New subscriber here. I was born and raised Pentecostal and was baptized in the LDS faith in my twenties and I will be honest I have not seen such a respectful conversation between two people of differing religions and differing faiths ever.
Love from Tennessee pastor Jeff and all you unscripted Saints... from a babtist and pentacostal raised farm boy i have to say the book of Mormon is a good read im almost done reading it then I'll start over again
Thank you for being so respectful with the way you've approached your study of our church (LDS). i see you as a true disciple of Jesus Christ, a peacemaker. We have much more in common than not. Wishing you and your family the best. God Bless.
I love this discussion. As a practicing Latter-day Saint, I am in an interfaith Bible Study group that meets weekly. We are currently doing a study of Esther and I love the conversations we have that emphasize the things we have in common which is our love for Jesus and where/how we see Him working in our lives! Also, regarding the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I would recommend reading "Considering the Cross" by John Hilton III (an LDS scholar) who has written a book about the Latter-day Saint history with the cross (cultural practice vs church doctrine) and has helped me to reframe my relationship to the cross. It's worth a read!
Crystal, As a fellow human who loves all people, it is a noble quality to find commonalities to bind us together. But when it comes to salvation, there can only be one true path, and that's when the differences matter! Only one religion can be true. So all people, even if they are nice and do good things on earth, will not go to heaven. Those who follow the one, true God, as there is no other God, as God Himself told us, this includes the gods of other universes, will go to heaven. Peace be with you!
As a LDS missionary I went to a catholic mass once - we talked to the priest before to say hello, and he actually had the congregation stand for us to, I assume show appreciation that we went. It was one of the coolest experiences I had as a missionary.
Jeff, just want to say I’m so grateful you and David make this content. I am a 19 yr old LDS boy and while I do feel strong ties to my denomination, the older I’m getting the more I’m realizing that anyone who diligently and truly follows Jesus Christ and His teachings is someone I want to listen to and be around. You are an inspiring man and have earned a loyal listener:)
Talking about garments; I had a dream that I was wearing a dressing gown over my garments and my mate asked why does the church make us wear garments; I explained that we aren’t made do anything, it’s a choice, and I told him why we wear them; I started walking and tripped over on my back, my feet were in the air with my ankles crossed, I was wearing these large flip-flops and I said for a joke ‘but these shoes they make us wear’ and began laughing and woke up
Love this beautiful discussion. Along with what David said, for me inspiration often feels like: a peaceful feeling when I watched this video, a nudge to give my young daughter a hug instead of losing my temper when she's overwhelmed, a warmth in my chest when I hear people talk of Christ and his truth, a feeling of alignment between my heart and mind when I hear something about Christ that causes me to believe it is true. But I've also had more vivid/visible experiences. For example, I love to write. And there have been occasions I've had dreams about God's kindness/love that have been so powerful to me. One time I had a dream like this and woke up and wrote a short book based on that feeling. I wrote the entire story in 3 days and it had very few grammatical errors. I felt that God was just pouring the story into me. Though I'm not a famous writer or anything and I recognize that my writing (even though it felt inspired) wasn't a perfect book or wasn't a revelation for the world or anything, I have seen that the simple story of kindness has touched many people. I believe that all people are given gifts to glorify God (writing is one of these for me) and I believe that we often experience the Spirit while using these talents to glorify God (whether through art, music, speaking, writing, athleticism, deep empathy, kindness, being a good listener, gentleness, etc). A few more examples from my life. On one occasion, when I was not quite a teenager, I heard a voice calling my name that sounded like my parents. I hurried home to find out that they hadn't called my name but had been waiting for me and that I had lost track of time. This was a simple experience that made me feel like God was aware of me and my family and cared about the details of my simple life. Also, there were times when I was a church missionary as a young adult in Brazil and could hardly speak the Portuguese language, but then would suddenly become fluent while teaching an individual about Jesus Christ. Then, after finishing teaching, I would lose the ability again and could hardly make a sentence in Portuguese. Eventually, I could speak more fluently most of the time (after lots of practicing and studying). I think both of these-receiving then losing the sudden ability to speak the language after being in Brazil for a very short time, and also learning to speak consistently and fluently after only 4 months or so of being in Brazil (I had been studying for a year before arriving in Brazil)) were both manifestations of the Spirit in my life for me. For most people, myself included, our most sacred experiences with the Spirit of God are pretty sacred and we don't share them freely. I do not believe these manifestations of the Spirit are limited to people of one religion. I believe that all people are given spiritual gifts and experiences with the Spirit of God. I believe that if we seek God, He blesses us with manifestations of the Spirit. I agree with David that these experiences with the Spirit can look different for every one. When I was 11 years old, I decided to read the Book of Mormon for myself. I remember feeling so connected to Jesus Christ and just highlighting every word on every page haha For me that was a time where I felt the Spirit strongly in my life. The way it felt for me then was a swelling, warm feeling in my chest that would consistently come when I would read from the Book of Mormon. I have also felt the Spirit (we also call it the Holy Ghost) while in therapy, while learning/studying languages, while being part of music groups like band and symphony, while interacting with friends and new friends of many faiths and cultures, while hearing other people speak about Christ and goodness, while being with animals and in nature (especially camping), while running and exercising, while practicing martial arts, etc.
Recent subscriber here! It would be great if you could give a review about general conference that will be held on October 1st and 2nd. If you're seeking further discussions with members I would suggest the Follow Him podcast with Hank Smith and John Bytheway and Cwic media with Greg Matsen 😀
In regards to the Holy Spirit/Ghost, for me, it testifies of Christ.. thus help strengthen one’s testimony of Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father. It’s the guiding voice in our conscience that helps direct us to the Christlike path. We believe in the gift of being able to choose our way in this life but inviting and listening to the Holy Spirit helps us make the right choices that is beneficial to us spiritually. We believe that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ may not be in our presence physically but the Holy Ghost can testify to their presence/existence… it’s like.. the Holy Ghost speaks to us spirit to spirit. We believe that in order for the Holy Ghost to dwell within ourselves and receive its gift to the fullest (God’s love for us, however that manifest in our lives), we have to strive to be clean in our thoughts and actions, obey God’s words.. etc. However, the Holy Ghost also works miracles even to those who opposed God.. by their choice and through the power of repentance, God shows his mercy through the power of the Holy Ghost as well and able to redirect those individuals to a Christlike path. Why is that? We believe that everyone who’s able to be born in this world and receive physical body can someday return to God’s presence. We believe that Jesus led the example and became resurrected with a celestial body similar to the Father’s (to clarify, yes we believe that Jesus was already part of the Godhead in the preexistence, although without a body like the Father’s hence we were the Father’s spirit children). We believe that Because Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ loves us so much that they want us to return to his presence with our resurrected bodies.. capable of beholding their glory.
I love how your questions cause me to think through how I would answer and cause me to ponder. 3 good questions in this video: 1. what do the garments symbolize or why do we wear them. 2.what is the significance to our Savior's suffering in the garden of Gethsemane. 3.how has the Holy Ghost communicated with me? What role has he played in my life? What is His mission and purpose? I know that's not exactly what you asked, but that's what the questions caused me to ponder.
@ Brandow Consulting Group - I like the way you think and think those are all reasonable questions to reflect on. As someone who is non-LDS Christian, hearing about undergarments is totally new to me. Does anyone know what biblical teaching the idea is based on? I was listening closely to the video for some Bible verses this was based on, but didn’t hear anything.
@@gtf5392 the best bible scriptures for this that I have found so far is in the KJV Exodus 28 (the whole chapter but particularly verse 42 and 43) Isaiah 61: 8-11 and Ephesians 6:10-18. I hope this helps and is not more confusing.
No one understands the temple and all things associated with it until they go. It is a very special and peaceful experience with lots of promise for the future.
I recently left the Mormon Church. Never experienced anything so hard. All the sudden nothing i say or nothing i do matters anymore. No one has asked why I left. I just don't exist yo those that once lived me. That alone tells me that the Mormon Church is wrong. God is the center of my life and that makes up for everything else. The pain and loss will never go away, but knowing God is there makes it worth it. Thanks Jeff!
I am so sorry that happened to you. Many years ago I attended the Mormon church as a teenager. My mom liked it so all of kids had to go. It was a terrible experience. I couldn't fit in because our family was not wealthy. I was told by the Bishop we were poor because there must be some bad we are doing. God blessed the righteous with money. Basically prosperity gospel b4 it was a known thing. My mom was basically alone and working to make ends meet so she was a bad mom. No one would be my friend. It was a horrible experience. I remember I scraped up the money to go to girls Mormon camping trip. It was the last time I tried. I was a friendly teenager! Lots of neighborhood friends. If I even see a latter day saint name tag I cringe. Again you are not alone!!!! There is nothing wrong with you
Really appreciated this conversation. Just wanted to add that "Considering the Cross" by John Hilton III will give anyone who wants a greater understanding of LDS thought and scripture with the relationship between Gethsemane and the Cross.
This was so great! I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I have so many dear friends who are not of my faith and I love learning more about them and their beliefs and finding the commonality. I love so much being a part of building bridges between religions and love being able to walk across the bridges being built by others and see the good that was discovered there - as this episode did so beautifully. Thank you both. Love you both. God bless. Keep it up ❤
Such a good example of how we can meet in the middle and discuss similarities and differences. I love your channel and viewpoint Pastor Jeff. Despite our differences, we Latter-day Saints really do have a lot of similarities with Protestants as well as other Christians. Definitely a lot we can go arm in arm on. Also cool that you are not far from where we used to live. I went to chiro school at Logan in STL. We now live near Springfield, MO, so still not far away. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much for the phenomenal dialogue! I had seen the videos pop up on TH-cam, but I haven’t watched one until yesterday. I have consumed 6 to 8 hours of listening while going about my last couple days. I have sincerely desired a platform to discuss, unique attributes of different faith communities without the pressure of adopting those beliefs on either side. As a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints, I appreciate Jeff’s ability to not be defensive. Sometimes we do simplify and minimalize the views of those outside our church. There are things that have been mentioned in conference talks, that make me cringe a little bit, because I think they talk down to members of other faiths, but Jeff took them in stride and viewed them through the lens of a member of the church, not as someone being attacked. Kudos! One thing that I’m impressed with that I have noticed with other evangelical friends is their ability to site references regularly as they state doctrine or belief. Although I think personal inspiration is key to our knowledge and understanding, I am feeling a desire to be more deliberate about acknowledging and being able to reference the source of the information that shapes my beliefs.
Gosh…wish our Sunday School discussions held to this standard of introspection, thoughtful discussion and spiritual deep-diving. Such a great conversation. Thank you both!
I’ve come to think of Gethsemane as where Christ took on the emotional and spiritual pain and suffering of humans and the cross is where he suffered the physical pains of humans. Because pain comes in so many forms, and Christ took on all of the types of pain that we experience
Aunt Karen great comment. I'd never thought of that before. I also believe the cross is where His blood was shed as the final perfect lamb to end the old testament blood sacrifices. I believe the old testament temples were all leading up to this final blood sacrifice on Passover.
Didn't he bleed from every pore in Gethsemane? And had an angel there to help console him of all the sin's of the world? I mean as pure as he was and having to taste the pains and sins of humanity would possibly be scarring but only he could do it.
Next video I want to see you both talk about the differences between Protestant's Sola Fide " We are saved by grace alone " and LDS's " We are saved by grace after all we can do ". Thank you for having these discussions.
Good suggestion. That particular statement "after all we can do" (2 Nephi 25:23) has long sparked debate so you'll probably find different answers from different people. However, I think it's useful to look at the context of that statement and read the next few verses. Nephi lived hundreds of years before Christ under the Law of Moses. Similar to Paul, he taught that the law is not what saves us but that it points us to Christ: 2 Nephi 25:25 "For, for this end was the law [of Moses] given; wherefore the law hath become dead unto us, and we are made alive in Christ because of our faith; yet we keep the law because of the commandments. "26 And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins." I think he was really saying: "it is by grace that we are saved [regardless of anything] we can do [under the law of Moses]". When discussing grace from an LDS perspective I'd rather look at Moroni 10:32-33 (the last few verses in the Book of Mormon).
@Bryce Twede The "despite" rather than "after" argument is relatively recent. Your Prophets and Apostles historically have associated 2 Nephi 25:23 with Matthew 5:48 and 1 Nephi 3:7. The Church's focus on perfection and being worthy are directly related to keeping the commandments/enduring to the end.
