The other day, in the temple, a beautiful lady pointed out to me; that when one participates in the prayer circle, we literally turn our backs to the ways of the world as a group.
And you turn and face the men representing the Holy Ghost, which represents the Lord, with One Heart and One Mind. This is what makes the prayer extremely powerful.
Thank you so much! I am serving as a primary President at the moment. Being the mother of two boys has really made me see how society treats boys and become more aware that our boys need more structure and support today. I have a daughter and feel comfortable that there is great support for her but see a lack of that support with my boys. I have been listening to different discussions on the priesthood and men. Our senior primary is mostly boys and I feel strongly we need to shift how we talk with them and how to connect with them to help them understand how to feel the spirit to gain a testimony. I have felt the guidance of the spirit a lot on this. We have all men teachers (not completely planned, just worked out that way) I am writing too much. To shorten this, I just feel a great deal of inspiration on how I need to move forward in my calling to reach out to the boys we have.
Our former choister in primary was our now bishop. He was so good and fun. Like a fun, dad! I'm glad he's our bishop but I agree men need to be appreciated and revered.
I think it is difficult for boys because there is a lot of confusing things going on in the world. Also if you are divorced that makes it difficult as well. It's not their fault, but some in the church treat them badly because of that. We can find ways to be supportive of them if we ask for God's help. I think it's tough for all our youth, male of female to find support. It's getting to the end. I ❤would not want to grow up in these times! God bless them 24/7! ❤❤❤
What a treat this was for me today guys. Two of my favorite men sharing vital truths with everyone. I especially loved the contrast between the "dominance " and the "condescension" hierarchies. The only way for any of us saints to built Zion within ourselves and hence the place Zion that we are hopefully striving for, is to understand, internalize and practice the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit. May the Lord continue to prosper both of you in your individual ministries as builders of Zion!
That broken heart analogy made me think of soil. You break ground on soil. Which means you loosen it to prepare it for another purpose, either a new building or to farm. It is a preparatory heart
And according to Pres. Romny, that is what main Christianity do, prepare the soil of the hearts of those who will be called by the Lord to come unto the Restored Church, and this way they will receive the fullness of the Gospel, in the due time of the Lord. (Paraphrased)
I agree with Todd 100%. Too many people in the church are too focused on getting ordinaces instead of trying harder to live in line with Christ and seeking to understand what they are taught. The baptism by fire is one of the most misunderstood things in the church. Read from the last chapter of Luke through the end of Acts 2. The baptism by fire comes AFTER recieving the gift of the Holy Ghost. It comes through like a rushing wind and results in the manifestation of the power of God in an undeniable way. The baptism by fire is not an ordinance but an internal and external alignment with the will of God.
"Too many people in the church are too focused on getting ordinaces" Too many? Is there a right and proper number? Too focused? Perhaps dial it back to a 7.
@@prezp00nage24 "does participating in ordinances you don't understand do anything for you?" It might. I suspect that no one fully understands the ordinances at the time; only later develop an understanding. Baptism is a good example. How many young people (or for more conventional Christians, babies) understand it is a metaphor for Christ being buried and resurrected? It is certainly preferred that people have a reasonably good sense of the ordinances BEFORE participating in an ordinance. But as with any contract, if a party to the contract does not, and perhaps cannot, understand the terms; then at law such contract is not usually binding. But even then, a "ticket is punched" and that's probably good for something. Among Utanians the big ticket is "RM", returned missionary. Whether it did anything for you (or anyone else) almost does not matter; what matters is the ticket is punched but that is a social thing, has nothing to do with God so far as I know.
When I worked for the church full time, I directed and filmed a "mormon message", now called "inspirational messages". The video is called Wrong Roads. In that video I filmed Elder Holland in his office and he said "I have certain knowledge.......perfect knowledge...... that God loves us." I remember filming that and it was powerful. In my head I remember saying "oh, that has to make it into the final cut of the video". I love how he paused and then clarified that he has perfect knowledge that God loves us. Since then I've been seeking this perfect knowledge.
As an ordinance worker, I have the priesthood and use it to facilitate the ordinances in the temple. I have learned through my experience that it assists me to serve... and as I have had the experiences of leadership in the temple it is sweet because I served both the patrons and the other workers and because of my service I have learned of the mysteries of God as I have sought him and seeked understanding in his holy house.
Greg, I like how you equated endowment with gaining new knowledge. When the prayer circle opens the windows of heaven, those spiritually prepared can be clothed upon from the light garment lost in the Garden. They receive a many-layered gift. A study of these gifts shows they are the same substance due to their identical frequency and vibration. That light garment is; being clothed upon with charity, the exact frequency as knowledge, truth, and PRIESTHOOD. They are the same. According to physics, when two things with the same frequency become atuned, a door/veil opens that we can pass through. We are protected by that light garment so we qualify to return to the presence of the Father symbolized by the Celestial Room. Our priesthood light garment is drawn to it's like (frequency), the veil, where we go for further light and knowledge. We orbit (ordained) around the Celestial Room. Jointly, our light garments unite into a wedding canopy that covers all who enter into the Celestial Room, the united Bride prepared to be of one heart with the Bridegroom.
Thank you for the wonderful discussion! This was powerful! I loved your discussion of a broken/soft heart vs a hardened heart. You tied murmuring and hardness of heart together, and this is key. Another way to think of a hardened heart is like clay that is hardened and no longer moldable and shapable. God desires to reshape our hearts such that our understandings, inclinations, and desires are patterned after His. A hardened heart can't be molded; instead we seek to shape God in our image rather than being shaped and molded into His image in our countenance. A hardened heart leads to murmuring. The common means of murmuring we see in our church family today is not limited to disobedience, but includes the desire to: 1. rewrite history according to our liking 2. reinterpret scripture to fit our modern narrative which has been shaped by the philosophies of men (and women), and 3. restructure the ordinances and hierarchies to align with that new narrative. The push to ordain women to priesthood offices is just one such example of this, but virtually all of the present difficulties you outline in your wonderful podcast fit within this framework. Thank you again for another awesome podcast!
The great thing about the gospel and repentance is that is hardened heart can be softened and changed. Maybe then it can be like a steel sword which has the ability to cause great damage, even death yet can be melted, added to and reshaped.
I wish they would teach this in church, or at least in Priesthood meeting. Todd knows things. This is all in the scriptures, but it takes revelation to be able to understand all of this and comprehend it into one complete whole. It was members like Todd who taught me much of this as a student at BYU. It set me on a lifelong quest to really know and understand the Gospel, seek personal revelation, and set out on the path that Todd is describing. The washings and anointings are different for the brethren and the sisters, as Todd described. He is right on. If this is not "delicious" to you, pray about it and receive your own revelation. I part-way agree with Todd that the oath and covenant of the Priesthood is the covenants of the temple Endowment. I believe the oath and covenant happens between you and the Lord. Maybe this is what he means by the "actual endowment". I can tell by what he says and how he says it that he is in communion with the Lord as he speaks. Pay attention, people, he is a servant of the Lord and he is doing what servants do. The thing that would make him the happiest and make the Lord happiest is for you to come to the Lord, yourself, with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, and ask the Lord to help you understand and live these things. "Blessed are they who hunger and seek after righteousness, for they shall be filled with the Holy Ghost".
They say that Jesus actually died of a broken heart, thus the blood in the fluids that spilled out when he was pierced by the sword. What better way to show Him our sincerity than to come to Him also with a broken heart because we have traveled the same path of sacrifice for others.
I love Todd's tender hearted, powerful testimony. I love the depth of his testimony that poured out, and his eagerness to share what he understands. Todd, thank you !!!
I so appreciated Todd’s perspective and insightful points…and especially the humble spirit with which he shared them. WOW, so much truth is now flooding the earth! Thanks to both of you!
I absolutely loved this. I've listened to it twice, constantly backing it up many many times trying to make sure i heard and understood what was being taught. As a female, i have wondered many times why i did not understand the priesthood. I actually feel most of us don't really understand the priesthood, however, it seems there are those that seems to understand more and are helping people like me to figure it out. Thank you so much. I have always wanted to understand the mysteries of God.
MORE OF THIS. This is deep yet based on doctrine. I love that we are trying to learn about the Preisthood power. I think it is one of the most misunderstood principles in the church by both men and women.
this may be the 5th time i've watched this discussion. it's so beautiful to see someone like Todd express the kind of love for other people that we believe God has for us.
The historic Manti Utah temple just opened to be viewed before rededication. I like how in this pioneer temple, as you are participating in the endownment ceremony, you actually get up and walk up stairs and progress upward towards God. It helps doing this and realizing the actual progression we are to be making. They kept the progression in this temple which is absolutely amazing!! I think most the time when we just watch the film and don’t move, people are missing that bit of information.
Todd has many presentations and discussions with various channels on YT. Also, his own channel is called Shattering Triangles. There's more where this came from my brother
What a beautiful video about the priesthood and sacrifice. Every priesthood holder should hear these concepts. Great conversation as always. Thanks for making these videos Greg. They mean a lot to members like myself who live in the "mission field" where the church is small and you don't always get these kind of insights at a local and ward level. Nevermind the language barrier in Spain 😅🙏
I remember when I was 8 years old the power of the Holy Ghost entering my heart when my father said “Receive the Holy Ghost”. I knew the power of God and it was real. Receiving it at your confirmation is possible.
I remember a similar experience. I had the desire for it. I wanted to belong to God. That's enough to receive. I can see how this still applies to what Todd is saying about that ordinance.
I think the point is that it’s not necessarily a given that they happen at the same time. But that’s cool that you remember feeling it happen! I remember sitting in my confirmation and that my brother was the voice and my dad was part of the circle, but not much else about my confirmation. I’ve heard you can pray to have memories and experiences restored. Perhaps I shall do that!
I agree with your assessment. Receiving the Holy Ghost at confirmation is possible. What you do beforehand can play a big part in that. As for myself I received knowledge of the truthfulness and validity of the ordinances in the temple before and during the receiving of those ordinances. Previous to my mission I had to repent before I could go and was blessed for doing so. What if I had not repented and lied to the stake president and bishop and just went on my mission anyways? I will answer that I would not have received the revelation in the temple that I did nor come to the knowledge that I came to. I would have gone through the temple, but it would not have gone through me. I would of received things which I had not prepared to received. I might of thought of the temple as evil or strange because I wouldn't have had my eyes open by the light of understanding. Repentance acts as a catalyst to further light and knowledge. Joseph Smith prayed for forgiveness and he was forgiven. He beheld the face of the Father and the Son.
@@MegaJohn144 sure. But it’s also impossible to be perfect in this life. In order to know we have a pure heart it must be tested. And only when it is tested, and we are willing to lay down our life for righteousness sake is it purified.
This was like a wonderful slow dance with truth!! That part in regards to broken heart, contrite spirit, hard heart, and the KNOWLEDGE of God, resonated deeply. Thank you!
