liberal= Modern Day Conservative. He said "Old school liberal" not sure if hes referring to the same thing? 🤷@CwicShow
Thank you Greg! I really believe you have been blessed with clarity and understanding that you’re able to use your skills platform to help support faithful people who wish to stay on the covenant path! I appreciate you
I've always said to myself and to my kids that not even the living prophet could tell me this church and gospel are false. I know what I know, and no matter what idiotic people do or say within the church, it will never change what I know and do. Now is the worst time to stop going to church. It's exactly now when Christ needs his true disciples to defend Him and His gospel. If any member stops going because of what men do in our church, then Satan wins. Stay strong. Follow Christ, not any man. We are never asked if we have faith and a testimony in any man other than Jesus.
We are asked if we believe in the prophet and apostles as prophet seers and revelators and if we sustain them
Amen
Follow Christ. I agree with you. So then, tell me, what is the point of having living prophets? Why not just skip the middle man and go straight to God? And I think you are assuming if someone stops going to church that they stop associating with good. I think sometimes we don't give our "non-church hours" enough credit and the church time too much.
Well said! Exactly! Stay…stay…stay❤
My dad always said "the church is true, the people aren't". In relation to going to church, I would remind people that there are very faithful members who don't go to church. There are many reasons why so please don't assume they don't have testimonies, relationships with our Saviour and Heavenly Father. If someone you know isn't at church find out why. I am pretty young (50ish) and can't go due to health reasons yet constantly am thought of as inactive, apostate etc. Thank goodness I have had some nice missionaries pop by because the members don't, I do live in a ward where there is a majority of senior people and that makes it hard. I know it is very difficult at the moment for everyone. I have watched Jacobs video and looked into the church's policy on trans issues and I thought about it, read D&C 101 and thought about my experiences and also the eternal nature of the plan of Salvation. The church has not changed its stand on eternal families and marriage and continues to stand by the proclamation of family. We stand at the precipice (as you say Greg, a knives edge). The Lord knows the beginning from the end and has mercy for those who are his followers (wherever they are and whoever they are), he will bring his justice to those who oppose him (wherever they are and whoever they are). I do not know if will offer anyone, any hope, I personally think based on this knowledge we can look towards the eternities and know the Lord will win.
Thank you for your voice of reason and clarity. Please do not stop speaking out. It gives us confidence to hold our ground, both spiritually and philosophically.
EXACTLY..many of Us need a clear voice outside our own to know We are not alone . I heard a well known conservative voice talk today about the churches in America , he is evangelical but interesting . He talked about how TRUE principles of Christ have been replaced by “being nice “ in most churches . I thought of my own Church ( LDS ) and how true it is . I am NOT advocating being unkind to anyone BUT gospel principles seem to be taking a back seat to who is the “nicest “ in the Church . Tolerance of ALL sins seems do be the ultimate sign of your righteousness with many in the Church today . Good to hear others who don’t accept these false doctrines .
Thank you Greg! Your point of putting hope and bringing our lives to the altar of the atoning sacrifice versus having hope in change really brought light to my mind and peace to my heart. Between your and Jacob's video, I got the point that we sustain the brethren, hold to the Rod of Iron, and put our hope in Christ. Thank you!
Amen Andres!
Well said. Clear and concise. For me, the choice is either a foundation built on rock (Christ) or another built on sand (philosophies of man). Not a hard call.
Great point
Greg, keep it up, brother, you keep defending the doctrine of the family, and temple marriage between a man and a woman, and keep sustaining the Brethren, and defending them and our dear Savior. There are many of us that are strengthened and encouraged by your words on these issues. Good job, pointing out the words of the Prophet, Pres. Oakes, and Elder Christofferson from their Oct. talks. Like you said, the doctrine of eternal marriage and families is not going to change...
NOT. GONNA. HAPPEN. 😊
That would be a deal breaker for me and my family. If they ever tried to alter or change the definition of marriage we would leave in a heart beat. There is no way anyone could convince me that was revelation from God. Never. Keeping my fingers crossed you are correct and it's not going to happen.
Great video. I have used the conference talks you reference here to talk a few people "back from the ledge". I don't think we should expect to have our hands held on this; the Church has taught "correct principles", and now we must govern ourselves. This last conference could not have been clearer.
Right on.
So grateful for clear articulation. This channel is a light. Thank you for your voice and efforts.
I appreciate that!
I’ve been faithful in the gospel and active in the church my entire life but this has shaken me to the core and I am astounded by the ambivalence of those around me. Am I the only one who sees this for what it really is?
No you are not. HEAR HIM.
You are not alone with your concerns. There are a lot of strange things happening in the church in SLC lately. If Jesus returned today and saw what was going on in his church, and what it has become, what would he say? I can testify to you that he would shed a tear and say something like "No brethren, no, this is not what I meant."