@@kd3738 Good points. Yes, the "despite" interpretation does seem to be a recent thing. I'm not a spokesman for the church but I do believe that there is personal responsibility on our end to receive Christ, he wants us to choose him. The question is "how do we receive Christ" and that's perhaps where we differ with most other churches. Nothing we can do will reconcile us to God, only Christ has that power. Our goal is to be "perfected in him" (Moroni 10:32). "Pray as though everything depended on the Lord and work as though everything depended on you.” ― Brigham Young "A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation." ― Joseph Smith
@@brycetwede And the only religion where the faithful actually died for their faith is the Catholics. They still do in China and other countries. Peace!
@@brycetwede In The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints We believe in Righteous Works through Grace. We don't do the works alone, for that is an incorrect understanding... We do the works of righteousness through the power of God's Grace or in other words we rely on the power of the atonement to do those righteous works for we cannot do them alone, we need the Holy Ghost to help us... ... He does not condemn righteous works for even he and also the saints that he taught did all those works of righteousness.. '29.if ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that DOETH RIGHTEOUSNESS is born of him. 1 John 2:29. You have to DO the works of Righteousness in order to receive God's Blessings.
@@1Andelina1 there's plenty that they won't teach you up front though. The ex-believing people believed full heartedly until they found out stuff that's problematic. Saints Unscripted won't cover those problematic things. Ex-believers do. They also talk about the good things in the church, too. I personally loved growing up in the church but as an adult, I found out some really bad stuff and had big realizations. I'd be happy to share if you're interested.
I really really appreciate the way that you are both asked to articulate your beliefs. So many of David's explanations I feel like I need to write down because it is what I experience or believe but can't share articulately.
I just found your channel and I like it! As a very active latter-day Saint, I usually dislike videos about my faith as the typical guest/ former members/ people who were raised LDS, etc. usually misunderstand or misrepresent our beliefs. The guest you have here said everything perfectly! I’m 100% OK if people disagree with my beliefs, but I would at least like them explained the way in which we actually believe them to be. Excellent, excellent video.
Love this! On the Atonement, we believe that Jesus suffered for all of our sins, pains, injustices, sickness, infirmities…. Etc. (Alma 7). He did this for each individual. We don’t know exactly how this was done. We believe that the sins needed to be layed upon the lamb before the sacrifice. This was in the Garden of Gethsemane. This is a reverent, sacred moment. However, was the atonement done and finished there? No! Christ had to die on the cross, the sacrifice had to be carried out, and was only completed when Christ voluntarily died and then subsequently overcame death by His resurrection. Speaking of the Atonement, Joseph Smith said, “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it.”
The difference is vast. The whole Old Testament sacrificial system was about the killing of a spotless animal. This is perfectly represented in the death of Christ on the cross. The Apostle Paul says that he will boast only in the cross. Communion pictures the shedding of His blood and the breaking of His body upon the cross. The Book of Mormon changes the focus to the garden. Doctrine and Covenants changes the fruit of the vine (wine or grape juice) to water. I don’t know about you, but I am going to go with Jesus over Joseph every time.
@@KD-bn8uqThe Book of Mormon emphasizes both, the cross was his; meaning Christ's prophesied method of ignominious death and suffering as well as the garden. The Doctrine & Covenants only changes wine or grape juice to water for the sake of convenience, modern instruction says we can use anything except alcohol in accordance with the Word of Wisdom, as long as it is blessed by the authority of the priesthood for the express purpose of renewing our covenants with Heavenly Father through and in remembrance of the atonement of Christ.
@@jessekoeven3757 Wow! No one who reads the Old and New Testaments on their own would ever come to the interpretation that you are making. It is only by reading from the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants backwards into the Bible that one could ever even posit such an idea. First, the whole Old Testament sacrificial system points to the death of Jesus on the cross. Read Isaiah 53. In it you will see, "he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities" (verse 5). When did this happen? In the garden or on the cross? Read Psalm 22. Where are the prophesies regarding the garden? The Apostle Paul in Galatians 6:14 says, "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." Jesse, what Jesus prayed in the garden was incredible, but it is not part of the atonement any more than the last supper is. The atonement occurred at the cross. The book of Hebrews states over and over that there is one sacrifice/offering. The cross is where the sacrifice was made. The cross is where the blood was shed. The shedding of blood means the death of the offering. In the Old Testament, the animal had to die. The priest couldn't just cut the animal and say, "Its blood has been shed." The shedding of blood and death are synonymous. Second, did you seriously say that Doctrine and Covenants changed the "fruit of the vine" into water for the "sake of convenience". You can't be serious. Are you going to take Joseph's words over Jesus' words and the words of the Apostle Paul. I plead with you to repent and put your faith in the Jesus of the Bible. Read Matthew 15 and 22 to see what Jesus thought about people changing the Word of God for the sake of their tradition.
@@KD-bn8uq So, Luke 22:44 is to be taken metaphorically, or outright ignored? You claim to have read at least partially, the word of God as written in the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covanants yet you ignore them in favor of the NT, why? They are teaching the same things? For example, in Mosiah 3:7, we read "blood cometh from every pore" that sounds an awful lot like the language Luke used to describe Christ's suffering only it was written almost 150 years previous. In the Doctrine and Covenants section 19:15-19 we read Christ's own description of his suffering and it includes the language written in Luke about the bitter cup and suffering in the Garden. Neither of these records are purely the words of an unlearned upstate New York farmer and general laborer with at best a 4th grade reading level who before beginning the translation of the Book of Mormon had never read the Bible through in his life. I have read the psalm indicated, so did Christ's accusers, they knew who he was and had him crucified anyway because he was a threat to their sociopolitical stations and power. If you are going to specify to what events are referenced at specific times from the sacred records, When was Christ bruised and his flesh broken? Not on Calvary, but in the city below during the scourging. When was Christ despised and rejected? Throughout that whole fateful day, from around midnight when he was arrested, through his trial, and when he was carrying the cross through the streets while the crowd, who only a few days earlier had hailed him as their Messiah, mocked, derided and spit upon him, this continued through until early evening when he gave up the ghost voluntarily. So even using just the Bible we can seenthat Isaiah and others included all of the suffering that Jesus endured that day, not just Crucifixion. As to your admonishment that I repent, I do my best to do so everyday and trust on the mighty arm of Jesus to make all the difference where I fall short. God bless.
pastor Jeff, one thing that is important to remember about the revelation and inspiration manifestations of the Holy Spirit is that when you have them, often you sense the love of God with them. As latter-day Saint Christians, we believe that the Lord speaks to our hearts and our minds. And how we can tell that it is thoughts coming from God or if it is our own thoughts it will come with a feeling of God’s love.
I think as LDS you make a distinction between the Holy Ghost and the Holy Spirit. They aren’t always synonymous. Does any member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints want to comment?
@@KD-bn8uq this is an important point. So the way we term it is there is the influence of the Spirit of God and the personage of the Holy Ghost. Those are the terminology we use to describe what you just mentioned. 💟🙏🏽🦋 More: The influence of the Holy Ghost (the spirit personage of God) can be felt by anyone at any time the Lord deems it necessary or His will. Receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost would be for God in His spirit form to be a constant companion and helper. Or like a comforter to be with you. A person may feel this from time to time as they fulfill the will of the Lord.
As a lifelong latter-day Saint I don't know of any theological distinction between the holy Ghost and the holy Spirit however there is a difference in the workings of the holy Ghost/ holy Spirit Spirit , and the gift given by the laying on of hands described in the book of Acts.
@@Clark-po2rb members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do believe in Jesus Christ as the savior and Messiah of the world who redeemed us from our sins.
Loved this video. Thank you for your respect and consideration. I loved David's answer to the last question and your summary of it. How do you experience The Holy Ghost? I agree that everyone experiences it in their own way, He speaks in our language because he knows us individually and perfectly. So even though you and I may both speak English, we can still have misunderstandings. He speaks to me in exactly the way that is right for me. I have felt His presence and influence in many ways. Usually I just feel feelings of peace and bits of understanding but occasionally I have more powerful experiences such as physical comfort, specific direction, flashes of inspiration or understanding, or things brought to my remembrance with such power and understanding of the source that it has brought me to tears. On one occasion i had an experience which felt like my mind had been opened up and I could see the truth being revealed like a puzzle being put together perfectly with so much understanding of how it all came together and with such clarity that it could not be from my own understanding. I have heard a friend talk about these experiences as well in other churches so I do not believe that we are the only people who experience such inspiration or revelation. I know that the heavens are opened and that God will pour out His spirit upon us. He wants us to know Him, and He wants us to allow Him to guide our paths in righteousness. I am so grateful for this knowledge, for His influence and for the gospel in my life. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to reflect on and share this. BTW there is a whole series of short videos by the Prophets and apostles on how they Hear Him. They are available on TH-cam and in our gospel library app.
I agree, the Holy Spirit can guide those of other faiths as in each Church there is truth. I am a convert from the Church of England and the Holy Spirit guided me to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter of Saints many years ago. So very grateful to be a member! I love the Gospel! One thing I would have explained how the Holy Spirit was explained to me, that there is one Holy Spirit, but his influence can be felt everywhere, just like the rays of the sun. Love Pastor Jeff and Brother David making these videos. ❤
This was a nice show. I really liked the questions asked, and the answers given in reply, especially about the Holy Ghost. I can honestly say, that I’ve felt the Gift of the Holy Ghost many times in my life. He has comforted, guided, and warned me. I’m truly grateful to have this precious gift in my life, and I hope to always live worthily to receive it when it’s needed.
Love your initiative to read literature about the prophets. Have you read the Book of Mormon yet? Of all the book to read that would be the most important. In a past video, you mentioned you were going to. Very interested on your opinion of it!
Thank you for posting this! Since we've been called by the nicknames LDS or Mormon for so long, sometimes people don't know that the actual name of the church is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or that the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ references the Savior on just about every single page. I love these sorts of open, kind conversations between friends.
Keep it up these talks really bring clarity to both sides. Opening up conversation instead of talking past each other is how we can get to the real questions and understand one another better. I wanted to say something about the atonement. The understanding I have gathered is that there are two parts in the atonement. Paying the price for sin and bearing the sins of the world. In the garden the gospels describe great anxieties and sadness in Christ and Luke describes the pain of Christ to bleeding out. Though there is controversy on the verse in Luke about whether Jesus was just sweating water or actually began to bleed like science, and several church fathers suggest and full heartedly believed. Even Dionysus who argued that "sweat of blood" was a parallel to extreme stress and reflected the use of the phrase "tears of blood" to refer to extreme sadness... Understood the text should be understood to be that Jesus sweat blood. Though he believed it was a manner of speech and not a real experience. (Likely under pressure that sweating blood was an uncommon understanding of it being a possibility at the time though historians did describe the existence of such a problem, there just wasn't the easiest access and anti-christians really didn't care if they were fighting facts because high opinion prevails regardless of truth. Isaiah describes the bearing of sins, griefs, sorrows, pains of all the world. That is a lot of stress which science describes would cause excess of sweating become sweat as the body can't take it anymore and starts breaking up. I believe that Jesus bore our sins in the garden took them and it was stacked upon him as he walked and was nailed to the cross and just before he died the worst pain, grief, despair, and sorrow of them all Jesus could no longer feel God's presence... And then he died and with it all the sins of the world died. It is finished. Hallelujah! Praise God! With praise and worship everlasting we should ask ourselves, what comes next? The New Testament says, live unto God and teach your fellow man the good news that they are saved from sins and all can reconcile to God! Hallelujah! Praise God! How does one live eternally unto God? How does one walk with him, progress to perfection? (Some take easy street and say, no need: salvation is sure and godly perfection is achieved at the resurrection, enter the kingdom of God regardless of growth regardless of result.) Jesus said be born again in the spirit to enter the kingdom of God. So what does it mean to be born again in the spirit? Some say it is sure belief, so because you surely believe you're going to be baptized example of this act with the eunuch who said I believe and was baptized. So what is our desire to do good continually and do whatever God planned for us to do? Yes exactly. Well, what is it that God plans for us what is our next steps? What do we need to do to receive the kingdom? Well apparently we have to resist being like a rich man attached to material things? But with God all things are possible so just be sure God is on your side and it's all fine right? Do you see what is happening, there is a resistance to teachings of Jesus to simplify his serious and extraordinary fight against sin. So then what, are we supposed to be pure from sin? Jesus did that no problem. Again this resistance to accepting Jesus' teaching. Spit it out, don't hate, don't look at a woman with lust. But God loves me, God is on my side. See the beautiful paradox? God is on your side and does love you, but he does not live sin and is not on the side of satan who glorifies sin. So how do we win this seemingly impossible fight against sin? By coming closer to God, by resisting temptation, by trusting Jesus' teachings against sin, by surroundint yourself in godly people, by having a partner to unite with and lift each other up to step in where you fail and correct you. To love godly becoming one creature one flesh and learn to do the same with Christ and God and others around you. Raise children to understand how God handles and loves his children the rebellious and the virtuous. And this is what is taught and learned in the LDS church to learn to resist sin and become more godlike to be a better image and likeness to God. To become one with God. I went all out, a bit of passion dealing with Evangelicas and Calvinists so thanks for reading this and I hope you can better understand some of the reasons I believe the LDS Church. I truly love this channel and wish I could have conversations like this with more Christian denominations cause I am really passionate and want to get everyone to understand and i want to better understand others so share and keep up the discussion. Thank you
I have super super enjoyed listening to your discussions. I am extra tired of the infighting that goes on between followers of Jesus Christ... just because the different denominations dont understand each other and feel 'different'. I truly believe that we all have more in common, than we have differences, as we follow this most Holy Son of God, Jesus Christ. I am soooo grateful that you are doing this channel. I am so enjoying that there is such a wonderful common thread between us all.. God bless us everyone..
