Justin Martyr and the First Apology Saint Justin Martyr (100-165 AD) is one of the first Christian apologists. (“Apologies” are defenses of Christianity.) His First Apology (155-157 AD) was written to the Roman Emperor. Justin explained Christian beliefs and practices. He denied rumors that Christians were atheists and disloyal to the empire. He also rejected … Continue reading In Synch: Saint Justin Martyr and the Prophet Joseph Smith
"Sunday Sermon" In July 1838, the Prophet Joseph Smith received a revelation calling the Twelve Apostles to serve a mission in Britain. They were to leave on April 26th 1839 from Far West, Missouri. (D&C 118) Tragic conditions made fulfillment of the prophecy virtually impossible This revelation could not have come at a worse time. … Continue reading The Incredible Mission of the Twelve to Britain(1838-1841)
"Old Prophet" When Wilford Woodruff grew up in Connecticut, an “eccentric” elderly man, named Robert Mason, preached against the religious teachings of the day. “Old Prophet” Mason taught “it was necessary to have prophets, apostles, dreams, visions, and revelations in the church of Christ, the same as … in ancient days.” “Old Man” Mason declared … Continue reading “Old Prophet” Mason and the Conversion of Wilford Woodruff
"Sunday Sermon" The saints in Jackson County, Missouri, experienced severe persecution in 1833. They were driven from their homes and forced across the Missouri River into Clay County. Joseph Smith received assurances from the Governor that if the saints raised an army to help the Missouri militias, the saints would be restored to their land. … Continue reading Was Zion’s Camp a Failure?
"Sunday Sermon" Prophets and Seers We sustain the Prophet, the First Presidency, and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as “prophets, seers, and revelators.” A “seer” is one who “sees.” “Seeing” is their “superpower.” A seer: Is a watchman who sees “afar off” in distance and the future. Sees through the darkness (spiritual and societal). Sees … Continue reading The Prophet and the Pandemic
"Faith on Friday" The Miracle of Raising the Dead The miracle of raising the dead is one of the most exceptional and sacred miracles. During his mortal ministry Jesus raised several people from the dead, including, the daughter of Jairus (Mark 5: 22-42), the widow’s son in Nain (Luke 7: 11-17), and Lazarus (John 11: … Continue reading Raised from the Dead: Lorenzo Snow and Ella Jensen
General Conference is a time of spiritual renewal. We are enlightened and inspired. We are encouraged to “Hear Him” and “Let God prevail.” We are encouraged to strive to do better and be better. We are “taken to the spiritual mountain and shown visions of great glory.” Marion G. Romney: Spiritual Mountains and Visions of … Continue reading General Conference — a time of spiritual renewal
"Sunday Sermon" (These are my "Bishop's Remarks" when I welcomed newly baptized members into our ward.) “In Ephesians 2:19, the Apostle Paul declared: ‘Now therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.’ “At the time of Jesus, the Jews looked down on the … Continue reading “Ye Are No More Strangers and Foreigners.” “Bishop’s Remarks” at Convert Baptisms (Ephesians 2:19)
"Sunday Sermon" Christ's church is founded on Twelve Apostles Jesus Christ organized a church when he lived among men. The church had a formal structure, and was built upon the “foundation” of twelve apostles. (Eph 2:19-20) To his twelve apostles, Jesus said, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, … Continue reading Christ’s Church is Built Upon the Foundation of Twelve Apostles
"Sunday Sermon" Last year, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasized studying the Old Testament. This year, the Church is emphasizing in-depth study of the New Testament. New Testament: The Most Important Book of Scripture The New Testament is the most important canon of scripture because it contains the entire mortal ministry of … Continue reading New Testament: Introduction and Overview
The London Edition 