@@djvee25 yes Jesus tells us He will clean His house first!
@@allthingsarepossiblethruchrist that is... Assuming he's still the one at the helm. Will he correct the course of a ship he's not even piloting anymore?
@@djvee25 the Church has been in apostasy since BY took over. But the cleansing will still start with the temple like Jesus did in Jerusalem but much worse. If you study Isaiah, Jeremiah about these subjects you will see its not going to be pretty.
This is the perfect response to Jacob Hansen’s video, and the people who are disillusioned with what’s going on. I’m glad that you mentioned all of the times that the man and woman doctrine kept being brought up by the Brethren during Conference. We all needed this.
Thank you for this show. It reminds me of Elder Hollands speech " What are you thinking". We need to trust our prophet and leaders and stay on the path and stay close to our Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you so much . I really enjoy Cwic Media
I know you don’t always see eye to eye with the few comments I make but I do want to say that you did a great job on explaining this. Keep them coming.
This new hire and Sharon Banks, and Deseret Book is causing a lot of doubt and confusion among church members including myself. However, when you listen to Oaks, Nelson, Holland, they are FIRM about The Family Proclamation. Because the church is a corporation, I think they may be forced to comply with government regulations to a certain extent such as who they hire. We have been warned that we MUST be able to receive Personal Revelation. The brethren may have to speak in code as some do on the internet to prevent being canceled. Read the footnotes on their talks.. and listen with the Spirit. And dont be afraid to stand and bear testimony when apostates preach false doctrine IN church.
Awhile back I received a strong impression that I would be called upon to defend the Brethern. And I will.
Great comment! My feelings as well.
Thank you, Greg, for stating the simple facts and not engaging in baseless speculation like some podcasts. The doctrine of the family is as core as anything in the Restored Gospel and won't change. Some individual members may fail to understand or support this doctrine, which is proving to be a great sifter, but the teachings of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve and the scriptures have been consistent on this.
Ahhhhh... "a great sifter" ! Maybe all this is exactly what is needed then to sift out those who do not follow or believe in the church's doctrine.
The brethren are anything but firm and succinct on this. You can't say one thing and act the opposite. If they are making goes like this to sift, they are playing a game with the eternal souls of the members. A Prophet can absolutely lead astray, and it certainly appears we are at that juncture.
@ah2ah310 by hiring people that don't believe in the church's doctrine?
@@rktul123 Don't mistake your faulty interpretation as them acting differently.
Great message. We are here now because we are up to the challenges of these last days. We just need to remember who we are and who sent us here. He will help us💙🙏🏻💙
Well said, Greg. The foundation you provide is a ready anchor to those who are being tossed to and fro. Thank you for your strong commitment, courage, and conversion.
Thank you for this. I really needed to hear this. I have also listened to our leaders and have felt comfort but I’m so disheartened y the confusion and hope this has brought to those waiting for the doctrine to change. God bless!
For far too many people, compassion has become a higher value than truth. They have placed the second great commandment above the first. This goes back to the War in Heaven. How do you suppose Lucifer was able to convince so many to join his side? He portrayed Heavenly Father's plan as unfair. How can a loving God have a plan where some of His children would not make it back? Lucifer proposed that he would bring everyone back, therefore making him even more compassionate than God. "Equity" is Satan's plan.
Thank you for the video. I saw the Thoughtful Faith video this morning just a couple hours after it was posted and I've been stewing over it all day. Dark days ahead, but there are people with their heads on straight and they need to make their voices heard.
Thanks.
I thought Jacob's video was excellent!
I thought it was too. Very concerning but well done and in the right spirit. I communicated with my priesthood leaders regarding the issues Jacob discussed. He said it better than I could have.
Stewing all day over here as well. And grieving.
(Literally shed tears by the time I climbed in bed.) So tired of being disappointed when the priesthood brethren --who covenanted to stand as protectors and defenders --keep letting us down. We are all called upon in The Proclamation on the Family to defend the doctrine of the family but many actual leaders with callings and special stewardships don't do so?!? Why no consequences?? Where is the priesthood??
@@jmut714ummm, the first presidency condoned a man who changed his name and goes by a woman, to get baptized. And p pole support it. That's crossing the line. We need to stop pretending people are perfect and follow the spirit. An apostle betrayed Jesus for crying out loud.
Thank you so much for clarifying this but it is still troubling to me. I fear that women’s spaces, rest rooms etc, might in the future be used by men who now identify as women. If these are genuine transitions I can cope with that but how will women and girls be protected from men who are saying they identify as women so they can get into women’s spaces, changing rooms etc. This is seriously scary for women and girls especially those who have suffered sexual abuse.
Felt the spirit watching this as you shared those conference quotes, highest praise I could give.