I am loving this channel as an active LDS member!:) I again would love to invite you to attend one of our Sunday services here in Utah and see firsthand how we conduct our Sundays:)
Hi Jeff! love this channel and showing how to have respectful conversations. I am LDS and believe the doctrine. I grew up in Georgia and have AMAZING evangelical Christian friends. I am very familiar with our similarities and differences. I think that if I die and find out that the restored church was not true then I would still be saved because I believe in Jesus Christ and accept Him as my Savior. God could say, "Oh my sweet Sarah you tried hard to come closer to me but it wasn't necessary." Then I would be glad I was an overachiever and not on the other side wishing I knew/did more ya know? ;)
If I think about how well these two people talk together it is just as peaceful as if they were the same denomination. It is like the pastor said, “Sometimes we break the family…” I know there have been conversations in my religion with people that supposedly believe the same thing disagree and have more controversy than you see hear. I know politics can influence that controversy in my faith. Sometimes it can be how strongly one gravitates to theology for answers and how much one gravitates toward science for answers. There are a lot of different beliefs in ones own religion that are possible to create controversy and sometimes it comes up, but most of the time people focus on commonality especially when they are not feeling threatened by each other. Love the video!
I think God smiles when we focus on Him, and our shared faith. If we keep the focus on Him and His children we are helping in His work. Great interview!
Pastor Jeff, an example of the Holy Spirit in your live might be . You have prepared a sermon for your congregation. Then at the last minute something inside you says" no, speak of THIS today. and if you are smart you do just the. And if you are4 lucky you learn that the new message was exactly what someone in your congregation needed to hear. thank you for your very honest coverage of The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I have been a member all my adult life and would not trade it for anything..
Hello to you both. I am very impressed with your very respectful dialogue. I was baptized in the LDS faith by my Grandfather in 1992. I left and came back a couple of times for different reasons. After studying the true USA history and after studying the original writings of the Bible. I have come back permanently to the LDS faith. It makes sense and it has forever strengthened by faith in the LDS doctrine as for me anyway is True.
Christians and brothers and sisters in Christ first and foremost! I believe this is how He would want it to be. He has saved us all and sees the value in all of us-we should see the value in each other and love one another as He has loved us.
Thank you for your great comments and for suggesting we treat religious garmets (of all faiths) with respect. I've enjoyed your videos with David Snell. It would be great to see a video of your conversation with someone who is more at your same knowledge and experience level in our church. It would likely need to be one of the Seventy though, or someone higher. Re: The Atonement - The Atonement was performed in part in the Garden of Gethsemane and in part on the cross. He then allowed himself to be killed and completed the Atonement when he rose from the tomb on the third day. He overcame sin and death. Re: Experiencing the Spirit - There are many fruits of the Spirit. He communicates with us in many different ways and I think most people don't really understand this. He's not given credit where credit is due. As mentioned though the Spirit does communicate with each of us according to our need and how we might best understand that communication.
I am a committed Latter Day Saint. I want you to know that I absolutely love these discussions and sharing doctrine and question with David on your channel. I consider you a true brother in Christ and as we face the troubling times foretold by prophets and apostles of old, I would and will stand arm in arm and shoulder to shoulder with you. There are far more things that unite us than divide us. Thank for again!
Hey Jeff, great video as always! It's fascinating seeing open views from someone outside of the LDS church. It's also been really cool to get a more open view of Protestantism and the similarities and differences between the both of our beliefs. I know you expressed a personal interest in the way we experience the Holy Spirit in our Church. If you haven't seen it already there are some great videos about the spirit and revelation by one of our apostles on the Church of Jesus Christ TH-cam Channel. It's a three part series called Patterns of Light by David A Bednar. Might clarify a bit more about the way many people experience the Spirit. Also, I've got a list of scriptures that go more in depth into how the Spirit and Revelation work, but I figure this comment is long enough already. Keep up the amazing work and God bless you!
TH-cam is weird about links, but here's a link to those videos to make it easier on you. I swear, these are links to the three videos in order and not a random virus or something. They're all about 3 - 5 minutes, super quick and easy to watch: th-cam.com/video/fycvkAhYz1I/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/zDEXQ-GTYTs/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/slTa15a3mp0/w-d-xo.html
About the Atonement - many mortals have died cruel and horrific deaths by the hands of evil men. Man has inflicted such horrendous methods of death upon their fellow man such as the crucifiction and many other ways, however only one man has suffered in a way that caused him to bleed from every pore of his body - that was our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We believe in some way we can't comprehend, every sin, sickness, and sadness that every person that had lived, was currently living at the time of Christ, and would live in the future, was given to our blessed Lord in the Garden of Gethsemane. The pain was so intense that it even caused our Lord to ask his Father if there could be another way. However, he knew what his main purpose was and drank the "bitter cup". The Garden of Gethsemane is where that occurred and I believe it did indeed took place. That is why we love and worship our Savior - he did for us what we could never do for ourselves and that is to make us clean by taking upon himself all our sins and infirmities. Yes we understand the Atonement of Jesus Christ as much as mortals can and testify that kind of love can only be given by a GOD!
I love how you 2 described the Holy Ghost/Spirit. I would add one bit: it's not just inspiration and revelation, but confirmation. Things can be words in your mind, realizations in the moment, or even promptings of concern or direction. Kind of like a conscience, but more external source manifesting internally. Too often I've seen others mock us, try to use scripture to say we can't know God through feelings. Not everything comes through visions or visitations. It's often more subtle. A good example of the Holy Spirit communicating and influencing is on the Called To Share channel. An Elder talks about jumping motorbikes with his friends, how he was convinced to not take a jump and what could have happened if he had. The best way I can describe feelings of confirmation: what if God tapped you on the shoulder with His finger? Would you feel significantly different than if a person did it or no one at all? That's the difference we're talking about. It's one thing to get inspiration or confirmation by the spirit, but it's something more to be able to discern and understand it, much less apply or follow. It's not always a simple all-or-nothing or in-the-moment thing.
Great video! Jeff, I really appreciate taking on a historically charged topics, plus modern anti-LDS hate or prejudice, with friendly dialogue and the chance to learn more about each other and even from each other. It's such a basic and true principle, when you feel someone reaching out in love and respect there is a natural desire to reciprocate. I have often been blessed with good Christian friends from various Protestant churches, I would say in high school in particular (adolescence is not for the faint of heart 😂). I am grateful they included me in good, clean fun and I see so much possibility for cooperation in achieving mutual goals - becoming better people and making the world a better place. Thank you so much ❤
I start out in 1998 as a Baptist I never knew God till then I was sitting in a youth group setting and they were talking about the cross and I mocked and made fun of them cuz I did not fully understand why a man that many years ago would die for me why me now I got baptized a month later at that time I never felt love from home so to be at a Christian Church I felt more love and acceptance than I ever have and now it's 2,000 and I had become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ couple years later I was ordained an elder into the office thereof another couple years later I went to the temple and got my endowment there was nothing like it in my opinion it was a beautiful thing for me to do I love being a member of the church and David thank you so much for explaining to the folks no nothing of the endowment or our special garments and the reasons why they're so special to us very beautiful Jeff I really do appreciate you as a pastor you bring forth wonderful conversation and as a latter Day Saint I don't feel judged by you I don't feel like you're going to condemn me because of my belief in the book of Mormon I do really love this channel I appreciate also how lovingly and kindly you talk to your audience and show them that even though you're not part of their faith you still have enough love to understand that there may be some differences but all in all we both believe in the same Christ and we also both believe in the resurrection of him and his death on the cross I personally don't wear a cross and like David said it's cool if you want to wear a cross but I don't want to be reminded of the torture that the Lord went through for me to be saved and his death I don't need to wear a death symbol on my shirt to know that the lord loves me enough that he took the cross just for me love this stuff just love it
I am really glad to know people like you, who respect and love people behond theirs beliefs. I am from Brazil, and the protestants churchs in here are usually studying the church just to disrispect our beliefs. Thank you for you love! If you want to know more of how the church works outside of the U.S. feel free to contact me :)
With regards to the Holy Ghost/Spirit for me the difference between revelation and inspiration is when receiving revelation is like getting nuggets of knowledge or greater understanding, where as inspiration is the voice persuading me to behave in certain ways or to perform certain actions like one night I was impressed to pray for and bless a specific woman in need. The impression was so strong it woke me from a sound sleep, and was so urgent that I needed to do it then and there.
The temple garment serves as a reminder of our covenants. I understand it also does serve as a protection, mostly from spiritual sickness if worn worthily ie with the intent on remembering our covenants and actively striving to keep them. I am so grateful that every time I put them on, I'm reminded that I'm symbolically choosing to intentionally keep my covenants with Christ that day.
The temple garments are like the robes the priesthood, like the priests in the camp of Israel wore. We view them similarly. Thank you, Pastor Jeff for asking people to respect our sacred clothes. They are symbolic of commandments and covenants that we are to hold dear that help us be more Christlike. Their power is in the symbolism, for in faith is power.
I just happened upon your channel. I grew up in Utah and have always been a member of the LDS church. I’ve lived outside of Utah now just as long. I have had my children in a Christian school, definitely with a Protestant culture, because I have felt the most comfortable with the environment and content. While I love being there and having my children there, I feel like school leaders are uncomfortable with us. I was told by a Protestant friend that parents don’t want their children to be curious about anything other than what they are being taught. I told my children to not talk about their beliefs other than general topics I know we sync on. I think they are too fearful though. One senior of mine was afraid to say whether or not she thought baptism was needed in a discussion that came up in class. She was worried about throwing in a voice that would be different. I appreciate this channel as a means for curiosity. I am learning things about my friends’ beliefs listening to you. It’s helpful!
Wow, @Mindy Walker… I am incredibly happy to hear this channel is helpful. I’m also sorry that you’re feeling a bit shunned within your protestant relationships. One of my biggest hopes for this channel is to help my fellow evangelicals engage in more relational and curious ways with latter-day Saints and to set the stigmas aside. I pray your family sees a shift in your current community. Thank you for sharing and thank you for watching. ~ Jeff
God’s will feel his presence love him with all our heart mind and soul and love each other. I am a. Member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we are also taught and incurables see seek truth where ever it can be found lead by God’s divine love
I’m a confirmed Roman Catholic exploring where I find my truth in this world and I have a handful of friends that are part of the LDS church and this has really helped me learn about what these people believe and how many similarities we have. I’ve been raised of the ilk very similar to you, Jeff. Be curious and and learn how to be a steward of God with this group of people because there’s so much I personally think that we have in common with them. So, from a Catholic, I just wanted to say thank you
I love the respectfulness of these conversations. A far cry from my memories of growing up in the LDS church, and the open mockery of Protestantism in Sunday school. One of the grossest things I remember was a "fake pastor" exercise they did in a priesthood meeting when I was about 14. They had a guy from another ward come in as a Lutheran pastor for a "debate" with our priesthood leader. Well, over the course of the discussion, the "pastor" saw the error of his ways and converted to mormonism. Then at the end of this condescending nonsense it was revealed to our pimply faces that "Aw shucks, this is really Brother Garrett from Ogden 5th ward," or whatever. Yeah. Gross.
@@naomijackson4691 I don't know if you are LDS or grew up in it or whatever, but if you have a moment, look up the flight 409 exercise. Ours was even more bizarre than the descriptions I've found online.
