Freedom from what? Freedom from sin, freedom from ignorance, freedom from those who would like to lead you down wrong paths by telling you lies, half-lies or truths mixed with lies. Isn't that how much of the world is convinced to do things that are detrimental and wrong? Tell them a truth or two, truths that are well known or easily supported and then give them the zinger that takes a detrimental detour.
It reminds me of social psychology, which I studied in college many years ago, a theory existed that if you could get people to agree with you a certain number of times that your chances of getting that agreement the last time (whether for good or ill, right or wrong) was very greatly enhanced. It seems to work. Almost as if people think while they are listening, "I believe that, and that, and that...wow, this guy is smart that must be true too". Scary.
We need to become experts so that we cannot be tricked by sophistication, psychological deri doo or other deceptions, distortions or snares.
Naturally becoming an expert takes time. And let me suggest one really great way to learn--talk with your wife. Discuss what you understand and listen closely to her understanding. That will give you something worthwhile to discuss and she can help you see where you need to study or understand more clearly or at least will bring up some good questions that you need to figure out how to answer in ways that conform to truth.
"I invite you to also become experts in the doctrines of the gospel--especially the doctrine of the priesthood." This invitation was extended by President Uchtdorf in April conference. Ultimately we must turn our attention to the scriptures and then to prayer so that the Spirit can instruct us in correct doctrine and probably even more to the point correct personal instruction in how to live the doctrine in our lives. Get started quick!
Hey Dad,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great entry. Its been on my mind a lot lately. Megan and I have started memorizing scriptures together in an effort to be more doctrinally minded you might say. Love you a lot,
Josh
I agree! I remember very clearly on my mission that in my first area, a black man and his family had left the church because they found out that Joseph Smith had given blacks the priesthood when he was alive. I told him that I thought he was mistaken. Then I moved from that area and found out that he was right. I didn't know what to think about that. Then I was with you guys when we were teaching Fred. You told Fredrick about how Joseph Smith giving blacks the priesthood, and I think it HELPED Fredrick's testimony.
ReplyDeleteThe more we learn the truth about all the doctrines in a spirit-inviting-atmosphere the less likely we will be led astray.
I think it's amazing how being an expert in the doctrine of the gospel can help you in so many aspects of life! Life arenas where the gospel may not seem directly involved or relevant are illuminated brighter and appear clearer as we study the gospel and make it a key part of our lives. That seems so obvious but I think I forget it sometimes :) Heavenly Father gave us these eternal truths to learn for a reason! Best to become an expert because since he gave it to us it most definitely is important!
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