I've still got littles who have a harder time sitting still so I'm still trying to catch up! Looking forward to hearing the children's choir sing Gethsamane now though!
I just wanted to comment in regards to when Joy asked what the difference is like to watch vs go in person. I would compare it to going to a symphony as compared to listening to the recording on your phone. The music is lovely when it comes through your speaker, but it's nothing like being surrounded by live sound. At a symphony concert, I can hear each instrument so much more clearly and I can hear the overtones that the music creates. I also feel the music more deeply in my soul. That is what a live session is for me. Not to mention the overwhelming spirit that presides in the building. For me, it's a tangible thing that's like walking through a curtain.
FYI - conference talks topics are not assigned. When a speaker is asked to speak it is up to them to seek out the topic via revelation. They only know the person before and after them. As such we believe any theme is directed by the Lord himself since as far as I’m aware the speakers don’t collaborate with those before and after to discuss topics.
Pastor I am an RM and I quit going to church after graduating from med school. I wanted to thank you and your lovely wife for this video. I watched the conference to its entirety and I have never heard a prophets voice so clearly before than now. I heard him loud and clear and his message of love couldn't be any specific. I and my family will come back to church. Thank you pastor and God bless.
You must have been an amazing missionary and satan the advisory knew if he could distract you, he could thwart our Saviors plan for you. He works hardest on those who have potential of being great influencers of the Saviors plan for his children. Something tells me our Father in Heaven has big plans for you. Stay close to him and ask him for Strength to stay on the covenant path. God bless 🙏
When I was 11 I had that strong faith . I have always known the truth, always felt I wasn’t good enough and that no one liked me. I made a lot of mistakes thinking that way n. I stopped going to church and hanging out with the wrong crowd. Because I wasn’t going to church I married a man who didn’t believe at all like I did. I was not very nice. My children didn’t go to church when they were little most of the time but thankfully, I found my way back to the church, but because of my Relieving, I wasn’t good enough. I missed out on meeting the right person and I stayed there and been faithful. Our lives would’ve been completely different. They’re OK now and I have gone through the temple and I go as often as I can. I’m 77 years old now this is why I tell you, always keep that faith always know who you are and know that you are worthy that you are a child of God that he loves you and you’re always good enough. Just make sure they are your friends and someone I can tell you have such a sweet spirit I pray that you always know who you areand how special God you are
Speaking to Joy’s point about not needing the temple, Covenants, wearing garments, etc to feel God’s love and grace - God does not reserve His love and grace ONLY for those few who keep His covenants in His temples. All members, for example don’t really attend the temple, besides baptisms for deceased ancestors, until they are adults, but we fully believe the love and grace is available to all of His children. By making further covenants, what they are saying is that we can access even more. God’s love and grace is infinite. There is no ceiling. What we normally experience, which often feels beyond what we deserve, is only the beginning. As we keep covenants, and draw nearer to Him, He draws nearer to us, and we experience greater strength, spiritual power, and abilities beyond our own.
I wanted to say something similar. I also want to add that I have no doubt that both of you have had spiritual experiences and have seen those beautiful miracles and love of the Savior in and around you!
Pastor Jeff and Joy, first off, as a life-long member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I want to say THANK YOU for your respectful coverage of our faith and for trying to build bridges of understanding. Thank you also for sharing your pure faith and love in our Savior Jesus Christ and for serving the good people of your own religion. I am increasingly thankful for strong believers in Jesus Christ, no matter the church they belong to, who are willing to follow Him and share their witness of His grace and power and majesty. I've been feeling more and more over the last several years how important it is going to be in the coming days/months/years for all believers of Christ, irrespective of religion, to stand united in our common belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you again, and may God bless you and yours!
I have been feeling very much this same way. I believe God wants us to be more unified and there is no better way to do that than as believers and followers of Jesus Christ.
As a former Evangelical Southern Baptist, and convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Power of God they he was speaking of was the Authority to bind on earth which is bound in heaven. We believe that Faith in God and Jesus from all religions gives the ability of healing, saved from addiction and saved marriage in this life because we all have the Light of Christ. Thank you for going and learning. God is organized and not a house of confusion. Blessings to you both and family
I came to the comment section to say just this. All are God’s children and as such, can feel God’s power which can help to overcome all difficulties of this mortal life. What he was referring to is Priesthood authority which bind’s us to God through our covenants which enables this relationship to endure after this life.
Well said! There was a bit of a misunderstanding with what was meant by power. I’d never want these kind followers of Christ to think we believe they don’t have access to God ❤
Others have touched on it, so I won’t badger the point about the power of God that was being spoken about. But it does illustrate a possible area where members of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints could continue to improve. We have a cultural (not really doctrinal) dictionary worth of terms, phrases, contexts, etc. that can absolutely be a barrier to understanding about what is being intended, even if it sounds plain and simple. this can cause understandable confusion. Like in this case, we absolutely believe the power of God and the Savior’s atonement to be available to all who accept him and we would not discard your experiences of faith, healing, the Holy Spirit, etc.
Jeff and Joy. I’ve read through the majority of the comments here and, as far as doctrine goes, so many here have already covered what I would’ve commented on, so I won’t repeat what has already been said. However, I will say thank you. If all people approached people of a different believe system the way you have, there would be significantly less conflict and contention in the world. You have come to see. You seem to keep a relatively open mind. And above all, you seem to handle the ugly side of people with a decent amount of patience and grace. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has our fair share of hot heads, irreverent, and unreasonable people who are just as quick to judge as any others. Thank you for braving the waters and taking it all with Grace. I wish you well as you continue to get to know our faith. As someone quoted earlier, President Gordon B Hinkley encouraged the world to bring the truths (or power) they know and enjoy, and see if we can add to it. I think that’s what you’re doing. On the topic of God’s power, I guess I do have a thought to share. My experience in a nutshell is this… I grew up in the church, I served a mission in Brazil teaching the gospel. I got married in the temple. I had 6 kids and a family devoted to the gospel. I have witnessed miracles. I have experienced miraculous healings. I have experienced the gift of tongues wile serving in a foreign land. I believed I have experienced the Power of God throughout my life. Its presence in my life has been a constant. I had never experienced life without the Power of God present in every single day. After 14 years my wife decide she didn’t want to be married to me anymore and divorced me. I won’t get into the reasons behind her decision. I will only say that I did everything I could to save my marriage. And when it did end in divorce… my life fell apart. In many ways I stepped away from the habits and practicies I had followed so faithfully because it hurt too bad. I had done everything it taught me to do and to be, and still the decisions of another had the power to end the most important relationship in my life. (next to the Savior’s of course) But it hurt so bad and I was so confused. So, I stepped away from my covenants. I stepped away from some of the practices. I stopped reading my scriptures. I stopped praying. I never stopped believing. I just stopped doing. I still went to my weekly meetings, but I stopped doing the things that brought the increased power of God into my life. I ended up violating some of the covenants I had made. And do you know what happened? I noticed a marked decrease in my connection with my Father in Heaven. He was still there. I still received guidance and felt His spirit. But the difference was like walking through life at night versus walking through life during the day. The moon and stars became my only source of light. I had given up constant daylight for moonlight. Now, to someone who has lived in total darkness their entire life, a full moon and sky full of stars will seem miraculous. Or, to someone who has never experienced daylight would of course argue that they know what light is. Because they do. The moon and stars are light. So how can I deny them of their experience. The covenants made in the temple bring increased light and knowledge. And increased access to God’s power. It’s like daylight vs moonlight. Since taking steps to realign myself with my covenants, I have felt that power grow steadily. The light is growing brighter again. I have known people not of my faith who have lived in alignment with the gospel with the utmost zeal, experience a mighty change in their lives they didn’t think possible, after their baptisms and temple covenants were received. Another analogy would be tuning into a radio station. The closer you get to the exact frequency, the clearer the signal. You can get close, and hear the message coming through. But the closer you get to walking with the Lord, the clearer you can hear his message. That is what the Church of Jesus Christ offers. We (the Saints) are all just in a process of fine tuning our connection to that signal. Events like general conference help us dial in our radio a little closer to the right signal. Weekly sacrament and regular temple attendance keep us fixed on the best signal we have received, and give each one of us personal guidance from the Lord on how to tune in a little better. That is where the increase in God’s power comes from. Every son or daughter of God on this earth has the ability to tune their personal radios. Not a single one is exempt from that connection. But we can, through our choices, turn our dials away from the right signal, and even tune into another station entirely.
I completely agree with this comment. I think it’s a natural reaction to be offended to statements such as Elder Renlund’s especially when you are feeling a different level of God’s power. I don’t think anyone is denying the Power of God you two feel with your current beliefs; that is exactly what is supposed to happen in everyone’s journey to Christ. There is definitely different levels of power to God and I have felt the differences in my life especially not growing up in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s a feeling that just can’t be described until you feel it yourself. We can describe it all we want to you both but until you feel it yourselves you will never know what we are actually feeling and trying to portray. I don’t think we are better than anyone else or more special, I just think for those that have truly felt God’s power to the level that they know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is truly Christ’s church that we will continue to believe and profess in all the doctrines and beliefs you two can’t currently align yourself with. Yes, we have modern day revelation that was not practiced during Christ’s time on the Earth but the things that you have admitted not to align yourself with are in fact part of Christ’s teachings during His ministry on the Earth. I don’t know if anyone has recommended this book to you but I invite you to read The Blueprint of Christ’s Church by Tad Callister. In this book he details what Christ’s church needs to look like today in order to align with what he began to create when he was in this Earth. Thank you for your kind and thoughtful approach to getting to know this church a little better. You both are great examples of being Christlike. ❤️
Wow! That was just beautifully expressed and explained and I echo what you said. It’s not that God power isn’t other places and doesn’t manifest itself outside the church, I do believe it does. I believe that our Heavenly Fathers full power is found in the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints because we have the priesthood and the gift of the Holy Ghost which is what a Christ used to perform His miracles when He was on the earth. I believe there’s Gods truth and power in other places and once again that the fullness is found here. We are just adding to what Christians already believe. One of my favorite parts of conference outside of the talks was during the missionary choir when they sand come Lord Jesus come. I was so touched and felt the spirit so strong.
Also, the reason we Latter Day Saints love conference so much, isn’t because we don’t get to hear great talks through the year, but because this is for us as if Peter, James, or John come to talk with us directly. Imagine the excitement in the evangelical world if you were about to hear the New Testament prophets speak to you in person. For us, that is what this is.
I think we need to be careful not to put these men on such high pedestals. They are just normal, fallible men. We need to stop worshipping them so much
I am a member from southeast Asia. My dream is one day me and my family will be able to attend the General Conference. But we are happy to watch the live broadcast or rebroadcast in the chapel or in our home.
I love your videos! I am a convert to the church. I journeyed far and wide to find the proper church. I have always felt Gods power in my life. I am alive because God willed it. I understand your confusion on the Gods power topic. all i can say is the power i have from God in my life post Temple Endowment, is a very real thing. the power everyone has access to in their life can be added upon through the temple covenants. i had to work very VERY hard to be worthy to enter the temple. i am an alchoholic and a drug addict. getting temple ready was the hardest thing ive ever done in my life. I can not begin to express the miracles i have experienced since becoming an endowed member of the church. I also had miraculous experiences in my life pre-LDS member that were legit miracles. its hard to explain what i have now in my life that is different. but it IS different. i have remained temple worthy now for over 8 years, i go often, and I will never falter. God is my power
I love your comment! And I love what you said about how we can all access God’s power, but how it can be added upon through temple covenants. That was put so well! We all have access to God’s power because he loves all of us and wants to bless all of us, but when we choose to enter into the temple and make sacred covenants with him, his power is manifested even more in our lives.
I completely agree with this! Gods power can absolutely be felt by others of different beliefs. He loves all of His children and wants us all to know of His presence in our lives. What most don’t realize in this world, is that we have the opportunity to build upon the power that we have felt. The reason we are here on earth is to grow and learn. We all have the opportunity to attain more of that power and more understanding as we are willing to do Gods will, and align out will with His!
I’m an evangelical Christian in Utah also. I go to my local ward and do a Book of Mormon study with some of my friends. I’m doing my best to genuinely learn so I can at least understand the beliefs straight from the source. I work in mental health care so it’s just important for me to be as culturally competent as possible. The LDS church has some of the nicest ppl. I watched General Conference and there were quite a few good talks. I enjoyed it and the choir is great
I love and appreciate the time and effort put in to learn and try to understand from " the source", rather than from like Google or something. We are all on the same team, so to speak, of team Jesus and God. As an LDS member, I just want to say we try to love, share and invite. We share our beliefs to inform, to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is not for us to "convert" others, but to allow the spirit/Holy Ghost to help others recognize what they may feel and believe to be true. I appreciate the open and honest views shared. Thanks for your example of love and tolerance for others not of the same faith. I do the same, Jesus is love. Faith is a very personal choice and I see no reason to be disrespectful or dislike people just because they believe differently. We can still get along and like each other even with different views. ❤
As a member who has gone to therapy, I really deeply appreciate your efforts to understand the religion (which obviously deeply affects our culture) I've felt like I had to explain the entire religion to the therapist to get to the heart of my emotional distress
@@lisajones1438yeah and I’m not from Utah so moving here was my first exposure to the church or the faith. I can’t help people without knowing what they believe. Especially when like you said the culture also impacts members too present members and ex members.
@@ninasju , and be cautious of prejudice. Jesus commanded us to love one another. @rosef.3741 is just trying to better understand people in his community to better help people.
I really appreciate your comments on the street preachers. I grew up as a Latter-day Saint in eastern Canada and my experiences with Evangelicals were always negative. At temple open houses, they were protesting, handing out literature that contained exaggerations and outright lies about my people, they mocked things that were sacred to me and my family, they chanted and jeered at the Hill Cumorah Pageant where I was involved in the Pageant Work Crew for two summers. They told me that I was going to hell when they knew nothing about me. From such people I felt scorn, bitterness, and darkness and they showed me that they were not the kinds of people I would want to spend time with. You two, on the other hand, show much respect, kindness, and open-mindedness towards my people, and that means a lot to me. You have shown me that there are Evangelicals that I would want to spend time with and learn from. Kudos to you and please keep up the good work. Both Latter-day Saints and Evangelicals can learn a lot from your examples!
Thank you for your comment. I was going to say the same thing. I remember taking my young children to general conference and having to prepare them for the hate they were about to experience from complete strangers.
About the abusive street preachers: I remember them taunting handing out literature at stake conferences when a child and their vitriol at General Conference. My explanation is found in The Book of Mormon when Jesus said: "For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another." -- 3 Nephi 11:29 To me, they're just self-identifying as the devil's followers against Christ's truths. I don't engage them any more because I realized that the devil doesn't care who wins the argument because he wins if there IS an argument/contention, which blocks the still, small voice of the Holy Ghost who can lead us to the truth of all things (Moroni 10:5).
@@timmiestabrnak Well they are just exaggerations or miss information, try listening or reading the lirics to some of the songs of the musical "the book of Mormon" and you will get the idea. I remember getting a pamphlet when I was 10 or so at my school (I grew up in Mexico City), saying that "we believe God has many wives". Which can come as disrespectful to say the least. If you are a member you can see how the above statement is meant to mock some of the doctrines we hold dear. As an adult, however, I have come to learn how to handle any of my friends asking me about said pamphlets with a bit of humor and see it as an opportunity to teach the gospel and express my testimony.
I am a a teen who's groing up in an lds home, so this all seems so familiar to me. I've gotten so used to it that I, most times, take it for granted. And I've had various up's and down's where I don't care or belive in the churches gospell, to reciving personal revelation. I would say that this is the first time in my life where I've truly expirianced the JOY that comes with being apart of it. Watching this past conference struck a cord in me and made me realize that this is actually something I want in my life. This is actually something I want to be a part of. Watching this vidio made me start to break down in tears watching bolth of you experiance that same joy as I did. I hope you come to find that persinal revelation for yourself. grasp onto it and dont let go. ❤
get ready for manifestations of God's love for you! I was in your position a long time ago, and I have never regretted choosing to follow the Church since!❤
The Holy Ghost testified immediately and powerfully to this ultimate and uniting truth. I listened to it again this morning and almost had to pull my car over because I could not see through the joyful tears!