It’s interesting to read about the clothing worn by Old Testament priests in the Old Testament and compare them to the clothing worn by Latter-day Saints, both garments and temple clothes.
Asking about Gethsemane, a great talk is from Bruce R McConkie called "The Purifying Power of Gethsemane" and at the end, Elder Bruce gives his final testimony of Christ before he passed away.
11:30 I think the explanation on the unity within protestantism can be reinforced quite well by how easily and often protestants might move between different churches during their life. A lds person that leaves their church usually go atheist, but a protestant usually goes to a different church to a much higher degree.
Is. 53:5 He was wounded for our transgressions (willful rebellion), He was bruised for our iniquities (accepting what is wrong - twisted, perverted - ideas instead what is right), the chastisement for our peace ( Shalom - nothing missing, nothing lacking) was upon Him and by His stripes we were healed. All these took place at the whipping post. Appreciate your vides.
The suffering of pain and agony from sin happened in the Garden of Gethsemane, when Christ was left alone and his disciples slept and an angel was sent to comfort him. This provides a means for us to repent of our sins and become clean to return to His presence. The experience on the cross was the physical suffering of death, which was necessary for Christ to overcome physically and be resurrected, body and spirit, providing the way for us all to be physically resurrected. This, all-eoncompassed, is the Atonement. I would answer the question about feeling the Spirit, different. There is an understanding that everyone feels it differently. Some feel it more emotionally, and some feel it more mentally. I personally feel the influence of the Spirit both ways. I know when the Spirit is telling me the truth by a feeling of peace accompanied by a complete absence of fear and confusion. That's not easy for me to accomplish alone, I overthink everything. I know when the Spirit is teaching me. It can also come with a physical sensation of heart beating, warmness in my chest, and chills over my body. I also have thoughts and impressions about acting on something. If I chose to act, the result is always fantastic and a witness to me. That is another way the Spirit guides me.
Ooh! On the atonement I think the Saints have a fascinating view because it almost seems like a view which didn’t start and end with the passion. It’s like…Jesus is the perfect man. He is man deified and perfected. And he began the atonement from the moment he existed, exalting ever aspect of human existence and showing mankind what it could be. The atonement is a process through which Jesus not only atoned by taking on our sins (Gethsemane), dying to sin (Calvary), and then defeating death and forging a path to eternal life (resurrection), but also by exalting and magnifying what it is to be human. He takes our hand and leads us through the journey of discipleship, from birth and our being offered to the Lord, through baptism and growth in righteousness, through a life of self-giving, to a return to our Heavenly Father, and a resurrection into a divine inheritance and eternal joy.
It is stated that he suffered both in Gethsemane and upon the cross. The Atonement is incomplete without the suffering in Gethsemane or the suffering and death upon the cross. It also needs the resurrection, which is probably the most vital part.
Hey fantastic video series. I'm a catholic who was curious about the LDS church myself and did a lot of research and looking at various resources. How does someone get information onto you? I have things I think you would find helpful and extremely useful.
I have been so in aw of your podcasts--THANK YOU THANK YOU!! You are Christ like and the approach of LOVING us "peculiar people" is beautiful. The Lord is our focus and HIS atonement is our salvation. May you continue learning about the Lord's reorganized church in the last days. He had one church--He is not a Lord of confusion. I know HIS church is upon this earth- We still receive prophetic revelation in these troubled times just as in bible days--Why would HE not provide that for us? Why would he leave us alone on this earth to wander--The bible is HIS word, however- it leaves us in an ancient time. He loves US! We do receive personal revelation for us and our families. READ the Book of Mormon! Love you brother Jeff
I’d love to see an interaction between you and Jared Halverson of the TH-cam channel Unshaken. Brother Halverson is a teacher in the LDS church education system or seminary program who went to Divinity school, which is pretty unique to most LDS experience. I think that would be a conversation that would add value to this quest of understanding the differences and similarities in the LDS faith and Protestant/Evangelical (not even sure if that’s correct, and if I’m incorrectly identifying I apologize).
My understanding of the Atonement is echoed in a General Conference talk given in April of 2011 by Elder C. Scott Grow. He states, "Through His suffering and death, the Savior atoned for the sins of all men. His Atonement began in Gethsemane and continued on the cross and culminated with the Resurrection. There are 3 integral parts of the atonement. It's incomplete without all 3. This belief is also reflected in our Bible Dictionary entry "Atonement". I think what may happen is that because our belief is that His suffering was greatest in The Garden, as He made the blood sacrifice to atone for our sins, and that event is where our faith to be able to be forgiven comes from, we focus a lot on that. It makes sense because repentance is a daily need. And for that reason it's constantly preached. But the atonement shows His power over sin, and that He ransomed Himself to pay for our sins, His power over life, He chose to release His Spirit, and His power over death, the Resurrection. Because He has power over all these, we can have absolute trust and faith in Him to free us from the burden and guilt of sin, and to free us from the grave and give us life with Him again.
We don't believe He is a man like people on earth all. We believe he has a body that is immortal and perfect, but as with Protestants, we believe that He is unchanging, omniscient, omnipotent, all glory, and that our bodies on this earth are fallen
@@PhilippedeHerte That's because Christian doctrine on this area is in error when it comes to the physical definition.. God does have a perfect immortal body. If God does not have a resurrected body then it denies the doctrine of the resurrection. For the Son of God inherited the resurrection from God the Father.
Very interesting conversations, I have always found religion to be complex to my understanding. Having been a LDS for over 60 years I struggled with some of the teachings. I believe there is only one God and no one else, that he is just all loving and will deal with me when my time will come, I recognize that the way to him is through Jesus Christ and only him. But anyway as I have said: interesting conversations.*smile*
Great job to both of you. One addition to the Holy Ghost is that we believe it to be absolutely crucial to mortality. One job is the sanctifying power of the holy spirit. We believe in baptism by water and fire and the Holy Ghost is the method of baptism by fire. We believe that when we keep our covenants with God he blesses us with his Holy Spirit.
One thing I learned recently, and found interesting, is that there are around 100 sects of mormonism. The lds missionaries that I've talked to didn't seem to know that either.
I wanted to put my thoughts down to the video. Sorry if I am long winded but I hope my thoughts can act as a supplement. One thing I would like to point out in regards to the Garments is that part of the reason have been come to be known as Magical is that part of the promise we receive if we wear is they will serve as reminder and a protection from the world so long as we keep the covenants we made. Then there are stories of members having physical protection while where garments that make them seem magically when reality most of these would really be coincidental. For Example a LDS Solider from WW2 got shot and he wasn't hit and it was ascribed to his garments when in reality the bullet his his pocket Book Mormon (or some other book of scripture) that was in his breast pocket that stopped the bullet from hitting him. In regards to the atonement, One thing I would like to mention is we don't believe Christ only suffered for our Sins but he suffered all of pains and afflictions (physically, mentally and spiritually) so he can understand that suffering in order to better "Succor us" in our time of need. We believe as David said that he started his suffering in the Garden where I believe he suffered most of that (though I am not sure that is exactly what the church teaches) then continued suffering through his time with the Pharisees and the Romans up till the moment he experienced the ultimate and final pain we would know in death to both know that pain but to also break that barrier in order to allow for the final part of the atonement in the resurrection. Furthermore, and this is just my personal belief and not doctrine. I believe the atonement actually lasted from the time of Christ's Birth to the time of his resurrections because he experienced a lot of pain and suffering throughout his life which was necessary for him to better understand how to comfort us. Gethsemane is where he started the suffering for our sins directly. And if we are talking in person here is where I would say continue but really I am just going to hit the play button. I like what David said in that it is more important to focus on the meat and principles of Christ then getting hung up on the how it was accomplished. We as Christians believe he suffered for our sins and died because of that, whether or not he actually did that on the cross or in Gethsemane is not truly important. One thing I liked that Jeff said when talking about the different denominations is that our differences don't make us think they are going to hell. One thing I would like to point out and that I feel like is misconception regarding LDS members is we don't think members of other religions are going to hell either because they believe differently. We also don't believe that just because we are members that we are going to the Celestial Kingdom. We believe that as long we put our faith in Christ and live according to that faith we can some day enter the Kingdom of God and some of those people will be people who didn't join the church but lived according to the gospel to the best of their ability while other who were a part of the church but did not live the gospel will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. A good analogy is that the Gospel is the road to Heaven and the straightest path with the least obstacles along the way is the Gospel road but that doesn't mean someone who walking 50 miles away but semi-parallel from the road couldn't make it. It just may mean they are taking a ton switch-backs and mountain climbing to get there, there also many divergent paths along the way that are going to lead you away from heaven. And along the road to heaven there are offshoots while shiny and distracting things along the way to get you to step off the road and go away from the gospel. The key is to focus on the goal which is straight ahead and is Christ. To add to David's answer for hearing the holy Ghost. The inspiration generally comes (again varying from person to person) with like a good feeling to do this, or forgetting a thought you had to tell you it wrong. It could be just a thought indistinguishable from your own, like "I need to go visit David Snell because he is having hard day and could use a cookie" or "Smile at Pastor Jeff he needs a pick-me up". Like David said these are often hard to see at the time but with Hindsight can often be seen as what they really are. Revelation on the other hand can be found in the same way but I would say easier to tell that this isn't me talking, or it can come in the form of a vision or a dream. I would say though like David say that anything like what the Prophets and Apostles experienced in Scripture would be rare for the average person, and even for them. Their greatest hits as David put it. Thanks guys your great
The green jello and funeral potatoes! 😂 Honestly, why is that so funny? I love that you are making these videos! I only wish I had them before I went on my mission to North Carolina. I would have made so many more personal connections with people and had more meaningful conversations.
Green jello and funeral potatoes are largely a Utah-Mormon cultural thing. When I moved to the Beehive state from AZ I didn't understand it either, but being here almost 24 years now, jello and funeral potatoes are almost too common of dishes people bring to church gatherings or parties (or funerals I guess) and honestly it's kinda annoying. However I will say that I do LOVE Funeral Potatoes especially if there's bacon in it.
The other part of the garden is that he literally felt the sufferings of all past, present, and future people. He knows exactly what everyone has and will go through.
Appreciate your show Jeff. I am LDS but wanted you to know that I like your calm interest in our faith….it’s refreshing and also your topics reminds me of things I have not thought of for awhile. Anyways, great job!!
Clarification about the atonment question. In the Garden of Gethsemane, he drank from the bitter cup and bled from every pore over coming sin, and then on the cross he overcame death and ressurected. Together create the Atonement.
My understanding as LDS is that the garden of gethsemmane is where he redeemed us from our sins, and the cross is where he redeemed us from the bonds of death. I could be misunderstanding though
New subscriber here. I was born and raised Pentecostal and was baptized in the LDS faith in my twenties and I will be honest I have not seen such a respectful conversation between two people of differing religions and differing faiths ever.
Yeah, it's actually pretty great, I hope it lasts.
@@o0TheKillerFish0o p0
I did not make that statement. Lois Stolzenburg. Idont even know what it means.
I was scrolling through comments.
Love from Tennessee pastor Jeff and all you unscripted Saints... from a babtist and pentacostal raised farm boy i have to say the book of Mormon is a good read im almost done reading it then I'll start over again
Aw that’s awesome! How did it go?
Very Awesome Brother!
Thank you for being so respectful with the way you've approached your study of our church (LDS). i see you as a true disciple of Jesus Christ, a peacemaker. We have much more in common than not. Wishing you and your family the best. God Bless.
I love this discussion. As a practicing Latter-day Saint, I am in an interfaith Bible Study group that meets weekly. We are currently doing a study of Esther and I love the conversations we have that emphasize the things we have in common which is our love for Jesus and where/how we see Him working in our lives! Also, regarding the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I would recommend reading "Considering the Cross" by John Hilton III (an LDS scholar) who has written a book about the Latter-day Saint history with the cross (cultural practice vs church doctrine) and has helped me to reframe my relationship to the cross. It's worth a read!
Crystal, As a fellow human who loves all people, it is a noble quality to find commonalities to bind us together. But when it comes to salvation, there can only be one true path, and that's when the differences matter!
Only one religion can be true. So all people, even if they are nice and do good things on earth, will not go to heaven. Those who follow the one, true God, as there is no other God, as God Himself told us, this includes the gods of other universes, will go to heaven.
Peace be with you!
As a LDS missionary I went to a catholic mass once - we talked to the priest before to say hello, and he actually had the congregation stand for us to, I assume show appreciation that we went. It was one of the coolest experiences I had as a missionary.
Well done David answering some tricky questions with simplicity and clarity!