Thank you!
Highest praises? Shouldn't that be given to Jesus Christ only?
AMEN TO ALL YOU SAY!! Sweet words to my ears every time I hear those who defend truths.
Thank you Greg for stating boldly, with references, that we are on solid ground.
Thank you for the added clarity! So enjoy these podcasts that help me know there are others that believe like I do.
I'm not as disturbed about the Church supporting gay marriage as I am about the fact that the First Presidency approved the baptism of a man who claims he is a woman and that the Relief Society Presidency put a stamp of approval on a woman who supports the LGBTQ movement and has openly stated she doesn't support the Family Proclamation. I'm holding onto the Iron Rod but I'm honestly confused why this is happening.
2 Nephi 4
34 O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that putteth his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that putteth his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm.
35 Yea, I know that God will give aliberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I bask cnot amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the drock of my erighteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen.
This is exactly how I feel!!
D&C 101:42
@@KimballCody Much of this section gives me a very interesting perspective on our day. Salt, watchtower, wheat and tares...I'm going to study this today.
@lauries.nicewaner3876 Can you explain why the baptism thing is such a big deal? We ALL believe things when we are baptized that are false. I see no issue as long as the person also decided they will live a chaste life. In my mind, Gender dysphoria is a mental issue not all that different from depression. As long as they follow the doctrine and will be chaste, let them be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, and progress to a more complete understanding.
Thank you for your sincere effort to help find truth and share it. It is something we all need to hear, because it is hard to know where to look and you are so right, the scriptures and doctrines of the gospel are the truth that we need to hold on to.
I appreciate that
I’m with you on this! Holding fast to the iron rod and keeping my focus on Jesus Christ. Stay at the tree! Another amazing talk to add to your list: I just re-listened to the talk John Pingree of the seventy gave this last conference called Eternal Truth. It has 63 footnotes filled with so much doctrine! ❤️🙏🏻
I think stubbornly holding to the Iron rod more fits me since I'm stubborn when it comes to my faith.
Well said 🙌 The great and spacious building is where we are and we will all soon be mocked from within… hang on to the rod!!!
Listen to Boyd KPacker 2007 byu speech “Lehis Dream” pretty good
General Conference is about three months away. I hope to hear something from church leaders that will bring peace to my mind over some of these issues. I need a "thus sayeth the Lord" moment. I am beginning to understand what President Nelson meant when he warned us that in coming days it would be impossible to survive spiritually without the constant and sustsining influence of the Holy Ghost. Right here in my own stake many good men and women, people who I thought were rock solid in the faith, have left the church. One was a bishop. They did not leave over LGBTQ issues they left over questions about church history and other administrative issues that they did not agree with. But this seems to becoming more widespread. There is a spitit of apostasy that is permeating the church right now. And its scary. I find myself asking "Lord, is it I?" Will I be one to betray my covenants? Will I be one to abandon my faith when serious questions arise? I consider my testimony irrevocable but I was sure this bishop's was too.
I am immersing myself in the scriptures now, especially The Book of Mormon, trying to fortify myself against the secularism that is creeping into the church.
You'll be just fine..cling to the iron rod. It's been a rough couple of weeks. I'm numb...hurt...but even if 10 of the 12 went rogue...I'm still in. Too many Spiritual experiences to ever turn away.
@@GAILandROD thank you for your encouraging words. I am not thinking about turning away. But I am confused right now. And I have no answers for family members who are critical of the church.
Thanks, Greg. You and Jacob have been two of the greatest defenders of the faith over last couple of years that I’ve been aware of. I see this confusion as our (traditional conservative minded disciples) trial of faith. Will we stay true and follow the footsteps of those covenant makers who endured to the end or will we follow in the footsteps of so many who have lost their testimony in living prophets of all eras. I too know of the truthfulness of eternalism over secularism and that our living prophets have consistently taught the true doctrines. Thanks for the continued effort to counter Satans imitations today.
You speak about walking the edge of a sword. I like to say that being a devout Christian these days is very much like "walking on water". We need to keep our attention squarely on the Savior
Greg,
thank you for this post. I have been thinking about the Thoughtful Faith post. This has helped me be less confused. Thank you for sharing.
Great clarification, reinforcement of the eternal DOCTRINE of Gods TRUE gospel!
THANKS!!!
Thank you Brother Cwic for sharing your thoughts and beliefs. Very inspiring! I live outside of Utah and I don’t feel like these concerns for change in church doctrine are thought about very much. I feel like the fellow saints in my area are concentrated on how we can build our relationships with our savior and much less about social issues.
Another GREAT episode, Greg!! You hit the nail on the head when you stated that critical theory allows people to ignore the changes we need to make within ourselves, blame others, and NOT HAVE TO RELY on the atonement of Jesus Christ.