Yes! I loved that so much because it is written to crescendo that line and be very powerful. But in the local wards I've never heard the children be able to do that fully. The kids at conference knocked it out of the park and it was powerful!!
"Gethsemane" performed by the Children's Choir was my favorite as well. Such a powerful moment. If that's all anyone got out of General Conference this time around, they were well fed by the Spirit. Thanks for sharing your perspectives.
I’m a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I coach track and field with the local baptist pastor. We have no problems with one another, because we both believe in Christ as our Savior. All the other things are just details. My belief is that while we have the authority of God, the Priesthood, and the keys to many things…our Heavenly Father and our Savior will not reject those that diligently tried to follow His word. None of us is perfect, we all will need our Savior to live with our Father again. Live your faith, be open to His Spirit, love and serve His children, and trust that God loves all of us.
I really enjoyed the video! As a member of the LDS church, I agree with both of you on the power of God. I believe that God's power is available to everyone, but sometimes we get distracted by earthly things and sin, which limits our ability to fully appreciate God's presence and power in our lives. In our faith, we don't attend church and the temple to gain access to God's presence and power. Instead, we do these things to help declutter our connection to God. Every time we go to church, focus on service, or attend the temple, it's like we're doing a deep cleaning of our connection to God. We also believe that people outside of our faith have a connection to God's power and divine guidance. However, many LDS members, including myself, have felt a significant increase in our ability to perceive God's power in our lives from being a member of our church, completing certain ordinances, and making certain covenants. I am currently inactive, and one of the reasons I feel a deep sense of loss is because my connection to God genuinely felt much stronger when I was regularly attending church and the temple. It's hard to explain, but even though I still feel God in my life and receive guidance, it's markedly different. It's like going from 5G to 3G internet speeds - you notice the difference. I am planning on going back to church soon, and your content has been very helpful to me. Thank you for all that you do! Also, this is a clip from a talk by Pres. Uchtdorf that is about blessings but ultimately depicts the same process of experiencing God’s power. th-cam.com/video/PWjPEDviPgo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=FwmnldPyWt8kReLM
Thanks for sharing this, and good luck on your journey back. I’ve been there, and I felt a lot of opposition and more temptation the closer I got to activity - don’t give up!
Well said. I don’t think Elder Renlund would say that people of other faiths don’t experience the power of God. I know they do! We talk of the fulness of the gospel being in our church. It’s the idea that there is a greater depth to be had. In my mind that doesn’t diminish the miracles and spirit and amazing things that God works in many people’s lives across all religious. Jeff, I know you don’t agree with that view on things but just wanted to clarify that this is the view of Latter Day Saints. I think that was Elder Renlund’s point - the gospel can have great power in anyone’s life, but the church with its priesthood authority greater maximize its potential. Again, I know you don’t agree, just stating what I believe to be the Latter Day Saint view. Thanks for sharing, Jeff!
I hear a sweet testimony from you. I dont know your path, but mine is the same as many. I veered away, partied, each week it was easier not going.. had a rough road getting back.. I always had in my head one thing, God never disappointed me, I have disappointed God. At least, that's how I felt. I didn't fill my boots, and do better, but my testimony of Joseph Smith seeing God and His Son Jesus Christ never wavered with me. I knew that to be true. I was the one that left, not the other way around. I didn't have great parents, but they did bring me to the gospel. I had my moments of outright loss, but I knew God did not leave me. I did finally come back, slowly..I felt like a person on the outside looking in, but I knew I was in the right place. I met my husband at a church standards dance at a gym at age 28, the year I went back. We've been married 27 years, sealed in the temple. Keep your testimony burning, that's all God needs.
Exactly how I feel about Elder Redlund’s talk. Our leaders teach we are all God’s children, so it will never come to my mind that our leaders will teach God’s power is available only to the members of the church
Excellent description. Thank you for sharing. May you be blessed in your journey back and feel the love of God always, and feel very welcomed as you begin attending church again.
I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for this. I'm a lifelong member of this church, and grew up in the Bible Belt. I knew many Evangelist Protestant brothers and sisters, but sadly very few who had an accurate or positive view of us. I encountered a lot of prejudice, and while I did meet many WONDERFUL folk in their ranks, I met many who saw me with hatred and loathing. I was jumped, bullied, called "devil worshipper." I was fired from a job for my religion, kicked out of a study group for it, denied from a charter school for it. I don't hold hate for this; I've come to understand the things they've been told about us, and the misinformation they are judging us based on. Still, it means THE WORLD to me to hear people come to learn about us with an open heart and an open mind. Thank you for your love and care.
33:47 Well, regarding the way Latter-Day Saints access the Power of God... In Elder Renlund's talk in particular, he admitted that the Gospel has enormous power. It's nitroglycerin! Nitroglycerin is an enormously powerful substance that everyone of all faiths can access. The distinction is that the earthly substance, or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, controls that power and focuses in a way that can be used more practically, thus becoming dynamite. It's not like Latter-Day Saints believe that other religions CAN'T experience the power of God... because missionaries for the LDS Church will, in fact, teach others how to experience God's power in thier lives despite not being baptized. The distinction is that Latter-Day Saints have GREATER access to the Power of God through covenant blessings like the Gift of the Holy Ghost and the temple. Those things are exclusive to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and bring INCREASED power... but everyone of all faiths are still able to access God's power in other ways, commonly found in a person's study of His Word or meaningful prayer.
Well said - it’s the definition of the Power of God that they are not comprehending - as a convert I understand both and it takes much study to comprehend the distinction. It was a good video and May God bless you as you share His love to others ❤
Agreed. I like to think of it like the watts of a lightbulb. The power of God aka the light of Christ aka the influence of the Holy Ghost…is experienced by everyone because every living creature on the Earth has this in order to live. That said, when we begin to make sips to access more of the power of God through prayer, reading scripture, getting baptized, making covenants in the temple, etc. It’s like you go from a 10 W bulb, brighter and brighter until the perfect day. it’s not that people another face don’t have any but as president Hinckley said on 60 minutes years ago… he said “ bring all the good that you have and let’s see if we can add to it.” as much as social norms want us to apologize for what we believe to be true, I can’t apologize for it because it is true. It is our belief that this is His church. Other churches have many of the truths within them, but our church has the fullness of the gospel. at the end of the day, when we meet God in that big group, as you and your wife were discussing, we will all know and experience exactly the Heaven He has prepared for us in accordance with the amount of His power we are willing to receive. He won’t say “you all believed different things about me, my doctor and, my gospel, that I am a spirit or a man in body, etc…..” these are all conflicting across the creeds. He will say: I know what you learned on the earth, but this is my gospel and this is what is actually true. And it is my belief that our faith has this truth already. But everyone will know one day and be able to accept or reject these truths. 🙏
This 100%, when they were speaking about the disconnect on the subject I was in my brain saying “ah, they are misunderstanding ‘the power of God’ we are referring to”
Joy, I hope you see this! I am a latter-day saint. I can acknowledge that you have God's power with you. The speakers at conference did not invalidate the spiritual power you have in your life. Instead, they were teaching us how we all can increase the measure of God's power in our lives. However, I don't want you to feel that the church is dismissive of your testimony and the spiritual power that you have in your life. I hope that I communicated that well enough. Thank you!
Fun fact...the speakers are not given topics to speak on they are typically asked to speak a month or two in advance and instructed to be led by the spirit as to what they should speak on. When I learned that, I was even more in awe at how cohesive each talk was. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and impressions. Truly an example we should all follow.
You are correct! And sometimes a speakers might not recieve that revelation until just hours before Conference begins. I do love they excellent way Pastor Jeff and his lovely wife Joy have approached the Church's teachings with curiosity instead of criticism! They have opened a door to learning and sharing that I believe has never been tried before!
Loved your video..and I love how kind and respectful you both are to our church.. Thank you for seeking out to understand … I will say … I’d love you to “re listen” to Dale G Renlund’s talk He was saying that with out the perfect gospel of Jesus Christ .. the church is just ordinary Gospel of Jesus Christ= perfect Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints= TRYING to become perfect through our trials.. but made up of imperfect people! Thank you again!
I used to be where you are. I was grateful for the power of Jesus Christ that I felt. I understand what you are talking about when you say, you have felt the power of Christ. That power did lead me to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Then I made covenants in the temple with my Heavenly Father. As I continued to grow closer to my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, I felt that power grow immensely. I am so glad for you to feel the power that you feel. You can never know the power there is available to you until you make further covenants in the house of the Lord. The temples of Jesus Christ in his church, bring a power that you cannot comprehend, but is spoken of in the old and new Testaments. That power is what Elder Renland was referring to in his talk. Please do not be offended by the testimony he bore of that power. Heavenly Father has a way of teaching us individually. It comes little by little as we are able to receive it. Please open your heart and seek how your Heavenly Father wants to help you gain even greater power!
I love the respectful, genuine, and honest approach this pastor and his wife present on their journey to discovering more about the Church of Jesus Christ of LDS; and the way they share their faith with us. I think everyone is lifted - the pastor and his wife are true Christians that build bridges and tear down walls; so refreshing.
One of my favorite quotes from this past general conference. “We need to stop comparing our difference and start sharing our similarities” love everyone
Elder Renlund was preaching our belief that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only authorised Church on the earth. It has the Priesthood, prophets and apostles. I know from an evangelical point of view that you don't view authority from leaders. You view it from the Bible alone. That's what he was referring to. That we would say a church without proper authority and prophets and apostles is unstable because it's not set up the way Christ intended.
Perfect response. My husband was just saying the same thing as we were discussing this video. Also, many Christian denominations don’t seem to like the phrase that “we believe we are the only ‘true and living’ church”, almost as much as LDS members don’t like the phrase “you’re all going to hell”. 😅
Agree with your comment. Perhaps another way to say it is this is not a church based on interpretation of the Bible or simply a huge Bible study group. This church belongs to Jesus Christ. He established it and it is His. Not mine, not yours, or even the church of Russel M. Nelson, but the Church of Jesus Christ and He has restored it in these latter days to bless the entire world, to gather Israel and bring the path of Salvation and Exaltation to everyone who will receive it. This claim, which I testify is true, is why the church is generally either loved or hated. It's either the biggest forgery in the history of the world, or it's true. The church claims to have the power to seal on earth and in heaven. That is where the power comes from that can't be accessed outside of the church.
we as Members of TCOJCOLDS do not preach that non members are destined to suffer eternally for not being members or not taking on the covenants. You will get the heaven you seek. But that it tops off at 2/3 the way to what you could have had which is infinitely more. But if you could not accept it and live it and it drove you away from the covenants you already made of sacrificing a broken heart and contrite spirit, by taking on promises like baptism or the sacrament which is part of protestant theology you would lose out on even that and be destined at best to Tellestial glory, a garden of Eden but knowing all you could have had your happiness will be lessened. To avoid that you live to the level you can and are awarded accordingly. Christ taught the Nephites that his followers and disciples did not have the faith and belief as great as the Nephites and so he could not teach them all he wished he could for his Father forbade it. So relying on the lesser knowledge without the living prophets to correct it, and the partial truths leads to partial blessings. That is not a horrible fate only less than EVERYTHING. A far kinder message than we get back. Might make you ask who better exemplifies Christ's true believers.
I don’t think he was saying that the only way to have access to Gods power is the one way - everyone can feel his love and power. I think your right in this one mate, good comment
My favorite talk was from Brother Wilcox, especially because my 15yr old daughter came to me spiritually moved by the message. She said she realizes that it is not only okay to be different and standout for the Lord, but doing so puts us on His team as someone that can help others. The other favorite part for me was also the children's choir for the same reasons you mentioned.
It’s been days now and I cannot stop going over President Nelson’s talk. It was incredible and I’ve never heard a talk that strong about preparing for the 2nd coming. We heard from the Lord’s Prophet.
Always love the commentary and discussion. I love how Joy said, "we are going there to understand" That is one of the true marks of a disciple of Jesus Christ. Well, said Joy. :)
Sincere question, Jeff? You don’t think that over 47,000 denominations of Protestant Christianity would be considered unstable? That’s what Elder Renlund was referring to. He wasn’t saying that the gospel of Jesus Christ is unstable. It’s all of the 47,000 different interpretations of His gospel that’s unstable. This is why there is a need for a restoration of Jesus’s one true church upon the Earth. To stabilize and channel all of that into one faith, one hope, one baptism, and I would add one doctrine. That stabilizing force is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jesus Christ’s restored church upon the Earth with living Apostles and Prophets. Also, I think you misinterpret Acts 17. That verse in no way shape or form unequivocally refutes the need for temples. The verse simply says that God does not live inside the temples built with hands, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t visit them or that they are not needed. God obviously lives in heaven which is His primary residence, but He needs a sacred and holy place which is set apart from the rest of the world and is worthy to receive him when He does so choose to commune with mortals upon the Earth. Our bodies can also be temples as His Holy Spirit can dwell within us. I believe that was more of the point that Paul was trying to make here. Yes, we attend the temple which is the only place we can properly make and receive covenants through temple ordinances, but we don’t have to be in a temple made with hands to feel and commune with God. We can carry his spirit inside of us.
That number is not correct. It's based on distinctions that are not really representative of amount of Protestant churches. But the church Jesus established was not a certain denomination. Follow the Bible closely. Really research the newest discoveries and there is no logic in believing plain and precious truths are missing from the Bible and then you follow the Gospel of Jesus from the Bible, you see the church is the bride of Christ, his children... Those adopted as his children
@@ATiredMomwhat are you taking about. Of course Christ's Church was of a certain denomination. If you "follow the Bible closely" as you commented you'd see that Jesus did establish a church. Why do think the people wanted him gone? Because he taught He was the only way to His's Father's kingdom
@@ATiredMom The number (right or wrong) comes from an older estimate from the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. It's no longer listed on there web page but is recorded in other places. The main reason for the number is, my guess, that most churches besides the catholic church don't have a strict structure of leadership which leads to each church being somewhat different in there teachings and methodology, effectively making them a different church. They only use the different creeds and the local pastors interpretation of scripture. Also all the temple ordinances are found in the scriptures, and yes, the King James version of the bible, old and new testimant.
This video came across my feed and I decided to watch the entire vid. I’m LDS, live in Utah but am also a convert. I appreciated this video and the both of you so much for 1. Making the effort, 2. Being open and observant, & 3. Expressing your thoughts & impressions in such a measured, respectful and even loving way. While there are doctrinal points y’all brought up that could be further explored and discussed, sufficeth to say it’s absolutely clear your both such lovely people and followers of Christ. And at the end of the day what we can agree on is that we are all doing our best to follow Christ, as authentically as we can, however imperfect we may each be individually. I’m grateful to you both for being good examples of Christlike love & kindness, even if you disagree with certain things. We’re lucky to have you here. 💖
If you want the true General Conference experience of most members, you gotta watch the sessions on a tv or computer at home, in your pajamas for the morning sessions :)
Yes! Been a fully participating member all of my 50 years and have never attended conference in person. Always watched at home , or back in the day, at church.
My 2 kids (15 yrs & 18 yrs) still at home always ask to make sure I’ve got the cinnamon & orange rolls ready to go for the Sunday morning brunch session. We live in Texas now and I’m so very grateful we can watch on free TH-cam or free BYU TV. This is the first year since they were little we didn’t play General Conference Bingo. I was actually a little sad because it signals their maturity which I love but miss my babies. Bingo was a huge help to keep them focused on the words and concepts of the talks.