Really enjoy listening to you both. Interesting, informative and such a pleasure to hear mutual respect here.
I really appreciate you talking and sharing this with such open minded interests and views. Thank you for playing this video.
I love the positive energy from both of you!! Respect. Courtesy, kindness.
Jeff, just want to say I’m so grateful you and David make this content. I am a 19 yr old LDS boy and while I do feel strong ties to my denomination, the older I’m getting the more I’m realizing that anyone who diligently and truly follows Jesus Christ and His teachings is someone I want to listen to and be around. You are an inspiring man and have earned a loyal listener:)
There's no such thing as denominations. Scripture doesn't allow for it
Talking about garments; I had a dream that I was wearing a dressing gown over my garments and my mate asked why does the church make us wear garments; I explained that we aren’t made do anything, it’s a choice, and I told him why we wear them; I started walking and tripped over on my back, my feet were in the air with my ankles crossed, I was wearing these large flip-flops and I said for a joke ‘but these shoes they make us wear’ and began laughing and woke up
Love this beautiful discussion. Along with what David said, for me inspiration often feels like: a peaceful feeling when I watched this video, a nudge to give my young daughter a hug instead of losing my temper when she's overwhelmed, a warmth in my chest when I hear people talk of Christ and his truth, a feeling of alignment between my heart and mind when I hear something about Christ that causes me to believe it is true. But I've also had more vivid/visible experiences. For example, I love to write. And there have been occasions I've had dreams about God's kindness/love that have been so powerful to me. One time I had a dream like this and woke up and wrote a short book based on that feeling. I wrote the entire story in 3 days and it had very few grammatical errors. I felt that God was just pouring the story into me. Though I'm not a famous writer or anything and I recognize that my writing (even though it felt inspired) wasn't a perfect book or wasn't a revelation for the world or anything, I have seen that the simple story of kindness has touched many people. I believe that all people are given gifts to glorify God (writing is one of these for me) and I believe that we often experience the Spirit while using these talents to glorify God (whether through art, music, speaking, writing, athleticism, deep empathy, kindness, being a good listener, gentleness, etc). A few more examples from my life. On one occasion, when I was not quite a teenager, I heard a voice calling my name that sounded like my parents. I hurried home to find out that they hadn't called my name but had been waiting for me and that I had lost track of time. This was a simple experience that made me feel like God was aware of me and my family and cared about the details of my simple life. Also, there were times when I was a church missionary as a young adult in Brazil and could hardly speak the Portuguese language, but then would suddenly become fluent while teaching an individual about Jesus Christ. Then, after finishing teaching, I would lose the ability again and could hardly make a sentence in Portuguese. Eventually, I could speak more fluently most of the time (after lots of practicing and studying). I think both of these-receiving then losing the sudden ability to speak the language after being in Brazil for a very short time, and also learning to speak consistently and fluently after only 4 months or so of being in Brazil (I had been studying for a year before arriving in Brazil)) were both manifestations of the Spirit in my life for me. For most people, myself included, our most sacred experiences with the Spirit of God are pretty sacred and we don't share them freely. I do not believe these manifestations of the Spirit are limited to people of one religion. I believe that all people are given spiritual gifts and experiences with the Spirit of God. I believe that if we seek God, He blesses us with manifestations of the Spirit. I agree with David that these experiences with the Spirit can look different for every one. When I was 11 years old, I decided to read the Book of Mormon for myself. I remember feeling so connected to Jesus Christ and just highlighting every word on every page haha For me that was a time where I felt the Spirit strongly in my life. The way it felt for me then was a swelling, warm feeling in my chest that would consistently come when I would read from the Book of Mormon. I have also felt the Spirit (we also call it the Holy Ghost) while in therapy, while learning/studying languages, while being part of music groups like band and symphony, while interacting with friends and new friends of many faiths and cultures, while hearing other people speak about Christ and goodness, while being with animals and in nature (especially camping), while running and exercising, while practicing martial arts, etc.
Recent subscriber here! It would be great if you could give a review about general conference that will be held on October 1st and 2nd.
If you're seeking further discussions with members I would suggest the Follow Him podcast with Hank Smith and John Bytheway and Cwic media with Greg Matsen 😀
And also Jacob Hansen on his channel " Thoughtful Faith".
Is John Bytheway still funny as always?
What a great and respectful conversation! Thank you so much for approaching these things the way you do!
This is by far the most open-minded and respectful discussion I’ve seen between LDS and non-LDS. No non-sense debates, no air of contention.
In regards to the Holy Spirit/Ghost, for me, it testifies of Christ.. thus help strengthen one’s testimony of Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father. It’s the guiding voice in our conscience that helps direct us to the Christlike path. We believe in the gift of being able to choose our way in this life but inviting and listening to the Holy Spirit helps us make the right choices that is beneficial to us spiritually. We believe that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ may not be in our presence physically but the Holy Ghost can testify to their presence/existence… it’s like.. the Holy Ghost speaks to us spirit to spirit. We believe that in order for the Holy Ghost to dwell within ourselves and receive its gift to the fullest (God’s love for us, however that manifest in our lives), we have to strive to be clean in our thoughts and actions, obey God’s words.. etc. However, the Holy Ghost also works miracles even to those who opposed God.. by their choice and through the power of repentance, God shows his mercy through the power of the Holy Ghost as well and able to redirect those individuals to a Christlike path. Why is that? We believe that everyone who’s able to be born in this world and receive physical body can someday return to God’s presence. We believe that Jesus led the example and became resurrected with a celestial body similar to the Father’s (to clarify, yes we believe that Jesus was already part of the Godhead in the preexistence, although without a body like the Father’s hence we were the Father’s spirit children). We believe that Because Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ loves us so much that they want us to return to his presence with our resurrected bodies.. capable of beholding their glory.
Good conversation guys. I appreciate the manner in which you discuss our beliefs Jeff. I thoroughly enjoy your videos.
I love how your questions cause me to think through how I would answer and cause me to ponder. 3 good questions in this video: 1. what do the garments symbolize or why do we wear them.
2.what is the significance to our Savior's suffering in the garden of Gethsemane.
3.how has the Holy Ghost communicated with me? What role has he played in my life? What is His mission and purpose?
I know that's not exactly what you asked, but that's what the questions caused me to ponder.
@ Brandow Consulting Group - I like the way you think and think those are all reasonable questions to reflect on. As someone who is non-LDS Christian, hearing about undergarments is totally new to me. Does anyone know what biblical teaching the idea is based on? I was listening closely to the video for some Bible verses this was based on, but didn’t hear anything.
@@gtf5392 the best bible scriptures for this that I have found so far is in the KJV Exodus 28 (the whole chapter but particularly verse 42 and 43) Isaiah 61: 8-11 and Ephesians 6:10-18. I hope this helps and is not more confusing.
No one understands the temple and all things associated with it until they go. It is a very special and peaceful experience with lots of promise for the future.
Great episode. Can’t wait for more. This is so fascinating.
I recently left the Mormon Church. Never experienced anything so hard. All the sudden nothing i say or nothing i do matters anymore. No one has asked why I left. I just don't exist yo those that once lived me. That alone tells me that the Mormon Church is wrong. God is the center of my life and that makes up for everything else. The pain and loss will never go away, but knowing God is there makes it worth it. Thanks Jeff!
I am so sorry that happened to you. Many years ago I attended the Mormon church as a teenager. My mom liked it so all of kids had to go. It was a terrible experience. I couldn't fit in because our family was not wealthy. I was told by the Bishop we were poor because there must be some bad we are doing. God blessed the righteous with money. Basically prosperity gospel b4 it was a known thing. My mom was basically alone and working to make ends meet so she was a bad mom. No one would be my friend. It was a horrible experience. I remember I scraped up the money to go to girls Mormon camping trip. It was the last time I tried. I was a friendly teenager! Lots of neighborhood friends. If I even see a latter day saint name tag I cringe. Again you are not alone!!!! There is nothing wrong with you
Really appreciated this conversation. Just wanted to add that "Considering the Cross" by John Hilton III will give anyone who wants a greater understanding of LDS thought and scripture with the relationship between Gethsemane and the Cross.
The first talk for the Oct 2022 Conference was also on this topic.
This was so great! I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I have so many dear friends who are not of my faith and I love learning more about them and their beliefs and finding the commonality. I love so much being a part of building bridges between religions and love being able to walk across the bridges being built by others and see the good that was discovered there - as this episode did so beautifully. Thank you both. Love you both. God bless. Keep it up ❤
Such a good example of how we can meet in the middle and discuss similarities and differences. I love your channel and viewpoint Pastor Jeff. Despite our differences, we Latter-day Saints really do have a lot of similarities with Protestants as well as other Christians. Definitely a lot we can go arm in arm on. Also cool that you are not far from where we used to live. I went to chiro school at Logan in STL. We now live near Springfield, MO, so still not far away. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much for the phenomenal dialogue! I had seen the videos pop up on TH-cam, but I haven’t watched one until yesterday. I have consumed 6 to 8 hours of listening while going about my last couple days. I have sincerely desired a platform to discuss, unique attributes of different faith communities without the pressure of adopting those beliefs on either side. As a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints, I appreciate Jeff’s ability to not be defensive. Sometimes we do simplify and minimalize the views of those outside our church. There are things that have been mentioned in conference talks, that make me cringe a little bit, because I think they talk down to members of other faiths, but Jeff took them in stride and viewed them through the lens of a member of the church, not as someone being attacked. Kudos! One thing that I’m impressed with that I have noticed with other evangelical friends is their ability to site references regularly as they state doctrine or belief. Although I think personal inspiration is key to our knowledge and understanding, I am feeling a desire to be more deliberate about acknowledging and being able to reference the source of the information that shapes my beliefs.
Thank you for you uplifting videos. I feel like it’s very rare to listen to Christian debates and to be able to feel the spirit. I definitely did.🙏
Gosh…wish our Sunday School discussions held to this standard of introspection, thoughtful discussion and spiritual deep-diving. Such a great conversation. Thank you both!
I’ve come to think of Gethsemane as where Christ took on the emotional and spiritual pain and suffering of humans and the cross is where he suffered the physical pains of humans.
Because pain comes in so many forms, and Christ took on all of the types of pain that we experience
Aunt Karen great comment. I'd never thought of that before. I also believe the cross is where His blood was shed as the final perfect lamb to end the old testament blood sacrifices. I believe the old testament temples were all leading up to this final blood sacrifice on Passover.
@@pollydunn3191 Absolutely. Thank you for expanding my thought🙏🏻
Didn't he bleed from every pore in Gethsemane? And had an angel there to help console him of all the sin's of the world? I mean as pure as he was and having to taste the pains and sins of humanity would possibly be scarring but only he could do it.
Next video I want to see you both talk about the differences between Protestant's Sola Fide " We are saved by grace alone " and LDS's " We are saved by grace after all we can do ". Thank you for having these discussions.
Good suggestion. That particular statement "after all we can do" (2 Nephi 25:23) has long sparked debate so you'll probably find different answers from different people.
However, I think it's useful to look at the context of that statement and read the next few verses. Nephi lived hundreds of years before Christ under the Law of Moses. Similar to Paul, he taught that the law is not what saves us but that it points us to Christ:
2 Nephi 25:25 "For, for this end was the law [of Moses] given; wherefore the law hath become dead unto us, and we are made alive in Christ because of our faith; yet we keep the law because of the commandments.
"26 And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins."
I think he was really saying: "it is by grace that we are saved [regardless of anything] we can do [under the law of Moses]".
When discussing grace from an LDS perspective I'd rather look at Moroni 10:32-33 (the last few verses in the Book of Mormon).
@Bryce Twede The "despite" rather than "after" argument is relatively recent. Your Prophets and Apostles historically have associated 2 Nephi 25:23 with Matthew 5:48 and 1 Nephi 3:7. The Church's focus on perfection and being worthy are directly related to keeping the commandments/enduring to the end.
@@kd3738 Good points. Yes, the "despite" interpretation does seem to be a recent thing. I'm not a spokesman for the church but I do believe that there is personal responsibility on our end to receive Christ, he wants us to choose him. The question is "how do we receive Christ" and that's perhaps where we differ with most other churches. Nothing we can do will reconcile us to God, only Christ has that power. Our goal is to be "perfected in him" (Moroni 10:32).
"Pray as though everything depended on the Lord and work as though everything depended on you.”
― Brigham Young
"A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation."
― Joseph Smith
@@brycetwede And the only religion where the faithful actually died for their faith is the Catholics. They still do in China and other countries.
