Pastor's FIRST TIME Inside Latter-day Saint Temple
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 31 พ.ค. 2024
- This was my first time attending going inside a Latter-day Saint Temple! My wife and I went to the Temple open house in Saratoga Springs, Utah. How did we feel? What did we learn? Check out my honest thoughts.
Special thanks to Kurt Francom from Leading Saints for joining me in this video: @LeadingSaints
Support this effort: www.HelloCreative.life
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Hello Saints! My name is Jeff McCullough and I'm a Christian Pastor.
This channel is devoted to fighting criticism with curiosity as I invite dialogue between mainstream Christians and Mormons. Are Mormons Christians? What do Evangelicals and Latter-day Saints agree and disagree about? Join me as I compare and contrast the lifestyle, culture and beliefs of Mormons and non-LDS Christians.
If you enjoyed this video, you might enjoy a similar video I made exploring the birthplace of the Mormon Church in Palmyra, New York: • Pastor REACTS to Birth...
#LatterDaySaints #lds #mormonism - บันเทิง
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This was my first time inside a temple! Did I miss anything in my tour recap?
You missed the basement. Just kidding
I would say we are not adding too but making Christ’s ordinances available to all God’s children past and present. Many have died without a knowledge of Him. The temple teaches us how to be one with Him through patterns and teaching; as we ascend the mountain of the Lord.
Just a tip:
During the closing sequence you actually said "Went THROUGH the temple for the first time." In latter-day saint vernacular, these words actually mean something specific, that you are participating in the ordinances for yourself. So I would suggest saying "went INSIDE of a temple for the first time" instead, just to avoid any confusion.
Your channel is great and I've been following you since I saw you on Saints Unscripted. Thank you for creating this video - I think you did a fantastic job capturing the main ideas of what temple worship consists of for members of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints.
The only thing I would say about faith vs. works is that these ordinances are only possible through Jesus Christ, and they’re free to obtain because of him. It’s not like “you can’t go to heaven unless you do these ordinances!” It’s more like the ordinances are the equivalent of turning the doorknob and walking in. There is only a door because of Jesus Christ, but you have to do the walking in-the “work” of salvation.
@@ja-kaz No one goes there except the cleaners and maintenance guys🤣
Hello Pastor Jeff, I attended THREE tours of the Philadelphia Temple open house after its construction in 2016, as a 3-decade atheist. (I wasn't one of those intolerant atheists you hear about, I simply didn't believe.) But my wife was a convert, so I went to the open house with her, then with her family, and once by myself. And after a bit of prayer and instruction by some sister missionaries, I was converted by the Holy Ghost on the floor of my living room in a very personal and dramatic fashion. Now I consider myself to be a disciple of Christ, whereas before I only believed in the laws of physics, LOL. Blessings to you! 😇
@@ChristianityRecap Charming. Makes me wonder what gave you the skill of discerning whether someone is a Christian or not from a TH-cam comment. Or maybe you're just the "judging" type. :-) But hey, it's a free country! I wish blessings nonetheless on you and your family.
Thank you for sharing. Whether you believe or not, the temple has a non-zero significance in every community, heart, and soul.
God bless everyone!
Beautiful testimony!! Thank you for sharing❤
@@ChristianityRecap My relationship with God and with Jesus Christ is a personal one. It is fascinating to me that you're claiming they're imposters. Fascinating! 🙂
@@ChristianityRecap i pray to God of the Bible, with sincerity of heart, real intent and faith in Jesus Christ of the new testament and Jehovah of the Old testament. The answer was. Powerful testimony from the Holy Spirit that the Book of Mormon is true testament of Jesus Christ and that the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints is His true and living Church upon the earth.
It is SO refreshing to hear someone outside of our religion be so respectful of our beliefs. Thank you, you are a beautiful soul.
You do know Jesus is God in flesh right? And We cant become gods one day correct? Repent of that false religion and put your faith in Christ alone!
@@TRAV_15 you say they need to “put faith in christ alone.” i am confused because if in your eyes, god and the holy spirit and jesus are one, then mormons are worshipping christ alone. they worship the same components. if those components are singular to you, then them worshing those three things come in the package of a singular god & would qualify as “christ alone”. you are playing a game of semantics; mormons’ idea of god is a cousin to your idea of god. it is like you are arguing over if Cerberus is one dog or three. are you not just looking at the same thing in a different way?
oh well i am an atheist so it doesnt matter
I agree. He is refreshing
@@TRAV_15why does it make you so angry that LDS believe this? And why do you feel that you must force your way upon everyone. We can all choose to believe what we believe. I respect that you believe that Jesus is God Made flesh. I differ from your belief but I still believe that Jesus is my savior and through his atonement he suffered and took pain my sins and I am thankful for that everyday. So no matter what you or I believe he did what he did and he is who he is and it doesn’t matter what you or I believe, as long as we follow and believe him we will be with him a again
@@mylie6181q¹ w2w⅖
It's nice to see people disagree about doctrine without being disagreeable. We need more of that in society today.
Its all mythology anyway.
I don’t think I’d say that they disagree about doctrine, it’s really two different religions. I’ve also been inside a Sikh temple. We have different beliefs but get along just fine.
@@rosam.lopezaliasrebeca452why are you even here then if you disagree?
Disagree without being disagreeable? What does that mean?
People Wait Jesus Christ Preached The Gospel of Jesus Christ , and Jesus Christ Warned Man about Those Coming With Another Gospel That Was Not Preached and Angel From Heaven , So People What’s The First Thing All Of You Need To Remember What Joseph Smith Said His. Gospel and Angel From Heaven (Angel Moroni ) Bingo People This Is So Simple and Easy , If The Book 📕 of Mormon Was Also Part Of The Gospel Of Jesus Christ Then Jesus Christ Never Would’ve Needed To Warn Man In The Bible About Another Gospel Correct , People Remember They Reject All Bible Scriptures, Until It Gets To Titling ( Money) and Yes Myself & Wife Were Both In The Church For Years ( Galatians Ch-1. Vs-8-12 ) But even if we or An Angel from Heaven , People Salvation Is Up To Each One Of Us Other People Cannot Believe For Us Or Accept God For Us and Remember Salvation Has To Come Out Of Our Own Mouth 👄 ( Romans Ch-10 Vs -9-10 ) If You Confess With Your Own Mouth 👄 That’s That ! 👍🙏📕
As an ex-Mormon this was really good. I was sealed in the Provo Temple with my family at 5. My parents were converted in Hong Kong and we flew to the US to visit the temple. Lots of fun memories with our missionaries. They spoke Chinese! The rooms in this video brought back so many memories. Today I’m a Christian - no denomination . Just a follower of Jesus and born again. God is soooo good!! ✝️
@@user-mn9qy9nv3sNewnamenoah is a disagreeable man and downright disgusting in how he chose to act, as well as how his community acts, I don’t wish harm upon them, but I do wish the stuff he did and continues to do will stop and be removed from the internet.
He saw the truth. Now he doesn’t need a secret handshake or to target investigators
A few thoughts about the Bible. I do not see the Bible as complete. I mean, a bunch of books named (by way of reference) in the Bible are not even in the Bible, and several of the New Testament apostles have no writings whatsoever in the Bible, and finally most compelling is that the Nicaean Council decided what writings/books to allow into the Bible--and what to reject--too Roman Empire centric for my taste. The Bible is wonderful, but incomplete. (I would love to get a hold of some of the books that the Nicaean Council rejected, as well as read the books that are referred to in the Bible, yet not found in the Bible. I.E. there is scriptural truth out there that is not compiled into the Bible.)
@@NathanKnight-kc7yjyou want to stop freedom of speech?
I'm so glad that you're a follower of Jesus. So many who leave the LDS church no longer believe in or follow Jesus. I am also a former Mormon, though my name is still on the church's rolls, at least for now. I grew up Baptist, so was always a follower of Jesus. I read the book Truth Seeking by Hans Mattson, who had been a high ranking leader -- maybe a Regional Representative? -- in Switzerland. I was impressed by the book, & it actually helped me in my quest for truth, & my decision to leave the church. However, in a subsequent interview I recently watched, it became clear that he doesn't follow Jesus. That totally refuted his book to me. If someone doesn't have enough gumption to continue to follow Jesus, then his book is no longer valid.
The one caveat to this is that the co-author is Christina Hanke. I learned in that same interview (it was with several former members) that she IS a Christian. Which makes the book more valid again, in my mind. Something she said in the interview has stuck with me. Elder Marlin Jensen & other leaders came to Switzerland for a meeting with these latter day saints who were questioning things in the church. During the meeting, he basically said that either you're following Jesus' church, the LDS Church, or you're following Satan.
After the meeting, he was talking with Christina, & he asked what she was doing now (in the religious realm). She said I'm a Christian. He said, "Good for you!" She said Good for me? Didn't I just hear you say that it's the Mormon Church or the devil? He said, "Nah, never mind. Good for you!"