Oh, please do not be offended when we speak of the Temple and also of Gods Power, as if they are exclusive to our faith. Please know that LDS conversations and talks on these two subjects (Temples and God's Power) are typically referring to the commandment to Gather Israel in the last days. Certainly, Evangelicals have access to God's power, and we are so happy for that!. But when it comes to the Gathering of Israel, LDS speakers often mention Temple Work and God's Power, without first clarifying that God allows the same blessings to all who currently know of and have faith in Him.
So awesome! Church leadership actually speak to gatherings all throughout the year when they travel around the world to regional and stake conferences. They also publish "sermons" in the monthly magazines Liahona, Youth, and the Friend. They also have their individual social media accounts that they frequently post uplifting and inspiring messages on. Amazing! Prayers for your continual success!
God bless you both for your honest and respectful evaluation of General Conference and of The Church of Jesus Christ of LDS generally. I appreciate the way you compare your own beliefs with those of those of the Church of Jesus Christ and show that we can all be much more open to the beliefs of others, concentrating on what we share rather than what divides us. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of LDS in the UK, I have friends of many faiths and find there is so much good in people of faith everywhere if we chose to look for it. Thank you for what you do.
I watched Renlund’s talk again to listen through a non-members ears. I can hear how Renlund’s talk would have come across as offensive to non LDS. Latter Day Saints tend to not be specific when talking about access to Gods power because we understand the contexts of how it’s being used. LDS believe we all have access to Gods power through faith on the name of Jesus Christ like you said. Power to overcome, to heal, everything you said and more. Renlund was talking about a power accessible through a covenant relationship that’s beyond the scope of a YT comment. And BTW, I understand your interpretation of Paul’s statement in Acts 17. That interpretation would make sense standing on its own. It’s important to consider who he’s talking to. He was speaking to the Greeks and countering their pagan idea that God could ONLY be worshipped in temples and was confined to manmade structures. But Paul himself as well as other apostles continued to worship God in the temple. Paul prayed there, saw the Lord there similar to Old Testament prophetic visions, he performed purification rituals there , etc all after his conversion.
I appreciate their kindness to the church. But I think they misunderstand the covenant relationship. Both pastor Jeff and his wife consistently say that they don't need the temple or covenants to feel the power of God. That is not the point of making covenants. Everyone in the world can feel the power of God if they live true principles, yes and even see miracles. The covenant relationship is about submitting our will to God's in a binding agreement through the Priesthood authority He has authorized to use on the earth.
@@djsduke I understand what you’re saying but I wouldn’t say wolf in sheep’s clothing. That would apply to someone who’s a part of the flock. He isn’t. The point of his channel is to point out differences in a kinder way than Latter Day Saints are used to.
@@djsdukeI believe he sincerely wants to understand our faith. Of course he will slip in what he thinks…he, like all of us, can only state what we know to be true. I do not believe he is trying to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Remember how he said he was embarrassed at the behavior of the evangelical protestors, and how he felt their judgement? He may not want to join, but most people that are not in our church, who already have their own background experiences and then listen to what our church leaders say, are going to think along the same lines that he and his wife think. I know from personal experience. He even stated that his understanding has grown and changed compared to when he first started looking into things. He may not fell like joining, but he does want to understand and experience it. Of course he will express his views.
As a latter day saint, I just want to say thank you for your examples of open hearts and a desire for unity between all faiths. It's truly what the Savior would want. You are both beautiful people. 💕
We all have the Light of Christ and can experience the Power of God. The Temple can enhance the experience of God's Power. I think that is what he meant. I am LDS.
Yep. Even as a missionary I felt the spirit in a Lutheran Church in Norway when a pastor gave a heartfelt testimony. The Holy Ghost will testify of truth no matter where it's found but of course without having it as a gift it won't remain with you as a constant companion.
In Acts 17:24. Paul was speaking to a group of people who seemed to believe that the gods they worshiped could be confined to temples. He wanted them to know that God wasn’t confined to temples. This is something that Solomon understood when he issued the dedicatory prayer for the temple, as recorded in 1 Kings 8:27: “But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?” Solomon understood that God couldn’t be contained by a temple. Yet he built it anyway. Latter-day Saints don’t believe that God can be confined to the temple. We feel His spirit when we’re there, but that does not mean God is confined there. Looking back at 1 Kings 8, prior to Solomon’s dedication, it says in verses 10 and 11: “And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord, ”So that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of the Lord.” So we learn that even though the temple can’t contain God, that doesn’t mean that the glory of the Lord can’t fill the house of the Lord. I feel the glory of the Lord when I am in the house of the Lord. I immediately recognize it as a special, sacred feeling. Furthermore, it’s not like temples became obsolete after Jesus’s death and resurrection. Speaking of the early Christians, Acts 2:46-47 says, “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,” “Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 3:1 says: “Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.” Acts 5:41-42, speaking of Peter and John after a council had sought to kill them, says: “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. “And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” Acts 21:26 says: “Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.” So, I think it’s obvious that temples have played a huge role in Christianity, both before and after Jesus came to this world, died and was resurrected. I think when someone says that Acts 17:24 means that temples aren’t necessary, they are taking it out of context and attributing meaning to it that it doesn’t explicitly say. Temples were clearly not obsolete after Jesus’s resurrection, so there’s no reason to think they are obsolete now.
As a convert I know the power of God can occur outside the LDS Church and agree with you. I also have seen an increase in the frequency of that power with a large proportion of the members since joining.
It was my first conference experience too though I've been a life long member. My favorite part was the children's choir too. Nothing in shame of shedding tears of joy. I was right there with you. Thanks for your respectful discussion and exploration. May God bless you.
The one thing I can say is until you have walked the covenant path you just don't know the difference from before going. Before being endowed and after, I only then felt the power the priesthood promises. Not all the power but the promise of more. Also the power of the temple once passed through to the celestial room. Night and day. That stark a diffrence and I have only begun my journey. There is no way I know to share that until you feel it for yourself. I know how the cynic or the outsider hand waves it away but to quote Douglas Adams it is like a man who having lived all his life thinking he was blind, suddenly realizes he had merely been wearing too large a hat!! Yeah that powerful a moment my life before and after. I truly wish one day you will know of this truth for yourselves.
I just wanted to say thank you for being so kind about all you heard and said. I have been so grateful to hear your words. I'm a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and I love how you had mentioned "are we actually living the life that reflects what we say we believe". I find it so incredible that there is a love for Jesus and a common ground for so many people because we know Jesus Christ was perfect and has perfect love for each of us, so why can't we show love for Him like he does for us? Thank you again for the kindness you have given. I'm so glad you had a great experience.
Totally agree with you, AND I think this highlights Elder Renlund's points about the importance of the Restoration, the Marvelous Work and A Wonder, described and foretold by Isaiah. When there is no vision, the people perish, and the same can be said for limited understanding of the fulness of the gospel. It leads to people at Temple Square condemning, criticizing, and judging, without even considering that they have less light and knowledge. It takes courage to admit and accept the possibility and to be willing to sacrifice whatever it takes to find and follow the truth, which is independent of everything, including our traditions, preferences, and opinions... I also find it very curious and possibly slightly disingenuous when I hear protestants talk about all protestants as being one body, when in point of fact, they are incredibly splintered and all across the board in terms of leaders, doctrines and practices. It's not at all what was described as one faith, one baptism, with prophets, apostles, etc. in scripture....
Yes, and Paul also states quite clearly in Acts 17 we are God's offspring. He also clearly states this in Romans 8:16-17 (KJV): "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." Psalm 82:6 (KJV): "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High." John 10:34-36 (KJV): "Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?" The Bible is very clear. We are literally God's children. And what do children grow up to be? Like their parents. Obviously God will not give His inheritance to those unworthy of it simply because any individual is His child, but we all have His divine potential, if we prove ourselves worthy by suffering together with Christ. Not my words, the Bible's word. Why do mainstream Christians seem to deny this most basic fact? Why are we as Latter-day Saints accused of blasphemy for stating the Biblical truth that we are literally God's children?
Pastor Jeff and Joy, thank you so much for your thoughtful and caring comments about General Conference. I thought it especially sweet when you talked about how you express your worship joy through raising the hands, clapping, and exclaiming. As a Latter day Saints I feel that inside of me every day when I study the Gospel and listen to General Conference. I try and imagine how ALL people would act if the Savior were in front of US preaching? I love the description in the Book of Mormon when Christ appeared to the people in 3 Nephi 17: 2-8:. The people were so quiet and contemplative. Christ says to the people 2. " I perceive that ye are weak, that ye cannot understand all my words which I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time. 3 Therefore, go ye unto your homes, and ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and prepare your minds for the morrow, and I come unto you again. 4 But now I go unto the Father, and also to show myself unto the lost tribes of Israel, for they are not lost unto the Father, for he knoweth whither he hath taken them. 5 And it came to pass that when Jesus had thus spoken, he cast his eyes round about again on the multitude, and beheld they were in tears, and did look steadfastly upon him as if they would ask him to tarry a little longer with them. 6 And he said unto them: Behold, my bowels are filled with compassion towards you. 7 Have ye any that are sick among you? Bring them hither. Have ye any that are lame, or blind, or halt, or maimed, or leprous, or that are withered, or that are deaf, or that are afflicted in any manner? Bring them hither and I will heal them, for I have compassion upon you; my bowels are filled with mercy...."Christ knew how the people felt as they quietly observed him. Compare this quiet introspective form of worship with Mosiah 18:7-11 when the people heard about how to come unto Christ through baptism, "[7] And it came to pass after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord. [8] And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another's burdens, that they may be light; [9] Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life -- [10] Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you? [11] And now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts." I can just picture this in my mind how the people did clap their hands for joy and exclaimed the desires of their hearts that this was a loud demonstration! I am so thankful for your ministry that as Christians we should be helping, loving and supporting one another regardless of our backgrounds. God bless you both!
Renlunds talk could have been clearer. Certainly even non Christians can feel God power and obviously that means Christians too. now imagine instead of saying you don’t experience the power of God, you are told all your experiences are fake and you don’t experience Jesus PLUS you are also going to hell all in the same breathe and you have what we feel from evangelical “protestors” and missionaries. Sorry, back to the talk: I assume Renlund was specifically referring to the power of God manifest in priesthood ordinances and temple covenants. He is most definitely not saying you can’t experience God or his love.
The sad part of this general conference was that we are ending an era. I have been around as a member for almost 30 years. Elders Holland, Eyring, Oaks, and Nelson have been a mainstay for me the whole time and speakers at each conference. They will not be around much longer. I did enjoy seeing the children's choir and new song being performed. It is also nice to see a full capacity audience.
We Love you Jeff and Joy and greatly welcome your attendance. We find strength in numbers as fellow followers of Jesus Christ. Keep up the great presentation and spreading the joy of our fellow Savior.
Thank you for spreading your message and helping latter day saints attend conference in peace. I appreciate your message and the impact you have had on the way the street preachers/protesters have responded in a more respectful way.
Thank you both ❤ this channel has helped me to be steady and calm while trying to figure out what my beliefs are. I really appreciate the help you've given along my spiritual journey 🙏
For members of the Church, attending Conference is a privilege. For those in the SLC area they may be able to attend more frequently, but many of us travel from out of state or from across the globe. For some it's a once in a lifetime event. For you to get tickets to two sessions is quite a blessing. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
Honestly it is difficult for people in SLC to get tickets too. The few times I've gone it was because a friend from out of state got tickets and was coming and invited me to join them.
You guys are so cool and collected when you talk about every aspect, for the church and against it. That's what I admire about both of you. If you keep making good and positive videos like this I'll keep watching them. Keep up the good work! One of my many takeaways from GC is from Elder David P. Homer. He said, 'The choice to submit our will to God’s is an act of faith that lies at the heart of our discipleship. In making that choice, we discover our agency is not diminished; rather, it is magnified and rewarded by the presence of the Holy Ghost.” Agency is key to Heavenly Fathers plan of salvation. He will never take that away from us. When we set aside our selfish desires for someone else's, especially Gods will, our agency really is magnified.
It was a pleasure to meet you at Conference. I also noted the difference in the "protesters", if you will. There was a noticeable lack of people being in-your-face and yelling confrontationally. I mentioned that to several people and pointed to your conversations with many of these people at a previous Conference as the likely cause of this change. Thank you for being a calming voice!
I believe you are having a positive effect Jeff and Joy! Thanks for the love and decency you bring to our community. Whether or not you are a part of our church, you are still blessing us. Cheers and keep doing great things in life!
Yo Jeff, this reminded me of several years ago, when i was walking to conference by some rowdy protesters with my 4 year old boy and 2 year little baby... this loud homie starts yelling at my child "YOUR DADDY IS TAKING YOU TO BURN IN HELL!".. then he continued with "YOUR CHILDREN WILL SAY DADDY, WHY DID YOU BRING US TO BURN! OUCH DADDY FIRE IS SO HOT, IT HURTS TO BURN DADDY! WHY DID YOU BRING US HERE!" I was so shocked he was yelling at my pre schooler and toddler... i was floored, i stood there in the street listening for a sec, i thought i should feel offended or something, but i couldnt help it- i busted laughing.. that was nuts.. my son was like "is he someone who needs a doctor Daddy?".. its actually one of my favorite memories it was so hilarious😂 .. ill never forget that😂
I’ve no doubt that this channel and your efforts to improve dialogue among people of different Christian faiths has had something to do with how the protesters have calmed down at General Conference. Thanks for being a friend to our people.
❤This is fantastic. I love the teasers at the beginning. ❤ once again it would be fantastic if you can set up a time to reach out to David Boice from 52 Churches in 52 Weeks and see if he could come on your show so we can all hear your thoughts on his conversion story. All those in favor give a big thumbs up.👍👍👍
I seriously wrote this comment before watching the video not realizing that David Boice approached you at conference and now you two have met. I’m telling you, Jeff, it was all meant to be!!!
I truly love David Boice, but I think David Alexander would be a better choice. David Alexander is much more doctrinally knowledgeable and experienced to engage in conversation with Jeff ( they were both ministers) than David Boice would be (being a lay person) 🙏
@@gerritvandewal6113 Im sure David Alexander woudl be great, but it would be great to hear David Boice share his testimonial and story with Jeff and hear Jeff's thoughts.
Jeff and Joy, it is so refreshing to come across people of a different faith that are willing to learn about our religion from the source and not just find filth and lies on the internet and define our religion by those things. Thank you for your example of peace and kindness❤️
Amen! A power couple for Christ and great examples of charity and discipleship. I love this new age of bringing together the believers of all faiths. Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Thank you for your kind, respectful, observances of our faith. You both exude a beautiful, Christ-like light that is bright and attractive to all who hear and see you. May we all continue to learn and grow closer to Christ in our daily endeavors. Thanks again for blessing so many lives.
As I watched General Conference this October I was thinking of you two beautiful, brilliant, and fun people, Jeff and Joy, and hoping you were watching, too! I am an LDS convert who surely experienced the power of God, his love, and the influence of the Holy Ghost outside the CJCLDS. Yes, that is true. I know what led me on, and I am grateful to be a member of this Church. God continue to bless you and your work.
Not that your channel wasn't great before, but you are a wise man to start including your wife! :) I love that you two give your thoughts, not in lockstep, but similar, but in your own ways and perspectives. Great job and done with great respect. Respect to the two of you too! And, yeah... I think that "gethsemane" pretty much hit all of our hearts... like a Mac truck!
Would have been nice to hear Joy’s comments as to WHY her favorite part was the children’s choir singing “Gethsemane”..(not just Jeff’s ). Maybe she could add a comment about that?❤
I always enjoy hearing your perspective and appreciate how respectful you are, and have always been, on your journey to better understand our religion. As the world around us degenerates and becomes increasingly polarized, the more I believe we need each other. Thank you for being peace makers and for building bridges of understanding!