First time ive heard the preisthood as an irder. This us what my Dad always said, taught us. So im loving this because ive nit heard this since a kud from my dad and im almost 70 yrs old ! This podcast is very special to me!
Thank you. Loved the discussion. I have been learning these things and love to hear it presented in different ways. It’s been line upon line. It’s good to get a fuller understanding of the Priesthood to build on your foundational understanding of Jesus Christ. Our path to ascension is clear when the Savior himself teaches us ‘The Way’. I appreciate your discussion as a further exploration and clarification of beautiful doctrines of the Holy Priesthood. Again, thank you both for your faith and sacrifice to share with us your testimony.
Todd , prayers for you brother . Sounds like might be going through some hard times . We’ve all been there . This verse gives me comfort “ Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:” Rom 5:1
As an EQ president one thing I was thinking is finding an interest in the quorum to start a “Bible study” small group of elders to talk doctrine. Talk with your bishop or EQ president and see if that’s something you or our president can start.
@@yippiecalle421I believe in general conference when explaining the Come Follow Me program the brethren taught that we need no permission to meet as groups to do this. Just do it.
Todd, I read your ‘priesthood is an order’ essays years ago. I printed them out so I could study them and read several out loud to my husband. So glad to see Greg have you on to explain it to more people. Your explaining of where to find the actual oath and covenant of the priesthood, as anyone who really studies D&C 84 will know it’s not actually in there, is so helpful! Thank you for the insight. I was wondering where to find it and I’m a woman who searches for these things because I know it is not fully obtained except through the marriage covenant to my husband. So grateful for everything I hear and read from you.
Thank you for all these Wonderful Precepts. The whole purpose of all these Blessings - the Restoration, the Priesthood, Gospel etc is to Help us Love the Lord thy God with All Thine Heart Soul Mind and Might. When you Love Heavenly, the World is Totally Different Place. Nothing Matters. Then you realize there Us No Life, There Is Only God …
Look at Elder D. Todd Christofferson's talk in last conference "The Sealing Power" and how Elijah's sealing power fits into what you are discussing. It's all about validation of the ordinances performed
Great discussion. The temple, in its rich symbolism, is a consistent set of symbols that represent and drive us to Christ and away from the great and spacious building. Well done.
Thank you so much for this discussion. It was exactly what I needed to listen❤️. Yes, we truly need to come to Christ. We can strengthen each other. Thanks Greg for all you do. You may not know but you bless many lives. Again, thank you so much! ❤️
"These four words-'Receive the Holy Ghost'-are not a passive pronouncement; rather, they constitute a priesthood injunction-an authoritative admonition to act and not simply to be acted upon." David A. Bednar The first principle of the gospel is faith in Jesus Christ, it is a principle of action and power. It would be silly to believe every member is experiencing the intended fruits of the gospel "just because" of an ordinance / membership.
I live in a more liberal city in the USA. A woman in our congregation got up and bore a testimony that she hopes the women will be, 'given the priesthood' before she dies'. Not to get into semantics but she should have said or what I believe she meant was, 'ordained to the priesthood to receive priesthood keys to be able to administer in the priesthood'. She is someone who I believe does not actually understand what our religion believes but rather tries to bring the world social justice into our religion. That said, since her testimony, I have been trying to think of how to teach priesthood to our congregation in a loving way in which both sexes can feel the love and assurance that currently our roles are equal. I appreciated this conversation you posted. I have been thinking a lot about creation and how God used the priesthood to create. (I think a lot more needs to be revealed in this area) Sisters are the only ones who have the ability to create in a procreative manner with God. Is not that also priesthood? Power of God delegated to women? To quote M Russell Ballard a woman cannot procreate without a man and a man cannot administer the priesthood with out a woman.' It is a symbiotic relationship. I believe both creation and administration are powers within the priesthood realm. For men to Administer in the priesthood it is very constrained process and it is an oath and covenant that men must take. Many are called but few are chosen, why? Because 121: 34-40. Men are different and by these scriptures less reliable to fulfill God's purpose's. Woman abilities are not as constrained to operate in their priesthood powers of creation. (True some women may have difficulties getting pregnant and etc. but I do not think that is from God but rather ailments from life and genetics) It has been given freely to them from God if they are members of religion or not. Also, God trusts them fully to fulfill that duty whether they are righteous or not. And I think both sexes should take seriously the commandments to multiply and replenish and also to avoid all lasciviousness, fornication etc etc. to avoid condemnation for mistreating that priesthood power. Just like men and their wives should avoid mistreating the administration of priesthood power. Also, another note about using these types of priesthood powers. Women when sorrowing through the burden of pregnancy have a greater love for the child than I would say a Father does. A direct blessing women inherit by bring forth more children into this world is being able to love their neighbor. For a man to also have the blessing of loving their posterity and their neighbor is by exercising their priesthood to sorrow with their hands (provide), serve others and administer to their wife and children. If women had the priesthood of creation and the ordination to administer to their children what need would a man have to do anything? Why would he care to even marry if he is not able to be 'called to the task' of fatherhood and being an administer in the priesthood? Yes I also think it noteworthy that woman are given the priesthood in the temple and administer blessings in the temple.
In my opinion, women that lust after priesthood see it as power, authority and dominion; but of course, any man that sees it the same way, "amen to the priesthood of that man".
As temple ordinance workers we women are given the power to administer priesthood ordinances in the temple is how I interpret it specifically. Right Todd?
Yes some strident female voices do demand so-called "equal rights" in that respect for the wrong reasons, although personally I am very relieved to not have anything more on our plates. I am worried that our brethren do feel slighted in different respects. Hence their value in attaining, holding and administering priesthood blessings and ordinances to benefit all around is inestimable. I recall walking into the stadium of the Provo MTC as a new Rome Italy missionary and convert of 18 months to be bowled over by the power surge I felt from so many worthy priesthood and an apostle present, as never felt since. I'm now 65.5 years young!
Priesthood means stewardship. And for anything over which you have stewardship. It's your fault when things go wrong. Having stewardship over my family means I'm responsible for them. Having the priesthood means I'm responsible over the people that I have stewardship for. It's a lot of pressure. It's not about some power struggle or something like that. Appreciate it is just a responsibility we have to be charitable and to serve others and give everything we have for other people. So since as a priesthood holder, you were given the responsibility for everyone in your stewardship, you are also given the necessary power from God to complete that stewardship and to take care of those for whom you are responsible.
Thank you for this discussion! For the honesty and emotion that you shared. My heart is full as I think of our opportunities and responsibilities in these days. We have so much to accomplish and we need each other and especially people like you who are learning and sharing the truths of the Gospel.
1:05 - Defining priesthood as an "order" similar to the Boy Scouts, doctors, or military 2:35 - Priesthood as the order after the Son of God, an ascension path to Christ's presence 3:09 - The covenant path as the order of the priesthood, the oath and covenants of the priesthood 7:30 - D&C 124 on the Lord revealing the priesthood through Elijah and the temple ordinances 9:07 - D&C 95:5-8 on many being ordained but few chosen, and the consequences of not being chosen 11:29 - The purpose of the priesthood order: to manifest the powers and works of heaven on earth 12:40 - Distinguishing between outward ordinances and the spiritual power of the priesthood 15:25 - Examples of receiving ordinances without the immediate spiritual manifestation 18:06 - Receiving the outward form and invitation of the endowment in the temple 20:29 - D&C 84:19 on the Melchizedek Priesthood holding the key of the knowledge of God 22:11 - Alma 12:9-11 on receiving the mysteries of God according to the heed and diligence given 26:13 - The relationship between a hardened heart, blindness of mind, and murmuring 30:37 - Ether 4:3-4 on coming forth with a broken heart and contrite spirit to experience what the Brother of Jared did 32:36 - The broken heart and contrite spirit as an ancient covenant, not replacing animal sacrifice 35:38 - Moses as the archetype of priesthood ascension, and the Brother of Jared's experience 38:16 - The order of Christ and celestial marriage as the order of exaltation, and problems with identity politics 39:56 - The priesthood hierarchy as one of sacrificial ascension, not dominance 42:14 - Christ descending below all things to comprehend and be the light of all things 44:35 - Bringing others to Christ by going through the same sacrificial process He did 46:32 - A hypothetical approach for a bishop to obtain commandments of sacrifice from the Lord 47:47 - Women and the priesthood - perspectives from ordination activism to strict gender roles 49:27 - Women being initiated into the priesthood order in the temple endowment 50:27 - Both men and women invited into the same priesthood order in the endowment 52:18 - A perspective on the oath and covenant of the priesthood being made in the endowment, not just D&C 84
I love how in the Vision of the Tree of Life how it differentiates between those who partook of the Fruit and fell away being ashamed and those who partook and never fell away. Those who continually held fast to the Iron Rod, FELL DOWN and partook of the Fruit. Theirs was a journey of service, tribulation, sacrifice, endurance, meekness, etc along the covenant path, which brought them to a state of Worship and Love for the Lord for His Atonement as they partook of His Fruit.
This was delicious to me. I have been mulling over a phrase for a few weeks now that this has helped me to gain more understanding about. Stewardship over ownership. We don't have any ownership when it comes to the priesthood or any of our temporal blessings, we are merely stewards, and can have our stewardship revoked if we and unworthy of the trust.
It is through sacrifice, a broken heart and contrite spirit… that we magnify and fulfil our callings, offices, and covenants…. And in the same manner how we lead others to do the same… this is what’s resonating in my mind right now… great episode!
Amen and amen. Thank you so much for this topic. I could not put enough words to convey the Spirit I felt about this discussion. Love all my beloved brothers in Christ. And thank you.
Conversations are dogwood and very helpful as we all seek better understanding. Depending on our level of righteousness and level of knowledge we grow in our understanding. A portion of this was beyond my understanding and a bit complicated. I always believe that we are counseled to “keep it simple”. ❤
So, I found Todd's take about the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood not being in D&C 84, but that it is actually the endowment a very interesting take. I won't corroborate or reject the claim personally (not that I have much authority to do so anyway), but I will say that I noticed a strong correlation/connection between the two. One small example was that I decided to brush up on the covenants I have made in my life earlier this year. One of the first ones I thought of at the time was the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood. Originally, I was considering it from the perspective of "What exactly is the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood?". After reading that section, I came away feeling a need/urgency to prepare my family to "behold the face of God" (see v23). I coincidentally went to the temple the next night, and had a really cool experience. I was hoping to see a best friend of mine that night (I knew he was working that shift), but I didn't see him and I felt a bit sad about it. However, there was a moment (Just out of caution, I'm choosing my words carefully, but anyone familiar with the endowment would know the moment), where I could hear the voice of someone I couldn't see, and in that moment I knew exactly who it was--it was my friend. We got to embrace and then chat afterwards, and it was a beautiful experience for me. D&C 84:63 came to mind at the time, "ye are my friends". I couldn't help imagining the experience of returning beyond the veil of this life, and beholding the face of God as someone we know personally, and deeply, and would immediately recognize as our "best friend". The experience doesn't quite end there. Another day passed by, and I decided to reread D&C 84 and got stuck on that v23 again feeling this urge/need to prepare my family to "behold the face of God", but feeling perplexed as to how. I got down on my knees, started praying about it wondering how I could accomplish what I'd felt prompted to do. Almost immediately, the thought popped into my mind to "prepare them to go to the temple". I came to the conclusion that true worshipful preparation to go to the temple is equivalent to preparing to "behold the face of God". To tie everything up - It seemed to me that my responsibility as a Priesthood holder is to prepare my family, and those within my stewardship, to go to the temple and eventually "behold the face of God"
Todd McLauchlin and David John Butler would be a MUST see podcast for sure... These 2 podcasts have changed the way I think and can't even imagine what would happen if the three of you where all in the same broadcast... All in favor say... aye... I ... eye...