I'm like what???? So is he saying that the Mormon Church is NOT the Lord's own church restored to the earth for the latter days???
I'm STILL having a hard time with my decision. I haven't been to the LDS church in over 17 years, but something still draws me to it. Maybe it's a lack of faith in my own judgment? Maybe I would really like for it to be the Lord's own church, as it does have many answers to questions I've had in my life? I admire that you have good memories of your time in the LDS church, & also that you are so set in your faith in Jesus. I, too, have strong faith in Jesus & His atoning sacrifice for my sins...I'm just still not sure about whether the LDS church is His own church, or not.
As an evangelical, I must say that the Temple was so beautiful, and I very much agree with Jeff's wife. While we consider our church to be a Holy place, after service it can take the place of a social nature at the same time when folks are being prayed for. It would be great to have a separate space to reflect, pray, and be prayed for.
LDS friends please know I hold you in high respect, and thank you for opening up the doors to Jeff so we can all learn about your beliefs and culture
Your respect is highly appreciated my evangelical friend, and even though we've never met, I have that same respect and love for you. God bless you my brother.
@heatherreilly6595 I appreciated that comment from Joy as well. Members do make the temple a special place of reference. Meetinghouses on the other hand... those can get a bit noisy after a meeting ends with everyone chatting and catching up with friends like you said.
I personally love the feeling I have walking out of a temple with renewed vigor to be a little better and feeling like I had some personal time with the Lord.
@@mexicanosxelmundo7774 don't forget you also have to pay to go. 10 percent of your income. Kind of like a membership to the more righteous club.
@@pollydunn3191 omg. I sense some sarcasm there. Why so negative?
@@pollydunn3191 Almost every church operates through donations. That's nothing new.
It keeps the lights on in your local church, pays the property tax, and maybe the leftover builds another church somewhere.
But there's no ATM or cash register at the entrance. Nobody is asking for a receipt.
“A sense of longing and need for rest” is the perfect way to describe the celestial room.
I'm a returning Catholic and I toured a temple last month. It was a pleasant and unique experience.
I didn't know about the celestial room until I was inside of the temple, I was touring the rooms and a woman told me that the next room I would be going to would be the celestial room. That LDS believe that's what heaven will be like and you will feel God's presence. Their was to be no talking.
You can just sit down, pray, enjoy the calmness. It was a very beautiful room, I liked the ceiling and chandeliers but I didn't feel God's presence.
I sat down and enjoyed the calmess with other LDS members, one woman besides me was sitting down and closing her eyes. Another family was just sitting down and enjoying the calmness.
I didn't get any feeling , but I did notice how devout and faithful the LDS are. Again, it was a beautiful experience
@@Compulsive-Elk7103 you didn't feel God's presence because it's not dedicated yet.
@@BrianTerrill no, because I'm not a Mormon. I'm Catholic
This was awesome! I’m a Latter-Day Saint myself, and it’s not everyday you see someone genuinely trying to understand our beliefs without undermining them, especially on the internet. I really appreciated the reverence you gave to one of our most sacred buildings and how it ties to our beliefs. I also really appreciated how you explained the differences between our beliefs around the temple with your own beliefs! I feel like it was really insightful and helps me understand my Christian friends from other faiths a little bit better!
Mia Delli Gatti
Can you tell me, who is Yahweh and who is elohim?
@@rickdavis2235 Yahweh/Jehovah/Jesus Christ. Elohim - God the Father.
@@rodneymartin6154 wrote:
" Yahweh/Jehovah/Jesus Christ.
Elohim - God the Father. "
Deuteronomy 4:35
35 Unto thee it was shown, that thou mightest know that the LORD he is God; there is none else beside him.
Interlinear Bible Hebrew (word-for-word translation) says:
It was shown to you, that you might know that Yah·weh He is hā·’ĕ·lō·hîm; there is none other.
This verse says Yahweh is elohim and Yahweh says He is the only God that exists.
Psalm 100:3
Know ye that the Lord he is God:
it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Interlinear Bible Hebrew (word-for-word translation) says:
Know that Yah·weh He is ’ĕ·lō·hîm
it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
This verse says Yahweh is elohim and Yahweh says He is the only God that exists.
Exodus 3:15 Interlinear Bible
And God (’ĕ·lō·hîm) said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, the Lord (Yah·weh) God (’ĕ·lō·hê) of your fathers, the God (’ĕ·lō·hê) of Abraham, the God (’ĕ·lō·hê) of Isaac, and the God (wê·lō·hê) of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.
Exodus 3:15, ’ĕ·lō·hê tells Moses that His personal name is Yah·weh and it’s His name forever.
Genesis 2:7 (quotes " " added for emphasis)
7 And the "LORD God" formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. 8 The "LORD God" planted a garden toward the east, in Eden; and there He placed the man whom He had formed. 9 Out of the ground the "LORD God" caused every tree to grow that is pleasing to the sight and good for food; the tree of life was also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
If you look in your interlinear bible, you'll see that the "LORD God" is "Yah·weh ’ĕ·lō·hîm".
How do you reconcile the fact that the Mormon church teaches that Yahweh and elohim are two different gods when the Bible clearly teaches that Yahweh is elohim.
’ĕ·lō·hîm
elohim: God, god
Original Word: אֱלהִים
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: elohim
Definition: God, god
Yah·weh
Yhvh: the proper name of the God of Israel
Original Word: יְהוָֹה
Part of Speech: Proper Name
Transliteration: Yhvh
Definition: the proper name of the God of Israel
@@rickdavis2235 thanks for taking the time to respond. You are convinced you're right and that's fine. Myself I am grateful that God continues to call prophets today so that we don't need to wrest the scriptures to our own narrow human view. The Israelites rejected God, interpreted their scriptures with man's knowledge and got themselves to the point where they were so convinced they were right that they couldn't see the Son of God when he was standing in front of them.
@@rodneymartin6154
RODNEY WROTE:
" Myself I am grateful that God continues to call prophets today... "
Note that the Bible soundly refutes every claim that false religions make.
Jesus said:
Luke 16:16
“The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John came; since that time the gospel of the kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is forcing his way into it."
Hebrews 1:1-2
1 God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, 2 in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom He also made the world.
And after the Son went to be with the Father...
John 14:16-17
16 I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, so that He may be with you forever; 17 the Helper is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him; but you know Him because He remains with you and will be in you.
RODNEY WROTE:
"... so that we don't need to wrest the scriptures to our own narrow human view. "
1 John 2:27
And as for you, the anointing which you received from Him remains in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you remain in Him.
RODNEY WROTE:
" The Israelites rejected God, interpreted their scriptures with man's knowledge and got themselves to the point where they were so convinced they were right that they couldn't see the Son of God when he was standing in front of them. "
That's not true. The Pharisees knew the scriptures very well but they added to them their rituals and traditions just like all false religions--Jesus plus this and that. The Gospel plus this and that.
Jesus said:
Matthew 11:28-30
28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.”
Can you honestly apply this to being a Mormon since Mormons cannot be saved in their sins? Have you done all you can do? Do you pray without ceasing? Do you ever lie, regardless of how insignificant it is? Have you ever looked at another with lust? Do you know that if you are guilty of not keeping just one of the 613 laws (mitzvot) that were given to the Jews, you are guilty of them all?
I would love for you to share the Gospel with me.
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I want to thank you for this breath of fresh air! The respect you show as you explore our religion is truly appreciated. Also, to echo many of the other comments, seeing a civil conversation about religion where different view points are heard and valued is absolutely beautiful!
@@ElonInTheDusk You're good bro, I can help out. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is indeed a christian based faith. I think when Angela said "our religion" she was referring specifically to the Church of Jesus Christ faith.
@@ElonInTheDusk Hmm. I can't even find that scripture in the king James bible rn. probably me just missing it lol. But going on with what you were saying. (and I could say something dead wrong) in the sense of the bible being a testament of Jesus Christ the Book of Mormon is an addition to the bible. In terms of its origins, the book of mormon was a record of the family of Lehi and their journey as they fled Jerusalem for the Americas (thats a discussion in itself) and their resulting posterity which was compiled by a guy (and prophet) named Mormon into a single volume (hence the name of the book). As to your statement of plagues, I frankly have no idea. it sounds like you're paraphrasing and that's fine but I can't find the exact verse phrasing so I cant say anything for sure. I know this is a common question and there are answers out there but I don't know in this scenario.
I believe that the book of mormon is a true book and sits perfectly beside the bible if that carries any weight.
hope this helps.
@@ElonInTheDusk ok I got it. (and this is where the part about being a random joe who might mess up comes into play) I *think* that scripture refers to the bible itself. like, if you're gonna modify stuff in the bible itself. To the best of my knowledge, the book of mormon isn't directly trying to add onto the bible but it's just a "different bible" entirely (if that makes sense). again, could be wrong, but that's just my take.
edit: not a different bible I should say a different record
@@ElonInTheDusk the main way i've heard it is that those verses are specifically talking about revelation itself and not adding to it.