You are beautiful people and a wonderful example of different believers being able to sit side by side. I too loved the children's choir and Gethsemane is one of my favourites! Love what you do. Jesus is the message!
I don't believe Elder Renlund stated that God's power cannot be felt or seen without the church. I'm sorry that's how the message rang out. As you know, we believe that the divine authority of the priesthood is crucial to receive ordinances and enter into formal covenants with God. We believe these covenants give us greater access to God's power and in the case of baptism are a gateway to the Celestial Kingdom. These ordinances wouldn't be possible without the formal organization of a church in our context. I believe this is a doctrine you are familiar with (though disagree with). We do not believe that God does not manifest his power to others through His spirit be it through miracles, personal revelation, or the manifestation of truth. Hopefully this furthers the discussion of understanding between us.
Thank you for your interest and respectful way of showing your outside perspective of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. You and your wife are a lovely couple and it is clear you are close to the Lord and doing good in your lives. I attended both morning sessions this year, and hadn't been in about 15 years. This time I traveled with my family, and, along with my wife, we brought our oldest 2 daughters for their first time. It was great to be there. Regarding Elder Renlund's talk, I believe the imagery was appropriate for the message he was conveying. Something I got out of it was that God's greatest desire is similar to what Emily Belle Freeman said, which is for His children to "live up to your privileges", or enjoy their privileges to the fullest extent possible. As another commenter in this thread said, there are varying degrees of possibility, or privilege, similar to what members of the Church know as the 3 degrees of glory. God knows that the Celestial, or highest, glory is supreme, but many are kept from it through the deceptions of the adversary, and believe that when they feel the light of the stars (Telestial) or moon (Terrestrial), they're living the dream. This act of believing you have reached your potential, while living below your privilege, is the danger Elder Renlund spoke of. God wants us to constantly feel the sun, not settle for the moon. Everyone can receive blessings from God as they do good, and even feel the Holy Spirit, but only through Baptism and Confirmation into Christ's church, through proper authority, can one permanently receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost, a Celestial guide, as a constant companion throughout their lives. Ultimately, what Elder Renlund said wasn't attempting to offend others, rather help them see there is more. Joy mentioned she usually approached things with an open heart, which I was glad to hear, because that is what is needed for individuals to be guided by the Lord. Full faith in Christ, nothing doubting. I believe this is an opportunity to sincerely ask God if He has more to give through the Church which Christ founded during his earthly ministry, which has been restored to the earth after a long period of apostasy. The children's choir was the favorite of so many, because submissive children are the best of us. There is more for all who let God prevail in their lives, and submit to Him with full trust that all will be well, as do little children.
I am LDS and grew up with friends of other faiths. It is good to get feedback from conference like you have given because that’s what can make us aware as Latter-Day Saints of hurtful or offensive blanket statements regarding the superiority of the church. I have been caught off guard more than a few times spouting off Mormon tropes or beliefs and then been put in my place by a friend who believes differently. I am grateful for those uncomfortable discussions because they changed my perspective and permanently changed the way I spoke about my beliefs. I believe God loves all his children and none are greater than another.
the church members are not the church or the gospel. church members are not inherently anything. the church, however, is the 'restoration of all things' , 'the marvelous work and a wonder', it's what the angel Moroni was flying in the midst of heaven to proclaim with his trumpet. it has what every gospel dispensation has had: 1)priesthood authority, 2)true doctrine, and 3)continuous revelation. the gospel is the teachings and doctrine of Christ, and His church is the framework for living and applying it, as intended. members of the church should not act or feel superior to anyone in any way, and on the other hand, there is nothing at all to apologize about when declaring the truth of the restoration of the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. it's either true, or it isn't, and there is only ONE way to find out. the scientific method: people need to have a sincere heart and real intent (not mere curiosity) and be willing to ask God in faith. He witnesses via the Holy Spirit to any honest seeker of truth, just as James 1:5 and Moroni 10:3-5 mention. Through the Holy Spirit, I know for myself it is true, and each and every one of God's children is free to choose to use their own agency to find and follow truth. Whether or not they do...it's still true! ;-)
15:30 thank you for acknowledging this. We get this every day constantly. It's super validating to know you agree how un-Christian it feels to be condemned in this way.
Thank you both for your positive, sincere and candid outreach to us. It’s all we’ve hoped for from our neighbors in Christ. My son, raised LDS but no longer affiliated, played drums for an amazing evangelical church in Salt Lake and we LOVED attending with him. I regularly used notes from those meetings as I taught in my own elder’s quorum. We were so grateful for that community that led him to Christ in ways that he wasn’t responding to in our church. ❤
For every person who gets into the Conference Center for General Conference, there are at least 20 more who would love to attend in person. Getting tickets to in-person is very difficult.
Pastor Jeff and Joy thank you for let us go along with you to General Conference. It was a pleasure to hear your insight and honest questions. I appreciate the way you are open to all religions and respect the sacred place they hold for their followers. I look forward to learning more along with you. May you continue to be blessed.
The power of these priesthood keys is infinite and breathtaking. Consider how your life would be different if priesthood keys had not been restored to the earth. Without priesthood keys, you could not be endowed with the power of God. Without priesthood keys, the Church could serve only as a significant teaching and humanitarian organization but not much more. Without priesthood keys, none of us would have access to essential ordinances and covenants that bind us to our loved ones eternally and allow us eventually to live with God. This would be a good talk to read if you want to understand more. 2024 April conference Pres Nelson Abrahamic covenant! God is also SO MUCH bigger than the Bible don't limit Him to that!
So good...yes... I'm super excited to see even more records that will be showing up such as the dead sea scrolls!!! We have so much to look forward to! As stated in our Articles of Faith
Attending conference from another country is a once in a lifetime privilege. I attended from Australia and it was a life changing experience that confirmed and expanded my faith.
There are two levels to the gospel. There is the part of Christ's gospel that is for everyone. You don't need a church or a pastor to even feel it and benefit from it. And that's the part you know. we recognize this as the milk of the gospel. The power of God that meets everyone where they are. But then there is another layer. That is the disconnect you are recognizing. Our guys were talking about the more particular next steps that is beyond the general power of God. Its not about feeling God, its about the ordiances of God that do very specific things. THAT power is only accessed in the Temple. We would refer that as the meat of the gospel. This is something beyond salvation and goes into what we believe is required for exaltation.
Thank you for connecting with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints General Conference with an open mind and with the goal of love and understanding instead of telling us that we're going to burn in hell. :) Your comments about Elder Renlund's talk, specifically how without God's authority there is "no manifestation of the power of godliness," were thought-provoking. You're absolutely right that God's power is manifest wherever He wills, and people, you and I included, often experience divine intervention and power in moments of need, regardless of religious affiliation or location. LDS church members (and everyone else) know this, and we've all seen God's power manifest outside of organized religion, in personal moments of faith or sin, in other churches; wherever God wants it to be manifest. What Elder Renlund seems to be saying, though, in the context of this talk, is something more specific. When he speaks about the "manifestation of the power of godliness," he's referring to this manifestation within the context of priesthood authority, covenants, and ordinances that, in our belief, are currently only available through the restored Church of Jesus Christ. In this context, where the "power of godliness" is coming through those sacred ordinances (like baptism, confirmation, and temple ordinances), they allow us to make specific covenants with God and receive blessings specific to His holy priesthood. This is not to diminish our spiritual experiences outside of those ordinances but rather to explain that from our perspective, certain blessings and transformative power tied to God's plan are accessed through this authorized framework, just like in the New Testament when people who had been baptized by John were then re-baptized by those who had direct authority from Jesus.
I can't tell you how many times I've sat in a primary room while children sing and practice the song "Gethsemane" and tears fill my eyes and roll off my cheeks and I'm a 48 yo man..
Jeff and Joy, Thank you so much for your example of love, kindness, openness to learning and willingness to understand. You truly exemplify how our Savior would want us to be. I hope to be as humble, teachable and understanding of others as you are. Your ministry crosses boundaries and is greatly appreciated by many, including this member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I loved hearing you testify of Christ and the miraculous blessings and joy He has brought to your life. It is a wonderful thing to be loved, tutored, changed and saved by Him. I too joy in my relationship with Him, His redeeming love, and His mentorship and guidance in my life. I am filled to overflowing when I experience it, and when I see others choosing to love and follow Him (even though my expression of it in church may be a little less outward). Keep up the wonderful work of building bridges and living the gospel. May the Lord continue to bless you in your work. By the way, if we members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are going to hell, I cannot think of a better group of people to be there with - people who love the Savior and goodness. We will probably do a service project to clean the place up, plant flowers, have pot luck dinners, build churches and temples and minister to the devil and his angel using a Love, Share and Invite program. People that go there hoping to get away from the "Mormons" may be in for a surprise when we start knocking at their doors with cookies, an invitation to church and a refrigerator magnet about how much the Savior loves them.
Latter Day Saint here . Love your channel. I just wanted to comment and say that Latter Day Saints don’t believe people that people in other Christian faiths can’t experience or access the power of God. Infact I believe a evangelical who is very close to God experiences his power more than a Latter Day Saint who participates in ordinances but is just going through the motions. That being said I do believe the fullest measure of Gods power is accessed through covenants performed with his Priesthood authority. I don’t view it as other Christians being less than, but just that we have different beliefs on what all Gods power entails for us. We believe there is more to access because of our beliefs in eternal progress. Hope that makes sense 😊
Dear pastor & wife, Thankyou for being respectful towards our church and religion. The way I see the gospel it is like a beautiful crystal ornament that Christ gave to the Earth. When he was on the earth it was complete and beautiful. But during the dark ages, after the original apostles were murdered the ornament was shattered. Wonderful men picked up pieces and all christian churches can feel some of God's power because God loves all of his children and wants all of us to return to him. But until the gospel was restored to the earth no church had all of the pieces of that beautiful ornament (gospel). Elder Renlund did not mean that others cannot feel Gods power, just that his restored gospel will allow us to experience even more of Christ's light and power. Your thoughts and feelings helped me see even more clearly just how much our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love all of us and made me even more grateful for his restored gospel.
When we hear the prophets and apostles with the Holy Ghost and they speak with the same influence, we can hear what God means to say to us through them.
As an exmormon, I really do not believe in the teachings of the church, but I got teary-eyed watching because of how much nostalgia I have as I recall going to conference as a youth.
Us ex Mormons have an extremely difficult time separating people and good experiences from false teachings and their harmful effects in our life. I walk with Jesus alone now and it is truly amazing the miracles He has for those who trust in Him and not man made religion.
Amen, Amanda and Courtney. Christ’s TRUTH matters and I am with you 100%. The LDS people are good and kind; albeit unaware of real LDS history. I was once among them. Now, I reference Biblical teaching alone.
@@courtneyko1466 I am so sorry you felt the church teachings were hurtful. But I am so glad that you still walk with Jesus. This is most important. Many people who leave the LDS church become bitter against God. I hope you are happy.
I’m glad you liked the conference and I’m sorry that there were parts that have offended you. I grew up evangelical and converted when I was 17. I’m so glad that this time I was able to attend general conference in person again and flew from the UK to salt lake just to attend conference and meet up with some friends. I loved watching your video and your frank experience. Thanks again. Mark
Thank you both, for sharing. I appreciate and enjoy learning from your perceptions of our Church and General Conference. With regards to what you heard from Elder Renlund's talk, God's power is out there for everyone, to the degree that they are ready to listen and receive, and righteous and honest efforts will bring God's power into our lives. One word that I believer could help in this understanding, is the word "Fulness." We believe that it is through striving to be obedient to our covenants and striving to live as our Savior would have us do, that we begin to open up the "fulness" of God's power into our lives. Thanks again for sharing.
We do get to meet many of the 12 and Seventy along the way. They individually come and visit with us and their wonderful wives also who speak with them and literally knock your socks off with their beautiful spirits and abilities to reach all who hear them. A year or two ago Elder Renlund and his wife spoke in our Stake, and also in a neighboring Womens Conference. It was truly remarkable. Sister Renlund had us all laughing. She's got so much to give, and we all had the opportunity to each be greated by them individually and personally. ❤
Everything the Church does is made with the best of each person because the belief is that the Lord deserves our very best. It is all done for Him. Thank you for this fantastic channel, Pastor Jeff!
Thank you for your love for Latter Day Saint members despite our different beliefs. Your love brought me to tears through this video even with some different beliefs I know your a brother in Christ ❤
I am a Latter Day Saint. Thank you for sharing. It is good to hear and understand other people's perspectives who are not of our faith. I love that we can have different perspectives but still love one another and connect as Christians and still have commonalities. I loved how you shared your experience in good taste, respectfully done even though there were things that you didn't agree with. I can tell you are both really wonderful people who love our Savior and redeemer Jesus Christ.
Thank you so much! Speaking as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Later-Day Saints, I am so impressed with your work! And, thank you for all your sincere reflections and for expressing your disagreements in such a respectful and loving way. over the last few years, I've become a big fan of your channel. Keep up the good work! I truly believe you're doing God's work, especially building interfaith bridges of love, empathy, and understanding. I am inspired!
Did you watch General Conference? What did you think of the talks? What did you think of our thoughts?
My favorite part was the children singing Gethsemane
I've still got littles who have a harder time sitting still so I'm still trying to catch up! Looking forward to hearing the children's choir sing Gethsamane now though!
I just wanted to comment in regards to when Joy asked what the difference is like to watch vs go in person. I would compare it to going to a symphony as compared to listening to the recording on your phone. The music is lovely when it comes through your speaker, but it's nothing like being surrounded by live sound. At a symphony concert, I can hear each instrument so much more clearly and I can hear the overtones that the music creates. I also feel the music more deeply in my soul. That is what a live session is for me. Not to mention the overwhelming spirit that presides in the building. For me, it's a tangible thing that's like walking through a curtain.
Amazing so thankful we have a prophet of God to help us in these later days!!!
FYI - conference talks topics are not assigned. When a speaker is asked to speak it is up to them to seek out the topic via revelation. They only know the person before and after them. As such we believe any theme is directed by the Lord himself since as far as I’m aware the speakers don’t collaborate with those before and after to discuss topics.
Pastor I am an RM and I quit going to church after graduating from med school. I wanted to thank you and your lovely wife for this video. I watched the conference to its entirety and I have never heard a prophets voice so clearly before than now. I heard him loud and clear and his message of love couldn't be any specific. I and my family will come back to church. Thank you pastor and God bless.
You must have been an amazing missionary and satan the advisory knew if he could distract you, he could thwart our Saviors plan for you. He works hardest on those who have potential of being great influencers of the Saviors plan for his children. Something tells me our Father in Heaven has big plans for you. Stay close to him and ask him for Strength to stay on the covenant path. God bless 🙏
I don’t think his (Pastor Jeff) intent is to bring ex LDS members back, but it’s working for me too. Lol
I am soooooo happy that you are coming back to The Church of Jesus Christ. I hope you always feel the love of Jesus Christ in your life. He loves you.
Kudos for your courage, and God bless!
@@kellythayer3679lol a common Mormon trope
I'm 11 and love going to Church, I have a testimony of the Gospel Of Jesus Christ and love The Book Of Mormon 😊
As a fellow child, I can concur, I love the gospel and it's many books!
When I was 11 I had that strong faith . I have always known the truth, always felt I wasn’t good enough and that no one liked me. I made a lot of mistakes thinking that way n. I stopped going to church and hanging out with the wrong crowd. Because I wasn’t going to church I married a man who didn’t believe at all like I did. I was not very nice. My children didn’t go to church when they were little most of the time but thankfully, I found my way back to the church, but because of my Relieving, I wasn’t good enough. I missed out on meeting the right person and I stayed there and been faithful. Our lives would’ve been completely different. They’re OK now and I have gone through the temple and I go as often as I can. I’m 77 years old now this is why I tell you, always keep that faith always know who you are and know that you are worthy that you are a child of God that he loves you and you’re always good enough. Just make sure they are your friends and someone I can tell you have such a sweet spirit I pray that you always know who you areand how special God you are
@@drakehatch9171what child says "concur" 🤣
@@seththehumble9521an intelligent one
@@cheekyloki 😁🫂 Indubitably! 😉 Love you all.