I remember asking my dad as a young woman why women didn't have the priesthood after hearing that some complained about it. He said that for one thing it is a learning tool to help men learn service and sacrifice as these things come natural to women as they bare and nurture children. When going through the temple the first time you do get the experience of women using their priesthood. Women have the priesthood it is that they do not need to use it unless it is truly necessary. ❤
When we serve in the Temple we witness the sisters using Priesthood to administer the ordinances. However, this is very limited to Temple settings only. The sisters who are set apart are "authorized " to use Priesthood but they are not ordained. Any calling in the church performed by a sister is using Priesthood without being ordained. We need to understand that there is a difference between being "authorized to use Priesthood " vs being ordained. Sisters do not hold Priesthood, they access it through service (both in the Temple and in callings), but my understanding is you do not hold Priesthood unless you are ordained, which is not currently what we do in the church.
@@lindamartinez7006 I think there is a lot of confusion on this subject. The brethren are trying to teach a concept that is just difficult to really explain because the priesthood extends its blessings to all faithful baptized members especially those who have been to the Temple and are endowed. That said, women are not ordained and hold no priesthood office thus technically speaking they do not hold the priesthood. However, women enjoy the blessing of priesthood power through service. President Boyd K Packer gave a talk back in the 90s I think it was called The Temple, The Priesthood. About halfway through the talk he refutes the notion that anyone can hold Priesthood power simply by going to the Temple and receiving the Endowment. He taught that a person must be called of God, by Revelation, and by the laying on of hands. The person must be ordained. President Packer's talk has never been corrected because what he taught was based on revealed doctrine.
Just listening to this a second time and have gotten even more out of it. I think I will have to revisit this discussion many more times to see even more. Wow. thanks again so much for this discussion.
I don't think women need to receive the priesthood by the laying on of hands. 3 days before varsity football practice started my freshman year in high school I got a hip point. I could barely walk. I stopped by my 2nd grade teacher's house to say hi. I had attended Trinity Lutheran School. During the visit I mentioned the injury. She laid her hands on me in the name of Jesus Christ. The injury disappeared and I was a starter the whole season. Months later she asked me how the blessing went. I had forgotten all about it. I turn 73 tomorrow. So far so good.
You are right! we live below what we could be doing. There are signs that follow the believers: Casting out devils, healing the sick, speaking in tongues, poison won't harm, snakes not a problem.
It reminds me of the time the apostles came to Jesus reporting a man not affiliated with them was casting out devil's in Jesus' name. He taught them, they who are not against me are for me. Something along those lines. I think more people can access the power of God and perform miracles through faith on the Lord Jesus Christ than we know or are willing to believe.@@teinelaume
Couple of helps; in old languages, often knowledge has more than 1 word and version. 1 is knowing about things, the other is used for knowing PEOPLE. Melchizedek priesthood is also the key to angels, and angelic visitations. In the early church era, Joseph Smith was told if they didn't build and complete a temple on time, they would be rejected as a church and under condemnation. This answers some question you had; the early connection is still valid even though you aren't an Abraham yet. Its enough to be connected to the 'fold of God' and being collected with the other sheep, even if you are still a lamb, as you haven't strayed. You are still a sheep (and not a a wolf or a goat) even if you are still a lamb. The lamb still has value even if its not full grown yet (not yet a full Abraham). In some sense the smaller lamb is protected and covered by the other rams, and through atonement. Conditionally accepted, though it doesn't have its full strength. Righteousness -> Comes from the word -> rättfärdighet or rett/rätt + ferðigr -> rettir is gathering of the sheep + fertig/ferðigr/fertigum is 'well doing'. In some sense righteousness is qualified by being raised in the system, connected to those connected to the covenants (raised in the covenants)-> connected to the other sheep by rettir. (Norse words; many gospel things can be understood better by linking English words to their NORSE roots (and Old Aenglish.) And even if someone hasn't qualified yet for greater manifestations like the brother of Jared, Joseph Smith, and Abraham they can be RECOMMENDED TO GOD -> Moroni 9:21 Behold, my son, I cannot recommend them unto God lest he should smite me. 22 But behold, my son, I recommend thee unto God, and I trust in Christ that thou wilt be saved; ... The world is under thick darkness now. Even in the church there is darkness where people aren't doing what they should or fully converted. ... Couple of other useful points; P of GP; Abraham 1:2 And, finding there was greater happiness and peace and rest for me, I sought for the blessings of the fathers, and the right whereunto I should be ordained to administer the same; having been myself a follower of righteousness, desiring also to be one who possessed great knowledge, and to be a greater follower of righteousness, and to possess a greater knowledge, and to be a father of many nations, a prince of peace, and desiring to receive instructions, and to keep the commandments of God, I became a rightful heir, a High Priest, holding the right belonging to the fathers. ... Hardening of the heart -> Embracing of ENMITY! -> Embracing rebellion -> progression and revelation blocked. PREDATORISM embraced. The Priesthood is also a gathering point... AND a bridge to (and hope for) a better world.
Great show guys I think you nailed it. What you were talking about coincides with my own research into the reason we may need plural marriage in the last days. We know about Isaiah 4 but have to ask why are these seven women hassling this poor guy? Well also in Isaiah 13:12 it states that man shall be as precious as gold. Also in John Taylors vision he's shocked when he sees the saints crossing the plains with such small packs on their backs he then says the group were virtually all women with few men among them. In Isaiah 24:5-6 also talks about few men left and the reason seems to be that we have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. I did not think to look at D&C 121 and 95 which also talks about many are called but few are chosen. Is it because our hearts are set so much on the things of the world and aspiring to the honours of men, or if given authority, immediately begin to act unrighteous dominion? Our we walking in darkness at noon day? Obviously this should be a major concern to us guys in the church as we want out of this world and go on to the next. But if we won't let go of the things of this world and become like Christ then we are binding ourselves here? hence few men in the last days as the earth is cleansed therefore few in the mellenium as well. This really needs looking into that we maybe confident on our journey back to the presence of the Father. Perhaps you can get a group together and make a show looking into this! Thanks for what you do!!!
I appreciated your guest's since Saturday. He is right. There is so much more that our Heavenly Father is offering us than we care to even accept or look at. Why do we pay so much attention to the distractions around us when the very antidote for what we need in this life is right there for the taking? Put the stupid phone down, and dive into your scriptures!
I have understood that as an endowed woman and a creator of children, I have the priesthood already. What greater power can you have than to create children in your own body? I look forward to being with my soul mate someday and we will reign together.
16:29 “pray unto me that you may be able to give the gift.” Sounds like Christ in Gethsemane. Power in the priesthood through a broken heart and a contrite spirit. The sweating of blood. Seeing Christ as the great High Priest. You just expanded these ideas for me!
All ordnances in the are based on our faithfulness. The below are meant to be followed so we can become faithful. Law of Obedience, which includes striving to keep God’s commandments. Law of Sacrifice, which means doing all we can to support the Lord’s work and repenting with a broken heart and contrite spirit. Law of the Gospel, which is the higher law that He taught while He was on the earth. Law of Chastity, which means that we have sexual relations only with the person to whom we are legally and lawfully wedded according to God’s law. "I had a stake president say that this means no sexual relations with yourself." Law of Consecration, which means dedicating our time, talents, and everything with which the Lord has blessed us to building up Jesus Christ’s Church on the earth.
A broken heart means what you describe, but it also means what you denied: a heart broken by betrayal. In fact, it is often by experiencing betrayal that we either harden it or soften it.
This was wonderful. A lot of this sounds like what I came to understand as the difference between "Authority" and "Power". The authority of the priesthood is to be authorized to act in the name of God as directed by the Lord and his organization here on earth. The power of the priesthood is to accomplish those things that the Lord would have us do here upon the earth through faith in the name of Christ and action upon our part. This isn't my metaphor but, it is like building a canal, the structure must exist for the canal to distribute water. If the water source has run dry, then the canal is good for nothing. When the water is present and the canal has been built, amazing things can occur and all the farmland benefits.
Many are called but few are chosen can be simply explained that the power is in us as agents that can choose a "will", whether it be Gods will or our own. Anyone can be called. Ive witnessed the ugliness of pride and ego drip like sweat from many called to leadership. But they weren't chosen. To become chosen is the developmental process of learning to let ones will (of the natural man) be swallowed up in the will of the Savior (and consequently the father) so that one has repeatedly sought to develop aspects of godliness. You know if you are chosen because the Spirit will be with you because you go with and seek after the Spirit. Revelation over oneself and ones stewardship occurs. Suddenly a leader will recognize and follow promptings. The things they are prompted to say will actually help people spiritually rather than speaking from ones will (devoid of the Spirit) thus potentially damning and harming the recipient of false counsel. Being chosen defines whether one is acting as a shepherd with great christlike care over the sheep or whether one acts as a hireling whose not in tune with the Lord's will which translates into not caring how ones actions or words can harm the recipient lay member. To serve in leadership as a chosen servant of the lord requires seeking his will. We cannot do what he would do without revelation. I've witnessed incredible spiritual harm done by high counselors, bishopric members, and even stake presidencies. Ive also seen power and revelation, miracles and blessings poor forth from high counselors, bishoprics and stake presidencies who sought to be chosen as the Spirit of God worked through them. Thanks for this video. Well spoken. You and i both know that volumes could be written about this topic with myriads of examples.
New Subscriber ❤ So many great thoughts to learn from and ponder in this interview. Great Spirit. I could listen to you and Todd for days. More of this Please and Thank You 🎉
I am wary of using the word "ascension" because it is used in belief systems that exclude God; people think they can ascend to a higher level of being through their own efforts. I think it is also easy for us in our efforts to "ascend" to forget to acknowledge our dependence on God for any progress we make. We can't force ascension, nor can it be allowed to become a competition. I also think that in focusing on ascension we can forget the other side of that coin: the accompanying descent into knowing good *and* evil, in subjugating our will to the Father's, and in offering the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit. How many examples do we have of prophets experiencing theophanies but in the process being exposed to Satan's power? It is important to balance expectations and be aware of the ramifications of what we are seeking, to remember the ironies or apparent contradictions of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Luke 14: 7 ¶ And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them, 8 When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; 9 And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. 10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. 11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Todd absolutely believes in a path of descending too. I think he would say that we descend to ascend. He talks about descending all the time, despite not touching upon it on this video. (I have actually not listened to this yet, but his wife is my best friend and I can verify that he believes this.)