Another way of thinking about it maybe: a book that illuminates a revealed understanding of the Scripture.
One more thing Brother Jeff. As a member of the church of Jesus Christ of later day Saints, I still struggle every day just like everyone else. I haven’t been to the Temple since Covid. I have suffered from anxiety most my life.
I’m a loner. What your Beautiful wife said about the celestial room really really touched my Spirit I actually have tears in my eyes. Your wife has prompted me to go back to the temple not only for myself, but so everyone can feel that piece that your wife felt, forever.
❤
My story is very similar Troy. I went back for the first time last Saturday! I am so happy I did. I went for the family sealing of friends. Remember you can go and just sit in the chapel if that is all you are up to. My anxiety centers around if I need to leave an endowment session to use the bathroom and everyone will stop and have to wait for me. Ughh. Someone told me you can even sit in the Celestial room without doing a session. Just ask someone at your temple to make sure. One thing I noticed has been changed since I went before Covid was there is a little self scanner at the front desk now. You just put you recommend under there and your bar code will make a small beep. Like at the grocery store:) There are still people at the desk! I have anxiety about work and other things too. It is no fun. Good Luck!
@Debbie W. I know several people who frequently slip out of endowment sessions during the robing part to use the restroom (I have myself). No big deal. Just let a worker know, and they'll wait for you to get back.
I've gone during long waits just at the end of the endowment. They barely had a chance to miss me! I was a bit anxious but it worked out okay. I still prefer to hold it if I can though.
Dear. You can experience the presence of God wherever you are. From today let your spirit know that God is there with you so just get into fellowship mood and praise, worship and pray to Him. John 4:21-24. Never feel lonely again. The Holy Spirit was given to every believer in Jesus to comfort them and be with them. John 14:15-21. Therefore your experience of God should not be tied to a place, the place where you have your solitude does not have to be necessary looking beautiful, 'heavenly', or smelling sacred. The Holy Spirit can sanctify the place wherever you are and show you the presence of God. It is all about you opening your heart to Him in your quiet time and reading His word and listening to His voice inside your soul. In John 14:21 Jesus says, 'whoever has my commands and obeys them, he/she is the one who loves me. He/she who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him/her and show myself to him/her. In Verse 23 Jesus says,'..... My Father will love him/her and We will come to him/her and make our home with him/her. This is possible because God is not man, He is not limited to one place. He fills the heaven and the earth and all places at the same time. He is omnipresent and omnipotent and omniscient. Above all He is Love. He loves you so much and He wants you to grow into knowing Him more and more. Please read 1Timothy 2: 3-5, (verses 3,4,and 5). SHALOM.
First of all Pastor Jeff, thank you for letting us meet your wife, she looks like a wonderful person. And I am impressed how you explained the Temple like a pro. Do not worry if you do not understand everything on the first take, it’s like drinking from a fire hose. I’m still learning.
❤
I am a former LDS member, now an atheist, and I have to comment on how respectful and accurate your video is. Though I’m no longer practicing, I appreciate how you looked to understand rather than project ideas. Thank you for your great video.
I just appreciate how respectful and beautiful this comment is. ❤
I don’t understand how they can bind their family members together for eternity; what about when the kids are grown and they have kids. Does the 2nd generation (not to mention all their siblings and their families) still stay with their parents? Are the grandparents still living in eternity with all of the previous generations??
@@lyndameiserrule3534 I'm going to try and to answer your question as best I can 😊. We are sealed as couples (husband and wife) with the priesthood authority (God's power given to worthy men and shared with women--women don't carry out the ordinances, but help their husbands uphold this power--imo we really are together and unified. Priesthood is a whole topic that could discussed). Children born after a couple have been sealed are called children 'born in the covenant'. When those children are grown they go through the temple and then get sealed to a spouse and children born to them are also born in the covenant, but if those children never experience the temple covenants and children haven't been sealed (the family tree has a broken link), they will be sealed eventually after they die by their progenitors and the broken link will then be sealed (and people who are dead who have their work done for them in temples have the choice to accept or reject the ordinances performed in their behalf). If there are children born before the sealing ordinance or adopted children they can be sealed while they are children. If a senior couple join the church and go through the temple, they can be sealed to their adult children if those grown children have been through the temple or if they are dead.
The point of these sealings and covenants we make in the temples is to be able to have all the family of Adam and Eve sealed/linked to each other and to have learned everything necessary to return to God's presence (that's a big thing we learn in the temple) to live with each other eternally.
Then here is my opinion, the great, great, and however far back in the generations we go will be glad to be with each other.
The ultimate bond is with a husband and wife to be united and be kings and queens in the heavens. Learning all that we need to from God and our heavenly Mother so eventually we can be like them.
Maybe I said more than I needed, but you had great questions! I just wanted to be as thorough as possible 😊
@@lyndameiserrule3534 They work at sealing families together and work at it with a plan all the way to Adam and Eve. That's why they've had the best genealogy resources for over 100 years.
@@lyndameiserrule3534that’s what baptisms for the dead and ordnances are for
Your wife's description of her feelings in the Celestial Room brought tears to my eyes. You have a wonderful wife Pastor Jeff!
The temple is certainly beautiful. And peaceful. When I was in the LDS church, I volunteered in the baptistry, where the young people did baptisms for the dead. Loved it there. After everyone left, I would sit in the baptistry area & just feel the Lord's presence & pray.
However, the few times I actually went through the temple, it never felt good to me. I was never comfortable with the rites & such. I now know that it's very close to the Masonic rites. Joseph Smith was a high level Mason, which is no doubt where the temple rites came from. Just felt very bad to me, going through the motions of those ordinances.
Dude, I respect you so much! I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and I am so grateful for your honesty, curiosity and unwavering faith. I really appreciate that you have created this channel. Keep being awesome!
@@lindamartinez7006 I think you're going a little too hard on Jeff here. Our 11th article of faith would say: Let Jeff worship and believe how, where, or what he may according to the dictates of his own conscience. Regardless of what he ends up believing or doing we should give him at least the respect and love he's given us.
It is so great to watch two individuals, who have similar beliefs yet some differences, have a very cordial, friendly conversation without contention at all in a world that is has much contention. 🙂
That's what peacemakers do.
I think it's wonderful that you brought up the peace element of this just now. I've seen many inspired efforts arise recently to that very end, being to promote peace and understanding between groups that might otherwise be at odds, and this channel is a great example of that. Our beloved prophet, Russell M. Nelson, stated just this month that it has becoming increasingly crucial for us to promote peace and remove contention within ourselves, our homes, our communities, our organizations, our nations, and our world at large.
Balderdash !!!
I see gullible Latter-day Saints throwing soft-ball pitches at a professional who is using the opportunity to push his agenda.
Yes. This is an inspiring example. 💕
Except LDS pray to a different Jesus and god
Thank you for being so open and respectful on this topic. I was LDS but left the church because I was gay and served an honorable mission (long side story) before I was saved as Evangelical many years later. I'm 65 now. Great interview. I still have a tender heart for these wonderful people ❤️
As a member of the Church of Latter-day Saints, I just wanted to say how much I appreciated the thoughtful learning from all the different people in this video. There is peace in recognizing our differences but still fostering Christlike and loving friendships. It was really healing to me to hear your, and your wife's perspective and respect for our faith. You are both amazing, thank you for all you do!
I took advantage of the Glen Allen, VA open hours a few weeks ago. As a pastor I have always wanted to see the inside of a Temple for myself. Impressive and beautiful. I asked for a Book of Mormon and they were nice enough to run over to the Stake center on the grounds to get one for me. I enjoy following your investigation of the LDS Church. Thanks.
your respectful words of your temple open house experience were appreciated
I went to that one too!
What did you think of the Book of Mormon?
@@mayaya1613 I have too many questions to respond here.
@@sovstteyou should do a video about it…or come on a channel and discuss it. That would be interesting…since most pastors probably wouldn’t go in the Temple or read the Book. Your perspective would probably be very interesting to people on both sides.
I have come to realize over many years that women are generally much more in tune with the whisperings of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Jeff, I mean no disrespect to you and your logical approach to analyzing your temple experience (I would approach it the same way as you), but your wife, Joy, nailed it as she described what she felt while in the temple. It truly is a place of reverence, a place of comfort, a place of refuge from the storms of life.
As a life long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, I have gone to the temple often to feel those same feelings Joy described and gone to come closer to the Savior through the covenants we make in the House of the Lord. Oh, that every religion had such a place to go to find peace in this chaotic world!
By the way, you and all who are seeking peace, are always welcome to come and join us to experience that peace inside the sacred walls of the holy temple.
This is how you have civil discourse. As an evangelical, I like the respect shown in both directions.
I loved the Christlike camaraderie between the two of you. This is what the world needs.
