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
"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" New names are associated with ordinances and covenants. Birth: A New Name and a Blessing As newborn babies, the first ordinance Latter-day Saints participate in is to receive a “name and a blessing.” (See: D&C 20:70) This type of ceremony is not unique to Latter-day Saints. Like Latter-day Saints, the infant in Roots, … Continue reading New Names
"Sunday Sermon" Early Baptismal Ceremony In the early years of the Christian Church, the baptismal ceremony went as follows: Pre-baptismal instruction by a bishop [months or years] Prayer inviting the Holy Spirit Disrobing of candidate [behind a veil] Vocal renunciation of Satan by candidate Anointing of the candidate with oil Candidate stands or kneels in … Continue reading Baptismal Ceremonies in the Early Christian Church – Washing and Anointing (naked)
"Sunday Sermon" After baptizing Jesus, John the Baptist announced, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30) John shared, by his teaching and example, an essential gospel principle. John had been in the limelight for years. He had lots of admirers and followers. But now, John had fulfilled his mission. His ministry was winding down. Christ’s … Continue reading “I must decrease”- John the Baptist
"Sunday Sermon" Overview A. Foundational Fallacy: Children are born in sin, having inherited sin and guilt from the fall of Adam and Eve. Therefore, they are at risk of eternal damnation from birth. B. Logical Extension #1: Since baptism is necessary for the remission of sins and for salvation, infants must be baptized or else … Continue reading “Original Sin” and Infant Baptism
"Sunday Sermon" “We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Articles of Faith, 4) The Bible proclaims there should be “One … Continue reading Baptism, a Commandment. By Immersion for the Remission of Sins
(Based, in part, on a talk by Elder James E. Slaughter, of the Seventy, Santa Margarita Stake Conference, Sunday, Oct. 9, 2022) 1. The sacrament is for renewing all our covenants, not just baptism We often hear that, by partaking of the sacrament, we “renew our covenants of baptism.” That is true. However, it is … Continue reading 8 Special Insights on the Sacrament
"Sunday Sermon" for July 4th Founding Fathers Appear to Wilford Woodruff Wilford Woodruff was a spiritual giant. He received more visitations, visions, promptings, and revelations than anyone in this dispensation other than the Prophet Joseph Smith. Most members of the church have heard that the Founding Fathers appeared to Elder Wilford Woodruff in the St. … Continue reading America’s Founders and Other Famous People Were Baptized for the Dead in 1877-The Details
"Sunday Sermon" When Abram entered into a covenant with the Lord, he was given a new name - Abraham. This represented a new beginning, symbolic of being born again. (Gen 17:1-8) Likewise, Sarai was given the new name of Sarah. (Gen 17:15-16) When Jacob entered in a covenant with God, he was given a new … Continue reading Covenant Pattern: A New Birth, a New Name, and a New Beginning
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