We can only ascend because we hind ourselves through covenant to God. I like the word ascend because one day we will be literally lifted up because Christ first was lifted up in the cross :)
Whether Todd also believes in descending is not the issue. Words are important. I don’t hear the church leaders using that terminology. I find that those who use ascension language are of a group that tends to think the church leaders are not leading properly…not all of them, but many. They also adopt other thought leaders who are using such language. It’s just an observation but a possible sign of being off center.
For me, a big piece of knowing God is to know how he sees others. I dont see how we can truly know Him until we can develop patients and a proper love for others. This may not be possible without the aid of His spirit. As far as i can tell, love towrds others is at the top of His hierarchy and is my biggest challenge. Perhaps it was Nephi's as well.
I have felt this same thing since my mission. We believe that prayer is the act in how we align our will with God. I think that is how we invite the Spirit to change us to become more like Christ. Moroni, in Either 12, expresses it so beautifully when he prays for us. “And it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord that he would give unto the Gentiles grace, that they might have charity.” Our goal should pray for our fellow man, that they may have grace and that grace leads to charity, or the pure love of Christ
I like how you've added AI art as your thumbnails lately. It makes your content more attractive. It made me click on this video specifically. Now I've subscribed.
52:30 yes! Thank you ! Love what your quest said about DC 84, i have felt this way for a long time. Also the comments about the differences of the endowment for men and women
I would posit that women have their own pristesshood. It is manifest in the sacrifices that women innately make to their husbands, children and communities better. It is manifest in the nurturing they provide as they comfort, teach and provide without commandment, exhortation or ordination because they already know that it is their calling within whatever role they occupy.
12:12 partially. Aaronic Priesthood also holds the keys of the ministering of angels. So not just solely law. and Melchizedek is not just solely spiritual. Just different degrees of each.
(This is Todd) Consider what is happening in 2 Nephi 32 (speaking with the tongue of angels) and also in the true order of prayer regarding the ministering of angels. The keys of prayer in the Aaronic portion of the endowment activate this interaction
It is my understanding that endowment means to be "cover" or "cloth", symbolized by putting on actual temple clothing (telestial, terrestrial/Aaronic. and celestial/Melchizedek), just as during the time of Moses. Aaron and his sons were endowed (which in Hebrew means “clothed”) with “clothes of service” (Ex 31:10; 35:19), or sacred and holy garments (Ex 31:10), for “glory and beauty.” (Ex 28:2). They were given a linen undergarment to “cover their nakedness” (Ex 28:42), and Aaron’s sons were given white priestly coats and bonnets/mitres (Ex 28:4, 40), while Aaron was given the same, but with additional High Priest and royal accessories-i.e. an ephod, breastplate, and crown. (Ex 28:5-39; Ex 29:6; 39:30; Lev. 8:9; 21:12) This is symbolic of Christ, who, during his exodus, was clothed with robes (Isa 22:21; Mt 27:28) and crowned (Mt 27:29; Rev 14:14) with majesty, honor, and strength (Ps 93:1; 104:1) and light (Ps 104:2). So, what are they/we clothed with: the raiment of humility (1 Pet 5:5), mercy, kindness, meekness, longsuffering, charity, and bonds of perfectness (Col 3:12,14; 1 Pet 4:8) and good works (1 Ti 2:10), and robes of righteousness and strength (Isa 51:9; 52:1; 59:17), armor of light (Rom 13:12), and the whole armor of God (Ep 6:11), a crown of righteousness and life and glory (Ps 21:3; Isa 28:5; 1 Cor 9:25; 2 Tim 4:8; Jms 1:12; 1 Pet 5:4), and garments of salvation (Ps 132:9; Isa 59:17; 61:10), having put on a new man (Eph 4:24; Col 3:10), or in other words, having put on Christ (Gal 3:27) As Elder Oaks suggests, it isn't so much about knowing as it is becoming. We know God by becoming godly.
Everyone wonders at what point the Melchizedek Priesthood was introduced in the Book of Mormon. If the Tree of Life dreams were representative of the Temple Endowment, then Lehi (who had spoken with God, face to face) was at some point ordained a High Priest after the Holy Order of the Son of God. That ordination most likely occurred under the hand of Moses, who was translated. Given the organization inherent to the Melchizedek Priesthood, even if Lehi had only the Aaronic Priesthood at his interaction with God; ordination to the Higher Priesthood would be necessary for him to administer the ordinances of Endowment. Joseph Smith held no Priesthood when he saw the First Vision. However, he gained all power and Priesthoods necessary to be a dispensational head. Lehi was a dispensational head.
Beautiful thoughts shared thank you. One other thought you may want to consider on priesthood power and what it *is* , is the power of Life. Anything that gives, creates, protects and sustains life is the power of God. Think about Satan’s power for a moment. All he is able to do is hurt, maim, kill and destroy- whether that by physical or spiritual lives, families, or anything good. This is hinted at also in the Mosaic Law in the rules regarding clean and unclean- they all point towards things that produce life as being clean or a loss of life (or potential life) as being unclean. What you have described here regarding priesthood is the *how* of the power and processes to use it. What it *does* though is bring about life, eternal life being the highest manifestation of that. Women give physical life and the ability to have a mortal probation. Men give ordinances that allow eternal life and return back from mortal probation. We work together like two sides of a coin to make the plan of salvation possible for our eternal growth. Thanks again for a wonderful episode. Best regards.
I did not know there was a difference about being clean in the men’s initiatory. That’s so enlightening, and honestly makes me feel more responsible for my own roles in this world, as a woman and mother.
women belong to the powerful matriarchal order - it's when the patriarchal and matriarchal order join at the altar then you have the fullness of the priesthood. The matriarchal order is beautiful and if women understood it wouldn't want the patriarchal priesthood. We have our own order. It is beautiful.
I feel like hes discounting the grace for grace, line upon line principle. Yes. At 19 you're not going to understand as much. But the endowment is still valid. If i pass away the day after I go thru the temple for the first time, im not screwed because i didn't make it to 60 when i could have incredible manifestations of the spirit.
You don't have to wait till you are 60 for sure! The whole snake on a stick symbol was about why wait? Why not be healed now rather than later? You don't even need the temple. Remember the temple was plan B! An educational symbolic tool to get you to Plan A which was when Moses' group sought to enter into the presence of the Lord, the mountain was on fire, smoke billowing up, and because of hard hearts and unbelief they backed away, hence: they got plan B and the law of Moses. The Melchizedek priesthood was removed for their safety because they were not ready to be in the presence of God. Over time they came to believe that it was the ordinances that saved them. And the snake on a stick became an idol. Paul makes the case in Romans 3 &4 that the ritual does not save you, it is that broken heart contrite spirit offering you are going to give and the cleansing baptism of fire that only Christ officiates. You will be immersed in fire like you were immersed in water at baptism. The goal: to not only see Jesus Christ in the flesh but to commune with him and then endure (remain) in that state till the the end. Too often people think endure to the end means keep on trying, don't quit doing what you're doing to be in good standing with the church. But you were never meant to endure in your carnal and sinful state. And yes, sanctification is a process but then Justification is an event, a series of events as you ascend. Each of them an endowment of power because as you grow and become like Christ you naturally pick up more of his powers too. That is why there are signs that follow the believers. IMHO
Greg, what are the reasons for thinking that John the Baptist is the role of the officiator in the circle? I have administered this and have some insights into the mechanics but no insights on who the role is supposed to represent specifically. Any thoughts are appreciated.
Greg, I have been following you for some time and have really appreciated your willingness to discuss issues that sometimes controversial or topics that some people might shy away from. This is the first time I’ve heard of Todd. I’m amazed at his insight and would like to know more. I will definitely watch for another opportunity like this. How did you find him and has he written anything about the things he’s discussed? I wish I could express what finding this video was for me today. It was the shot in the arm that I’ve needed for about four years now. Thank you so much.
The other day, in the temple, a beautiful lady pointed out to me; that when one participates in the prayer circle, we literally turn our backs to the ways of the world as a group.
My favorite part of temple worship❤
What does that mean
@@wethepeople2206ungodliness
And you turn and face the men representing the Holy Ghost, which represents the Lord, with One Heart and One Mind. This is what makes the prayer extremely powerful.
I loved this episode! I am going to rewatch. So much in it! Thank you so much.😊
Thank you so much! I am serving as a primary President at the moment. Being the mother of two boys has really made me see how society treats boys and become more aware that our boys need more structure and support today. I have a daughter and feel comfortable that there is great support for her but see a lack of that support with my boys.
I have been listening to different discussions on the priesthood and men. Our senior primary is mostly boys and I feel strongly we need to shift how we talk with them and how to connect with them to help them understand how to feel the spirit to gain a testimony. I have felt the guidance of the spirit a lot on this. We have all men teachers (not completely planned, just worked out that way)
I am writing too much.
To shorten this, I just feel a great deal of inspiration on how I need to move forward in my calling to reach out to the boys we have.
It sounds like you are being inspired by the Spirit on this. Boys definitely need a lot of support that is generally lacking in society at large.
Check out Elder Renlund's book Melchizedek Priesthood, it's a different perspective than most of us grew up with.
Our former choister in primary was our now bishop. He was so good and fun. Like a fun, dad! I'm glad he's our bishop but I agree men need to be appreciated and revered.
I think it is difficult for boys because there is a lot of confusing things going on in the world. Also if you are divorced that makes it difficult as well. It's not their fault, but some in the church treat them badly because of that. We can find ways to be supportive of them if we ask for God's help. I think it's tough for all our youth, male of female to find support. It's getting to the end. I ❤would not want to grow up in these times! God bless them 24/7! ❤❤❤
Thank you so much for your comment!!
What a treat this was for me today guys. Two of my favorite men sharing vital truths with everyone. I especially loved the contrast between the "dominance " and the "condescension" hierarchies. The only way for any of us saints to built Zion within ourselves and hence the place Zion that we are hopefully striving for, is to understand, internalize and practice the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit. May the Lord continue to prosper both of you in your individual ministries as builders of Zion!