Speaking to Joy’s point about not needing the temple, Covenants, wearing garments, etc to feel God’s love and grace - God does not reserve His love and grace ONLY for those few who keep His covenants in His temples. All members, for example don’t really attend the temple, besides baptisms for deceased ancestors, until they are adults, but we fully believe the love and grace is available to all of His children.
By making further covenants, what they are saying is that we can access even more. God’s love and grace is infinite. There is no ceiling. What we normally experience, which often feels beyond what we deserve, is only the beginning. As we keep covenants, and draw nearer to Him, He draws nearer to us, and we experience greater strength, spiritual power, and abilities beyond our own.
Amen
Well said
Came down to the comments for this!!!
What a perfect comment.
I wanted to say something similar. I also want to add that I have no doubt that both of you have had spiritual experiences and have seen those beautiful miracles and love of the Savior in and around you!
Pastor Jeff and Joy, first off, as a life-long member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I want to say THANK YOU for your respectful coverage of our faith and for trying to build bridges of understanding.
Thank you also for sharing your pure faith and love in our Savior Jesus Christ and for serving the good people of your own religion. I am increasingly thankful for strong believers in Jesus Christ, no matter the church they belong to, who are willing to follow Him and share their witness of His grace and power and majesty.
I've been feeling more and more over the last several years how important it is going to be in the coming days/months/years for all believers of Christ, irrespective of religion, to stand united in our common belief in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thank you again, and may God bless you and yours!
God bless you!!
I have been feeling very much this same way. I believe God wants us to be more unified and there is no better way to do that than as believers and followers of Jesus Christ.
Amen to this and Go COUGS! Welcome to the fan base!
As a former Evangelical Southern Baptist, and convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Power of God they he was speaking of was the Authority to bind on earth which is bound in heaven. We believe that Faith in God and Jesus from all religions gives the ability of healing, saved from addiction and saved marriage in this life because we all have the Light of Christ. Thank you for going and learning. God is organized and not a house of confusion. Blessings to you both and family
Thanks for this explanation. The power is priesthood authority. We can all feel God’s power in our lives. Elder Renlund was referring to Priesthood.
@@AnneLund80💯
I came to the comment section to say just this. All are God’s children and as such, can feel God’s power which can help to overcome all difficulties of this mortal life. What he was referring to is Priesthood authority which bind’s us to God through our covenants which enables this relationship to endure after this life.
Well said! There was a bit of a misunderstanding with what was meant by power. I’d never want these kind followers of Christ to think we believe they don’t have access to God ❤
Others have touched on it, so I won’t badger the point about the power of God that was being spoken about. But it does illustrate a possible area where members of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints could continue to improve. We have a cultural (not really doctrinal) dictionary worth of terms, phrases, contexts, etc. that can absolutely be a barrier to understanding about what is being intended, even if it sounds plain and simple. this can cause understandable confusion. Like in this case, we absolutely believe the power of God and the Savior’s atonement to be available to all who accept him and we would not discard your experiences of faith, healing, the Holy Spirit, etc.
Jeff and Joy. I’ve read through the majority of the comments here and, as far as doctrine goes, so many here have already covered what I would’ve commented on, so I won’t repeat what has already been said. However, I will say thank you. If all people approached people of a different believe system the way you have, there would be significantly less conflict and contention in the world. You have come to see. You seem to keep a relatively open mind. And above all, you seem to handle the ugly side of people with a decent amount of patience and grace. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has our fair share of hot heads, irreverent, and unreasonable people who are just as quick to judge as any others. Thank you for braving the waters and taking it all with Grace. I wish you well as you continue to get to know our faith. As someone quoted earlier, President Gordon B Hinkley encouraged the world to bring the truths (or power) they know and enjoy, and see if we can add to it. I think that’s what you’re doing.
On the topic of God’s power, I guess I do have a thought to share. My experience in a nutshell is this… I grew up in the church, I served a mission in Brazil teaching the gospel. I got married in the temple. I had 6 kids and a family devoted to the gospel. I have witnessed miracles. I have experienced miraculous healings. I have experienced the gift of tongues wile serving in a foreign land. I believed I have experienced the Power of God throughout my life. Its presence in my life has been a constant. I had never experienced life without the Power of God present in every single day.
After 14 years my wife decide she didn’t want to be married to me anymore and divorced me. I won’t get into the reasons behind her decision. I will only say that I did everything I could to save my marriage. And when it did end in divorce… my life fell apart. In many ways I stepped away from the habits and practicies I had followed so faithfully because it hurt too bad. I had done everything it taught me to do and to be, and still the decisions of another had the power to end the most important relationship in my life. (next to the Savior’s of course) But it hurt so bad and I was so confused. So, I stepped away from my covenants. I stepped away from some of the practices. I stopped reading my scriptures. I stopped praying. I never stopped believing. I just stopped doing. I still went to my weekly meetings, but I stopped doing the things that brought the increased power of God into my life. I ended up violating some of the covenants I had made. And do you know what happened? I noticed a marked decrease in my connection with my Father in Heaven. He was still there. I still received guidance and felt His spirit. But the difference was like walking through life at night versus walking through life during the day. The moon and stars became my only source of light. I had given up constant daylight for moonlight. Now, to someone who has lived in total darkness their entire life, a full moon and sky full of stars will seem miraculous. Or, to someone who has never experienced daylight would of course argue that they know what light is. Because they do. The moon and stars are light. So how can I deny them of their experience. The covenants made in the temple bring increased light and knowledge. And increased access to God’s power. It’s like daylight vs moonlight. Since taking steps to realign myself with my covenants, I have felt that power grow steadily. The light is growing brighter again.
I have known people not of my faith who have lived in alignment with the gospel with the utmost zeal, experience a mighty change in their lives they didn’t think possible, after their baptisms and temple covenants were received. Another analogy would be tuning into a radio station. The closer you get to the exact frequency, the clearer the signal. You can get close, and hear the message coming through. But the closer you get to walking with the Lord, the clearer you can hear his message. That is what the Church of Jesus Christ offers. We (the Saints) are all just in a process of fine tuning our connection to that signal. Events like general conference help us dial in our radio a little closer to the right signal. Weekly sacrament and regular temple attendance keep us fixed on the best signal we have received, and give each one of us personal guidance from the Lord on how to tune in a little better. That is where the increase in God’s power comes from. Every son or daughter of God on this earth has the ability to tune their personal radios. Not a single one is exempt from that connection. But we can, through our choices, turn our dials away from the right signal, and even tune into another station entirely.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. So many of us can relate to this . I felt similar things when I pulled away from the church .
I completely agree with this comment. I think it’s a natural reaction to be offended to statements such as Elder Renlund’s especially when you are feeling a different level of God’s power. I don’t think anyone is denying the Power of God you two feel with your current beliefs; that is exactly what is supposed to happen in everyone’s journey to Christ. There is definitely different levels of power to God and I have felt the differences in my life especially not growing up in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
It’s a feeling that just can’t be described until you feel it yourself. We can describe it all we want to you both but until you feel it yourselves you will never know what we are actually feeling and trying to portray.
I don’t think we are better than anyone else or more special, I just think for those that have truly felt God’s power to the level that they know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is truly Christ’s church that we will continue to believe and profess in all the doctrines and beliefs you two can’t currently align yourself with.
Yes, we have modern day revelation that was not practiced during Christ’s time on the Earth but the things that you have admitted not to align yourself with are in fact part of Christ’s teachings during His ministry on the Earth. I don’t know if anyone has recommended this book to you but I invite you to read The Blueprint of Christ’s Church by Tad Callister. In this book he details what Christ’s church needs to look like today in order to align with what he began to create when he was in this Earth.
Thank you for your kind and thoughtful approach to getting to know this church a little better. You both are great examples of being Christlike. ❤️
thank you for sharing your experiences and testimony. it was beautifully articulated and spot on!
Hugs and Prayers!
Wow! That was just beautifully expressed and explained and I echo what you said. It’s not that God power isn’t other places and doesn’t manifest itself outside the church, I do believe it does. I believe that our Heavenly Fathers full power is found in the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints because we have the priesthood and the gift of the Holy Ghost which is what a Christ used to perform His miracles when He was on the earth. I believe there’s Gods truth and power in other places and once again that the fullness is found here. We are just adding to what Christians already believe. One of my favorite parts of conference outside of the talks was during the missionary choir when they sand come Lord Jesus come. I was so touched and felt the spirit so strong.
Also, the reason we Latter Day Saints love conference so much, isn’t because we don’t get to hear great talks through the year, but because this is for us as if Peter, James, or John come to talk with us directly. Imagine the excitement in the evangelical world if you were about to hear the New Testament prophets speak to you in person. For us, that is what this is.
Well said.
I'd attend that conference for sure too!!
I think we need to be careful not to put these men on such high pedestals. They are just normal,
fallible men. We need to stop worshipping them so much
I am a member from southeast Asia. My dream is one day me and my family will be able to attend the General Conference. But we are happy to watch the live broadcast or rebroadcast in the chapel or in our home.
That is sooo true, and because of that, we get counsel that we need, that will actually help us the very most, spiritually.
I love your videos! I am a convert to the church. I journeyed far and wide to find the proper church. I have always felt Gods power in my life. I am alive because God willed it. I understand your confusion on the Gods power topic. all i can say is the power i have from God in my life post Temple Endowment, is a very real thing. the power everyone has access to in their life can be added upon through the temple covenants. i had to work very VERY hard to be worthy to enter the temple. i am an alchoholic and a drug addict. getting temple ready was the hardest thing ive ever done in my life. I can not begin to express the miracles i have experienced since becoming an endowed member of the church. I also had miraculous experiences in my life pre-LDS member that were legit miracles. its hard to explain what i have now in my life that is different. but it IS different. i have remained temple worthy now for over 8 years, i go often, and I will never falter. God is my power
thanks for sharing your story and your testimony. i know God will continue to bless you as you walk the path of discipleship!
I love your comment! And I love what you said about how we can all access God’s power, but how it can be added upon through temple covenants. That was put so well! We all have access to God’s power because he loves all of us and wants to bless all of us, but when we choose to enter into the temple and make sacred covenants with him, his power is manifested even more in our lives.
I completely agree with this! Gods power can absolutely be felt by others of different beliefs. He loves all of His children and wants us all to know of His presence in our lives. What most don’t realize in this world, is that we have the opportunity to build upon the power that we have felt. The reason we are here on earth is to grow and learn. We all have the opportunity to attain more of that power and more understanding as we are willing to do Gods will, and align out will with His!
Thank you for your testimony of the Gospel. ❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you for your response on the Power of God.
Thank you SO much for your kindness towards the LDS church and for your respectful approach! We absolutely love you both!
I’m an evangelical Christian in Utah also. I go to my local ward and do a Book of Mormon study with some of my friends. I’m doing my best to genuinely learn so I can at least understand the beliefs straight from the source. I work in mental health care so it’s just important for me to be as culturally competent as possible. The LDS church has some of the nicest ppl. I watched General Conference and there were quite a few good talks. I enjoyed it and the choir is great
Take caution. The people I know who get sucked into false teaching the most are those who believe they could never be deceived.
I love and appreciate the time and effort put in to learn and try to understand from " the source", rather than from like Google or something. We are all on the same team, so to speak, of team Jesus and God. As an LDS member, I just want to say we try to love, share and invite. We share our beliefs to inform, to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is not for us to "convert" others, but to allow the spirit/Holy Ghost to help others recognize what they may feel and believe to be true. I appreciate the open and honest views shared. Thanks for your example of love and tolerance for others not of the same faith. I do the same, Jesus is love. Faith is a very personal choice and I see no reason to be disrespectful or dislike people just because they believe differently. We can still get along and like each other even with different views. ❤
As a member who has gone to therapy, I really deeply appreciate your efforts to understand the religion (which obviously deeply affects our culture)
I've felt like I had to explain the entire religion to the therapist to get to the heart of my emotional distress
@@lisajones1438yeah and I’m not from Utah so moving here was my first exposure to the church or the faith. I can’t help people without knowing what they believe. Especially when like you said the culture also impacts members too present members and ex members.
@@ninasju , and be cautious of prejudice. Jesus commanded us to love one another. @rosef.3741 is just trying to better understand people in his community to better help people.
I really appreciate your comments on the street preachers. I grew up as a Latter-day Saint in eastern Canada and my experiences with Evangelicals were always negative. At temple open houses, they were protesting, handing out literature that contained exaggerations and outright lies about my people, they mocked things that were sacred to me and my family, they chanted and jeered at the Hill Cumorah Pageant where I was involved in the Pageant Work Crew for two summers. They told me that I was going to hell when they knew nothing about me. From such people I felt scorn, bitterness, and darkness and they showed me that they were not the kinds of people I would want to spend time with. You two, on the other hand, show much respect, kindness, and open-mindedness towards my people, and that means a lot to me. You have shown me that there are Evangelicals that I would want to spend time with and learn from. Kudos to you and please keep up the good work. Both Latter-day Saints and Evangelicals can learn a lot from your examples!
Thank you for your comment. I was going to say the same thing. I remember taking my young children to general conference and having to prepare them for the hate they were about to experience from complete strangers.
About the abusive street preachers:
I remember them taunting handing out literature at stake conferences when a child and their vitriol at General Conference.
My explanation is found in The Book of Mormon when Jesus said:
"For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another."
-- 3 Nephi 11:29
To me, they're just self-identifying as the devil's followers against Christ's truths.
I don't engage them any more because I realized that the devil doesn't care who wins the argument because he wins if there IS an argument/contention, which blocks the still, small voice of the Holy Ghost who can lead us to the truth of all things (Moroni 10:5).
What lies would they say?
@@dalewight4935thank you for sharing.💗
@@timmiestabrnak Well they are just exaggerations or miss information, try listening or reading the lirics to some of the songs of the musical "the book of Mormon" and you will get the idea. I remember getting a pamphlet when I was 10 or so at my school (I grew up in Mexico City), saying that "we believe God has many wives". Which can come as disrespectful to say the least. If you are a member you can see how the above statement is meant to mock some of the doctrines we hold dear. As an adult, however, I have come to learn how to handle any of my friends asking me about said pamphlets with a bit of humor and see it as an opportunity to teach the gospel and express my testimony.
I am a a teen who's groing up in an lds home, so this all seems so familiar to me. I've gotten so used to it that I, most times, take it for granted. And I've had various up's and down's where I don't care or belive in the churches gospell, to reciving personal revelation.
I would say that this is the first time in my life where I've truly expirianced the JOY that comes with being apart of it. Watching this past conference struck a cord in me and made me realize that this is actually something I want in my life. This is actually something I want to be a part of. Watching this vidio made me start to break down in tears watching bolth of you experiance that same joy as I did. I hope you come to find that persinal revelation for yourself. grasp onto it and dont let go. ❤
get ready for manifestations of God's love for you! I was in your position a long time ago, and I have never regretted choosing to follow the Church since!❤
The moment when they sang “the fight was won by Jesus” I stopped, rewound and listened again. So many tears 😭
We watched it as a family at home and I had to rewind it over and over again.
The Holy Ghost testified immediately and powerfully to this ultimate and uniting truth. I listened to it again this morning and almost had to pull my car over because I could not see through the joyful tears!
At that moment, my heart skipped a beat. 💕
Yes! I loved that so much because it is written to crescendo that line and be very powerful. But in the local wards I've never heard the children be able to do that fully. The kids at conference knocked it out of the park and it was powerful!!
Been listening to that song throughout the week on my way to work.
My favorite talk was from President Nelson. "The best is yet to come, because Jesus is coming again."