I am really beginning to think that this ideology is the “great and abominable church” spoken of in Nephi’s vision.
I have had the same thought. It makes the entire world "drink of the wrath of its fornication"
Love you show Greg. I appreciate your measured insight. Keep up the great work you are doing !
Heber C. Kimball who once said that the Church has many close places through which it must yet pass and that those living on borrowed light will not be able to stand when those days come. That time has come.
Respect for your comments on The Mormon Book review show. I've grown to deeply respect and appreciate you, Greg. Your takes, though I disagree often, are rational and consistent. I love your take on conservatism and the Church. So well put.
Thanks for your perspective Greg. I was feeling quite worked up and unsettled after seeing Jacob’s video this morning. The evidence he presented is highly concerning to me. I think the church is absolutely sending out conflicting messages which are highly confusing to me and so many others and I certainly wish that would be stopped. However, I do sincerely appreciate your perspective that we are still on solid ground and that the doctrine of the family will not and cannot change. I completely agree. Ultimately the church is either led by the Savior or it isn’t. I happen to believe that it is and that He will correct these things in time. I don’t believe He will allow His church to apostatize before he comes again. I have always been and will remain loyal to the brethren and it was very clear this past conference where they stand.
Jacob's video was spot on and is why I posted this one.
Bro Sherinan was hired by church employees right? How can we better vet those doing the hiring to make sure they aren’t activists hiring other activists to represent the church?
The first presidency and quorum of the twelve are tremendously occupied with their callings that church staff is obviously not hired by them. I just want to make sure church employees aren’t trying to bring in agendas and proclaiming those beliefs to be church doctrines
You took the words right out of my mouth!
@@CwicShow I absolutely agree. As difficult as it was to hear I think it was spot on. I thought it was so interesting in our Come Follow Me study tonight we read the verse from 1 Nephi 11:36 “And it came to pass that I saw and bear record, that the great and spacious building was the PRIDE of the world; and it fell, and the fall thereof was exceedingly great. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me again, saying: Thus shall be the destruction of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, that shall fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb.” I thought that was so fitting for everything going on.
No Aaron S is a managing director. To hire that level of management is done by a member of the Seventy.
“In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.”
We have been told, that our greatest enemy will come from within. This is now happening, if we don’t have the companionship of the Holy Spirit, we will be dragged into this secularism. Follow the Saviour and his Prophet should be our mantra. All is not well in Zion.
Thank God for you Greg!
Thanks.
The law of chastity has never been easy to live, but it is easy to understand. There are people inside the Church working like termites to create loopholes in the law of chastity where they currently do not exist.
Actions have always spoke louder than words. Anyone can speak a good speech but as we see then turn around and do something totally different. The Church lately has been talking out both sides of their mouth. This is why people are confused! It saddens me so greatly that the Church of my youth does not exist anymore.
Inspiration - Thank you for your clarifications!
Thanks for watching!
Our two out of four children are now LGBTQIA+ . It is so heart breaking. Yet, my husband and I do not support their life styles/ideology nor what the world is trying to change-making upside down the God's absolute standards. Thank you for the brave statement.
Thanks Greg, good as usual. I struggle with teaching true doctrine these days in the church, as there are so many that will get upset if you teach the "irrevocable doctrine" of the proclamation on the family. I am teaching EQ this week, and our lesson is Elder Oaks talk from the last general conference; wish me luck!
I was called to teach that one cold, on the spot. It went well. I actually believed every word of it.
Power and authority brother. Godspeed
I taught that with the sealing power 2 weeks ago. The Spirit taught it. Focus on eternal posterity and sealing of each ordinance in next life, from what I remember. 2nd witnesses from other sisters.
Teach truth clearly and with love. If people get upset, they are upset with the doctrine, they are upset with truth. But you may also help some fence sitters feel the spirit as you teach truth. Which is far more important.
I appreciate your strong testimony.
Amen my brother as my niece, a Young Women’s leader, said “I’m going to hold fast to the iron rod.”
Holding onto the iron rod is of course the best course action. Which iron rod are you going to hold on to. The iron rod from the late 1900s, maybe the iron rod from the 40s. I was born in the 60s. The iron rod now has a lot of differences then the iron rod back in the 60s.
Thank you again! I love the quotes! People need to read things more carefully before getting upset and jumping to conclusions. Your work in these last days are inspirational!
Thanks! You are such a blessing to us!
You’re welcome! And thank you!
This is a time where we can learn to love our neighbors more. It also puts us in a position of opposition. Two different ideologies. What are we going to do. A perfect storm to help us grow or make us go. Sifting. Hence the urgency in president Nelsons talks. Whos on the Lords side who? NOW is the time to show!
Very well put... You're absolutely correct and i will also follow and trust in the prophet's statements.