That broken heart analogy made me think of soil. You break ground on soil. Which means you loosen it to prepare it for another purpose, either a new building or to farm. It is a preparatory heart
And according to Pres. Romny, that is what main Christianity do, prepare the soil of the hearts of those who will be called by the Lord to come unto the Restored Church, and this way they will receive the fullness of the Gospel, in the due time of the Lord. (Paraphrased)
Thank you for that. So much of this went too far above my head. I couldn't even connect it to what I already knew 😅
I agree with Todd 100%. Too many people in the church are too focused on getting ordinaces instead of trying harder to live in line with Christ and seeking to understand what they are taught. The baptism by fire is one of the most misunderstood things in the church. Read from the last chapter of Luke through the end of Acts 2. The baptism by fire comes AFTER recieving the gift of the Holy Ghost. It comes through like a rushing wind and results in the manifestation of the power of God in an undeniable way. The baptism by fire is not an ordinance but an internal and external alignment with the will of God.
"Too many people in the church are too focused on getting ordinaces"
Too many? Is there a right and proper number? Too focused? Perhaps dial it back to a 7.
@@thomasmaughan4798 Not sure what you're saying. My point: does participating in ordinances you don't understand do anything for you?
@@prezp00nage24 "does participating in ordinances you don't understand do anything for you?"
It might. I suspect that no one fully understands the ordinances at the time; only later develop an understanding. Baptism is a good example. How many young people (or for more conventional Christians, babies) understand it is a metaphor for Christ being buried and resurrected?
It is certainly preferred that people have a reasonably good sense of the ordinances BEFORE participating in an ordinance. But as with any contract, if a party to the contract does not, and perhaps cannot, understand the terms; then at law such contract is not usually binding.
But even then, a "ticket is punched" and that's probably good for something. Among Utanians the big ticket is "RM", returned missionary. Whether it did anything for you (or anyone else) almost does not matter; what matters is the ticket is punched but that is a social thing, has nothing to do with God so far as I know.
When I worked for the church full time, I directed and filmed a "mormon message", now called "inspirational messages". The video is called Wrong Roads. In that video I filmed Elder Holland in his office and he said "I have certain knowledge.......perfect knowledge...... that God loves us." I remember filming that and it was powerful. In my head I remember saying "oh, that has to make it into the final cut of the video". I love how he paused and then clarified that he has perfect knowledge that God loves us.
Since then I've been seeking this perfect knowledge.
I used that video on my mission often
Oh cool! Fun fact: the truck we used in the video was the actual truck Elder Holland and his son used on there adventure that day.
*their
I will find and watch. Thank you
46:03 I had never thought of that idea of every knee bowing because they become aware of the Savior’s sacrifice. That was so powerful.
And its better to bow willingly, rather than being humbled to bow from stress and pressure of not living the gospel.
I felt the same. Such a powerful anr insightful way to think about it. ❤
This is helpfully deep for me..will need ti watch it again. Thx both of you teachers
The Melchizedek priesthood is such a blessing. The power to bless the sick and afflicted have brought miracles that our family has seen.
As an ordinance worker, I have the priesthood and use it to facilitate the ordinances in the temple. I have learned through my experience that it assists me to serve... and as I have had the experiences of leadership in the temple it is sweet because I served both the patrons and the other workers and because of my service I have learned of the mysteries of God as I have sought him and seeked understanding in his holy house.
Greg, I like how you equated endowment with gaining new knowledge.
When the prayer circle opens the windows of heaven, those spiritually prepared can be clothed upon from the light garment lost in the Garden. They receive a many-layered gift.
A study of these gifts shows they are the same substance due to their identical frequency and vibration. That light garment is; being clothed upon with charity, the exact frequency as knowledge, truth, and PRIESTHOOD. They are the same.
According to physics, when two things with the same frequency become atuned, a door/veil opens that we can pass through. We are protected by that light garment so we qualify to return to the presence of the Father symbolized by the Celestial Room.
Our priesthood light garment is drawn to it's like (frequency), the veil, where we go for further light and knowledge. We orbit (ordained) around the Celestial Room. Jointly, our light garments unite into a wedding canopy that covers all who enter into the Celestial Room, the united Bride prepared to be of one heart with the Bridegroom.
I love this explanation! ❤
Tremendously illuminating thx
Thank you for the wonderful discussion! This was powerful!
I loved your discussion of a broken/soft heart vs a hardened heart. You tied murmuring and hardness of heart together, and this is key. Another way to think of a hardened heart is like clay that is hardened and no longer moldable and shapable. God desires to reshape our hearts such that our understandings, inclinations, and desires are patterned after His. A hardened heart can't be molded; instead we seek to shape God in our image rather than being shaped and molded into His image in our countenance.
A hardened heart leads to murmuring. The common means of murmuring we see in our church family today is not limited to disobedience, but includes the desire to: 1. rewrite history according to our liking 2. reinterpret scripture to fit our modern narrative which has been shaped by the philosophies of men (and women), and 3. restructure the ordinances and hierarchies to align with that new narrative. The push to ordain women to priesthood offices is just one such example of this, but virtually all of the present difficulties you outline in your wonderful podcast fit within this framework.
Thank you again for another awesome podcast!
The great thing about the gospel and repentance is that is hardened heart can be softened and changed. Maybe then it can be like a steel sword which has the ability to cause great damage, even death yet can be melted, added to and reshaped.
I wish they would teach this in church, or at least in Priesthood meeting. Todd knows things. This is all in the scriptures, but it takes revelation to be able to understand all of this and comprehend it into one complete whole. It was members like Todd who taught me much of this as a student at BYU. It set me on a lifelong quest to really know and understand the Gospel, seek personal revelation, and set out on the path that Todd is describing.
The washings and anointings are different for the brethren and the sisters, as Todd described. He is right on. If this is not "delicious" to you, pray about it and receive your own revelation. I part-way agree with Todd that the oath and covenant of the Priesthood is the covenants of the temple Endowment. I believe the oath and covenant happens between you and the Lord. Maybe this is what he means by the "actual endowment".
I can tell by what he says and how he says it that he is in communion with the Lord as he speaks. Pay attention, people, he is a servant of the Lord and he is doing what servants do. The thing that would make him the happiest and make the Lord happiest is for you to come to the Lord, yourself, with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, and ask the Lord to help you understand and live these things. "Blessed are they who hunger and seek after righteousness, for they shall be filled with the Holy Ghost".
They say that Jesus actually died of a broken heart, thus the blood in the fluids that spilled out when he was pierced by the sword. What better way to show Him our sincerity than to come to Him also with a broken heart because we have traveled the same path of sacrifice for others.
I've often wondered, and wonder if you know, what the difference of one person receiving a washing and an anointing verses washings and anointings.
Deeper and deeper..
Why do you think women are washed clean ? Women are washed clean and men are washed to become clean ??
I love Todd's tender hearted, powerful testimony. I love the depth of his testimony that poured out, and his eagerness to share what he understands. Todd, thank you !!!
I so appreciated Todd’s perspective and insightful points…and especially the humble spirit with which he shared them. WOW, so much truth is now flooding the earth! Thanks to both of you!
Powerful! I'm going to listen again and take notes next time! This is the best kind of content!
Glad you enjoyed it!
It was great, but I prefer the more political episodes.
I absolutely loved this. I've listened to it twice, constantly backing it up many many times trying to make sure i heard and understood what was being taught. As a female, i have wondered many times why i did not understand the priesthood. I actually feel most of us don't really understand the priesthood, however, it seems there are those that seems to understand more and are helping people like me to figure it out. Thank you so much. I have always wanted to understand the mysteries of God.
MORE OF THIS. This is deep yet based on doctrine. I love that we are trying to learn about the Preisthood power. I think it is one of the most misunderstood principles in the church by both men and women.
this may be the 5th time i've watched this discussion. it's so beautiful to see someone like Todd express the kind of love for other people that we believe God has for us.
The historic Manti Utah temple just opened to be viewed before rededication. I like how in this pioneer temple, as you are participating in the endownment ceremony, you actually get up and walk up stairs and progress upward towards God. It helps doing this and realizing the actual progression we are to be making. They kept the progression in this temple which is absolutely amazing!! I think most the time when we just watch the film and don’t move, people are missing that bit of information.
Truly one of the most amazing videos I’ve ever watched. So many thoughts and feelings yet I’m at a loss for words.
Todd has many presentations and discussions with various channels on YT. Also, his own channel is called Shattering Triangles. There's more where this came from my brother
What a beautiful video about the priesthood and sacrifice. Every priesthood holder should hear these concepts. Great conversation as always. Thanks for making these videos Greg. They mean a lot to members like myself who live in the "mission field" where the church is small and you don't always get these kind of insights at a local and ward level. Nevermind the language barrier in Spain 😅🙏
I like Brother McLauchlin thoughts about the Priesthood as an order. Wonderful!!!
I remember when I was 8 years old the power of the Holy Ghost entering my heart when my father said “Receive the Holy Ghost”. I knew the power of God and it was real. Receiving it at your confirmation is possible.
I remember a similar experience. I had the desire for it. I wanted to belong to God. That's enough to receive. I can see how this still applies to what Todd is saying about that ordinance.
I think the point is that it’s not necessarily a given that they happen at the same time. But that’s cool that you remember feeling it happen! I remember sitting in my confirmation and that my brother was the voice and my dad was part of the circle, but not much else about my confirmation. I’ve heard you can pray to have memories and experiences restored. Perhaps I shall do that!
This is true, but it is just the beginning.
I agree with your assessment. Receiving the Holy Ghost at confirmation is possible. What you do beforehand can play a big part in that. As for myself I received knowledge of the truthfulness and validity of the ordinances in the temple before and during the receiving of those ordinances. Previous to my mission I had to repent before I could go and was blessed for doing so.
What if I had not repented and lied to the stake president and bishop and just went on my mission anyways? I will answer that I would not have received the revelation in the temple that I did nor come to the knowledge that I came to. I would have gone through the temple, but it would not have gone through me. I would of received things which I had not prepared to received. I might of thought of the temple as evil or strange because I wouldn't have had my eyes open by the light of understanding.
Repentance acts as a catalyst to further light and knowledge. Joseph Smith prayed for forgiveness and he was forgiven. He beheld the face of the Father and the Son.
@@MegaJohn144 sure. But it’s also impossible to be perfect in this life. In order to know we have a pure heart it must be tested. And only when it is tested, and we are willing to lay down our life for righteousness sake is it purified.
This was like a wonderful slow dance with truth!! That part in regards to broken heart, contrite spirit, hard heart, and the KNOWLEDGE of God, resonated deeply. Thank you!
You are welcome
First time ive heard the preisthood as an irder. This us what my Dad always said, taught us. So im loving this because ive nit heard this since a kud from my dad and im almost 70 yrs old ! This podcast is very special to me!
Thank you. Loved the discussion. I have been learning these things and love to hear it presented in different ways. It’s been line upon line. It’s good to get a fuller understanding of the Priesthood to build on your foundational understanding of Jesus Christ. Our path to ascension is clear when the Savior himself teaches us ‘The Way’. I appreciate your discussion as a further exploration and clarification of beautiful doctrines of the Holy Priesthood. Again, thank you both for your faith and sacrifice to share with us your testimony.