Peace!
@@brycetwede In The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints We believe in Righteous Works through Grace. We don't do the works alone, for that is an incorrect understanding... We do the works of righteousness through the power of God's Grace or in other words we rely on the power of the atonement to do those righteous works for we cannot do them alone, we need the Holy Ghost to help us... ... He does not condemn righteous works for even he and also the saints that he taught did all those works of righteousness..
'29.if ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that DOETH RIGHTEOUSNESS is born of him. 1 John 2:29.
You have to DO the works of Righteousness in order to receive God's Blessings.
Need more of these! ❤
Please keep these types of videos coming. They are so very informative
Check out ex-mormon content to get even more information. He's being pretty general on this channel. Deeper digging happens on other channels.
@@1Andelina1 there's plenty that they won't teach you up front though. The ex-believing people believed full heartedly until they found out stuff that's problematic. Saints Unscripted won't cover those problematic things. Ex-believers do. They also talk about the good things in the church, too. I personally loved growing up in the church but as an adult, I found out some really bad stuff and had big realizations. I'd be happy to share if you're interested.
I really really appreciate the way that you are both asked to articulate your beliefs. So many of David's explanations I feel like I need to write down because it is what I experience or believe but can't share articulately.
I just found your channel and I like it! As a very active latter-day Saint, I usually dislike videos about my faith as the typical guest/ former members/ people who were raised LDS, etc. usually misunderstand or misrepresent our beliefs. The guest you have here said everything perfectly! I’m 100% OK if people disagree with my beliefs, but I would at least like them explained the way in which we actually believe them to be. Excellent, excellent video.
Love this! On the Atonement, we believe that Jesus suffered for all of our sins, pains, injustices, sickness, infirmities…. Etc. (Alma 7). He did this for each individual. We don’t know exactly how this was done. We believe that the sins needed to be layed upon the lamb before the sacrifice. This was in the Garden of Gethsemane. This is a reverent, sacred moment. However, was the atonement done and finished there? No! Christ had to die on the cross, the sacrifice had to be carried out, and was only completed when Christ voluntarily died and then subsequently overcame death by His resurrection.
Speaking of the Atonement, Joseph Smith said, “The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it.”
The difference is vast. The whole Old Testament sacrificial system was about the killing of a spotless animal. This is perfectly represented in the death of Christ on the cross. The Apostle Paul says that he will boast only in the cross. Communion pictures the shedding of His blood and the breaking of His body upon the cross. The Book of Mormon changes the focus to the garden. Doctrine and Covenants changes the fruit of the vine (wine or grape juice) to water. I don’t know about you, but I am going to go with Jesus over Joseph every time.
@@KD-bn8uqThe Book of Mormon emphasizes both, the cross was his; meaning Christ's prophesied method of ignominious death and suffering as well as the garden. The Doctrine & Covenants only changes wine or grape juice to water for the sake of convenience, modern instruction says we can use anything except alcohol in accordance with the Word of Wisdom, as long as it is blessed by the authority of the priesthood for the express purpose of renewing our covenants with Heavenly Father through and in remembrance of the atonement of Christ.
@@jessekoeven3757 Wow! No one who reads the Old and New Testaments on their own would ever come to the interpretation that you are making. It is only by reading from the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants backwards into the Bible that one could ever even posit such an idea. First, the whole Old Testament sacrificial system points to the death of Jesus on the cross. Read Isaiah 53. In it you will see, "he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities" (verse 5). When did this happen? In the garden or on the cross? Read Psalm 22. Where are the prophesies regarding the garden? The Apostle Paul in Galatians 6:14 says, "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." Jesse, what Jesus prayed in the garden was incredible, but it is not part of the atonement any more than the last supper is. The atonement occurred at the cross. The book of Hebrews states over and over that there is one sacrifice/offering. The cross is where the sacrifice was made. The cross is where the blood was shed. The shedding of blood means the death of the offering. In the Old Testament, the animal had to die. The priest couldn't just cut the animal and say, "Its blood has been shed." The shedding of blood and death are synonymous. Second, did you seriously say that Doctrine and Covenants changed the "fruit of the vine" into water for the "sake of convenience". You can't be serious. Are you going to take Joseph's words over Jesus' words and the words of the Apostle Paul. I plead with you to repent and put your faith in the Jesus of the Bible. Read Matthew 15 and 22 to see what Jesus thought about people changing the Word of God for the sake of their tradition.
@@KD-bn8uq So, Luke 22:44 is to be taken metaphorically, or outright ignored? You claim to have read at least partially, the word of God as written in the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covanants yet you ignore them in favor of the NT, why? They are teaching the same things? For example, in Mosiah 3:7, we read "blood cometh from every pore" that sounds an awful lot like the language Luke used to describe Christ's suffering only it was written almost 150 years previous. In the Doctrine and Covenants section 19:15-19 we read Christ's own description of his suffering and it includes the language written in Luke about the bitter cup and suffering in the Garden. Neither of these records are purely the words of an unlearned upstate New York farmer and general laborer with at best a 4th grade reading level who before beginning the translation of the Book of Mormon had never read the Bible through in his life.
I have read the psalm indicated, so did Christ's accusers, they knew who he was and had him crucified anyway because he was a threat to their sociopolitical stations and power.
If you are going to specify to what events are referenced at specific times from the sacred records, When was Christ bruised and his flesh broken? Not on Calvary, but in the city below during the scourging. When was Christ despised and rejected? Throughout that whole fateful day, from around midnight when he was arrested, through his trial, and when he was carrying the cross through the streets while the crowd, who only a few days earlier had hailed him as their Messiah, mocked, derided and spit upon him, this continued through until early evening when he gave up the ghost voluntarily. So even using just the Bible we can seenthat Isaiah and others included all of the suffering that Jesus endured that day, not just Crucifixion.
As to your admonishment that I repent, I do my best to do so everyday and trust on the mighty arm of Jesus to make all the difference where I fall short.
God bless.
@@jessekoeven3757 apparently, KD is here in spite of Pastor Jeff's intent, not because of. Sad.
thank you for this video!! well done and very enlightening!
pastor Jeff, one thing that is important to remember about the revelation and inspiration manifestations of the Holy Spirit is that when you have them, often you sense the love of God with them. As latter-day Saint Christians, we believe that the Lord speaks to our hearts and our minds. And how we can tell that it is thoughts coming from God or if it is our own thoughts it will come with a feeling of God’s love.
I think as LDS you make a distinction between the Holy Ghost and the Holy Spirit. They aren’t always synonymous. Does any member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints want to comment?
@@KD-bn8uq this is an important point. So the way we term it is there is the influence of the Spirit of God and the personage of the Holy Ghost. Those are the terminology we use to describe what you just mentioned. 💟🙏🏽🦋
More: The influence of the Holy Ghost (the spirit personage of God) can be felt by anyone at any time the Lord deems it necessary or His will. Receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost would be for God in His spirit form to be a constant companion and helper. Or like a comforter to be with you. A person may feel this from time to time as they fulfill the will of the Lord.
As a lifelong latter-day Saint I don't know of any theological distinction between the holy Ghost and the holy Spirit however there is a difference in the workings of the holy Ghost/ holy Spirit Spirit , and the gift given by the laying on of hands described in the book of Acts.
@@Clark-po2rb members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do believe in Jesus Christ as the savior and Messiah of the world who redeemed us from our sins.
@@zionmama150 Mormons just don't believe Jesus is God...... that's one of the biggest differences between Christianity and mormons.
Loved this video. Thank you for your respect and consideration.
I loved David's answer to the last question and your summary of it. How do you experience The Holy Ghost? I agree that everyone experiences it in their own way, He speaks in our language because he knows us individually and perfectly. So even though you and I may both speak English, we can still have misunderstandings. He speaks to me in exactly the way that is right for me. I have felt His presence and influence in many ways. Usually I just feel feelings of peace and bits of understanding but occasionally I have more powerful experiences such as physical comfort, specific direction, flashes of inspiration or understanding, or things brought to my remembrance with such power and understanding of the source that it has brought me to tears. On one occasion i had an experience which felt like my mind had been opened up and I could see the truth being revealed like a puzzle being put together perfectly with so much understanding of how it all came together and with such clarity that it could not be from my own understanding.
I have heard a friend talk about these experiences as well in other churches so I do not believe that we are the only people who experience such inspiration or revelation. I know that the heavens are opened and that God will pour out His spirit upon us. He wants us to know Him, and He wants us to allow Him to guide our paths in righteousness. I am so grateful for this knowledge, for His influence and for the gospel in my life. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to reflect on and share this.
BTW there is a whole series of short videos by the Prophets and apostles on how they Hear Him. They are available on TH-cam and in our gospel library app.
I agree, the Holy Spirit can guide those of other faiths as in each Church there is truth. I am a convert from the Church of England and the Holy Spirit guided me to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter of Saints many years ago. So very grateful to be a member! I love the Gospel! One thing I would have explained how the Holy Spirit was explained to me, that there is one Holy Spirit, but his influence can be felt everywhere, just like the rays of the sun. Love Pastor Jeff and Brother David making these videos. ❤
This was a nice show. I really liked the questions asked, and the answers given in reply, especially about the Holy Ghost. I can honestly say, that I’ve felt the Gift of the Holy Ghost many times in my life. He has comforted, guided, and warned me. I’m truly grateful to have this precious gift in my life, and I hope to always live worthily to receive it when it’s needed.
Love your initiative to read literature about the prophets. Have you read the Book of Mormon yet? Of all the book to read that would be the most important. In a past video, you mentioned you were going to. Very interested on your opinion of it!
Thank you for posting this! Since we've been called by the nicknames LDS or Mormon for so long, sometimes people don't know that the actual name of the church is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or that the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ references the Savior on just about every single page. I love these sorts of open, kind conversations between friends.
Love this discourse. We do not need to agree about things. But understanding is so important.god bless you both.
Keep it up these talks really bring clarity to both sides. Opening up conversation instead of talking past each other is how we can get to the real questions and understand one another better.
I wanted to say something about the atonement. The understanding I have gathered is that there are two parts in the atonement. Paying the price for sin and bearing the sins of the world. In the garden the gospels describe great anxieties and sadness in Christ and Luke describes the pain of Christ to bleeding out.
Though there is controversy on the verse in Luke about whether Jesus was just sweating water or actually began to bleed like science, and several church fathers suggest and full heartedly believed. Even Dionysus who argued that "sweat of blood" was a parallel to extreme stress and reflected the use of the phrase "tears of blood" to refer to extreme sadness... Understood the text should be understood to be that Jesus sweat blood. Though he believed it was a manner of speech and not a real experience. (Likely under pressure that sweating blood was an uncommon understanding of it being a possibility at the time though historians did describe the existence of such a problem, there just wasn't the easiest access and anti-christians really didn't care if they were fighting facts because high opinion prevails regardless of truth.
Isaiah describes the bearing of sins, griefs, sorrows, pains of all the world. That is a lot of stress which science describes would cause excess of sweating become sweat as the body can't take it anymore and starts breaking up.
I believe that Jesus bore our sins in the garden took them and it was stacked upon him as he walked and was nailed to the cross and just before he died the worst pain, grief, despair, and sorrow of them all Jesus could no longer feel God's presence... And then he died and with it all the sins of the world died. It is finished. Hallelujah! Praise God!
With praise and worship everlasting we should ask ourselves, what comes next? The New Testament says, live unto God and teach your fellow man the good news that they are saved from sins and all can reconcile to God! Hallelujah! Praise God!
How does one live eternally unto God? How does one walk with him, progress to perfection? (Some take easy street and say, no need: salvation is sure and godly perfection is achieved at the resurrection, enter the kingdom of God regardless of growth regardless of result.) Jesus said be born again in the spirit to enter the kingdom of God. So what does it mean to be born again in the spirit? Some say it is sure belief, so because you surely believe you're going to be baptized example of this act with the eunuch who said I believe and was baptized. So what is our desire to do good continually and do whatever God planned for us to do? Yes exactly. Well, what is it that God plans for us what is our next steps? What do we need to do to receive the kingdom? Well apparently we have to resist being like a rich man attached to material things? But with God all things are possible so just be sure God is on your side and it's all fine right? Do you see what is happening, there is a resistance to teachings of Jesus to simplify his serious and extraordinary fight against sin. So then what, are we supposed to be pure from sin? Jesus did that no problem. Again this resistance to accepting Jesus' teaching. Spit it out, don't hate, don't look at a woman with lust. But God loves me, God is on my side. See the beautiful paradox? God is on your side and does love you, but he does not live sin and is not on the side of satan who glorifies sin. So how do we win this seemingly impossible fight against sin? By coming closer to God, by resisting temptation, by trusting Jesus' teachings against sin, by surroundint yourself in godly people, by having a partner to unite with and lift each other up to step in where you fail and correct you. To love godly becoming one creature one flesh and learn to do the same with Christ and God and others around you. Raise children to understand how God handles and loves his children the rebellious and the virtuous. And this is what is taught and learned in the LDS church to learn to resist sin and become more godlike to be a better image and likeness to God. To become one with God.