The voice of the prophets and apostles is clear. I sustain these men.
Yes but actions speak louder than words.
Stop clinging to the arm of flesh. It's only going to disappoint you further.
Actions speak louder than words. So while there may be zero indication from the words of our leaders, there is plenty of indication from their actions.
Hope in Christ > hope in change. I love that. Thanks Greg.
Church moves with the times! They change with society! Always have always will! I once commented that the church would allow and accept LGBTQ…you replied with a simple “nah”. This is the first steps, we all may be dead by the time it happens, but it will! The church changes with society! Mark my words!
Nah
Lol!
You're right.
Paraphrasing BY and other "inspired" apostles of the time:
- Blacks will never be given the priesthood until after the start of the millennium
- A man must be a polygamist in order to attain the highest degree in the celestial kingdom
- Polygamy will never end but will expand to fill the whole earth.
Where are these and other key doctrines that "will never change"?
@@CwicShow lies soothe the mind, don't they.
@@BrendonKing Not mine.
@cwicshow Thank you for this episode, that clarifies your sustaining support of the brethren while raising the flag of awareness. Not easily done….but successfully well done.♥️
Appreciate it
Greg, you say that this change from current marriage doctrine will never happen, but we have historical precedents when something like this did change. During the late 1800’s polygamy was being taught as the gate way to the highest order of the celestial kingdom. Leaders saying that polygamy will never be removed and yet it was removed. Yes, government pushed that but this could be a similar situation with maybe a different face, like societal pressure. It would be a disaster but not impossible to happen.
There is a difference between principle and practice. Polygamy is an eternal principle, but practice has always been intermittent.
I feel this is one of many tests. We were just asked to become peacemakers and a Zion people… then this…There is a lot of contention over this. It is easy to be a peacemaker when there aren’t challenges. Can we be peacemakers when we don’t understand? Is this a sifting process? Maybe. We are reading “for a wise purpose known only unto the Lord.” We need to trust in the Lord and His gospel. The Prophet and leaders have made it clear regarding marriage and gender. God is in control. Hope in Christ!
Very well stated. You are doing a good work.
While we consider this problem I think we need to also consider that it involves our own brothers and sisters. As President Monson said, “Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved.” No qualifications or exemptions seem to fit that mandate. Our leaders, chosen by God, have taken this to heart. They certainly stand for truth and declare it boldly, but when it comes to individuals, all of whom are flawed in some way, they must treat them with love. It appears that some of us would like to just kick others off the path, rather than attempt to help them along it. While you’ve shown us examples that are or seem contradictory to doctrine, you’ve found nothing related to what has happened since, regarding those apparent infractions. As if the Church ignored them. It is unlikely that they’ve been ignored and much more likely, that they’ve been dealt with, or are being so. Those dealings are consistently not done publicly, so we may never know. Personally, I feel great compassion for our leaders who have to wrestle with such issues, probably much more than we are aware. One final note, Sister Cheiko Okazaki once said, “In principles great clarity, in practices, great charity.” It seems that each of us could extend more charity and grace to those who don’t fully conform to our views, including our leaders. Elder J. Reuben Clark said, “I believe that our Heavenly Father wants to save every one of His children,…that in his justice and mercy He will give us the maximum reward for our acts, give us all He can give, and in the reverse, I believe that he will impose upon us the minimum penalty which it is possible for Him to impose.” Ought we not to do the same?
My question is.....they condoned a man (that thinks he's a woman and changed his name)❤, to get baptized. Does that mean that an alcoholic can stay an alcoholic as long as he's an alcoholic before he's baptized? So many double standards. No wonder why people are confused. They will tell the alcoholic he needs to be sober or get consequences, but we are not giving consequences to people slandering the sacredness of men and women.
Thank you. Such a good reminder to trust the brethren. It is a refining time where I think the wrestle is the point like Jacob. Your podcast pointed out so well that the point is right now to focus on the savior and the covenant and learn as much about it as we can. My sense is that this is a time for building up the stakes of Zion and building temples so that when we do have a separation there are places for people to find refuge. I do trust that the brethren have the Longview in mind even though it is still discouraging to wrestle with these things over and over when they make certain decisions. Thank you always and I love your come follow me insights as well they are my favorite.
Actually, Bednar’s tone and message have definitely changed in the last few years. It is quite alarming. He went from saying he didn’t like to describe any members of the church as “homosexual” to saying he is thankful for “our LGBTQ brothers and sisters” in the church. He is now using the political activist term “LGBTQ” which legitimizes the notion that people are inherently that way.
Fantastic episode! Thanks for your efforts and conviction!
By their FRUITS shall ye know them...
Does the Church not have control over what is taught at BYU or sold at Deseret? Does the church not govern who is hired to be the media director of the Church? Can the Church have one foot in the Church and one foot in Gamora?