Todd , prayers for you brother . Sounds like might be going through some hard times . We’ve all been there . This verse gives me comfort
“ Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:”
Rom 5:1
I love these type of discussions! So powerful! I wish we'd talk about these type of things in Elder's Quorum more often. Big fan of you both!
I totally agree…however most people aren’t familiar enough with scripture or prepared enough for class to have discussions like this in elders quorum.
As an EQ president one thing I was thinking is finding an interest in the quorum to start a “Bible study” small group of elders to talk doctrine.
Talk with your bishop or EQ president and see if that’s something you or our president can start.
@@yippiecalle421I believe in general conference when explaining the Come Follow Me program the brethren taught that we need no permission to meet as groups to do this. Just do it.
We would LOVE slides to follow up on and expand our understanding of these teachings! Please get this brother back again to do that! 😊
Todd, I read your ‘priesthood is an order’ essays years ago. I printed them out so I could study them and read several out loud to my husband. So glad to see Greg have you on to explain it to more people.
Your explaining of where to find the actual oath and covenant of the priesthood, as anyone who really studies D&C 84 will know it’s not actually in there, is so helpful! Thank you for the insight. I was wondering where to find it and I’m a woman who searches for these things because I know it is not fully obtained except through the marriage covenant to my husband. So grateful for everything I hear and read from you.
Thank you for all these Wonderful Precepts. The whole purpose of all these Blessings - the Restoration, the Priesthood, Gospel etc is to Help us Love the Lord thy God with All Thine Heart Soul Mind and Might.
When you Love Heavenly, the World is Totally Different Place. Nothing Matters. Then you realize there Us No Life, There Is Only God …
I absolutely loved this episode. I feel the spirit strongly confirming to me certain points of truth. Thank you!
Thank you so much for this conversation. It has added depth to the phrase found in Obadiah: “Saviors on Mount Zion”.
By far one of your best shows!! Love Todd and all his knowledge of things spiritual.
What an outstanding discussion! Thank you for inviting this good brother and brother Butler. My favorite videos you have done!
This was such a great discussion, so thought provoking, I wish you guys could have gone on for hours more.
Look at Elder D. Todd Christofferson's talk in last conference "The Sealing Power" and how Elijah's sealing power fits into what you are discussing. It's all about validation of the ordinances performed
Great discussion. The temple, in its rich symbolism, is a consistent set of symbols that represent and drive us to Christ and away from the great and spacious building. Well done.
Great interview, I would like to see another video with him for sure
It's amazing that you can find this level of knowledge and content on RUclips! Loved the video!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you so much for this discussion. It was exactly what I needed to listen❤️. Yes, we truly need to come to Christ. We can strengthen each other. Thanks Greg for all you do. You may not know but you bless many lives. Again, thank you so much! ❤️
"These four words-'Receive the Holy Ghost'-are not a passive pronouncement; rather, they constitute a priesthood injunction-an authoritative admonition to act and not simply to be acted upon." David A. Bednar
The first principle of the gospel is faith in Jesus Christ, it is a principle of action and power. It would be silly to believe every member is experiencing the intended fruits of the gospel "just because" of an ordinance / membership.
I came back again to learn more~ thanks for the awesome knowledge.
I live in a more liberal city in the USA. A woman in our congregation got up and bore a testimony that she hopes the women will be, 'given the priesthood' before she dies'. Not to get into semantics but she should have said or what I believe she meant was, 'ordained to the priesthood to receive priesthood keys to be able to administer in the priesthood'. She is someone who I believe does not actually understand what our religion believes but rather tries to bring the world social justice into our religion. That said, since her testimony, I have been trying to think of how to teach priesthood to our congregation in a loving way in which both sexes can feel the love and assurance that currently our roles are equal. I appreciated this conversation you posted.
I have been thinking a lot about creation and how God used the priesthood to create. (I think a lot more needs to be revealed in this area) Sisters are the only ones who have the ability to create in a procreative manner with God. Is not that also priesthood? Power of God delegated to women? To quote M Russell Ballard a woman cannot procreate without a man and a man cannot administer the priesthood with out a woman.' It is a symbiotic relationship. I believe both creation and administration are powers within the priesthood realm. For men to Administer in the priesthood it is very constrained process and it is an oath and covenant that men must take. Many are called but few are chosen, why? Because 121: 34-40. Men are different and by these scriptures less reliable to fulfill God's purpose's. Woman abilities are not as constrained to operate in their priesthood powers of creation. (True some women may have difficulties getting pregnant and etc. but I do not think that is from God but rather ailments from life and genetics) It has been given freely to them from God if they are members of religion or not. Also, God trusts them fully to fulfill that duty whether they are righteous or not. And I think both sexes should take seriously the commandments to multiply and replenish and also to avoid all lasciviousness, fornication etc etc. to avoid condemnation for mistreating that priesthood power. Just like men and their wives should avoid mistreating the administration of priesthood power.
Also, another note about using these types of priesthood powers. Women when sorrowing through the burden of pregnancy have a greater love for the child than I would say a Father does. A direct blessing women inherit by bring forth more children into this world is being able to love their neighbor. For a man to also have the blessing of loving their posterity and their neighbor is by exercising their priesthood to sorrow with their hands (provide), serve others and administer to their wife and children. If women had the priesthood of creation and the ordination to administer to their children what need would a man have to do anything? Why would he care to even marry if he is not able to be 'called to the task' of fatherhood and being an administer in the priesthood?
Yes I also think it noteworthy that woman are given the priesthood in the temple and administer blessings in the temple.
Excellent comment
In my opinion, women that lust after priesthood see it as power, authority and dominion; but of course, any man that sees it the same way, "amen to the priesthood of that man".
As temple ordinance workers we women are given the power to administer priesthood ordinances in the temple is how I interpret it specifically. Right Todd?
Yes some strident female voices do demand so-called "equal rights" in that respect for the wrong reasons, although personally I am very relieved to not have anything more on our plates. I am worried that our brethren do feel slighted in different respects. Hence their value in attaining, holding and administering priesthood blessings and ordinances to benefit all around is inestimable. I recall walking into the stadium of the Provo MTC as a new Rome Italy missionary and convert of 18 months to be bowled over by the power surge I felt from so many worthy priesthood and an apostle present, as never felt since. I'm now 65.5 years young!
Priesthood means stewardship. And for anything over which you have stewardship. It's your fault when things go wrong. Having stewardship over my family means I'm responsible for them. Having the priesthood means I'm responsible over the people that I have stewardship for. It's a lot of pressure. It's not about some power struggle or something like that. Appreciate it is just a responsibility we have to be charitable and to serve others and give everything we have for other people. So since as a priesthood holder, you were given the responsibility for everyone in your stewardship, you are also given the necessary power from God to complete that stewardship and to take care of those for whom you are responsible.
Love Todd! He's taught me so much
Thank you for this discussion! For the honesty and emotion that you shared. My heart is full as I think of our opportunities and responsibilities in these days. We have so much to accomplish and we need each other and especially people like you who are learning and sharing the truths of the Gospel.
Such great stuff! When do we get the "longer conversations "?😊 Such a treat to listen to the two of you❤
1:05 - Defining priesthood as an "order" similar to the Boy Scouts, doctors, or military
2:35 - Priesthood as the order after the Son of God, an ascension path to Christ's presence
3:09 - The covenant path as the order of the priesthood, the oath and covenants of the priesthood
7:30 - D&C 124 on the Lord revealing the priesthood through Elijah and the temple ordinances
9:07 - D&C 95:5-8 on many being ordained but few chosen, and the consequences of not being chosen
11:29 - The purpose of the priesthood order: to manifest the powers and works of heaven on earth
12:40 - Distinguishing between outward ordinances and the spiritual power of the priesthood
15:25 - Examples of receiving ordinances without the immediate spiritual manifestation
18:06 - Receiving the outward form and invitation of the endowment in the temple
20:29 - D&C 84:19 on the Melchizedek Priesthood holding the key of the knowledge of God
22:11 - Alma 12:9-11 on receiving the mysteries of God according to the heed and diligence given
26:13 - The relationship between a hardened heart, blindness of mind, and murmuring
30:37 - Ether 4:3-4 on coming forth with a broken heart and contrite spirit to experience what the Brother of Jared did
32:36 - The broken heart and contrite spirit as an ancient covenant, not replacing animal sacrifice
35:38 - Moses as the archetype of priesthood ascension, and the Brother of Jared's experience
38:16 - The order of Christ and celestial marriage as the order of exaltation, and problems with identity politics
39:56 - The priesthood hierarchy as one of sacrificial ascension, not dominance
42:14 - Christ descending below all things to comprehend and be the light of all things
44:35 - Bringing others to Christ by going through the same sacrificial process He did
46:32 - A hypothetical approach for a bishop to obtain commandments of sacrifice from the Lord
47:47 - Women and the priesthood - perspectives from ordination activism to strict gender roles
49:27 - Women being initiated into the priesthood order in the temple endowment
50:27 - Both men and women invited into the same priesthood order in the endowment
52:18 - A perspective on the oath and covenant of the priesthood being made in the endowment, not just D&C 84
Thank You. So much to ponder ❤
@cwic media this should be pinned.
Bednar gives a great talk about the topic of being chosen called "put on thy strength o zion"
I love how in the Vision of the Tree of Life how it differentiates between those who partook of the Fruit and fell away being ashamed and those who partook and never fell away. Those who continually held fast to the Iron Rod, FELL DOWN and partook of the Fruit. Theirs was a journey of service, tribulation, sacrifice, endurance, meekness, etc along the covenant path, which brought them to a state of Worship and Love for the Lord for His Atonement as they partook of His Fruit.
This was your best interview yet! 30:43, 36:08, 44:14; 46:04, 49:28, 52:20, 55:14
This was delicious to me. I have been mulling over a phrase for a few weeks now that this has helped me to gain more understanding about.
Stewardship over ownership.
We don't have any ownership when it comes to the priesthood or any of our temporal blessings, we are merely stewards, and can have our stewardship revoked if we and unworthy of the trust.
Delicious is also the word that came to me. I was suddenly in Lehi’s dream partaking of the most delicious fruit. Wow!
It is through sacrifice, a broken heart and contrite spirit… that we magnify and fulfil our callings, offices, and covenants…. And in the same manner how we lead others to do the same… this is what’s resonating in my mind right now… great episode!
This was such a great discussion! I’ve already listened to it twice and I’m sure I will again. So much to unpack!! I love love love it!!
Thank you both for a wonderful conversation. So many insights and encouragement to always be striving to gain greater understanding.
Amen and amen. Thank you so much for this topic. I could not put enough words to convey the Spirit I felt about this discussion. Love all my beloved brothers in Christ. And thank you.
What beautiful and powerful insights into the priesthood . Thank you Todd McLauchlin for sharing them with us.
Beautiful. Thank you for following light to additional light and sharing it with us on our path to Christ.