I went all out, a bit of passion dealing with Evangelicas and Calvinists so thanks for reading this and I hope you can better understand some of the reasons I believe the LDS Church. I truly love this channel and wish I could have conversations like this with more Christian denominations cause I am really passionate and want to get everyone to understand and i want to better understand others so share and keep up the discussion. Thank you
Why can't I stop watching your channel?!?! Great content, and I love your LDS investigation.
I love these conversations. I’m LDS and I’m learning a lot about nuances of Protestant theology and practice. Super interesting. Thank you.
I will say that this discussion, I liked much better than the last one, very fluid exchange of ideas and terms!!
I have super super enjoyed listening to your discussions. I am extra tired of the infighting that goes on between followers of Jesus Christ... just because the different denominations dont understand each other and feel 'different'. I truly believe that we all have more in common, than we have differences, as we follow this most Holy Son of God, Jesus Christ. I am soooo grateful that you are doing this channel. I am so enjoying that there is such a wonderful common thread between us all.. God bless us everyone..
I am loving this channel as an active LDS member!:) I again would love to invite you to attend one of our Sunday services here in Utah and see firsthand how we conduct our Sundays:)
Hi Jeff! love this channel and showing how to have respectful conversations. I am LDS and believe the doctrine. I grew up in Georgia and have AMAZING evangelical Christian friends. I am very familiar with our similarities and differences. I think that if I die and find out that the restored church was not true then I would still be saved because I believe in Jesus Christ and accept Him as my Savior. God could say, "Oh my sweet Sarah you tried hard to come closer to me but it wasn't necessary." Then I would be glad I was an overachiever and not on the other side wishing I knew/did more ya know? ;)
Atonement: it's not like we discount or ignore the crucifixion. We just DO include the garden, too.
love this soooo much. Love that you are building bridges which in my opinion. Im convinced Christ would do if he were here.
If I think about how well these two people talk together it is just as peaceful as if they were the same denomination. It is like the pastor said, “Sometimes we break the family…” I know there have been conversations in my religion with people that supposedly believe the same thing disagree and have more controversy than you see hear. I know politics can influence that controversy in my faith. Sometimes it can be how strongly one gravitates to theology for answers and how much one gravitates toward science for answers. There are a lot of different beliefs in ones own religion that are possible to create controversy and sometimes it comes up, but most of the time people focus on commonality especially when they are not feeling threatened by each other. Love the video!
This is one of my favorite TH-cam channels. ❤
I think God smiles when we focus on Him, and our shared faith. If we keep the focus on Him and His children we are helping in His work. Great interview!
Pastor Jeff, an example of the Holy Spirit in your live might be . You have prepared a sermon for your congregation. Then at the last minute something inside you says" no, speak of THIS today. and if you are smart you do just the. And if you are4 lucky you learn that the new message was exactly what someone in your congregation needed to hear.
thank you for your very honest coverage of The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I have been a member all my adult life and would not trade it for anything..
Hello to you both. I am very impressed with your very respectful dialogue. I was baptized in the LDS faith by my Grandfather in 1992. I left and came back a couple of times for different reasons. After studying the true USA history and after studying the original writings of the Bible. I have come back permanently to the LDS faith. It makes sense and it has forever strengthened by faith in the LDS doctrine as for me anyway is True.
Christians and brothers and sisters in Christ first and foremost! I believe this is how He would want it to be. He has saved us all and sees the value in all of us-we should see the value in each other and love one another as He has loved us.
Thank you for your great comments and for suggesting we treat religious garmets (of all faiths) with respect. I've enjoyed your videos with David Snell. It would be great to see a video of your conversation with someone who is more at your same knowledge and experience level in our church. It would likely need to be one of the Seventy though, or someone higher.
Re: The Atonement - The Atonement was performed in part in the Garden of Gethsemane and in part on the cross. He then allowed himself to be killed and completed the Atonement when he rose from the tomb on the third day. He overcame sin and death.
Re: Experiencing the Spirit - There are many fruits of the Spirit. He communicates with us in many different ways and I think most people don't really understand this. He's not given credit where credit is due. As mentioned though the Spirit does communicate with each of us according to our need and how we might best understand that communication.
I am a committed Latter Day Saint. I want you to know that I absolutely love these discussions and sharing doctrine and question with David on your channel. I consider you a true brother in Christ and as we face the troubling times foretold by prophets and apostles of old, I would and will stand arm in arm and shoulder to shoulder with you. There are far more things that unite us than divide us. Thank for again!
Hey Jeff, great video as always! It's fascinating seeing open views from someone outside of the LDS church. It's also been really cool to get a more open view of Protestantism and the similarities and differences between the both of our beliefs.
I know you expressed a personal interest in the way we experience the Holy Spirit in our Church. If you haven't seen it already there are some great videos about the spirit and revelation by one of our apostles on the Church of Jesus Christ TH-cam Channel.
It's a three part series called Patterns of Light by David A Bednar. Might clarify a bit more about the way many people experience the Spirit.
Also, I've got a list of scriptures that go more in depth into how the Spirit and Revelation work, but I figure this comment is long enough already. Keep up the amazing work and God bless you!
TH-cam is weird about links, but here's a link to those videos to make it easier on you. I swear, these are links to the three videos in order and not a random virus or something. They're all about 3 - 5 minutes, super quick and easy to watch:
th-cam.com/video/fycvkAhYz1I/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/zDEXQ-GTYTs/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/slTa15a3mp0/w-d-xo.html
You should do a video about general conference coming up! (October 1-2!)
About the Atonement - many mortals have died cruel and horrific deaths by the hands of evil men. Man has inflicted such horrendous methods of death upon their fellow man such as the crucifiction and many other ways, however only one man has suffered in a way that caused him to bleed from every pore of his body - that was our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We believe in some way we can't comprehend, every sin, sickness, and sadness that every person that had lived, was currently living at the time of Christ, and would live in the future, was given to our blessed Lord in the Garden of Gethsemane. The pain was so intense that it even caused our Lord to ask his Father if there could be another way. However, he knew what his main purpose was and drank the "bitter cup". The Garden of Gethsemane is where that occurred and I believe it did indeed took place. That is why we love and worship our Savior - he did for us what we could never do for ourselves and that is to make us clean by taking upon himself all our sins and infirmities. Yes we understand the Atonement of Jesus Christ as much as mortals can and testify that kind of love can only be given by a GOD!
I love how you 2 described the Holy Ghost/Spirit. I would add one bit: it's not just inspiration and revelation, but confirmation. Things can be words in your mind, realizations in the moment, or even promptings of concern or direction. Kind of like a conscience, but more external source manifesting internally. Too often I've seen others mock us, try to use scripture to say we can't know God through feelings. Not everything comes through visions or visitations. It's often more subtle. A good example of the Holy Spirit communicating and influencing is on the Called To Share channel. An Elder talks about jumping motorbikes with his friends, how he was convinced to not take a jump and what could have happened if he had.
The best way I can describe feelings of confirmation: what if God tapped you on the shoulder with His finger? Would you feel significantly different than if a person did it or no one at all? That's the difference we're talking about. It's one thing to get inspiration or confirmation by the spirit, but it's something more to be able to discern and understand it, much less apply or follow. It's not always a simple all-or-nothing or in-the-moment thing.
Great video! Jeff, I really appreciate taking on a historically charged topics, plus modern anti-LDS hate or prejudice, with friendly dialogue and the chance to learn more about each other and even from each other.
It's such a basic and true principle, when you feel someone reaching out in love and respect there is a natural desire to reciprocate. I have often been blessed with good Christian friends from various Protestant churches, I would say in high school in particular (adolescence is not for the faint of heart 😂). I am grateful they included me in good, clean fun and I see so much possibility for cooperation in achieving mutual goals - becoming better people and making the world a better place. Thank you so much ❤
I start out in 1998 as a Baptist I never knew God till then I was sitting in a youth group setting and they were talking about the cross and I mocked and made fun of them cuz I did not fully understand why a man that many years ago would die for me why me now I got baptized a month later at that time I never felt love from home so to be at a Christian Church I felt more love and acceptance than I ever have and now it's 2,000 and I had become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ couple years later I was ordained an elder into the office thereof another couple years later I went to the temple and got my endowment there was nothing like it in my opinion it was a beautiful thing for me to do I love being a member of the church and David thank you so much for explaining to the folks no nothing of the endowment or our special garments and the reasons why they're so special to us very beautiful Jeff I really do appreciate you as a pastor you bring forth wonderful conversation and as a latter Day Saint I don't feel judged by you I don't feel like you're going to condemn me because of my belief in the book of Mormon I do really love this channel I appreciate also how lovingly and kindly you talk to your audience and show them that even though you're not part of their faith you still have enough love to understand that there may be some differences but all in all we both believe in the same Christ and we also both believe in the resurrection of him and his death on the cross I personally don't wear a cross and like David said it's cool if you want to wear a cross but I don't want to be reminded of the torture that the Lord went through for me to be saved and his death I don't need to wear a death symbol on my shirt to know that the lord loves me enough that he took the cross just for me love this stuff just love it
Thank you for encouraging your viewers to stop the ridicule and attacks with our garments! You don’t see or hear that from other faiths!
The garment really is a reminder of Christ’s salvation he covers us with.
I am really glad to know people like you, who respect and love people behond theirs beliefs. I am from Brazil, and the protestants churchs in here are usually studying the church just to disrispect our beliefs. Thank you for you love!
If you want to know more of how the church works outside of the U.S. feel free to contact me :)
With regards to the Holy Ghost/Spirit for me the difference between revelation and inspiration is when receiving revelation is like getting nuggets of knowledge or greater understanding, where as inspiration is the voice persuading me to behave in certain ways or to perform certain actions like one night I was impressed to pray for and bless a specific woman in need. The impression was so strong it woke me from a sound sleep, and was so urgent that I needed to do it then and there.
@luke -Perfect explanation of the difference between inspiration and revelation 😊
@@InAllThingsBearHisName Thanks. 😀
The temple garment serves as a reminder of our covenants. I understand it also does serve as a protection, mostly from spiritual sickness if worn worthily ie with the intent on remembering our covenants and actively striving to keep them.
I am so grateful that every time I put them on, I'm reminded that I'm symbolically choosing to intentionally keep my covenants with Christ that day.
I struggle to wear them from the day I started wearing them in the temple when I received my first endowment.
@@marclucas9701 that's OK. Why do you think you struggled with them?
The temple garments are like the robes the priesthood, like the priests in the camp of Israel wore. We view them similarly. Thank you, Pastor Jeff for asking people to respect our sacred clothes. They are symbolic of commandments and covenants that we are to hold dear that help us be more Christlike. Their power is in the symbolism, for in faith is power.
I just happened upon your channel. I grew up in Utah and have always been a member of the LDS church. I’ve lived outside of Utah now just as long. I have had my children in a Christian school, definitely with a Protestant culture, because I have felt the most comfortable with the environment and content. While I love being there and having my children there, I feel like school leaders are uncomfortable with us. I was told by a Protestant friend that parents don’t want their children to be curious about anything other than what they are being taught. I told my children to not talk about their beliefs other than general topics I know we sync on. I think they are too fearful though. One senior of mine was afraid to say whether or not she thought baptism was needed in a discussion that came up in class. She was worried about throwing in a voice that would be different. I appreciate this channel as a means for curiosity. I am learning things about my friends’ beliefs listening to you. It’s helpful!
Wow, @Mindy Walker… I am incredibly happy to hear this channel is helpful. I’m also sorry that you’re feeling a bit shunned within your protestant relationships. One of my biggest hopes for this channel is to help my fellow evangelicals engage in more relational and curious ways with latter-day Saints and to set the stigmas aside. I pray your family sees a shift in your current community. Thank you for sharing and thank you for watching. ~ Jeff
Fabulous! Thank you both for your respectful communication.