Have one foot in the church and one foot in Gamora? Apparently, by the looks of it, the church most certainly can!
Prophet and some of the apostles sit on the board of trustees at BYU and a few years ago fired several professors for doing less than what is being done today.
And Deseretbook submissions page states " Deseret Book is a publisher and retailer that publishes and promotes a variety of books, *all of which reflect the values espoused by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" * And last I heard church leaders sit on the board of directors. And the prophet and apostles would most definitely be the ones to oversea who is hired to be the media director of the church. Even if they weren't giving their stamp of approval they certainly could put a stop to anything that doesn't reflect the value and teachings of the church.
I want to BYU for a little bit back in the seventies, my kids went there in the late 80s early 90s. I've had family members who taught it BYU. As far as I'm concerned BYU now is just a den of iniquity. The higher perverted professors that openly believe and teach doctrines of the world.
Greg you are a good man to stay faithful my respect to you.
"The altar of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ is moving from a hope in Christ to a hope in change, something that is a nontruth and is not helping anyone." The doctrine of the family is an eternal principle.
Adding to the confusion is how every time we go to the temple we hear: “For God will NOT be mocked.” Yet it is apparent that He will be mocked because certain decisions within the church are enabling the mocking of God & His doctrine inside the Church itself.
Well said.
The Prophet Joseph Smith said, “I will give you a key that will never rust, if you will stay with the majority of the Twelve Apostles, and the records of the Church, you will never be led astray.”
The "majority" of the Twelve Apostles? That would almost seem to imply that there CAN be a minority amongst them that you shouldn't follow. Yet to get a temple recommend, we are required to state that we sustain them (I would assume that means all of them.) Starting some sort of "apostate" witch hunt or blame game within our leadership isn't the right answer. At the end of the day it is OUR responsibility to prayerfully follow the Spirit in the acceptance of our leader's words. It is a very difficult path to navigate... truly "a knife's edge" as Greg puts it in this video. But the Lord doesn't want complacent followers that accept precepts of men mingled with scripture as doctrine. He wants proactive doers who are truly converted; people who know how to use the Spirit to distinguish between precepts and doctrine.
The historical significance of this quote apropos the martyrdom of Joseph and the “succession crisis” is what I’m referring. Most of the Q12 were out on missions when Joseph was killed and needed to be recalled. It’s important to note that the majority of the Q12 made it back to the infamous Rigdon Young conference to testify of the endowment of keys in spring of 1844 to the Q12, thereby negating any succession crisis, but rather, solidifying the Church would be led by the Q12 (not Rigdon nor Strang nor Smith III).
The other reference to this quote relates to the possibility that is ever present because men are human and there are multiple historical precedents, namely, the apostasy of a member of the 12 (see Judas, Law, Cowdry among others).
That quote and its origin are suspect. I wouldn’t hang your hat on that one.
Quoted in General Conference by Elder Faust (Oct 94)
The problem for me is that I have always been taught to “Avoid the very appearance of evil.” All the primary lessons about not even pretending to smoke or drink, the stories about not seeing how close to the edge of the cliff you can drive your wagon and all the other stories and parables about staying as far away as possible from even looking like wickedness. Unfortunately I don’t feel like this is the example we are seeing from the Church as an organization when it comes to these issues and now they are so far down the road that they can’t go back.
This guy will be the representation if the church. There are already church videos that are questionable...I never thought I'd ever feel that way.
Bro. Madsen, You are RIGHT ON THE MONEY!"
I enjoy your shows Greg. You bring out such solid points that I agree with you on. It is wild I just listened to Elder Maxwell yesterday and that exact same quote about deck chairs made me laugh but cringe all at the same time. I bring this to your attention because it is through knowledge that we attain a hope for the promises of the Lord and to be able to go through trying times.
I found these scriptures awhile back but your show brought them to the forefront of my mind.
"Isaiah 24: 5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant."
These are Isaiah's words to our day. Also Isaiah 28: 1 Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty is a fading flower, which are on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine!
2 Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one, which as a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, as a flood of mighty waters overflowing, shall cast down to the earth with the hand.
3 The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim, shall be trodden under feet:
If you read the scriptures as going through an ordinance with that as your lens you get a greater understanding and backdrop. It has been a beautiful insight in my life. The trodden under foot is exactly as we are warned by Christ when salt loses is savour. Us being that Salt of the Earth and not being just that and broken and changed the new and Everlasting Covenant then the penalty is the same as we learn through the Endowment.
In the Book of Mormon so many times the Lord lets the people over to the things of their hearts. If it be wickedness then they can have it for they have truly chosen it. We are organizing ourselves!