Thank you. This is the single most profound package of knowledge and enlightenment I have heard short of a personal revelation.
Conversations are dogwood and very helpful as we all seek better understanding. Depending on our level of righteousness and level of knowledge we grow in our understanding.
A portion of this was beyond my understanding and a bit complicated.
I always believe that we are counseled to “keep it simple”. ❤
Wow. Amazing content. Eye opening and very insightful. Thank you so much for sharing this discussion. God bless you both.
Just had Elder Bednar here in California….such a forward thinking Apostle. SO amazing, ❤ him.
Great show Brothers !
Thank you!
So, I found Todd's take about the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood not being in D&C 84, but that it is actually the endowment a very interesting take. I won't corroborate or reject the claim personally (not that I have much authority to do so anyway), but I will say that I noticed a strong correlation/connection between the two.
One small example was that I decided to brush up on the covenants I have made in my life earlier this year. One of the first ones I thought of at the time was the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood. Originally, I was considering it from the perspective of "What exactly is the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood?". After reading that section, I came away feeling a need/urgency to prepare my family to "behold the face of God" (see v23).
I coincidentally went to the temple the next night, and had a really cool experience. I was hoping to see a best friend of mine that night (I knew he was working that shift), but I didn't see him and I felt a bit sad about it. However, there was a moment (Just out of caution, I'm choosing my words carefully, but anyone familiar with the endowment would know the moment), where I could hear the voice of someone I couldn't see, and in that moment I knew exactly who it was--it was my friend. We got to embrace and then chat afterwards, and it was a beautiful experience for me. D&C 84:63 came to mind at the time, "ye are my friends". I couldn't help imagining the experience of returning beyond the veil of this life, and beholding the face of God as someone we know personally, and deeply, and would immediately recognize as our "best friend".
The experience doesn't quite end there. Another day passed by, and I decided to reread D&C 84 and got stuck on that v23 again feeling this urge/need to prepare my family to "behold the face of God", but feeling perplexed as to how. I got down on my knees, started praying about it wondering how I could accomplish what I'd felt prompted to do. Almost immediately, the thought popped into my mind to "prepare them to go to the temple". I came to the conclusion that true worshipful preparation to go to the temple is equivalent to preparing to "behold the face of God".
To tie everything up - It seemed to me that my responsibility as a Priesthood holder is to prepare my family, and those within my stewardship, to go to the temple and eventually "behold the face of God"
Todd McLauchlin and David John Butler would be a MUST see podcast for sure... These 2 podcasts have changed the way I think and can't even imagine what would happen if the three of you where all in the same broadcast... All in favor say... aye... I ... eye...
Very insightful and thought-provoking. Thank you!
I remember asking my dad as a young woman why women didn't have the priesthood after hearing that some complained about it. He said that for one thing it is a learning tool to help men learn service and sacrifice as these things come natural to women as they bare and nurture children. When going through the temple the first time you do get the experience of women using their priesthood. Women have the priesthood it is that they do not need to use it unless it is truly necessary. ❤
When we serve in the Temple we witness the sisters using Priesthood to administer the ordinances. However, this is very limited to Temple settings only. The sisters who are set apart are "authorized " to use Priesthood but they are not ordained. Any calling in the church performed by a sister is using Priesthood without being ordained. We need to understand that there is a difference between being "authorized to use Priesthood " vs being ordained. Sisters do not hold Priesthood, they access it through service (both in the Temple and in callings), but my understanding is you do not hold Priesthood unless you are ordained, which is not currently what we do in the church.
@@stevehumble8865maybe except pres. Says plainly that women do have the priesthood
@@lindamartinez7006 I think there is a lot of confusion on this subject. The brethren are trying to teach a concept that is just difficult to really explain because the priesthood extends its blessings to all faithful baptized members especially those who have been to the Temple and are endowed. That said, women are not ordained and hold no priesthood office thus technically speaking they do not hold the priesthood. However, women enjoy the blessing of priesthood power through service. President Boyd K Packer gave a talk back in the 90s I think it was called The Temple, The Priesthood. About halfway through the talk he refutes the notion that anyone can hold Priesthood power simply by going to the Temple and receiving the Endowment. He taught that a person must be called of God, by Revelation, and by the laying on of hands. The person must be ordained. President Packer's talk has never been corrected because what he taught was based on revealed doctrine.
Just listening to this a second time and have gotten even more out of it. I think I will have to revisit this discussion many more times to see even more. Wow. thanks again so much for this discussion.
I don't think women need to receive the priesthood by the laying on of hands.
3 days before varsity football practice started my freshman year in high school I got a hip point. I could barely walk. I stopped by my 2nd grade teacher's house to say hi.
I had attended Trinity Lutheran School.
During the visit I mentioned the injury. She laid her hands on me in the name of Jesus Christ.
The injury disappeared and I was a starter the whole season.
Months later she asked me how the blessing went. I had forgotten all about it.
I turn 73 tomorrow. So far so good.
You are right! we live below what we could be doing. There are signs that follow the believers: Casting out devils, healing the sick, speaking in tongues, poison won't harm, snakes not a problem.
It reminds me of the time the apostles came to Jesus reporting a man not affiliated with them was casting out devil's in Jesus' name. He taught them, they who are not against me are for me. Something along those lines. I think more people can access the power of God and perform miracles through faith on the Lord Jesus Christ than we know or are willing to believe.@@teinelaume
Amen!
Excellent! I need more of this conversation!
Couple of helps; in old languages, often knowledge has more than 1 word and version. 1 is knowing about things, the other is used for knowing PEOPLE. Melchizedek priesthood is also the key to angels, and angelic visitations.
In the early church era, Joseph Smith was told if they didn't build and complete a temple on time, they would be rejected as a church and under condemnation. This answers some question you had; the early connection is still valid even though you aren't an Abraham yet. Its enough to be connected to the 'fold of God' and being collected with the other sheep, even if you are still a lamb, as you haven't strayed. You are still a sheep (and not a a wolf or a goat) even if you are still a lamb. The lamb still has value even if its not full grown yet (not yet a full Abraham). In some sense the smaller lamb is protected and covered by the other rams, and through atonement. Conditionally accepted, though it doesn't have its full strength.
Righteousness -> Comes from the word -> rättfärdighet or rett/rätt + ferðigr -> rettir is gathering of the sheep + fertig/ferðigr/fertigum is 'well doing'. In some sense righteousness is qualified by being raised in the system, connected to those connected to the covenants (raised in the covenants)-> connected to the other sheep by rettir. (Norse words; many gospel things can be understood better by linking English words to their NORSE roots (and Old Aenglish.)
And even if someone hasn't qualified yet for greater manifestations like the brother of Jared, Joseph Smith, and Abraham they can be RECOMMENDED TO GOD -> Moroni 9:21 Behold, my son, I cannot recommend them unto God lest he should smite me. 22 But behold, my son, I recommend thee unto God, and I trust in Christ that thou wilt be saved;
...
The world is under thick darkness now. Even in the church there is darkness where people aren't doing what they should or fully converted.
...
Couple of other useful points;
P of GP; Abraham 1:2 And, finding there was greater happiness and peace and rest for me, I sought for the blessings of the fathers, and the right whereunto I should be ordained to administer the same; having been myself a follower of righteousness, desiring also to be one who possessed great knowledge, and to be a greater follower of righteousness, and to possess a greater knowledge, and to be a father of many nations, a prince of peace, and desiring to receive instructions, and to keep the commandments of God, I became a rightful heir, a High Priest, holding the right belonging to the fathers.
...
Hardening of the heart -> Embracing of ENMITY! -> Embracing rebellion -> progression and revelation blocked. PREDATORISM embraced.
The Priesthood is also a gathering point... AND a bridge to (and hope for) a better world.
Great show guys I think you nailed it. What you were talking about coincides with my own research into the reason we may need plural marriage in the last days. We know about Isaiah 4 but have to ask why are these seven women hassling this poor guy? Well also in Isaiah 13:12 it states that man shall be as precious as gold. Also in John Taylors vision he's shocked when he sees the saints crossing the plains with such small packs on their backs he then says the group were virtually all women with few men among them. In Isaiah 24:5-6 also talks about few men left and the reason seems to be that we have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.
I did not think to look at D&C 121 and 95 which also talks about many are called but few are chosen. Is it because our hearts are set so much on the things of the world and aspiring to the honours of men, or if given authority, immediately begin to act unrighteous dominion? Our we walking in darkness at noon day? Obviously this should be a major concern to us guys in the church as we want out of this world and go on to the next. But if we won't let go of the things of this world and become like Christ then we are binding ourselves here? hence few men in the last days as the earth is cleansed therefore few in the mellenium as well. This really needs looking into that we maybe confident on our journey back to the presence of the Father. Perhaps you can get a group together and make a show looking into this! Thanks for what you do!!!
I appreciated your guest's since Saturday. He is right. There is so much more that our Heavenly Father is offering us than we care to even accept or look at. Why do we pay so much attention to the distractions around us when the very antidote for what we need in this life is right there for the taking? Put the stupid phone down, and dive into your scriptures!
I have understood that as an endowed woman and a creator of children, I have the priesthood already. What greater power can you have than to create children in your own body? I look forward to being with my soul mate someday and we will reign together.
Wonderful and inspiring discussion. Thank you!
16:29 “pray unto me that you may be able to give the gift.” Sounds like Christ in Gethsemane. Power in the priesthood through a broken heart and a contrite spirit. The sweating of blood. Seeing Christ as the great High Priest. You just expanded these ideas for me!
All ordnances in the are based on our faithfulness. The below are meant to be followed so we can become faithful.
Law of Obedience, which includes striving to keep God’s commandments.
Law of Sacrifice, which means doing all we can to support the Lord’s work and repenting with a broken heart and contrite spirit.
Law of the Gospel, which is the higher law that He taught while He was on the earth.
Law of Chastity, which means that we have sexual relations only with the person to whom we are legally and lawfully wedded according to God’s law. "I had a stake president say that this means no sexual relations with yourself."
Law of Consecration, which means dedicating our time, talents, and everything with which the Lord has blessed us to building up Jesus Christ’s Church on the earth.
Beautiful and interesting conversation. Thanks for sharing
A broken heart means what you describe, but it also means what you denied: a heart broken by betrayal. In fact, it is often by experiencing betrayal that we either harden it or soften it.
This was wonderful. A lot of this sounds like what I came to understand as the difference between "Authority" and "Power". The authority of the priesthood is to be authorized to act in the name of God as directed by the Lord and his organization here on earth. The power of the priesthood is to accomplish those things that the Lord would have us do here upon the earth through faith in the name of Christ and action upon our part. This isn't my metaphor but, it is like building a canal, the structure must exist for the canal to distribute water. If the water source has run dry, then the canal is good for nothing. When the water is present and the canal has been built, amazing things can occur and all the farmland benefits.