I'm reminded of a quote from our Prophet this last general conference: "One of the easiest ways to identify a true follower of Jesus Christ is how compassionately that person treats other people." Jeff, I think we can all agree that you and many others fit this description. Thanks for being a force for good in the world.
Compassion is great and Christ-like, but so is standing for truth. And the truth is Mormonism is not a valid Christian religion as its teachings are contradictory to the scripture of the New Testament. If you believe their doctrine, you have believed "another gospel".
@@andyj3624tell me you know nothing about our beliefs without telling me you know nothing about our beliefs.
@@DrygdorDradgvork I know enough to avoid and reject their teachings.
@@andyj3624 then you are lost.
@@DrygdorDradgvork I follow and serve Jesus Christ, so I am no longer lost.
I can definatly see that Jeff, your knowledge and understanding of the gospel and Church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints has grown significantly since your early videos. I appriciant the amount of time and effort you have taken to understand the Latter-day-saint faith tradition. Thankyou. I really appreciate hearing from a faithful evangelical perspective.
Amen.
Well i dont really respect any religion only the people in it or not
Amen, I also echo this.
It is pretty amazing to hear his understanding of the unique LDS terms used properly. So respectful. And lived his wife’s comments too. They must be a powerhouse couple. Their church is fortunate to have them in their midst.
I definately see this as a dangerous road. There are some Biblical precepts left out. our works, a Mormon's works and saints works, are as filthy rags. I don't appreciate this being grossed over. Does God bless all works or just the ones he puts on on hearts? I read the Bible as the latter. LDS men give the rules for the works "What is done in the Temple, stays in the" Temple." Wouldn't God have written in the Bible what he wanted done ONLY? He containly did for the Holy of Holys We need not and should not check our Bible and mind at the temple door and on to secret places.
Personally, I LOVE the celestial room. In case anyone was wondering, it's not that you can't talk in the room, its just that you should be extra reverent. It's just respectful to be silent or whisper since there are people praying and reflecting. Don't wanna interrupt! 😁
That and there is no quicker, more effective silent shush, than the side eye of a precious, elderly temple matron. ♥️
When I was a member every single time I went we were being rushed out as fast as possible m
sorry to hear that! Very seldom I have also felt mistreated by people in the temple as well, but it's just their human weaknesses coming out. Hope you get some well deserved peace and reflection time in the future.@@sunshinehowells9845
As a member I’ve always been able to stay as long as needed, though there are a few temples with enough people going through them that they encourage people to spend a few minutes and then allow the next group to come in to the celestial room so they can enjoy it too!
As a former member of the church and now an Anglican, I find your explorations fascinating. You sometimes touch upon some of the same concerns that I had. There are so many positives for the LDS church that I do miss. Your videos help me to look back with gratitude and a deeper appreciation. Thanks for all that you do from Canada.
If you ever want, I’ve had many concerns with the church and I’m still active, and I’d love to discuss whatever you had and hopefully provide insights or my perspective on things. If not that’s totally okay!
@@Un_qualifiedAs a practicing member, how do you justify anyone adding or taking away from the Bible? How do you justify the head of your church being regarded as a “prophet”, and his influence on issues like caffeine and polygamy? How do you justify the church’s shift on polygamy if your prophet, Joseph Smith, preached and practiced such? How do you justify his revelation on the tablets he found in the early 1800s, 1500 years after the council of Nicea? What separates you from the current prophet, head of the church? Why aren’t you a prophet, and what makes one? Looking forward to your reasoning and justification.
May the Grace and Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
With love,
Matthew
@@matthewfrahm9850 The Bible is a compilation, not a single book. The comments in Revelation are made in other books such as Proverbs and Deuteronomy. The Bible wasn't compiled at the time of John's writing of Revelation, so it's very clear to practicing members that his comments (and the others listed in the Bible) are restricted to THEIR writings specifically, not condemning all other future or past holy writings/messages.
Next, the Church's shift on polygamy as a practice. Polygamy was very clearly commanded/encouraged/sanctioned by God in ancient times, so it's permissible when it's sanctioned. Is it possible that God no longer sanctioned it due to the pressure from the US government? I think it's reasonable to believe that God would rather his church maintain the ability to grow/influence humanity and in order to do so, disallowed polygamy afterwards.
The Council of Nicea. The whole philosophy behind the "purpose" of Joseph Smith was to restore authority. Why should we care what the council had to say if from our perspective, they had already lost the "authority" of God which was given to Peter and the primitive apostles?
There's a lot of ways to define this, but one of the ways is the prophet today is the person capable of receiving revelation for the entire church, just as Peter, Christ, and others could. We believe in individuals' capacity to receive revelation for themselves, parents for a family, or certain people within the church in their "calling" to serve others (such as Paul to the individual churches, or our missionaries for those they teach), but only the prophets can receive revelation for the whole church.
I'm not going to touch caffeine beyond that we believe God told us through prophets that hot drinks, tobacco, and other things were unhealthy and that we believe in following the prophet.
@@matthewfrahm9850 Hi Matthew! Would you mind if I answered your first question about the Bible?
Short Story:
The scripture you are probably thinking about in regard to “no more addition” is Revelations 22:18. But, as you may know, there is also a similar scripture in the Old Testament in the Book of Deuteronomy (and the Bible hadn’t even been compiled at that point in time). So, does that mean any books added after Deuteronomy are not from God? What if I told you that the Bible isn’t even compiled in chronological order? John, who wrote Revelations, wrote the Book of John AFTER he had written Revelations. And yet it was put into the Bible BEFORE Revelations? Confusing stuff, I know. Does that mean that everything in the Book of John is incorrect because it was written after Revelations? The only logical explanation would be that both Deuteronomy and Revelations are referring to the individual books themselves and NOT the Bible as a whole since John clearly continued receiving information from God even after writing Revelations.
Do you know who the person who first put the Bible together in English?
I thought it interesting how you told your friend about your thought ofJesus saying to come and He will give you rest, and then you contrasted that with how "busy" the temple feels, implying that it doesnt feel like a place of rest. But then it took your wife in the car telling you that she really did feel like the celestial room was a place of rest. And she hit the nail on the head perfectly. Entering into the celestial room after the endowment is symbolic of entering into the Lord's rest. One of the things you seemed to miss from the temple was understood by your wife, and was perfectly represented by the celestial room.
I thought the same thing. Then, I realize he hasn't been able to walk in when people are serving. He doesn't get to see how peaceful and calm it it. When I am inside I feel like everything slows down. As a tour, they are walking through each room at a faster pace going from one room to another. When we attend, it is frequently to go to only 2-3 rooms. I can see how it would feel busy to go through them all at once.
@@elizabethe3281 agreed. If somehow he could see it while in operation, he would see how peaceful, calming, and restful everything truly is.
Hi pastor Jeff, im lds, in less than 15 days i Will get in the Rome temple for the first time, i'm really emotioned, i respect your work
I am so excited for you!! The Rome Temple is such a gorgeous temple.
Congratulazioni! Michele ti augura di vivere un'esperienza meravigliosa nel Tempio di Roma sia facendo le tue donazioni che per gli altri. Si prega di dare la colpa a Google translate se la mia risposta non ha senso.
I have a very dear friend who is LDS and I recently visited the temple in Glen Allen, VA. The temple was gorgeous and I enjoyed the visit. The baptism pool has 12 oxen to represent the 12 tribes of Israel. We were not allowed to take pictures in the temple, but the LDS church did have pictures of and videos of their new temple online. This was my only chance to see an LDS temple bc once the temple is conserated bc i am not LDS (Christian/Southern Baptist) I would not be "temple worthy" (my friend is). Ever since my friend converted from Methodist to LDS I have been curious about LDS. I don't quite undertand all of it and I am so glad to see how accepting you were of your friend's faith b/c so many people just want to condemn other's faith and whether or not you agree with someones beliefs, respect always
WOW! As a Latter Day Saint I am wary of videos like this because I have seen a lot that are negative. It was amazing to see the work that you are doing to bridge the gap between our beliefs and foster understanding. It is a blessing to have someone like you doing what you do. Thank you!
Hey, Pastor Jeff, as a Latter-day Saint, I can't help but feel your sincerity in what you are doing. I felt the spirit so strongly testify to me that what you are doing is so needed today. And I know the Lord is happy with what and how you are doing. Much love!
@rocking rogers homestead Thank you ... we are sincere and trust that open conversation will lead to Truth.
@@HelloSaintsu're misleading this man and your audience.
The reason people do not not speak about the temple is because they acted out killing themsleves by slitting their throat and disembowing themsleves, and promised to do so if they revealed the secrets (the LITERAL WORDING USED THE WORD "SECRETS") in the temple transcript when referring to the signs and tokens (which are the secret phrases and handshakes to get into heaven)....
There was never any misconception, just fear by a bunch of members who promised to kill themselves.
This lead to people naturally not wanting to share or discuss ANYTHING about the temple because the only way they could be forgiven was if they killed themselves. It was too risky to chance it.
This is the real explanation. Why not be honest about it?