Isaiah even refers directly to the Crown of Pride. I know I will not make any friends with that one. But neither did Isaiah. I show you these things that you might find wisdom and not be overcome by despair as you are viewing these things to share with others. It truly is a sifting process and we all individually will have to decide where we stand with the Lord.
I know this is why President Nelson has counseled us to seek the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost to survive. He knows it will be confusing. But no worry... even if men do these things God's laws are sure and Eternal.
The Lord warns us of all things to come so we can be prepared!
Keep up the good work. I share to serve and inspire others. It is kinda my job in this life. I hope this helps you on your path of greater understanding in seeking light and knowledge. Thanks again Sis. Thomassen
By their fruits.
A simple reading of the handbook of instruction leaves the temple doors wide open for an individual who has transitioned to be endowed and sealed.
Chapter and verse?
I disagree. But baptizing a trans man (who has no misgivings about his identity change even after learning the gospel) opens that door a little. He will one day marry, and he’ll marry a man. A gay man, obviously. What happens then?
Really like what you have said in this one. It's interesting that there were 3 witnesses this last conference to such an important and strangely controversial topic.
I wonder if at some point you could discuss your thoughts on Christian vs. Conservative... we had a discussion with the in-laws that believe that conservatives who do not want to help the homeless (I don't know where that came from) are not being Christian. Our discussion led us into what being a Christian meant, and how (we believe) the Conservative view of the role of government supports that. I would love to hear your thoughts as you speak so eloquently and bring up good points that I don't often think of right off, but seem to resonate well with my soul.
Thank you for all you do
Your words bring peace and clarity. Thank you! The brethren are being very diplomatic right now while maintaining the Church's standards. Their messaging may seem "soft" to some, but "a soft answer turns away wrath" which may be more critical than we know in sparing the Church from the full wrath of the world.
100% I have a feeling that the global church has to obey the law of the land of each nation it is in. Therefore the church has to take the soft approach. The UK is a very LGBT+-friendly country because of what happened to Alan Turing the father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence as well as other LGBT+ issues.
Great reflection on this situation. I definitely am confused and feel we need direct answers. Not from the PR wall but from the GA’s THEMSELVES. The Brethren can’t be ignorant of what these latest actions are doing to MANY seems odd and suspect. This could easily be diffused if a communication from the church that basically states something similar to your take on this is made. The longer the silence the worst this will have on membership. I was asked by the church to be part of Prop 8 and we did this with a understanding of why. What has changed since then. Would the new Communcations Director even have taken the job if we were doing a prop 8 now? Again, what has changed from then to now? Thanks Greg for all you do!!!
Thankyou for your comments and actions to stand for the family proclamation. I have relatives who also stood and it took courage.
These are the times that try men’s souls. I mean, if the Lord wanted to really try our faith, this would be a great way to go about it.
I’ve kinda noticed that He’s good at doing the unexpected.
100%
I was on that prop 8 campaign too...door to door. Was that all just a bunch of hooey?
I helped with Prop 8. One of the members told a woman that if Prop 8 passed, California public schools would start teaching LGBT curriculum to the children. She replied that it would never happen. It started even before the Prop 8 vote!
Doctrine is truth that NEVER changes...and the apostles and prophets teach it clearly to those who will receive it gladly. Pure and simple to those of us who have eyes to see clearly between truth and error.
Thank you for this video ❤
Welcome 😊
It would be helpful if we had a prophet, seer, and revelator, to clarify all the confusion.
I don't know how to make sense of all of this yet. like Greg said, we have to trust what the Brethren say over the pulpit. I would like to ask Brother Sherinian, while he was Bishop if his Elders Quorum President married a man, would he celebrate his name removal from the records of the Church? He did celebrate same-sex marriage while he was a Bishop.
12:15 AMEN!!! We are seeing this in our family.
This is the weeding of the saints. Come on. Where do you stand? Find peace in Christ. He is still in control. I trust the prophet. Do you? Look to yourself and make the changes in your life that you need to. Please find peace in Christ friends. Keep the faith. Love you Greg
Greg, I likely comment the most on your videos. You've responded back to me in such kind and wonderful ways. I want to echo some of the thoughts of previous posts. Your approach to subjects such as these difficult ones that seem to plague us, just confirms my views on the world about my testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Doctrine of Christ. My faith has been challenged ever since I've taken it seriously. While I was born in the church and have family connections that go back to the translation of the Book of Mormon and a young Prophet Joseph Smith, I've always had to do this balancing act you've stated as walking the edge of a sword. Thankfully I've been blessed with a wonderful daughter of God as my mate and she just seems to have such a strong connection to God, and to right and wrong based on the Gospel.