"It is neither too early nor too late to become a devout disciple of Christ" 🙌🏻
"Gethsemane" performed by the Children's Choir was my favorite as well. Such a powerful moment. If that's all anyone got out of General Conference this time around, they were well fed by the Spirit.
Thanks for sharing your perspectives.
Those children looked and sounded so angelic. It was beautiful! ❤
I’m a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I coach track and field with the local baptist pastor. We have no problems with one another, because we both believe in Christ as our Savior. All the other things are just details. My belief is that while we have the authority of God, the Priesthood, and the keys to many things…our Heavenly Father and our Savior will not reject those that diligently tried to follow His word. None of us is perfect, we all will need our Savior to live with our Father again. Live your faith, be open to His Spirit, love and serve His children, and trust that God loves all of us.
I really enjoyed the video! As a member of the LDS church, I agree with both of you on the power of God. I believe that God's power is available to everyone, but sometimes we get distracted by earthly things and sin, which limits our ability to fully appreciate God's presence and power in our lives. In our faith, we don't attend church and the temple to gain access to God's presence and power. Instead, we do these things to help declutter our connection to God. Every time we go to church, focus on service, or attend the temple, it's like we're doing a deep cleaning of our connection to God. We also believe that people outside of our faith have a connection to God's power and divine guidance. However, many LDS members, including myself, have felt a significant increase in our ability to perceive God's power in our lives from being a member of our church, completing certain ordinances, and making certain covenants. I am currently inactive, and one of the reasons I feel a deep sense of loss is because my connection to God genuinely felt much stronger when I was regularly attending church and the temple. It's hard to explain, but even though I still feel God in my life and receive guidance, it's markedly different. It's like going from 5G to 3G internet speeds - you notice the difference. I am planning on going back to church soon, and your content has been very helpful to me. Thank you for all that you do! Also, this is a clip from a talk by Pres. Uchtdorf that is about blessings but ultimately depicts the same process of experiencing God’s power. th-cam.com/video/PWjPEDviPgo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=FwmnldPyWt8kReLM
Thanks for sharing this, and good luck on your journey back. I’ve been there, and I felt a lot of opposition and more temptation the closer I got to activity - don’t give up!
Well said. I don’t think Elder Renlund would say that people of other faiths don’t experience the power of God. I know they do! We talk of the fulness of the gospel being in our church. It’s the idea that there is a greater depth to be had. In my mind that doesn’t diminish the miracles and spirit and amazing things that God works in many people’s lives across all religious. Jeff, I know you don’t agree with that view on things but just wanted to clarify that this is the view of Latter Day Saints. I think that was Elder Renlund’s point - the gospel can have great power in anyone’s life, but the church with its priesthood authority greater maximize its potential. Again, I know you don’t agree, just stating what I believe to be the Latter Day Saint view. Thanks for sharing, Jeff!
I hear a sweet testimony from you. I dont know your path, but mine is the same as many. I veered away, partied, each week it was easier not going.. had a rough road getting back.. I always had in my head one thing, God never disappointed me, I have disappointed God. At least, that's how I felt. I didn't fill my boots, and do better, but my testimony of Joseph Smith seeing God and His Son Jesus Christ never wavered with me. I knew that to be true. I was the one that left, not the other way around. I didn't have great parents, but they did bring me to the gospel. I had my moments of outright loss, but I knew God did not leave me.
I did finally come back, slowly..I felt like a person on the outside looking in, but I knew I was in the right place.
I met my husband at a church standards dance at a gym at age 28, the year I went back. We've been married 27 years, sealed in the temple. Keep your testimony burning, that's all God needs.
Exactly how I feel about Elder Redlund’s talk. Our leaders teach we are all God’s children, so it will never come to my mind that our leaders will teach God’s power is available only to the members of the church
Excellent description. Thank you for sharing. May you be blessed in your journey back and feel the love of God always, and feel very welcomed as you begin attending church again.
I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for this. I'm a lifelong member of this church, and grew up in the Bible Belt. I knew many Evangelist Protestant brothers and sisters, but sadly very few who had an accurate or positive view of us. I encountered a lot of prejudice, and while I did meet many WONDERFUL folk in their ranks, I met many who saw me with hatred and loathing. I was jumped, bullied, called "devil worshipper." I was fired from a job for my religion, kicked out of a study group for it, denied from a charter school for it.
I don't hold hate for this; I've come to understand the things they've been told about us, and the misinformation they are judging us based on.
Still, it means THE WORLD to me to hear people come to learn about us with an open heart and an open mind.
Thank you for your love and care.
33:47 Well, regarding the way Latter-Day Saints access the Power of God... In Elder Renlund's talk in particular, he admitted that the Gospel has enormous power. It's nitroglycerin! Nitroglycerin is an enormously powerful substance that everyone of all faiths can access. The distinction is that the earthly substance, or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, controls that power and focuses in a way that can be used more practically, thus becoming dynamite.
It's not like Latter-Day Saints believe that other religions CAN'T experience the power of God... because missionaries for the LDS Church will, in fact, teach others how to experience God's power in thier lives despite not being baptized.
The distinction is that Latter-Day Saints have GREATER access to the Power of God through covenant blessings like the Gift of the Holy Ghost and the temple. Those things are exclusive to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and bring INCREASED power... but everyone of all faiths are still able to access God's power in other ways, commonly found in a person's study of His Word or meaningful prayer.
Well said - it’s the definition of the Power of God that they are not comprehending - as a convert I understand both and it takes much study to comprehend the distinction. It was a good video and May God bless you as you share His love to others ❤
Thank you, I was just about to speak on that
Yes, this!
Agreed. I like to think of it like the watts of a lightbulb. The power of God aka the light of Christ aka the influence of the Holy Ghost…is experienced by everyone because every living creature on the Earth has this in order to live. That said, when we begin to make sips to access more of the power of God through prayer, reading scripture, getting baptized, making covenants in the temple, etc. It’s like you go from a 10 W bulb, brighter and brighter until the perfect day. it’s not that people another face don’t have any but as president Hinckley said on 60 minutes years ago… he said “ bring all the good that you have and let’s see if we can add to it.” as much as social norms want us to apologize for what we believe to be true, I can’t apologize for it because it is true. It is our belief that this is His church. Other churches have many of the truths within them, but our church has the fullness of the gospel. at the end of the day, when we meet God in that big group, as you and your wife were discussing, we will all know and experience exactly the Heaven He has prepared for us in accordance with the amount of His power we are willing to receive. He won’t say “you all believed different things about me, my doctor and, my gospel, that I am a spirit or a man in body, etc…..” these are all conflicting across the creeds. He will say: I know what you learned on the earth, but this is my gospel and this is what is actually true. And it is my belief that our faith has this truth already. But everyone will know one day and be able to accept or reject these truths. 🙏
This 100%, when they were speaking about the disconnect on the subject I was in my brain saying “ah, they are misunderstanding ‘the power of God’ we are referring to”
Joy, I hope you see this! I am a latter-day saint. I can acknowledge that you have God's power with you. The speakers at conference did not invalidate the spiritual power you have in your life. Instead, they were teaching us how we all can increase the measure of God's power in our lives. However, I don't want you to feel that the church is dismissive of your testimony and the spiritual power that you have in your life. I hope that I communicated that well enough. Thank you!
Fun fact...the speakers are not given topics to speak on they are typically asked to speak a month or two in advance and instructed to be led by the spirit as to what they should speak on. When I learned that, I was even more in awe at how cohesive each talk was. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and impressions. Truly an example we should all follow.
And how well the hymns relate to the talks
You are correct! And sometimes a speakers might not recieve that revelation until just hours before Conference begins. I do love they excellent way Pastor Jeff and his lovely wife Joy have approached the Church's teachings with curiosity instead of criticism! They have opened a door to learning and sharing that I believe has never been tried before!
I am a member, converted in my teenage years, and I didnt know this
Loved your video..and I love how kind and respectful you both are to our church..
Thank you for seeking out to understand …
I will say … I’d love you to “re listen” to Dale G Renlund’s talk
He was saying that with out the perfect gospel of Jesus Christ .. the church is just ordinary
Gospel of Jesus Christ= perfect
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints= TRYING to become perfect through our trials.. but made up of imperfect people!
Thank you again!
I used to be where you are. I was grateful for the power of Jesus Christ that I felt. I understand what you are talking about when you say, you have felt the power of Christ. That power did lead me to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Then I made covenants in the temple with my Heavenly Father. As I continued to grow closer to my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, I felt that power grow immensely. I am so glad for you to feel the power that you feel. You can never know the power there is available to you until you make further covenants in the house of the Lord. The temples of Jesus Christ in his church, bring a power that you cannot comprehend, but is spoken of in the old and new Testaments. That power is what Elder Renland was referring to in his talk. Please do not be offended by the testimony he bore of that power. Heavenly Father has a way of teaching us individually. It comes little by little as we are able to receive it. Please open your heart and seek how your Heavenly Father wants to help you gain even greater power!
I love the respectful, genuine, and honest approach this pastor and his wife present on their journey to discovering more about the Church of Jesus Christ of LDS; and the way they share their faith with us. I think everyone is lifted - the pastor and his wife are true Christians that build bridges and tear down walls; so refreshing.
One of my favorite quotes from this past general conference. “We need to stop comparing our difference and start sharing our similarities” love everyone
Elder Renlund was preaching our belief that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only authorised Church on the earth. It has the Priesthood, prophets and apostles. I know from an evangelical point of view that you don't view authority from leaders. You view it from the Bible alone. That's what he was referring to. That we would say a church without proper authority and prophets and apostles is unstable because it's not set up the way Christ intended.
Perfect response. My husband was just saying the same thing as we were discussing this video.
Also, many Christian denominations don’t seem to like the phrase that “we believe we are the only ‘true and living’ church”, almost as much as LDS members don’t like the phrase “you’re all going to hell”. 😅
Agree with your comment. Perhaps another way to say it is this is not a church based on interpretation of the Bible or simply a huge Bible study group. This church belongs to Jesus Christ. He established it and it is His. Not mine, not yours, or even the church of Russel M. Nelson, but the Church of Jesus Christ and He has restored it in these latter days to bless the entire world, to gather Israel and bring the path of Salvation and Exaltation to everyone who will receive it. This claim, which I testify is true, is why the church is generally either loved or hated. It's either the biggest forgery in the history of the world, or it's true. The church claims to have the power to seal on earth and in heaven. That is where the power comes from that can't be accessed outside of the church.
Yes, well said!
we as Members of TCOJCOLDS do not preach that non members are destined to suffer eternally for not being members or not taking on the covenants. You will get the heaven you seek. But that it tops off at 2/3 the way to what you could have had which is infinitely more.
But if you could not accept it and live it and it drove you away from the covenants you already made of sacrificing a broken heart and contrite spirit, by taking on promises like baptism or the sacrament which is part of protestant theology you would lose out on even that and be destined at best to Tellestial glory, a garden of Eden but knowing all you could have had your happiness will be lessened.
To avoid that you live to the level you can and are awarded accordingly.
Christ taught the Nephites that his followers and disciples did not have the faith and belief as great as the Nephites and so he could not teach them all he wished he could for his Father forbade it.
So relying on the lesser knowledge without the living prophets to correct it, and the partial truths leads to partial blessings.
That is not a horrible fate only less than EVERYTHING. A far kinder message than we get back. Might make you ask who better exemplifies Christ's true believers.
I don’t think he was saying that the only way to have access to Gods power is the one way - everyone can feel his love and power. I think your right in this one mate, good comment
Joy asked the question, how do all the speakers manage to be so well spoken? Answer: they've been speaking in church since they were children.
And they have their talks on teleprompters. That makes it easier. They are not (for the most part) impromptu.
The reason why there’s no uhhh or umm is due to teleprompters. They look at a transparent screen only they can see….
@@shanewalton3361 That's the dumbest thing I've ever heard :skull:
Also I literally have no memory of making that first comment-
Also I literally have no memory of making that first comment-
My favorite talk was from Brother Wilcox, especially because my 15yr old daughter came to me spiritually moved by the message. She said she realizes that it is not only okay to be different and standout for the Lord, but doing so puts us on His team as someone that can help others. The other favorite part for me was also the children's choir for the same reasons you mentioned.
It’s been days now and I cannot stop going over President Nelson’s talk. It was incredible and I’ve never heard a talk that strong about preparing for the 2nd coming. We heard from the Lord’s Prophet.
Always love the commentary and discussion. I love how Joy said, "we are going there to understand" That is one of the true marks of a disciple of Jesus Christ. Well, said Joy. :)
How about when she said, "we're playing along", might be more accurate
I loved this very open and honest reflection from this faithful couple
Sincere question, Jeff? You don’t think that over 47,000 denominations of Protestant Christianity would be considered unstable? That’s what Elder Renlund was referring to. He wasn’t saying that the gospel of Jesus Christ is unstable. It’s all of the 47,000 different interpretations of His gospel that’s unstable. This is why there is a need for a restoration of Jesus’s one true church upon the Earth. To stabilize and channel all of that into one faith, one hope, one baptism, and I would add one doctrine. That stabilizing force is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jesus Christ’s restored church upon the Earth with living Apostles and Prophets.
Also, I think you misinterpret Acts 17. That verse in no way shape or form unequivocally refutes the need for temples. The verse simply says that God does not live inside the temples built with hands, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t visit them or that they are not needed. God obviously lives in heaven which is His primary residence, but He needs a sacred and holy place which is set apart from the rest of the world and is worthy to receive him when He does so choose to commune with mortals upon the Earth. Our bodies can also be temples as His Holy Spirit can dwell within us. I believe that was more of the point that Paul was trying to make here. Yes, we attend the temple which is the only place we can properly make and receive covenants through temple ordinances, but we don’t have to be in a temple made with hands to feel and commune with God. We can carry his spirit inside of us.
That number is not correct. It's based on distinctions that are not really representative of amount of Protestant churches. But the church Jesus established was not a certain denomination. Follow the Bible closely. Really research the newest discoveries and there is no logic in believing plain and precious truths are missing from the Bible and then you follow the Gospel of Jesus from the Bible, you see the church is the bride of Christ, his children... Those adopted as his children
Please research your temple ordinances and their true origins.
❤
@@ATiredMomwhat are you taking about. Of course Christ's Church was of a certain denomination. If you "follow the Bible closely" as you commented you'd see that Jesus did establish a church. Why do think the people wanted him gone? Because he taught He was the only way to His's Father's kingdom
@@ATiredMom The number (right or wrong) comes from an older estimate from the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. It's no longer listed on there web page but is recorded in other places. The main reason for the number is, my guess, that most churches besides the catholic church don't have a strict structure of leadership which leads to each church being somewhat different in there teachings and methodology, effectively making them a different church. They only use the different creeds and the local pastors interpretation of scripture.
Also all the temple ordinances are found in the scriptures, and yes, the King James version of the bible, old and new testimant.
This video came across my feed and I decided to watch the entire vid. I’m LDS, live in Utah but am also a convert. I appreciated this video and the both of you so much for 1. Making the effort, 2. Being open and observant, & 3. Expressing your thoughts & impressions in such a measured, respectful and even loving way. While there are doctrinal points y’all brought up that could be further explored and discussed, sufficeth to say it’s absolutely clear your both such lovely people and followers of Christ. And at the end of the day what we can agree on is that we are all doing our best to follow Christ, as authentically as we can, however imperfect we may each be individually. I’m grateful to you both for being good examples of Christlike love & kindness, even if you disagree with certain things. We’re lucky to have you here. 💖
If you want the true General Conference experience of most members, you gotta watch the sessions on a tv or computer at home, in your pajamas for the morning sessions :)
😂
Facts... and Orange rolls! for the morning sessions and smoked brisket for the afternoon. :)
😂
Yes! Been a fully participating member all of my 50 years and have never attended conference in person. Always watched at home , or back in the day, at church.