Oh.... I know why, you don't want people to know that either
(Edit, looks like this is the pastor's channel, in that case, this is the reason reason members don't talk about the temple. The bloodd atonement was taken out in 1990 after the Lafferty murders which involved blood atonements, but every LDS person since 1840 - 1990 promised to kill themselves if they talked about it, basically every single person in the church has been raised with this fear, except perhaps the children who are too young to even speak, perhaps it will be different for them)
I am NOT a Mormon and they were always really kind to me. Kickball was fun. They invited me to weddings. I'm just a respectful guy, but thank you, Mormons. Every sentiment from you guys was cordial.
A lot of people are nice..that's true. You weren't invited to temple weddings though. Not even family members can go to them unless they pay 10% of their income , keep lots of rules like not drinking tea and coffee, get a temple permission from their bishop and then the stake president.
@@krissee6961 you commit to those things at baptism. Temple weddings are small. Like 10-20 people. The reception is where the party is.
Mormons are generally nice to people that aren't Mormon, unless they find out that you are an ex Mormon. Then they are very much not nice, at least in Utah.
Jesus is enough!✝️🙏♥️
@@tinareeves6624 Jesus is the cornerstone but the building is still needed
I also appreciate how respectful and honest this pastor is.
I got emotional watching this because you were SO respectful and I could tell you’re trying so hard to understand and represent us accurately. As other commenters have said, that is SO rare today. People just don’t do that for each other, and it was beautiful to experience someone doing that for “me”. It inspires me to be more like that too.
Not sure if you’ll still see comments on this months later, but a couple of thoughts I had while watching. For me, it’s not that there’s “so much to keep track of” for our own ordinances that feels overwhelming. It’s how much work there is to do for our ancestors, just because of how many ancestors we each have. Also, we believe many are waiting impatiently for us to do this work so they can continue progressing in the spirit world. I personally have felt that urgency when I’ve looked into my own family history, and when you feel that, it can feel overwhelming but also really inspiring to GET GOING. (And that’s coming from someone with pioneer ancestry pretty much all the way back on every line so I really did think my family history work was “done” until just this year.) I would imagine that was the tenor of the urgency in Brigham Young’s dream as well, though actually I’m not really familiar with that story.
I agree there has been an increased emphasis and better understanding, even for members, that we can and should talk more about what we do in the temple. And I also agree, what we promise not to discuss is such a very small part of what we do. I also don’t really understand WHY it shouldn’t be discussed. It’s not anything imo that would be that unusual. But we’re taught that those things are sacred. There’s a notion in the church that when people hear certain things, they’ll be accountable for whether they accept or reject them. So maybe that’s why but I honestly don’t know.
Also, super minor corrections that still felt worth noting.
1) We do not receive our own baptism in temples. Not sure if that was actually a miscommunication but it felt like it might have been. Baptisms are performed in our regular meeting houses, though only some have baptismal fonts in them (for practical reasons I assume-not every building in Utah or the Mountain West needs a font because there are so many meetinghouses here so close together). So the baptismal font in the temple IS only for proxy baptisms. All the other ordinances in the temple (initiatory, endowment, sealings-aka temple marriages) are received first for yourself. After that, we are encouraged to attend the temple often (as circumstances allow) and continue doing these ordinances over and over but for our ancestors.
2) Talking is allowed in the celestial room, but we are encouraged that for all areas of the temple, “if we need to communicate, please whisper,” so that reverent feeling is preserved. The celestial room absolutely is considered a place to meditate and feel the Spirit, like you said. So it’s a very minor correction but just felt like it was important to note that we aren’t absolutely forbidden from talking in there. While I do hear whispered conversations there every time I go, it’s a very peaceful, sacred place and the highlight of the temple visit for most, if not every, member of the church. I love going to the temple!
Anyway, thank you SO much for how you approached this topic that is so sacred to us! It was also really interesting to hear your views and your beliefs! ❤️
One thought comes to mind. I'm a Christian. We serve the Lord in our call that's a preach the good news to the living. Wouldn't trying to serve the Lord for the dead take time away from serving the living?
@@Jillousa
Of course it is true that when we do one thing we are not doing all the other things.
In the case of temples, I have found that it helps bring the living to Christ as well. Temples are often a goal of converts or people who are returning to the Lord. They also are attended by imperfect people who need all the help they can get. Attending the temple takes time, but it also seems to help me to properly prioritize all the time I spend outside the temple as well.
I would add that there is time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3). And we are encouraged to attend regularly(once a month, every 2 months, etc), which means there is plenty of time to do other type of ministering for the living! Like serving a 2 year full time mission.
Thank you so much for your way of approaching our church, Jeff. I'm about to go to my mission as a missionary but I have been watching your journey of exploring our religion for a bit now.
I'm learning so much from your example of approaching the church with kindness and love and has inspired me more to do what you are doing.
I was taught by the church to be Christlike, so when I see you, I see the light of Christ so much in you.
You've help me prepare for my mission and for that thank you so much.
Amen! These principles have profound implications when applied to your interactions with others going forward. Peace and understanding are great tools for sharing the good news that is the Gospel! May God bless you in your efforts on your mission, and in your life following! Welcome, by the way, to the team! 🥰
Lost me at “our church.”
Yep, “our church” has a very different meaning to them than it does to the rest of us. And they believe they can become gods…that’s not shocking, right?
What do you think being a joint heir withChrist means? What do children of God grow up to become? All this means is we can keep progressing.
@@TheHappyNarwhals “Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.” -Isaiah 43:10
Mankind cannot become gods, the Lord is very clear about this!
You and your wife are awesome. I can say that even if I was trying to be open minded about another church’s building that was so new and out of my realm, I would automatically have my guard up. You and your wife are open minded, respectful and carry a beautiful spirit about you. You’re both also so eloquent and able to express your feelings so well. Thanks for respecting what we believe as Latter-day Saints. ❤❤
Hello Saints was so smooth and kept his friend engaged without getting angry. Rare talent!
Once again one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism! ! That’s it! ❤
AMEN!
I love this so much. Seeing two people who have differing beliefs engage in civil, friendly, uplifting conversation almost brings tears to my eyes. Thank you so much for publishing this content, Jeff.
If we Could all be nice to our Neighbors !!!!
ABSSOLUTELY BEAUTIFULLY DONE JEFF! Honestly, I was kind of nervous of this inevitable episode but was so relieved and honored that you did this with such respect and reverence and didn't use it as an opportunity to degrade us or demonize our ordinances. Thank you so much for what you're doing pastor I and thousands of others really appreciate everything you stand for and who you are a disciple of Christ.
@taylor holden ... that's truly our goal, fight criticism with curiosity and open conversation ... thanks for watching!
I am a quiet lurker of your series about the LDS church, its teachings, beliefs and buildings and I have to say how impressed I am of you and your journey inasmuch as you are not judging but purely expressing things based on your personal observations, feelings and thoughts. You are extremely respectful and non judgemental and to do this on a social platform where pretty much anything goes is brilliant. Thank you for being you and I am glad that you and your lovely wife were able to tour a temple and see first hand what it is like. To be honest I feel I am learning more about the LDS church of which I am a lifetime member through your videos. It is very refreshing to hear your thoughts as a non member which is good for all latter day saints as often times we do not stop to truly think how others view us so thank you Jeff....so well done.
I’m an evangelical Christian, that left Mormonism about 31 years ago. My husband and I were actually married in the Mesa Temple. It’s refreshing to see this video and the respect given from both sides, even though they differ in beliefs. That was rare. Pastor Jeff did an amazing job of sharing his Biblical beliefs, while respecting his friend. One thing not touched on, which is a big theological difference between the Mormon faith and Evangelical Christianity is the Mormon belief in eternal progression and becoming gods. I would have liked to have seen that topic included, since that is key to Mormon doctrine and only to those who have gone through the endowment ceremony and sealed in the temple.
Jesus is enough.
Of you were in a group project, and the only thing your partner had to do to pass was to submit it, and they didn't. Do you think they deserve to pass? Jesus does everything. He is enough, but you still have to submit the assignment.
Joy is so beautiful!!😇 We are delighted she got to come along on one of your adventures and hope she will be included more. Her insight is lovely. Going in a temple and leaving the world behind, it feels like a visit to heaven. After dedication, everyone is dressed in white so there are kind, smiling "angels" everywhere. 🌞
It's good to see Kurt Francom with you. He was my Bishop in our old Lee Ward and then later in our Stake Presidency. He's a good man, as you have found. It's also good to see your wife with you. (I've never met her, but she made a very good first impression in this video.🙂)
ive lived in saratoga springs for 12 years and we have been waiting for this temple for forever! when it was finally does, my family and i went through it 8 or 9 times, and helped with the open house as well. i remember when it was announced, my mom was so excited she had to take a running lap around our house screaming with joy. since it's been dedicated, my friends and i go once a week at 6am to do proxy baptisms before school and its the highlight of each week. i just want to thank you for being so respectful of it even though you are not part of our church.