Two thumbs up on this episode
God’s will feel his presence love him with all our heart mind and soul and love each other. I am a. Member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we are also taught and incurables see seek truth where ever it can be found lead by God’s divine love
I’m a confirmed Roman Catholic exploring where I find my truth in this world and I have a handful of friends that are part of the LDS church and this has really helped me learn about what these people believe and how many similarities we have. I’ve been raised of the ilk very similar to you, Jeff. Be curious and and learn how to be a steward of God with this group of people because there’s so much I personally think that we have in common with them. So, from a Catholic, I just wanted to say thank you
I love the respectfulness of these conversations. A far cry from my memories of growing up in the LDS church, and the open mockery of Protestantism in Sunday school. One of the grossest things I remember was a "fake pastor" exercise they did in a priesthood meeting when I was about 14. They had a guy from another ward come in as a Lutheran pastor for a "debate" with our priesthood leader. Well, over the course of the discussion, the "pastor" saw the error of his ways and converted to mormonism. Then at the end of this condescending nonsense it was revealed to our pimply faces that "Aw shucks, this is really Brother Garrett from Ogden 5th ward," or whatever. Yeah. Gross.
That's so incredibly weird. Definitely not standard for kids growing up LDS.
@@naomijackson4691 I don't know if you are LDS or grew up in it or whatever, but if you have a moment, look up the flight 409 exercise. Ours was even more bizarre than the descriptions I've found online.
It’s interesting to read about the clothing worn by Old Testament priests in the Old Testament and compare them to the clothing worn by Latter-day Saints, both garments and temple clothes.
Asking about Gethsemane, a great talk is from Bruce R McConkie called "The Purifying Power of Gethsemane" and at the end, Elder Bruce gives his final testimony of Christ before he passed away.
11:30 I think the explanation on the unity within protestantism can be reinforced quite well by how easily and often protestants might move between different churches during their life. A lds person that leaves their church usually go atheist, but a protestant usually goes to a different church to a much higher degree.
Is. 53:5 He was wounded for our transgressions (willful rebellion), He was bruised for our iniquities (accepting what is wrong - twisted, perverted - ideas instead what is right), the chastisement for our peace ( Shalom - nothing missing, nothing lacking) was upon Him and by His stripes we were healed. All these took place at the whipping post. Appreciate your vides.
The suffering of pain and agony from sin happened in the Garden of Gethsemane, when Christ was left alone and his disciples slept and an angel was sent to comfort him. This provides a means for us to repent of our sins and become clean to return to His presence. The experience on the cross was the physical suffering of death, which was necessary for Christ to overcome physically and be resurrected, body and spirit, providing the way for us all to be physically resurrected. This, all-eoncompassed, is the Atonement.
I would answer the question about feeling the Spirit, different. There is an understanding that everyone feels it differently. Some feel it more emotionally, and some feel it more mentally. I personally feel the influence of the Spirit both ways. I know when the Spirit is telling me the truth by a feeling of peace accompanied by a complete absence of fear and confusion. That's not easy for me to accomplish alone, I overthink everything. I know when the Spirit is teaching me. It can also come with a physical sensation of heart beating, warmness in my chest, and chills over my body. I also have thoughts and impressions about acting on something. If I chose to act, the result is always fantastic and a witness to me. That is another way the Spirit guides me.
We need a part 3
Ooh! On the atonement I think the Saints have a fascinating view because it almost seems like a view which didn’t start and end with the passion. It’s like…Jesus is the perfect man. He is man deified and perfected. And he began the atonement from the moment he existed, exalting ever aspect of human existence and showing mankind what it could be. The atonement is a process through which Jesus not only atoned by taking on our sins (Gethsemane), dying to sin (Calvary), and then defeating death and forging a path to eternal life (resurrection), but also by exalting and magnifying what it is to be human. He takes our hand and leads us through the journey of discipleship, from birth and our being offered to the Lord, through baptism and growth in righteousness, through a life of self-giving, to a return to our Heavenly Father, and a resurrection into a divine inheritance and eternal joy.
1 Peter 1:20, 21
Another great discussion!
Love the part ... Speak to my people, stop making fun of Mormon underwear, don't even use that phrase... brought tears to my eyes.
It is stated that he suffered both in Gethsemane and upon the cross. The Atonement is incomplete without the suffering in Gethsemane or the suffering and death upon the cross. It also needs the resurrection, which is probably the most vital part.
Hey fantastic video series. I'm a catholic who was curious about the LDS church myself and did a lot of research and looking at various resources. How does someone get information onto you? I have things I think you would find helpful and extremely useful.
I have been so in aw of your podcasts--THANK YOU THANK YOU!! You are Christ like and the approach of LOVING us "peculiar people" is beautiful. The Lord is our focus and HIS atonement is our salvation. May you continue learning about the Lord's reorganized church in the last days. He had one church--He is not a Lord of confusion. I know HIS church is upon this earth- We still receive prophetic revelation in these troubled times just as in bible days--Why would HE not provide that for us? Why would he leave us alone on this earth to wander--The bible is HIS word, however- it leaves us in an ancient time. He loves US! We do receive personal revelation for us and our families. READ the Book of Mormon! Love you brother Jeff
not sure why this is crossed out
I’d love to see an interaction between you and Jared Halverson of the TH-cam channel Unshaken. Brother Halverson is a teacher in the LDS church education system or seminary program who went to Divinity school, which is pretty unique to most LDS experience. I think that would be a conversation that would add value to this quest of understanding the differences and similarities in the LDS faith and Protestant/Evangelical (not even sure if that’s correct, and if I’m incorrectly identifying I apologize).
My understanding of the Atonement is echoed in a General Conference talk given in April of 2011 by Elder C. Scott Grow. He states, "Through His suffering and death, the Savior atoned for the sins of all men. His Atonement began in Gethsemane and continued on the cross and culminated with the Resurrection. There are 3 integral parts of the atonement. It's incomplete without all 3. This belief is also reflected in our Bible Dictionary entry "Atonement".
I think what may happen is that because our belief is that His suffering was greatest in The Garden, as He made the blood sacrifice to atone for our sins, and that event is where our faith to be able to be forgiven comes from, we focus a lot on that. It makes sense because repentance is a daily need. And for that reason it's constantly preached.
But the atonement shows His power over sin, and that He ransomed Himself to pay for our sins, His power over life, He chose to release His Spirit, and His power over death, the Resurrection. Because He has power over all these, we can have absolute trust and faith in Him to free us from the burden and guilt of sin, and to free us from the grave and give us life with Him again.
God is a man of flesh and blood. That's all I needed to hear today.
We don't believe He is a man like people on earth all. We believe he has a body that is immortal and perfect, but as with Protestants, we believe that He is unchanging, omniscient, omnipotent, all glory, and that our bodies on this earth are fallen
@@menayeah "We believe he has a body.." OK
@@PhilippedeHerte you seem to object to this idea. Can I ask why?
@@DannyAGray It's not that I object, it's just not historically Christian.
@@PhilippedeHerte That's because Christian doctrine on this area is in error when it comes to the physical definition.. God does have a perfect immortal body. If God does not have a resurrected body then it denies the doctrine of the resurrection. For the Son of God inherited the resurrection from God the Father.
Very interesting conversations, I have always found religion to be complex to my understanding. Having been a LDS for over 60 years I struggled with some of the teachings. I believe there is only one God and no one else, that he is just all loving and will deal with me when my time will come, I recognize that the way to him is through Jesus Christ and only him. But anyway as I have said: interesting conversations.*smile*
Thank you Pastor Jeff for lovingly suggesting to 'stop making fun of those of the LDS faith that wear the garment'.
Great job to both of you. One addition to the Holy Ghost is that we believe it to be absolutely crucial to mortality. One job is the sanctifying power of the holy spirit. We believe in baptism by water and fire and the Holy Ghost is the method of baptism by fire. We believe that when we keep our covenants with God he blesses us with his Holy Spirit.
Love that he called the LDS Church "the most American church." Awesome. Just Awesome.
One thing I learned recently, and found interesting, is that there are around 100 sects of mormonism. The lds missionaries that I've talked to didn't seem to know that either.
I wanted to put my thoughts down to the video. Sorry if I am long winded but I hope my thoughts can act as a supplement.
One thing I would like to point out in regards to the Garments is that part of the reason have been come to be known as Magical is that part of the promise we receive if we wear is they will serve as reminder and a protection from the world so long as we keep the covenants we made. Then there are stories of members having physical protection while where garments that make them seem magically when reality most of these would really be coincidental. For Example a LDS Solider from WW2 got shot and he wasn't hit and it was ascribed to his garments when in reality the bullet his his pocket Book Mormon (or some other book of scripture) that was in his breast pocket that stopped the bullet from hitting him.
In regards to the atonement, One thing I would like to mention is we don't believe Christ only suffered for our Sins but he suffered all of pains and afflictions (physically, mentally and spiritually) so he can understand that suffering in order to better "Succor us" in our time of need. We believe as David said that he started his suffering in the Garden where I believe he suffered most of that (though I am not sure that is exactly what the church teaches) then continued suffering through his time with the Pharisees and the Romans up till the moment he experienced the ultimate and final pain we would know in death to both know that pain but to also break that barrier in order to allow for the final part of the atonement in the resurrection. Furthermore, and this is just my personal belief and not doctrine. I believe the atonement actually lasted from the time of Christ's Birth to the time of his resurrections because he experienced a lot of pain and suffering throughout his life which was necessary for him to better understand how to comfort us. Gethsemane is where he started the suffering for our sins directly. And if we are talking in person here is where I would say continue but really I am just going to hit the play button.
I like what David said in that it is more important to focus on the meat and principles of Christ then getting hung up on the how it was accomplished. We as Christians believe he suffered for our sins and died because of that, whether or not he actually did that on the cross or in Gethsemane is not truly important.
One thing I liked that Jeff said when talking about the different denominations is that our differences don't make us think they are going to hell. One thing I would like to point out and that I feel like is misconception regarding LDS members is we don't think members of other religions are going to hell either because they believe differently. We also don't believe that just because we are members that we are going to the Celestial Kingdom. We believe that as long we put our faith in Christ and live according to that faith we can some day enter the Kingdom of God and some of those people will be people who didn't join the church but lived according to the gospel to the best of their ability while other who were a part of the church but did not live the gospel will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. A good analogy is that the Gospel is the road to Heaven and the straightest path with the least obstacles along the way is the Gospel road but that doesn't mean someone who walking 50 miles away but semi-parallel from the road couldn't make it. It just may mean they are taking a ton switch-backs and mountain climbing to get there, there also many divergent paths along the way that are going to lead you away from heaven. And along the road to heaven there are offshoots while shiny and distracting things along the way to get you to step off the road and go away from the gospel. The key is to focus on the goal which is straight ahead and is Christ.
To add to David's answer for hearing the holy Ghost. The inspiration generally comes (again varying from person to person) with like a good feeling to do this, or forgetting a thought you had to tell you it wrong. It could be just a thought indistinguishable from your own, like "I need to go visit David Snell because he is having hard day and could use a cookie" or "Smile at Pastor Jeff he needs a pick-me up". Like David said these are often hard to see at the time but with Hindsight can often be seen as what they really are. Revelation on the other hand can be found in the same way but I would say easier to tell that this isn't me talking, or it can come in the form of a vision or a dream. I would say though like David say that anything like what the Prophets and Apostles experienced in Scripture would be rare for the average person, and even for them. Their greatest hits as David put it.
Thanks guys your great
The green jello and funeral potatoes! 😂 Honestly, why is that so funny?
I love that you are making these videos! I only wish I had them before I went on my mission to North Carolina. I would have made so many more personal connections with people and had more meaningful conversations.
Green jello and funeral potatoes are largely a Utah-Mormon cultural thing. When I moved to the Beehive state from AZ I didn't understand it either, but being here almost 24 years now, jello and funeral potatoes are almost too common of dishes people bring to church gatherings or parties (or funerals I guess) and honestly it's kinda annoying. However I will say that I do LOVE Funeral Potatoes especially if there's bacon in it.
The other part of the garden is that he literally felt the sufferings of all past, present, and future people. He knows exactly what everyone has and will go through.
Appreciate your show Jeff. I am LDS but wanted you to know that I like your calm interest in our faith….it’s refreshing and also your topics reminds me of things I have not thought of for awhile.
Anyways, great job!!
Clarification about the atonment question. In the Garden of Gethsemane, he drank from the bitter cup and bled from every pore over coming sin, and then on the cross he overcame death and ressurected. Together create the Atonement.
My understanding as LDS is that the garden of gethsemmane is where he redeemed us from our sins, and the cross is where he redeemed us from the bonds of death. I could be misunderstanding though