Your explanation, analysis, and wisdom bring me peace in knowing I'm not alone in my approach and views. I have a gay son who came out nearly twenty years ago. I currently have children who are either not active or have cut us out of their lives; which as I see it is contrary to the most basic tenets of the Gospel. Both my wife and I are active, go to church, and attending the last session of General Conference in SLC in the Conference Center. It was a wonderful experience! I've had the privilege to meet many apostles and prophets; which only enhances my experiences that testifies to this sacred work. But because of the choices of those most dear to me, my wife and I often struggle, yet still maintain that hope in Christ based on eternal principles. They were all born under the covenant and my wife and I have chosen to look to, as you say, the atonement of Jesus Christ and His Gospel rather than the secular approach to understanding the world and our place in it. Our children know they are loved; which may be part of the reason for their behavior. They know we will never give up on them. But the also know we won't give up our hope in Christ.
Thank you for all you do to help unscramble this world of sin, wickedness, hope, and love.
Great conversation here. I agree completely with the Conference talks by Oaks and President Nelson and their support for the eternal doctrine of marriage. Confusion definitely is rampant right now. I have no idea why the Church leadership hired someone who is so vocally opposed to Church doctrine as the new communications director. Only time will tell I guess. Maybe this guy will be a great asset to the Church and do a good job. OR....worst case scenario, he will be instrumental in influencing many members to leave or (Heaven forbid) influence the changing of doctrine somehow. Only time will tell, let's see where this goes and let it play out. There may be a reason for all of this. Crazy times we live in, the world is Satan's playground right now.
I agree with you Greg. Follow the brethren. Follow the commandments.
Thanks for this comforting video, Greg. About 50 years ago, I wrestled with the Lord about my homosexuality and gained the strength to change my life. My covenant with God included returning to actvity in the Church, not returning to former sins, and marrying a woman in the temple. Now I have a wife of 47 years, 5 amazing children, and 9 grandchildren. I'm still gay in the automatic and unentertained feelings I have, but I have never looked back with regret about that decision I made. How could I? I've been greatly blessed. These recent developments have been difficult for me. It's not because of regret, nor is it because I'm afraid the leaders are going to change the doctrine that I've built my life around. I fear for others. Well did Paul write, "If the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare to the battle?" I wonder if everyone in positions of responsibility know that they don't do anyone any favors by diluting the teachings of the Law of Chastiy. We talk about failures in morality as the sin next to death, but I've seen a lot of evidence among those leading young single people that the Law of Chastity is not being taken as seriously as it deserves.
So good! Thank you so much Greg.
Glad you enjoyed it!
If the Prophets and Apostles are in charge, why don't they fire the new communications director and the people that hired him?
Good question. We don't know.
Neal Maxwell makes me proud to be a member of the Church.
I sustain the doctrine of Christ in the Proclamation of thr Family. As for me and my house we sustain the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Great Podcast Greg! This needs to be repeated continuously. 💝
We know it’s going to seep in. What I didn’t expect was that the brethren would welcome the seep.
The structure and function of the cosmos rests upon certain core principles.
If there was eternal gay marriage, then chaos would destroy order and the second law of thermodynamics would come into play and matter would begin to break down.
The quantum physics behind this assertion is conclusive. Too begin studying this principle, start with Hugh Nibley's "Temple and Cosmos"... First chapter especially. This says the framework.
If there was "eternal gay marriage" it would be the end of the species and it would cease to exist. None of it makes sense. A species can only survive if it procreates.
Thank you Greg, you helped me feel a lot better.
Our family is not confused. We will continue to walk the cutting edge of faith as covenated saved people in the blood of the Lamb.
As the latter days progress and persecution returns, all i can say is let the hunger games come.
We are already saved. I have enormous faith in Christ and His Atonement to make us all whole.
As a non-LDS viewer, I really appreciate your message regarding the defense of the core doctrines within your church. However, as it pertains to Jacob's "confusion" message (with all the content and examples he gave), I don't think it is going to help as the current leadership (who have more sway than Neil Maxwell) are bending to the social and political winds of change that are blatantly challenging the core doctrines on gender and marriage in the Restored gospel. I suspect it won't be too long (within a generation?) before the LDS God opens the heavens on even these core doctrines you are addressing.
What I am seeing unfolding before my eyes over the past decade is the "Restoration of Fall Things"... meaning the restoration of ALL things pertaining to the Fall of Mankind. It seems like I am witnessing the acceptance of many sinful behaviors in this latter-day church which has prided itself in "obeying and keeping the commandments of God".
Nevertheless, I think your attempt to quickly address this issue with more clarity is both noble and noteworthy... as I think the issue is going to rattle many, many conservative members.
This whole hiring a mega woke communication director makes no sense given the upset factor to many members...but certain people are loving it.
I appreciate you perspective. It does seem like the LDS church is headed down a less than desirable (IMO) path.
I'm going to use that. The restoration of fall things.