Thank you for your honest and respectful comments and reflections. I am a convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and have been a member for many years now. It is helpful to me to hear the feelings and beliefs of my Evangelical brothers and sisters in such an calm and respectful and non-defensive way. I feel like we can all benefit from such conversations where we can forge positive relationships despite differences in how we worship. I find great peace and increased love when we are able to look for our common ground and respect our differences. Thank you so much for your insights. I have many family members of many different faiths and some who claim no faith at all. Despite those differences we are all still family and we love each other dearly. Sometimes those differences strain our relationships but taking the approach of mutual respect that you are sharing with us in these posts can help more of us in this world to do the same. Thank you.
I wanted to share my perspective on why we as Latter-Day Saints perform these ordinances and how it leads to Christ. We know that Christ has already done everything for us. He chose us, and these ordinances are our way of showing Him that we are choosing Him as well. It's an outward expression of an inward commitment to our Savior. ❤ Thank you for making such thoughtful and kind videos about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
@@BayouBandit6 good observations to make I grew up in the LDS church and it took me a long time to realize the same thing.
It's sad because while Jesus is at the core of every teaching He shares the stage with sooooo many sub-topics and prophets and things it was hard for me to develop a dependence on Him. I've gained a greater dependence on Jesus by taking my discipleship elsewhere but I respect the faith of church members and the pioneers were truly beasts.
@@BayouBandit6yes i have noticed this too in lds chapels and they read their sacrement pray like no tomorrow so quick and irreverant. It more about the church president or the local bishop or Joseph Smith Jesus is mentioned much less
@@lindamartinez7006 What you say is true, but as a believing life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I see where FrontierFocus is coming from and why President Nelson is focusing more and more on Jesus (one example is the way he's directed the artwork in the church foyers to be only Christ-centered). I do find that when someone in the church passes a way, you're FAR more likely to hear family and friends say, "oh, she's now reunited with Frank!" (or Joe, or Dave or Steve) her deceased husband, or "isn't it wonderful that he's now with Laura again!" (or Susan or Josephine or Rebecca) his deceased wife. and LESS likely to hear, "how wonderful that he -- or she-- is back in the arms of Jesus!" even though we all believe that is true. I wish it was *said* more often. I tried to make it a conscious choice, when my mother passed 2 1/2 years ago, to say, "I'm so happy she's back with Jesus -- and my dad and her parents..." etc.
With a lay ministry and individual members giving talks, there can be topics that are address in Sacrament meeting talks that don't mention as much about Jesus as they could, or as many would like to hear. I think the emphasis on *talking* about Jesus more (not just believing in him) is getting better. And that's what FrontierFocus was saying .... that somehow the missionaries, when explaining eternal families, didn't also *mention* -- talk more about -- being eternally with Jesus. He should be *talked* about as the focal point in that conversation about eternal families, since, as you rightfully noted, eternal life is together WITH Jesus.
@@lindamartinez7006 calm down please. It is possible that missionaries may have focused on being with families more than being with Christ. Missionaries are not perfect. He could have heard it that way and it's completely okay, he is hearing it differently today.
This has been so important to me as a convert. I grew up in the Congregational church. I have always felt like the LDS church does not conflict with my earlier faith.
You now believe that you can become a god, and that doesn’t conflict?? For Christians, that is shocking and heretical.
Simply Susan
Do you know what the Mormon church teaches? I ask because it contradicts every aspect of Christianity.
CHRISTIANITY: God is one, God has existed eternally and God is Spirit.
Mormon: god used to be a man--men can become gods.
CHRISTIANITY: Christ Jesus is God in the flesh (John 1:14) and the creator of everything in existence, including Lucifer.
Mormon: Jesus is a created being and spirit brother of Lucifer who is an angel that was cast down from heaven.
CHRISTIANITY: Eternal life by believing in Christ's once for all sacrifice on the cross that atoned for all sin for all time.
Eternal life by becoming a god, being completely sinless, works, baptism of the dead, temple marriage, endowments, obedience to the law, etc.
CHRISTIANITY: Monotheism (One God Only)
Mormon: polytheism (millions of gods)
I’m a Latter-day Saint and I’m IMPRESSED by your knowledge of our doctrine! 👏 That blew my mind! You explained ordinances and doctrine better than I could as a lifelong member! This was a fun watch and conversation. I love learning from you!
💛💛💛💛 I'm a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I so appreciate my friends and people of all faiths. Thanks for sharing!
What did you make of the pastor only going to scripture of the Holy Bible for teaching?
Praise Krishna! The one true god of the universe! I do appreciate you non believers though too! Just know... Elohem is a fiction.
As a member of the church, and a convert, it made me a bit sad (as I believe your host said it would) to hear you say that you believe "Till death do you part". I used to believe that myself. But when you are one with your spouse, in God, it brings me such joy that we can continue sharing our relationship (and with our kids) in heaven, I wouldn't want to be limited by death. Going to the Temple with my wife is the BEST date night we have. To see my wife in such a heavenly place, learning more of the Gospel and of Christ, and knowing that it doesn't have to end at death, moves me so strongly spiritually, as well as emotionally - is more than mere words can describe. Will all my kids be with me in the next life? That's their journey to make and decide on themselves... literally it's between them and God... but the OPPORTUNITY is there for them.. .for us all... is so beautiful and affirming to think and ponder about. I could go on and on.. but I think you get the idea. Thanks for this video and the respect!!!!
I say this with love: Jesus states in the bible that marriage does not exist in Heaven. Believers of Christ are sealed to Him. It's a beautiful thing knowing I'm not sealed to an imperfect person for time and all eternity; instead I am sealed to the perfect One who paid the price of my sin and fulfills all joy. Heaven is Heaven because of Jesus, not because of family. If my husband weren't a Christian and didn't go to Heaven, I would still not be sad in Heaven because Christ is perfect joy and love. Placing temple-covenant families on a pedestal for happiness in Heaven and security in our relationships with them here on earth is a testament that our works are vital for joy, and not the work of Christ.
Thank you, Jeff! I have always wondered what the inside of a Temple looked like. Simply stunning! I am learning so much. I am happy to be on this journey with you.
They all look different inside, too, but all exceptionally beautiful.
Many people misunderstand the purpose of temples simply because they cannot go into it without a recommend. And also because members do not talk about temples very often. This video is what is needed right now. Thank you so much for doing this. I love what you are doing.
Thank you for being willing to look at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints with an open mind and an open heart. I grew up in Utah, and most non-members are very antagonistic towards the Church and the Saints. It is so refreshing to hear the two of you comparing your beliefs with no animosity, and recognising the similarities. That was my favorite thing to do as a missionary- find what we had in common. We worship the same God, even if we worship differently. :)
It isn't the same God though. I'd encourage you to read the Gospels and see that they greatly contradict Joseph Smith's writings. Celestial stuff is non biblical and speaking to the dead is of demonic origin. I'd encourage you to read and seek God. The great lie of mankind is being told that we can be like God. It was the exact same lie the serpant told Eve. Please seek God.
After looking at several different churches I knew that the LDS church was the one for me. You can’t beat the feeling of peace when you’re in the temple. It was beautiful to see that your wife felt it. I am so grateful for living prophets ❤ Thank you Jesus for the plan of salvation that allows us to be with You and our families forever
The way she describes it as a safe refuge from the normal storms of life in the world… that’s exactly what draws me back to the temple over and over again. To commune with the Lord in the clarity of that setting is always such a relief from my burdens.
It’s because I’m the temple is where Jesus dwells a lot as it show house, and because there is no influence form the devil inside
I went to the temple endowment session recently and felt a greater focus on Christ… More than ever.
It would have been so nice to experience the endowment of today over what I experienced in 1979. In the temple, Christ is more the Prince of Peace, Full of Love, Grace and Mercy than ever before and I love it more than ever!!!
Good thing the LDS church no longer requires you to swear an oath in the temple that you’ll commit suicide (“slit my throat from ear to ear”) if you ever “reveal these things” as was required in the past!, huh! That’s not creepy or unholy at all, right?
@@missmegan3694 good thing God doesn't make us kill a lamb and smear it's blood on our doors... His ways are higher than ours. Just because our 2023 mind doesn't understand doesn't mean it's not from Him.
Thank you for sharing! I hope you don't have the impression that the temple is a busy, stressful place where we have lots tasks to complete. The temple is a place of peace and the endowment is a gift. When I enter the temple, I feel a great sense of renewal as I temporarily leave behind the stress, noise, and frantic pace of everyday life. Jesus is the "author and finisher" of my faith and that knowledge brings me peace.
Amen. Nothing better than being able to go inside the temple to help with ordinances and take a break from life.
However as a Bible Christian I am now the temple of the holy spirit and carry that peace and holy place with me all the time. No building required!