My 2 kids (15 yrs & 18 yrs) still at home always ask to make sure I’ve got the cinnamon & orange rolls ready to go for the Sunday morning brunch session. We live in Texas now and I’m so very grateful we can watch on free TH-cam or free BYU TV. This is the first year since they were little we didn’t play General Conference Bingo. I was actually a little sad because it signals their maturity which I love but miss my babies. Bingo was a huge help to keep them focused on the words and concepts of the talks.
Oh, please do not be offended when we speak of the Temple and also of Gods Power, as if they are exclusive to our faith. Please know that LDS conversations and talks on these two subjects (Temples and God's Power) are typically referring to the commandment to Gather Israel in the last days. Certainly, Evangelicals have access to God's power, and we are so happy for that!. But when it comes to the Gathering of Israel, LDS speakers often mention Temple Work and God's Power, without first clarifying that God allows the same blessings to all who currently know of and have faith in Him.
So awesome! Church leadership actually speak to gatherings all throughout the year when they travel around the world to regional and stake conferences. They also publish "sermons" in the monthly magazines Liahona, Youth, and the Friend. They also have their individual social media accounts that they frequently post uplifting and inspiring messages on. Amazing! Prayers for your continual success!
Yes!! So true.
God bless you both for your honest and respectful evaluation of General Conference and of The Church of Jesus Christ of LDS generally. I appreciate the way you compare your own beliefs with those of those of the Church of Jesus Christ and show that we can all be much more open to the beliefs of others, concentrating on what we share rather than what divides us. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of LDS in the UK, I have friends of many faiths and find there is so much good in people of faith everywhere if we chose to look for it. Thank you for what you do.
I watched Renlund’s talk again to listen through a non-members ears. I can hear how Renlund’s talk would have come across as offensive to non LDS.
Latter Day Saints tend to not be specific when talking about access to Gods power because we understand the contexts of how it’s being used. LDS believe we all have access to Gods power through faith on the name of Jesus Christ like you said. Power to overcome, to heal, everything you said and more. Renlund was talking about a power accessible through a covenant relationship that’s beyond the scope of a YT comment.
And BTW, I understand your interpretation of Paul’s statement in Acts 17. That interpretation would make sense standing on its own. It’s important to consider who he’s talking to. He was speaking to the Greeks and countering their pagan idea that God could ONLY be worshipped in temples and was confined to manmade structures. But Paul himself as well as other apostles continued to worship God in the temple. Paul prayed there, saw the Lord there similar to Old Testament prophetic visions, he performed purification rituals there , etc all after his conversion.
I appreciate their kindness to the church. But I think they misunderstand the covenant relationship. Both pastor Jeff and his wife consistently say that they don't need the temple or covenants to feel the power of God. That is not the point of making covenants. Everyone in the world can feel the power of God if they live true principles, yes and even see miracles. The covenant relationship is about submitting our will to God's in a binding agreement through the Priesthood authority He has authorized to use on the earth.
💯
@@djsduke I understand what you’re saying but I wouldn’t say wolf in sheep’s clothing. That would apply to someone who’s a part of the flock. He isn’t. The point of his channel is to point out differences in a kinder way than Latter Day Saints are used to.
@@djsdukeI believe he sincerely wants to understand our faith. Of course he will slip in what he thinks…he, like all of us, can only state what we know to be true. I do not believe he is trying to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Remember how he said he was embarrassed at the behavior of the evangelical protestors, and how he felt their judgement? He may not want to join, but most people that are not in our church, who already have their own background experiences and then listen to what our church leaders say, are going to think along the same lines that he and his wife think. I know from personal experience. He even stated that his understanding has grown and changed compared to when he first started looking into things. He may not fell like joining, but he does want to understand and experience it. Of course he will express his views.
As a latter day saint, I just want to say thank you for your examples of open hearts and a desire for unity between all faiths. It's truly what the Savior would want. You are both beautiful people. 💕
We all have the Light of Christ and can experience the Power of God. The Temple can enhance the experience of God's Power. I think that is what he meant. I am LDS.
Yep. Even as a missionary I felt the spirit in a Lutheran Church in Norway when a pastor gave a heartfelt testimony. The Holy Ghost will testify of truth no matter where it's found but of course without having it as a gift it won't remain with you as a constant companion.
In Acts 17:24. Paul was speaking to a group of people who seemed to believe that the gods they worshiped could be confined to temples. He wanted them to know that God wasn’t confined to temples. This is something that Solomon understood when he issued the dedicatory prayer for the temple, as recorded in 1 Kings 8:27:
“But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?”
Solomon understood that God couldn’t be contained by a temple. Yet he built it anyway.
Latter-day Saints don’t believe that God can be confined to the temple. We feel His spirit when we’re there, but that does not mean God is confined there. Looking back at 1 Kings 8, prior to Solomon’s dedication, it says in verses 10 and 11:
“And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord,
”So that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of the Lord.”
So we learn that even though the temple can’t contain God, that doesn’t mean that the glory of the Lord can’t fill the house of the Lord. I feel the glory of the Lord when I am in the house of the Lord. I immediately recognize it as a special, sacred feeling.
Furthermore, it’s not like temples became obsolete after Jesus’s death and resurrection.
Speaking of the early Christians, Acts 2:46-47 says, “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,”
“Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.”
Acts 3:1 says:
“Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.”
Acts 5:41-42, speaking of Peter and John after a council had sought to kill them, says:
“And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.
“And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.”
Acts 21:26 says:
“Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.”
So, I think it’s obvious that temples have played a huge role in Christianity, both before and after Jesus came to this world, died and was resurrected. I think when someone says that Acts 17:24 means that temples aren’t necessary, they are taking it out of context and attributing meaning to it that it doesn’t explicitly say. Temples were clearly not obsolete after Jesus’s resurrection, so there’s no reason to think they are obsolete now.
As a convert I know the power of God can occur outside the LDS Church and agree with you. I also have seen an increase in the frequency of that power with a large proportion of the members since joining.
I find it how modern members and leaders say this, when Joseph and the rest of the leaders in the 1800s & early to mid 1900s said the opposite.
It was my first conference experience too though I've been a life long member. My favorite part was the children's choir too. Nothing in shame of shedding tears of joy. I was right there with you. Thanks for your respectful discussion and exploration. May God bless you.
The one thing I can say is until you have walked the covenant path you just don't know the difference from before going. Before being endowed and after, I only then felt the power the priesthood promises. Not all the power but the promise of more. Also the power of the temple once passed through to the celestial room.
Night and day. That stark a diffrence and I have only begun my journey.
There is no way I know to share that until you feel it for yourself.
I know how the cynic or the outsider hand waves it away but to quote Douglas Adams it is like a man who having lived all his life thinking he was blind, suddenly realizes he had merely been wearing too large a hat!!
Yeah that powerful a moment my life before and after.
I truly wish one day you will know of this truth for yourselves.
I just wanted to say thank you for being so kind about all you heard and said. I have been so grateful to hear your words. I'm a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and I love how you had mentioned "are we actually living the life that reflects what we say we believe". I find it so incredible that there is a love for Jesus and a common ground for so many people because we know Jesus Christ was perfect and has perfect love for each of us, so why can't we show love for Him like he does for us? Thank you again for the kindness you have given. I'm so glad you had a great experience.
Paul doesn’t say that God no longer needs temples.
Totally agree with you, AND I think this highlights Elder Renlund's points about the importance of the Restoration, the Marvelous Work and A Wonder, described and foretold by Isaiah. When there is no vision, the people perish, and the same can be said for limited understanding of the fulness of the gospel. It leads to people at Temple Square condemning, criticizing, and judging, without even considering that they have less light and knowledge.
It takes courage to admit and accept the possibility and to be willing to sacrifice whatever it takes to find and follow the truth, which is independent of everything, including our traditions, preferences, and opinions...
I also find it very curious and possibly slightly disingenuous when I hear protestants talk about all protestants as being one body, when in point of fact, they are incredibly splintered and all across the board in terms of leaders, doctrines and practices. It's not at all what was described as one faith, one baptism, with prophets, apostles, etc. in scripture....
Yes, and Paul also states quite clearly in Acts 17 we are God's offspring. He also clearly states this in Romans 8:16-17 (KJV):
"The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together."
Psalm 82:6 (KJV):
"I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High."
John 10:34-36 (KJV):
"Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?"
The Bible is very clear. We are literally God's children. And what do children grow up to be? Like their parents. Obviously God will not give His inheritance to those unworthy of it simply because any individual is His child, but we all have His divine potential, if we prove ourselves worthy by suffering together with Christ. Not my words, the Bible's word.
Why do mainstream Christians seem to deny this most basic fact? Why are we as Latter-day Saints accused of blasphemy for stating the Biblical truth that we are literally God's children?
Pastor Jeff and Joy, thank you so much for your thoughtful and caring comments about General Conference. I thought it especially sweet when you talked about how you express your worship joy through raising the hands, clapping, and exclaiming. As a Latter day Saints I feel that inside of me every day when I study the Gospel and listen to General Conference. I try and imagine how ALL people would act if the Savior were in front of US preaching? I love the description in the Book of Mormon when Christ appeared to the people in 3 Nephi 17: 2-8:. The people were so quiet and contemplative. Christ says to the people 2. " I perceive that ye are weak, that ye cannot understand all my words which I am commanded of the Father to speak unto you at this time.
3 Therefore, go ye unto your homes, and ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand, and prepare your minds for the morrow, and I come unto you again.
4 But now I go unto the Father, and also to show myself unto the lost tribes of Israel, for they are not lost unto the Father, for he knoweth whither he hath taken them.
5 And it came to pass that when Jesus had thus spoken, he cast his eyes round about again on the multitude, and beheld they were in tears, and did look steadfastly upon him as if they would ask him to tarry a little longer with them.
6 And he said unto them: Behold, my bowels are filled with compassion towards you.
7 Have ye any that are sick among you? Bring them hither. Have ye any that are lame, or blind, or halt, or maimed, or leprous, or that are withered, or that are deaf, or that are afflicted in any manner? Bring them hither and I will heal them, for I have compassion upon you; my bowels are filled with mercy...."Christ knew how the people felt as they quietly observed him.
Compare this quiet introspective form of worship with Mosiah 18:7-11 when the people heard about how to come unto Christ through baptism, "[7] And it came to pass after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord.
[8] And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another's burdens, that they may be light;
[9] Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life --
[10] Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?
[11] And now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts." I can just picture this in my mind how the people did clap their hands for joy and exclaimed the desires of their hearts that this was a loud demonstration!
I am so thankful for your ministry that as Christians we should be helping, loving and supporting one another regardless of our backgrounds. God bless you both!
I am a Latter-day Saint. I love your curiosity and kindness. Thank you for sharing the love of our Savior.
Thank you for your honest conversation! Loved everything yall were talking about last. I completely agree!!
Renlunds talk could have been clearer. Certainly even non Christians can feel God power and obviously that means Christians too. now imagine instead of saying you don’t experience the power of God, you are told all your experiences are fake and you don’t experience Jesus PLUS you are also going to hell all in the same breathe and you have what we feel from evangelical “protestors” and missionaries.
Sorry, back to the talk:
I assume Renlund was specifically referring to the power of God manifest in priesthood ordinances and temple covenants. He is most definitely not saying you can’t experience God or his love.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings. Loved it
The sad part of this general conference was that we are ending an era. I have been around as a member for almost 30 years. Elders Holland, Eyring, Oaks, and Nelson have been a mainstay for me the whole time and speakers at each conference. They will not be around much longer. I did enjoy seeing the children's choir and new song being performed. It is also nice to see a full capacity audience.
there are always new leaders called to serve, but yes, i am also sad to see those beautiful souls who love the Lord cross the veil...
I had that same thought. The men who were such dynamic leaders during my young adult years who helped my testimony grow. They are special to me.
We Love you Jeff and Joy and greatly welcome your attendance. We find strength in numbers as fellow followers of Jesus Christ. Keep up the great presentation and spreading the joy of our fellow Savior.
Thank you for spreading your message and helping latter day saints attend conference in peace. I appreciate your message and the impact you have had on the way the street preachers/protesters have responded in a more respectful way.
Thank you both ❤ this channel has helped me to be steady and calm while trying to figure out what my beliefs are. I really appreciate the help you've given along my spiritual journey 🙏
For members of the Church, attending Conference is a privilege. For those in the SLC area they may be able to attend more frequently, but many of us travel from out of state or from across the globe. For some it's a once in a lifetime event. For you to get tickets to two sessions is quite a blessing. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
Honestly it is difficult for people in SLC to get tickets too. The few times I've gone it was because a friend from out of state got tickets and was coming and invited me to join them.
@@hamletfan8 That makes sense. I took a UT friend when I was able to get tickets once.
You guys are so cool and collected when you talk about every aspect, for the church and against it. That's what I admire about both of you. If you keep making good and positive videos like this I'll keep watching them. Keep up the good work! One of my many takeaways from GC is from Elder David P. Homer. He said, 'The choice to submit our will to God’s is an act of faith that lies at the heart of our discipleship. In making that choice, we discover our agency is not diminished; rather, it is magnified and rewarded by the presence of the Holy Ghost.” Agency is key to Heavenly Fathers plan of salvation. He will never take that away from us. When we set aside our selfish desires for someone else's, especially Gods will, our agency really is magnified.
It was a pleasure to meet you at Conference. I also noted the difference in the "protesters", if you will. There was a noticeable lack of people being in-your-face and yelling confrontationally. I mentioned that to several people and pointed to your conversations with many of these people at a previous Conference as the likely cause of this change. Thank you for being a calming voice!
I believe you are having a positive effect Jeff and Joy! Thanks for the love and decency you bring to our community. Whether or not you are a part of our church, you are still blessing us. Cheers and keep doing great things in life!
@@caguas97 I’m guessing it’s a union strike. They need more money
Yo Jeff, this reminded me of several years ago, when i was walking to conference by some rowdy protesters with my 4 year old boy and 2 year little baby... this loud homie starts yelling at my child "YOUR DADDY IS TAKING YOU TO BURN IN HELL!".. then he continued with "YOUR CHILDREN WILL SAY DADDY, WHY DID YOU BRING US TO BURN! OUCH DADDY FIRE IS SO HOT, IT HURTS TO BURN DADDY! WHY DID YOU BRING US HERE!"
I was so shocked he was yelling at my pre schooler and toddler... i was floored, i stood there in the street listening for a sec, i thought i should feel offended or something, but i couldnt help it- i busted laughing.. that was nuts.. my son was like "is he someone who needs a doctor Daddy?".. its actually one of my favorite memories it was so hilarious😂 .. ill never forget that😂
He definitely did! Disgusting behavior.
I’ve no doubt that this channel and your efforts to improve dialogue among people of different Christian faiths has had something to do with how the protesters have calmed down at General Conference. Thanks for being a friend to our people.
You guys are very sweet. Thanks for your humility and honesty and being open. It's really remarkable.
❤This is fantastic. I love the teasers at the beginning. ❤ once again it would be fantastic if you can set up a time to reach out to David Boice from 52 Churches in 52 Weeks and see if he could come on your show so we can all hear your thoughts on his conversion story. All those in favor give a big thumbs up.👍👍👍
YES!
I seriously wrote this comment before watching the video not realizing that David Boice approached you at conference and now you two have met. I’m telling you, Jeff, it was all meant to be!!!
I truly love David Boice, but I think David Alexander would be a better choice. David Alexander is much more doctrinally knowledgeable and experienced to engage in conversation with Jeff ( they were both ministers) than David Boice would be (being a lay person) 🙏
@@gerritvandewal6113 Im sure David Alexander woudl be great, but it would be great to hear David Boice share his testimonial and story with Jeff and hear Jeff's thoughts.
@@gerritvandewal6113 Very good point. That makes sense!