Many are called but few are chosen can be simply explained that the power is in us as agents that can choose a "will", whether it be Gods will or our own. Anyone can be called. Ive witnessed the ugliness of pride and ego drip like sweat from many called to leadership. But they weren't chosen. To become chosen is the developmental process of learning to let ones will (of the natural man) be swallowed up in the will of the Savior (and consequently the father) so that one has repeatedly sought to develop aspects of godliness. You know if you are chosen because the Spirit will be with you because you go with and seek after the Spirit. Revelation over oneself and ones stewardship occurs. Suddenly a leader will recognize and follow promptings. The things they are prompted to say will actually help people spiritually rather than speaking from ones will (devoid of the Spirit) thus potentially damning and harming the recipient of false counsel. Being chosen defines whether one is acting as a shepherd with great christlike care over the sheep or whether one acts as a hireling whose not in tune with the Lord's will which translates into not caring how ones actions or words can harm the recipient lay member. To serve in leadership as a chosen servant of the lord requires seeking his will. We cannot do what he would do without revelation. I've witnessed incredible spiritual harm done by high counselors, bishopric members, and even stake presidencies. Ive also seen power and revelation, miracles and blessings poor forth from high counselors, bishoprics and stake presidencies who sought to be chosen as the Spirit of God worked through them. Thanks for this video. Well spoken. You and i both know that volumes could be written about this topic with myriads of examples.
New Subscriber ❤
So many great thoughts to learn from and ponder in this interview.
Great Spirit.
I could listen to you and Todd for days.
More of this Please and Thank You 🎉
Always enjoy your presentations, Greg. Thank you! And thank you, Todd, for your insights!
Glad you like them!
I am wary of using the word "ascension" because it is used in belief systems that exclude God; people think they can ascend to a higher level of being through their own efforts. I think it is also easy for us in our efforts to "ascend" to forget to acknowledge our dependence on God for any progress we make. We can't force ascension, nor can it be allowed to become a competition. I also think that in focusing on ascension we can forget the other side of that coin: the accompanying descent into knowing good *and* evil, in subjugating our will to the Father's, and in offering the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit. How many examples do we have of prophets experiencing theophanies but in the process being exposed to Satan's power? It is important to balance expectations and be aware of the ramifications of what we are seeking, to remember the ironies or apparent contradictions of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Luke 14: 7 ¶ And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them, 8 When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; 9 And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. 10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. 11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
I agree. I prefer the term ‘progression’ but I give Todd a pass because I learn so much from him.
Todd absolutely believes in a path of descending too. I think he would say that we descend to ascend. He talks about descending all the time, despite not touching upon it on this video.
(I have actually not listened to this yet, but his wife is my best friend and I can verify that he believes this.)
You wouldn't enjoy the teachings of Joseph Smith then. He uses the word ascend. Go to BYU Citation and search it out to learn more.
We can only ascend because we hind ourselves through covenant to God. I like the word ascend because one day we will be literally lifted up because Christ first was lifted up in the cross :)
Whether Todd also believes in descending is not the issue. Words are important. I don’t hear the church leaders using that terminology. I find that those who use ascension language are of a group that tends to think the church leaders are not leading properly…not all of them, but many. They also adopt other thought leaders who are using such language. It’s just an observation but a possible sign of being off center.
For me, a big piece of knowing God is to know how he sees others. I dont see how we can truly know Him until we can develop patients and a proper love for others. This may not be possible without the aid of His spirit. As far as i can tell, love towrds others is at the top of His hierarchy and is my biggest challenge. Perhaps it was Nephi's as well.
I have felt this same thing since my mission. We believe that prayer is the act in how we align our will with God. I think that is how we invite the Spirit to change us to become more like Christ. Moroni, in Either 12, expresses it so beautifully when he prays for us. “And it came to pass that I prayed unto the Lord that he would give unto the Gentiles grace, that they might have charity.”
Our goal should pray for our fellow man, that they may have grace and that grace leads to charity, or the pure love of Christ
I like how you've added AI art as your thumbnails lately. It makes your content more attractive. It made me click on this video specifically. Now I've subscribed.
11:19 really think about what he said that is profound! Thank you brother.
52:30 yes! Thank you ! Love what your quest said about DC 84, i have felt this way for a long time. Also the comments about the differences of the endowment for men and women
I would posit that women have their own pristesshood. It is manifest in the sacrifices that women innately make to their husbands, children and communities better. It is manifest in the nurturing they provide as they comfort, teach and provide without commandment, exhortation or ordination because they already know that it is their calling within whatever role they occupy.
As sisters in Zion….”the errand of (ministering) angels is given to women”
Thanks for spreading Truth.
Watching you from Congo B.
12:12 partially. Aaronic Priesthood also holds the keys of the ministering of angels. So not just solely law. and Melchizedek is not just solely spiritual. Just different degrees of each.
(This is Todd) Consider what is happening in 2 Nephi 32 (speaking with the tongue of angels) and also in the true order of prayer regarding the ministering of angels. The keys of prayer in the Aaronic portion of the endowment activate this interaction
It is my understanding that endowment means to be "cover" or "cloth", symbolized by putting on actual temple clothing (telestial, terrestrial/Aaronic. and celestial/Melchizedek), just as during the time of Moses. Aaron and his sons were endowed (which in Hebrew means “clothed”) with “clothes of service” (Ex 31:10; 35:19), or sacred and holy garments (Ex 31:10), for “glory and beauty.” (Ex 28:2). They were given a linen undergarment to “cover their nakedness” (Ex 28:42), and Aaron’s sons were given white priestly coats and bonnets/mitres (Ex 28:4, 40), while Aaron was given the same, but with additional High Priest and royal accessories-i.e. an ephod, breastplate, and crown. (Ex 28:5-39; Ex 29:6; 39:30; Lev. 8:9; 21:12) This is symbolic of Christ, who, during his exodus, was clothed with robes (Isa 22:21; Mt 27:28) and crowned (Mt 27:29; Rev 14:14) with majesty, honor, and strength (Ps 93:1; 104:1) and light (Ps 104:2). So, what are they/we clothed with: the raiment of humility (1 Pet 5:5), mercy, kindness, meekness, longsuffering, charity, and bonds of perfectness (Col 3:12,14; 1 Pet 4:8) and good works (1 Ti 2:10), and robes of righteousness and strength (Isa 51:9; 52:1; 59:17), armor of light (Rom 13:12), and the whole armor of God (Ep 6:11), a crown of righteousness and life and glory (Ps 21:3; Isa 28:5; 1 Cor 9:25; 2 Tim 4:8; Jms 1:12; 1 Pet 5:4), and garments of salvation (Ps 132:9; Isa 59:17; 61:10), having put on a new man (Eph 4:24; Col 3:10), or in other words, having put on Christ (Gal 3:27) As Elder Oaks suggests, it isn't so much about knowing as it is becoming. We know God by becoming godly.
Everyone wonders at what point the Melchizedek Priesthood was introduced in the Book of Mormon.
If the Tree of Life dreams were representative of the Temple Endowment, then Lehi (who had spoken with God, face to face) was at some point ordained a High Priest after the Holy Order of the Son of God. That ordination most likely occurred under the hand of Moses, who was translated.
Given the organization inherent to the Melchizedek Priesthood, even if Lehi had only the Aaronic Priesthood at his interaction with God; ordination to the Higher Priesthood would be necessary for him to administer the ordinances of Endowment.
Joseph Smith held no Priesthood when he saw the First Vision. However, he gained all power and Priesthoods necessary to be a dispensational head.
Lehi was a dispensational head.
Beautiful thoughts shared thank you. One other thought you may want to consider on priesthood power and what it *is* , is the power of Life. Anything that gives, creates, protects and sustains life is the power of God. Think about Satan’s power for a moment. All he is able to do is hurt, maim, kill and destroy- whether that by physical or spiritual lives, families, or anything good. This is hinted at also in the Mosaic Law in the rules regarding clean and unclean- they all point towards things that produce life as being clean or a loss of life (or potential life) as being unclean. What you have described here regarding priesthood is the *how* of the power and processes to use it. What it *does* though is bring about life, eternal life being the highest manifestation of that. Women give physical life and the ability to have a mortal probation. Men give ordinances that allow eternal life and return back from mortal probation. We work together like two sides of a coin to make the plan of salvation possible for our eternal growth. Thanks again for a wonderful episode. Best regards.
I did not know there was a difference about being clean in the men’s initiatory. That’s so enlightening, and honestly makes me feel more responsible for my own roles in this world, as a woman and mother.
women belong to the powerful matriarchal order - it's when the patriarchal and matriarchal order join at the altar then you have the fullness of the priesthood. The matriarchal order is beautiful and if women understood it wouldn't want the patriarchal priesthood. We have our own order. It is beautiful.
Bruce Porter has a couple great books as well that really expounds on priesthood and temple ordinances, and ancient temples etc
I feel like hes discounting the grace for grace, line upon line principle. Yes. At 19 you're not going to understand as much. But the endowment is still valid. If i pass away the day after I go thru the temple for the first time, im not screwed because i didn't make it to 60 when i could have incredible manifestations of the spirit.
You don't have to wait till you are 60 for sure! The whole snake on a stick symbol was about why wait? Why not be healed now rather than later? You don't even need the temple. Remember the temple was plan B! An educational symbolic tool to get you to Plan A which was when Moses' group sought to enter into the presence of the Lord, the mountain was on fire, smoke billowing up, and because of hard hearts and unbelief they backed away, hence: they got plan B and the law of Moses. The Melchizedek priesthood was removed for their safety because they were not ready to be in the presence of God. Over time they came to believe that it was the ordinances that saved them. And the snake on a stick became an idol. Paul makes the case in Romans 3 &4 that the ritual does not save you, it is that broken heart contrite spirit offering you are going to give and the cleansing baptism of fire that only Christ officiates. You will be immersed in fire like you were immersed in water at baptism. The goal: to not only see Jesus Christ in the flesh but to commune with him and then endure (remain) in that state till the the end. Too often people think endure to the end means keep on trying, don't quit doing what you're doing to be in good standing with the church. But you were never meant to endure in your carnal and sinful state. And yes, sanctification is a process but then Justification is an event, a series of events as you ascend. Each of them an endowment of power because as you grow and become like Christ you naturally pick up more of his powers too. That is why there are signs that follow the believers. IMHO
Greg, what are the reasons for thinking that John the Baptist is the role of the officiator in the circle? I have administered this and have some insights into the mechanics but no insights on who the role is supposed to represent specifically. Any thoughts are appreciated.
Greg, I have been following you for some time and have really appreciated your willingness to discuss issues that sometimes controversial or topics that some people might shy away from. This is the first time I’ve heard of Todd. I’m amazed at his insight and would like to know more. I will definitely watch for another opportunity like this. How did you find him and has he written anything about the things he’s discussed? I wish I could express what finding this video was for me today. It was the shot in the arm that I’ve needed for about four years now. Thank you so much.