The peace and calm of the temple is unmatched my anything I've ever experienced through anything or anywhere else on earth. It is a peace that surpasses all other emotion. ❤
@@janetspiritofthelivinggod6328 We would consider ourselves with both. What you described sounds similar to our beliefs and practices around receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. And we have temples that are places where we are bound further in Christ and have sacred space to receive more answers/knowledge, strength, and peace. It's not and either-or for us but a yes-and. You can never have too much Jesus :)
@@bluedreams517 well you could if you add teachings he never taught… jus sayin 😅
So sweet how you were each able to talk about your beliefs with no animosity. Your respect of the LDS faith as an evangelical is touching to me. We are all brothers and sisters and children of God. I admire you and thank you!
This is THE MOST RESPECTFUL video approach to the LDS Temple by a non member . I m amaze
That helps to understand have more knowledge and truly appreciate them.
Jeff, THANK YOU.
Pastor Jeff, I am member of the LDS church. I truly admire those who show curiosity, reverence and respect for the beliefs of others. I grew up in an area of California that did not have many LDS members. As a kid, I felt somewhat marginalized in school and in my community by those who displayed ignorance and intolerance of my faith. I recently discovered your videos and was pleased to find that they resonate with a spirit of friendship, honest curiosity and, shall we say, Christlike Love. The world needs more people like you pastor Jeff. Thank you for what you are doing.
David
Also grew in Southern California. I was one of 2 members in my Lutheran school. The other kid was completely inactive. During 6th grade camp, I would kneel down at my bed to pray at night, and the teacher told me to get in bed. So I knelt on my bed and she told me to go to bed. So I prayed, laying down. 😂 so yes, I was also marginalized and got ignorant comments about the temple and multiple wives. I had aborn-again friend in high school that would tell me everyday that I was going to hell. I knew she meant well but it was good because even though I felt peace concerning the gospel in my sect it caused me to sincerely read and pray about the book of Mormon. That began a much deeper, devoted relationship with God and my pioneer ancestors and a deeper love for Joseph Smith, and President Hinkley (the prophet at that time) like the children of Israel had with Moses. That created a burning desire with in me to go on a mission. To share with anyone who would listen that God has restored the church that Christ set up when he was on the earth. That's huge news! But I took it for granted because I was raised in the church.
Anyway, I am so thankful to my born again friend for challenging me to do what everyone should be doing, ask God if they are where He wants them to be, doing what He wants them to be doing? Developing their own relationship with Christ. Having a heart full of gratitude for what He did for us.
Sorry that just came out 😮. I just meant to say thank you for being challenging without being disrespectful. Thank you for trying to save us latter day saints by love and not hate. It means a lot. Your intentions are pure. God bless you and your beautiful family.
Beautiful video, and beautiful reflections by Joy. I love her - she seems like she’d be a fantastic friend. Not sure how it fits into your plans, but if we saw more of her and her conversations with LDS women as women of faith, it might be a nice addition. Thanks for this video!
Absolutely agree!
Lovely idea! Please do consider this as an option to explore!
LDS Women have quite a legacy of being members of continuous dramatic action within the Church and its history. Women from the beginning have been empowered, voting, leading, authoring, counseling …in short, significantly taking action in a proactive way beyond any other comparable organization of women. The Relief Society has a fascinating history as well as an impressive set of stats in national and now international accomplishment.
I hope you would explore this topic of women in the church.
The best way to understand ALL things is by listening and acting on the impressions from not only the Holy Spirit, but your wife. By far my favorite episode.
As a Saint, I really appreciate the way that you describe and talk about my beliefs. Thank you for speaking with such kindness and love. I love that we disagree but can still be nice to each other ♡❤♡
Pastor Jeff, you hit the jackpot marrying that angel of a wife. The two of you are what I call a “Power Couple”. Thank you for including her observations in this video. She brought tears to my eyes. You did good winning her heart.
How blessed is your congregation having the both of you leading with such love and wisdom. I love you videos and hope you’ll share her wisdom in future videos.
Agree!
Yeah, I think she is too quiet, but has good things to say.
Hands down the best online temple tour! When someone asks me about the temple, I’m following it up with this video. This time I really think Pastor Jeff got it and the few things he didn’t Kurt tied up very succinctly. I was blown away by Joy’s comments at the end. Sounds like she understood it’s purpose of reverence and sanctum from the chaotic world better than most. Thanks for the spirit of interfaith outreach that’s cropped up of late. Something’s happening. One might call it a miracle…
Mmmm... I think there are some things that Pastor Jeff could have a better understanding of like the 3 kindoms of glory 1 Corinthians 15:40-41
and how we can be happier when we work on strengthening our relationships in this life so that we want to be together forever. Do you feel like ONE with your wife? Like Jesus is one with Heavenly Father and how we are working to be one with them in thought and deed.
This pastor is a shining light of love and willingness to listen as Christ would for evangelicals. As a Latter-day Saint, we are typically mocked and scorned by Evangelicals - which leads us to think they are very un Christlike. This man is more Christlike than any evangelical I have ever seen on youtube or elsewhere.
Let's do our best not to label "more christlike" than any Evangelical."
It is enough to offer that he is christlike.
Such a lovely spirit. 🙌
I am an evangelical Christian and I do not Judge LDS Church members after all Judge not and be yourself not Judged
Thank you, Pastor Jeff. This has been such a respectful exchange between the two of you. And your wife is lovely! Take care!
Hello Jeff! 👋So clearly your wife is your secret weapon! She seems lovely, inside and out. Her explanation of how she felt in the celestial room was better put than even I could express. I come to the temple heavy laden, and God gives me rest. I leave better able to handle my burdens. The more I go the more I want to go. It lifts us up to a higher holier plain. For me, it is a refuge in the storm. A conduit to heaven. So glad you could visit.
"We are not earning heaven. We are learning heaven."
Jeff, I don’t know you but I can say that I love you as a brother in Christ. I’m so grateful for this channel. Thank you.
Also, your wife’s commentary on the celestial room was beautiful.
I was born & raised Evangelical/Pentecostal but always felt like something was missing, like there had to be more to it than just a prayer asking Jesus into my heart. I converted to the LDS Church in 2016, one of the best decisions I ever made. It answered a lot of my personal questions, and fulfilled that sense of "more" that I felt was missing with Evangelicalism
Only Jesus can fill what is missing ❤
I'm so glad you had the opportunity to visit the temple. Your desire to understand the doctrines of and connect in fellowship with the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in spite of the differences with Evangelical Christianity has endeared you to many. It was so lovely that you brought your wife along with this one. She exudes such a beautiful and gentle soul! I hope we will see more of her in the future.
Pastor Jeff, your wife's observations beginning at 32:00 nailed it. The ability to approach God in a dedicated, sacred, reverent space, through ceremonies that engage us by covenant on a path toward God and Christ and link us to all of humanity through time, all of which is attended by the very discernable presence of God's Spirit to those who participate with true sincerity, is a tremendous source of comfort and strength. Temples are a major blessing.
Is the virgin birth of Jesus discussed of how Mary was pregnanted pregnanted
@@crystalmelton4813 no
Pastor Jeff, Thank you so much for your respectful response. Your conversation with Kurt was THE model I wish I could have with my evangelical friends. It always goes from “coming together” to “this is why you are wrong___”. Thank you for empathetic understanding. I wish we all could follow your example.
-your friend in Christ
This was an outstanding video. As a Christian, it is hard to wrap my head around LDS. I was almost baptized a Mormon when I was 10 y.o., but there was a bit of a struggle in the pool with the priest and I never was baptized. I recently have begun an apologetic study of LDS as I moved to a county just outside of Phoenix where there are many beautiful LDS temples and people. Never went in, so this was awesome! I learned a lot Pastor, thank you and God Bless you and your wife.
A struggle in the pool and didn’t get baptized? What does this mean? I’m genuinely curious.
Nonetheless, I agree, it’s hard to wrap my heard around LDS knowing the history of Joseph smith for starters but… all good I guess
I would urge you to read the book Beyond Mormonism, An Elder's Story, before moving toward joining the LDS church. It is very well written, & is one of the books that helped me leave the church. The LDS people are wonderful, though far over-worked with callings & such, & the temples are just beautiful. But I never felt comfortable with the temple ceremonies, the few times I went through. Just didn't feel right to me.
Another good book is Truth Seeking by Hans Mattson, a man who held a high position in the church but is no longer LDS.
@@bburnsgaI was just studying LDS as apologetics my friend. I need to know the story and beliefs of Mormonism when I witness to others about the gospel. Thanks for the input!
I loved how respectful everyone was
My non-member wife attended the Washington DC Temple open house and was moved to tears by the beauty of the experience.
It is The Holy Spirit that testifies of truth and makes things even more beautiful.
Decadence and brainwashing isnt what Jesus is all about!
Thanks for yours and your wife's honest and open thoughts about your temple visit.
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints myself, I thank you for your respect to our religion. It's awesome having friends who may not believe everything you do but who you can both teach and learn from with a shared mutual respect. You're a great example.