Jeff and Joy, it is so refreshing to come across people of a different faith that are willing to learn about our religion from the source and not just find filth and lies on the internet and define our religion by those things. Thank you for your example of peace and kindness❤️
I Love you two. A great example for all of us. Thanks for your journey and for sharing it with us.
Amen! A power couple for Christ and great examples of charity and discipleship. I love this new age of bringing together the believers of all faiths. Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Pastor, you are welcome, thanks for not discriminating the church. I envied your understanding and love. I hope yoo were blessed and felt the spirit
Thank you for your kind, respectful, observances of our faith. You both exude a beautiful, Christ-like light that is bright and attractive to all who hear and see you. May we all continue to learn and grow closer to Christ in our daily endeavors. Thanks again for blessing so many lives.
As I watched General Conference this October I was thinking of you two beautiful, brilliant, and fun people, Jeff and Joy, and hoping you were watching, too! I am an LDS convert who surely experienced the power of God, his love, and the influence of the Holy Ghost outside the CJCLDS. Yes, that is true. I know what led me on, and I am grateful to be a member of this Church. God continue to bless you and your work.
Not that your channel wasn't great before, but you are a wise man to start including your wife! :) I love that you two give your thoughts, not in lockstep, but similar, but in your own ways and perspectives. Great job and done with great respect. Respect to the two of you too! And, yeah... I think that "gethsemane" pretty much hit all of our hearts... like a Mac truck!
Would have been nice to hear Joy’s comments as to WHY her favorite part was the children’s choir singing “Gethsemane”..(not just Jeff’s ). Maybe she could add a comment about that?❤
LOOOOVE conference...and you're right. The connections among people is truly beautiful...and represents God's love for all His children. Great stuff!
I always enjoy hearing your perspective and appreciate how respectful you are, and have always been, on your journey to better understand our religion. As the world around us degenerates and becomes increasingly polarized, the more I believe we need each other. Thank you for being peace makers and for building bridges of understanding!
You are beautiful people and a wonderful example of different believers being able to sit side by side. I too loved the children's choir and Gethsemane is one of my favourites! Love what you do. Jesus is the message!
I don't believe Elder Renlund stated that God's power cannot be felt or seen without the church. I'm sorry that's how the message rang out. As you know, we believe that the divine authority of the priesthood is crucial to receive ordinances and enter into formal covenants with God. We believe these covenants give us greater access to God's power and in the case of baptism are a gateway to the Celestial Kingdom. These ordinances wouldn't be possible without the formal organization of a church in our context. I believe this is a doctrine you are familiar with (though disagree with). We do not believe that God does not manifest his power to others through His spirit be it through miracles, personal revelation, or the manifestation of truth. Hopefully this furthers the discussion of understanding between us.
Well said!
Yesss agree
Thank you for your interest and respectful way of showing your outside perspective of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. You and your wife are a lovely couple and it is clear you are close to the Lord and doing good in your lives.
I attended both morning sessions this year, and hadn't been in about 15 years. This time I traveled with my family, and, along with my wife, we brought our oldest 2 daughters for their first time. It was great to be there.
Regarding Elder Renlund's talk, I believe the imagery was appropriate for the message he was conveying. Something I got out of it was that God's greatest desire is similar to what Emily Belle Freeman said, which is for His children to "live up to your privileges", or enjoy their privileges to the fullest extent possible.
As another commenter in this thread said, there are varying degrees of possibility, or privilege, similar to what members of the Church know as the 3 degrees of glory. God knows that the Celestial, or highest, glory is supreme, but many are kept from it through the deceptions of the adversary, and believe that when they feel the light of the stars (Telestial) or moon (Terrestrial), they're living the dream. This act of believing you have reached your potential, while living below your privilege, is the danger Elder Renlund spoke of. God wants us to constantly feel the sun, not settle for the moon. Everyone can receive blessings from God as they do good, and even feel the Holy Spirit, but only through Baptism and Confirmation into Christ's church, through proper authority, can one permanently receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost, a Celestial guide, as a constant companion throughout their lives.
Ultimately, what Elder Renlund said wasn't attempting to offend others, rather help them see there is more. Joy mentioned she usually approached things with an open heart, which I was glad to hear, because that is what is needed for individuals to be guided by the Lord. Full faith in Christ, nothing doubting. I believe this is an opportunity to sincerely ask God if He has more to give through the Church which Christ founded during his earthly ministry, which has been restored to the earth after a long period of apostasy. The children's choir was the favorite of so many, because submissive children are the best of us. There is more for all who let God prevail in their lives, and submit to Him with full trust that all will be well, as do little children.
I am LDS and grew up with friends of other faiths. It is good to get feedback from conference like you have given because that’s what can make us aware as Latter-Day Saints of hurtful or offensive blanket statements regarding the superiority of the church. I have been caught off guard more than a few times spouting off Mormon tropes or beliefs and then been put in my place by a friend who believes differently. I am grateful for those uncomfortable discussions because they changed my perspective and permanently changed the way I spoke about my beliefs. I believe God loves all his children and none are greater than another.
We have never been superior. Like Brad Wilcox said, we have been entrusted.
the church members are not the church or the gospel. church members are not inherently anything. the church, however, is the 'restoration of all things' , 'the marvelous work and a wonder', it's what the angel Moroni was flying in the midst of heaven to proclaim with his trumpet. it has what every gospel dispensation has had: 1)priesthood authority, 2)true doctrine, and 3)continuous revelation. the gospel is the teachings and doctrine of Christ, and His church is the framework for living and applying it, as intended.
members of the church should not act or feel superior to anyone in any way, and on the other hand, there is nothing at all to apologize about when declaring the truth of the restoration of the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
it's either true, or it isn't, and there is only ONE way to find out. the scientific method: people need to have a sincere heart and real intent (not mere curiosity) and be willing to ask God in faith. He witnesses via the Holy Spirit to any honest seeker of truth, just as James 1:5 and Moroni 10:3-5 mention.
Through the Holy Spirit, I know for myself it is true, and each and every one of God's children is free to choose to use their own agency to find and follow truth. Whether or not they do...it's still true! ;-)
Beautiful message -- sweet spirit and discussion. Bless you in your ministry! Bless you in your loving approach to the Conference experience.
15:30 thank you for acknowledging this. We get this every day constantly. It's super validating to know you agree how un-Christian it feels to be condemned in this way.
Thank you both for your positive, sincere and candid outreach to us. It’s all we’ve hoped for from our neighbors in Christ.
My son, raised LDS but no longer affiliated, played drums for an amazing evangelical church in Salt Lake and we LOVED attending with him. I regularly used notes from those meetings as I taught in my own elder’s quorum. We were so grateful for that community that led him to Christ in ways that he wasn’t responding to in our church. ❤
For every person who gets into the Conference Center for General Conference, there are at least 20 more who would love to attend in person. Getting tickets to in-person is very difficult.
Pastor Jeff and Joy thank you for let us go along with you to General Conference. It was a pleasure to hear your insight and honest questions. I appreciate the way you are open to all religions and respect the sacred place they hold for their followers. I look forward to learning more along with you. May you continue to be blessed.
The power of these priesthood keys is infinite and breathtaking. Consider how your life would be different if priesthood keys had not been restored to the earth. Without priesthood keys, you could not be endowed with the power of God. Without priesthood keys, the Church could serve only as a significant teaching and humanitarian organization but not much more. Without priesthood keys, none of us would have access to essential ordinances and covenants that bind us to our loved ones eternally and allow us eventually to live with God.
This would be a good talk to read if you want to understand more.
2024 April conference Pres Nelson
Abrahamic covenant!
God is also SO MUCH bigger than the Bible don't limit Him to that!
Amen! Thank you!!
So good...yes...
I'm super excited to see even more records that will be showing up such as the dead sea scrolls!!!
We have so much to look forward to!
As stated in our Articles of Faith
Attending conference from another country is a once in a lifetime privilege. I attended from Australia and it was a life changing experience that confirmed and expanded my faith.
There are two levels to the gospel. There is the part of Christ's gospel that is for everyone. You don't need a church or a pastor to even feel it and benefit from it. And that's the part you know. we recognize this as the milk of the gospel. The power of God that meets everyone where they are. But then there is another layer. That is the disconnect you are recognizing. Our guys were talking about the more particular next steps that is beyond the general power of God. Its not about feeling God, its about the ordiances of God that do very specific things. THAT power is only accessed in the Temple. We would refer that as the meat of the gospel. This is something beyond salvation and goes into what we believe is required for exaltation.
You stated this very well.
Thank you for connecting with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints General Conference with an open mind and with the goal of love and understanding instead of telling us that we're going to burn in hell. :) Your comments about Elder Renlund's talk, specifically how without God's authority there is "no manifestation of the power of godliness," were thought-provoking. You're absolutely right that God's power is manifest wherever He wills, and people, you and I included, often experience divine intervention and power in moments of need, regardless of religious affiliation or location. LDS church members (and everyone else) know this, and we've all seen God's power manifest outside of organized religion, in personal moments of faith or sin, in other churches; wherever God wants it to be manifest.
What Elder Renlund seems to be saying, though, in the context of this talk, is something more specific. When he speaks about the "manifestation of the power of godliness," he's referring to this manifestation within the context of priesthood authority, covenants, and ordinances that, in our belief, are currently only available through the restored Church of Jesus Christ. In this context, where the "power of godliness" is coming through those sacred ordinances (like baptism, confirmation, and temple ordinances), they allow us to make specific covenants with God and receive blessings specific to His holy priesthood. This is not to diminish our spiritual experiences outside of those ordinances but rather to explain that from our perspective, certain blessings and transformative power tied to God's plan are accessed through this authorized framework, just like in the New Testament when people who had been baptized by John were then re-baptized by those who had direct authority from Jesus.
I can't tell you how many times I've sat in a primary room while children sing and practice the song "Gethsemane" and tears fill my eyes and roll off my cheeks and I'm a 48 yo man..
Jeff and Joy, Thank you so much for your example of love, kindness, openness to learning and willingness to understand. You truly exemplify how our Savior would want us to be. I hope to be as humble, teachable and understanding of others as you are. Your ministry crosses boundaries and is greatly appreciated by many, including this member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I loved hearing you testify of Christ and the miraculous blessings and joy He has brought to your life. It is a wonderful thing to be loved, tutored, changed and saved by Him. I too joy in my relationship with Him, His redeeming love, and His mentorship and guidance in my life. I am filled to overflowing when I experience it, and when I see others choosing to love and follow Him (even though my expression of it in church may be a little less outward).
Keep up the wonderful work of building bridges and living the gospel. May the Lord continue to bless you in your work.
By the way, if we members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are going to hell, I cannot think of a better group of people to be there with - people who love the Savior and goodness. We will probably do a service project to clean the place up, plant flowers, have pot luck dinners, build churches and temples and minister to the devil and his angel using a Love, Share and Invite program. People that go there hoping to get away from the "Mormons" may be in for a surprise when we start knocking at their doors with cookies, an invitation to church and a refrigerator magnet about how much the Savior loves them.
Latter Day Saint here . Love your channel. I just wanted to comment and say that Latter Day Saints don’t believe people that people in other Christian faiths can’t experience or access the power of God.
Infact I believe a evangelical who is very close to God experiences his power more than a Latter Day Saint who participates in ordinances but is just going through the motions.
That being said I do believe the fullest measure of Gods power is accessed through covenants performed with his Priesthood authority. I don’t view it as other Christians being less than, but just that we have different beliefs on what all Gods power entails for us. We believe there is more to access because of our beliefs in eternal progress.
Hope that makes sense 😊
Dear pastor & wife, Thankyou for being respectful towards our church and religion. The way I see the gospel it is like a beautiful crystal ornament that Christ gave to the Earth. When he was on the earth it was complete and beautiful. But during the dark ages, after the original apostles were murdered the ornament was shattered. Wonderful men picked up pieces and all christian churches can feel some of God's power because God loves all of his children and wants all of us to return to him. But until the gospel was restored to the earth no church had all of the pieces of that beautiful ornament (gospel). Elder Renlund did not mean that others cannot feel Gods power, just that his restored gospel will allow us to experience even more of Christ's light and power. Your thoughts and feelings helped me see even more clearly just how much our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love all of us and made me even more grateful for his restored gospel.
When we hear the prophets and apostles with the Holy Ghost and they speak with the same influence, we can hear what God means to say to us through them.
As an exmormon, I really do not believe in the teachings of the church, but I got teary-eyed watching because of how much nostalgia I have as I recall going to conference as a youth.
Come back! You are loved and needed. ❤
Come back! We love you and need you! ❤
Us ex Mormons have an extremely difficult time separating people and good experiences from false teachings and their harmful effects in our life. I walk with Jesus alone now and it is truly amazing the miracles He has for those who trust in Him and not man made religion.
Amen, Amanda and Courtney. Christ’s TRUTH matters and I am with you 100%. The LDS people are good and kind; albeit unaware of real LDS history. I was once among them. Now, I reference Biblical teaching alone.
@@courtneyko1466 I am so sorry you felt the church teachings were hurtful. But I am so glad that you still walk with Jesus. This is most important. Many people who leave the LDS church become bitter against God. I hope you are happy.
I’m glad you liked the conference and I’m sorry that there were parts that have offended you. I grew up evangelical and converted when I was 17. I’m so glad that this time I was able to attend general conference in person again and flew from the UK to salt lake just to attend conference and meet up with some friends. I loved watching your video and your frank experience. Thanks again. Mark
Thank you both, for sharing. I appreciate and enjoy learning from your perceptions of our Church and General Conference. With regards to what you heard from Elder Renlund's talk, God's power is out there for everyone, to the degree that they are ready to listen and receive, and righteous and honest efforts will bring God's power into our lives. One word that I believer could help in this understanding, is the word "Fulness." We believe that it is through striving to be obedient to our covenants and striving to live as our Savior would have us do, that we begin to open up the "fulness" of God's power into our lives. Thanks again for sharing.
We do get to meet many of the 12 and Seventy along the way. They individually come and visit with us and their wonderful wives also who speak with them and literally knock your socks off with their beautiful spirits and abilities to reach all who hear them. A year or two ago Elder Renlund and his wife spoke in our Stake, and also in a neighboring Womens Conference. It was truly remarkable. Sister Renlund had us all laughing. She's got so much to give, and we all had the opportunity to each be greated by them individually and personally. ❤
4:30 perhaps the way you have spoken out has silenced a lot of the protestors. Thanks for showing a great interfaith example, Jeff
I agree, i think thats the case
I agree. David Boice of 52 Churches also has helped.
Everything the Church does is made with the best of each person because the belief is that the Lord deserves our very best. It is all done for Him. Thank you for this fantastic channel, Pastor Jeff!
Thank you for your love for Latter Day Saint members despite our different beliefs. Your love brought me to tears through this video even with some different beliefs I know your a brother in Christ ❤
I am a Latter Day Saint. Thank you for sharing. It is good to hear and understand other people's perspectives who are not of our faith. I love that we can have different perspectives but still love one another and connect as Christians and still have commonalities. I loved how you shared your experience in good taste, respectfully done even though there were things that you didn't agree with. I can tell you are both really wonderful people who love our Savior and redeemer Jesus Christ.
One thing to know about General Conference is no one is given a topic. They are just asked to speak.
One of the most amazing things about it and how so many talks are in sink - like it was planned. However it was not.
Love the video. It makes me so happy to see humble people in this world. God bless y’all!
I'm praying for you guys ❤ I know the church is true.
Thank you for all of the respect and kind words you have shown towards us and our church! It's amazing knowing we can worship God together!
Thank you so much! Speaking as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Later-Day Saints, I am so impressed with your work! And, thank you for all your sincere reflections and for expressing your disagreements in such a respectful and loving way. over the last few years, I've become a big fan of your channel. Keep up the good work! I truly believe you're doing God's work, especially building interfaith bridges of love, empathy, and understanding. I am inspired!