@gbull19 Thank you ... Mutual respect is our focus!
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Brother Jeff! I really do appreciate and enjoy your videos. They are not only respectfully informative but very engaging and professionally done. I’m so glad that you and your beautiful wife (it was so good to finally see her face…she’s so lovely) were able to tour the new temple in Saratoga Springs! I’m from Canada and look forward to seeing it for myself one day soon. Thank you so much for your sincere interest in and kindness to us, “saints”. You truly are a true friend and brother. Keep up the great work you’re doing! 🙏👍❤️
Your wife is lovely and both of you are beautiful , spiritual and good examples of disciples of Christ.
This video and all the rest of them, show us LDS members how to have positive interactions with others of different faiths.
Thank you for your great example to all of us.
Well done, Sir!! It's always refreshing to see a member of another faith be so open and honest in this search for understanding. You did it in such a way that it didn't seem antagonistic, defensive, or biased. I truly appreciate your approach and for taking the time to share your experiences and thoughts. What a neat relationship you have with the fellow you sat down with, in being able to discuss things without it getting heated or someone being offended. Seems like that is always tough when people start to discuss/debate different religions. People want to be right and don't want to feel like their beliefs are wrong, or the things they've been preaching to others aren't actually God/Jesus's way. Thank you, and God bless!
It's so cool watching him explain temple practices so accurately!
Right???? This shows how much he really listens to learn.
(I got an email saying someone named Linda responded to my comment. I don't see it here, but in case it is, the notification said "You don't really think Jeff knows what temple ordinances are do you?" The following is my response.)
Of course I do. He is intelligent and obviously sincerely wants to learn. I believe he understands as much as one can who has not been in the temple himself. I think he probably know as much about the temple as I do (I've done baptisms but I'm too young to have done anything else). Just because he isn't a member doesn't mean he is ignorant or unintelligent. If I mistook your tone, I apologize, but I took it as a bit snooty and passive agressive. Please correct me if I was incorrect.
Yes!
And same with what Joy shared…
Goosebumps and the spirit filled my bosom as you were speaking. This is the true church. It is alive and thriving. I love being a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
The orthodox is the only true church
I read this comment on here a lot but I just have to say how very much I love the way you're sharing your journey. I love being able to listen in on these wonderful conversations with differing opinions that are discussed positively and openly. It is refreshing and beautiful and I just love getting to be along for the journey. Thank you for sharing your experience with me.
I’m glad you got the opportunity to do this. It is always nice to see your videos as they are always so respectful of our religion while also providing your perspective on the topic. Thank you.
Hello Pastor Jeff. I am
A covert and my grandfather was a traveling minister. So I grew up with the Bible my entire life. In Revelations we are told that not all is revealed until the last days. Rev 10:7 Again we are told that all of the mysteries of the kingdom of God shall be revealed before the great and dreadful day of the lord. 7th trumpet. There are many scriptures that also mention temples in Heaven. Many times in Revelations this is mentioned. The 7th Angels are called to the temple in Heaven to begin to sound the 7 trumpets. Since I was a child and even before I was LDS I knew about the temples in heaven. I am not sure of your perspective on this. Maybe I am
Misunderstanding. Do you believe all things here were first created in Heaven. Temples to me are so much more important to me than even others. When Moses first came down he destroyed the first commandments because they were not ready for them. He brought down a lesser law. Through the temple we learn to live that higher law to be more like father. I hope and pray that you will take time to ask father about the temple and about the things we share. I was the worse convert ever believing I knew the Bible so well. Those poor missionaries went through a lot. But when they had me take time and just ask father if anything they were showing me was true. I did not know. Father and only father will show you. Do you really want to know what is true. Take time to ask him. Just ask.
I'm so glad I found this channel! As a member of the church, I've always wanted to find someone who researches the church the way the pastor is exploring and researching. Totally open and honest, God bless you for that, it's a rare thing! I really feel that we are all brothers, brothers in a very special family, the family of God. Cheers from Brazil!
You've definitely done your research and I applaud you for this. You don't bash the church and that's very commendable.
One thing I really appreciated about the temple was that there is such reverence for the sacred. I kind of liked that there were things that just were not spoken of. And I was impressed by the care with which everything was designed and thought out. You could tell that this was really a special place.
Thank you again for taking us along.❤
I'd like to add a perspective that may or may not have been shared already. I heard you mention that it's a busy place with a lot going on. As an ordinance worker in a temple, that is indeed true. Our job as ordinance workers, when one goes to the temple for their own ordinances, is as much as possible, to guide and accompany the people through and provide a calming and peaceful influence to minimize the effects of so much going on and busyness. There is a lot taught, and a lot to remember, and we help them, one by one, through the ordinances they are doing that day. When they return for subsequent visits, our job continues to be to help as much as possible, and absorb as much as possible, all of the busyness that could distract from the spiritual experiences to be had. We try to avoid drawing attention to ourselves, and focus on our Creator and His plan, and our Savior and His divine mission. At the end of my shift, I find that I'm exhausted, but very fulfilled for having diligently served our Fathers children on both sides of the veil. It is a great work, and a delight to have some small part in it.
It seems everyone in the comments agrees, we need more Joy in HelloSaints videos!
Pastor Jeff, as a Latter Day Saint, I appreciate your videos so much. I truly feel your friendship with the church and its members. There is something so kind and open about your character that really draws me in. I hope you will have a long and wonderful relationship with the church!
Loved hearing Joy’s impressions. “A longing and desire for peace and rest and safety and refuge.” ❤❤❤
What a beautiful wife you have! I’m so glad she went with you to the open house. You did a great job of summarizing the purpose of the temple. Thank you for your willingness to learn and share respectfully.
Jeff, May God bless Your wife and you for being so honest and respectful. After watching your videos I am deeply moved and filled with hope for this dreary world. Thank you
As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints watching this video brought tears to my eyes. I hope your Latter Day Saint friends have let you know how meaningful it is to see someone who is not of our faith talking about things we consider so sacred and doing it in a kind and understanding way. I'm 33 and have been LDS my whole life and so often when people talk about these things that are so close to my heart and so important to me in my effort to be more like Jesus Christ and be closer to Him they do it in a way that is denigrating, dismissive, and often cruel. Thank you for being kind and open minded about our beliefs which are so important to us in helping us live like Christ and be near to Christ. It is really meaningful and I'm so grateful for you taking the time to try and understand our perspective. Thank you!
So glad you could have this experience! I'll chip in on this conversation a little bit (because I was clearly invited to do so lol)
The framing I find helpful to me when it comes to temple ordinances is one of Christ being a master teacher. His grace is clearly sufficient for me and for all creation, and God will save His children regardless of how involved I am. At the end of the day it's all through Christ.
What He's done in the temple follows a pattern He set with His early saints. He commissioned them to carry on His work and even perform miracles in His name. It's still through Him, but He is loving enough and trusting enough to let His children participate.
It's the same in the temple. We're not replacing God or taking over for Him in any way. Jesus is Savior and Redeemer of both the living and the dead. He's given us a taste of the work He does, and I feel grateful to be able to contribute wherever and however He allows me to!
I feel the same way. Thank you for your comments and testimony. It is his work and the glory given to the Father. What a perfect plan.
I was so excited! I watched this video without interruption and listened to your conversation with Brother Kurt. It was awesome. Next stop, Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah. Tell everybody about the missionary program of the Church and why it is so important.
Hello from Brazil, Jeff! Hope all is well with you and your family! Thank you so much for fighting criticism with curiosity! Glad you enjoyed the Temple atmosphere and had a great friend to guide you through it!.... I was baptized catholic, because of my Grandma , but I was evangelical through my childhood till I was 15, because of influence in my Dad's family side of family. Then I was in search for answers, and went to many churches and denominations. I was 18 when I found the missionaries and joined the church. I'm 44 now, and on this journey of finding answers and getting closer to God, I served as a missionary of the Lord in Idaho, from 2004-2006. It was an amazing time of my life that I don't regret a day! Because I was an evangelical before, and have a mixed up religion background in my family, I could understand more and have different experiences as I approached people to talk about the restored gospel. I appreciate a lot your kindness towards us, members of the Church. You reminded me a lot while I was serving as a missionary with your understanding towards a different faith. It didn't matter if people were running the doors in our faces, or unleashing their dogs after us, I knew I was sharing Jesus words, and trying to help people draw near the Saviour. Every soul was important to me and to God. Sometimes people aren't just prepared to accept changes in their lives.... I talked too much, but I just want you to know you and your family have a sister down here in Brazil. May the Lord keep blessing you in your ministry, and also in your search for understanding what The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is all about. Even not agreeing with what we believe, your love, kindness and respect towards us is very much appreciated. God bless you, brother! Have a wonderful week!
What a beautiful video! Pastor Jeff your witness of Jesus is powerful and full of love. Thank you for sharing your insights, kindness, and witness in such a meaningful way.