Beware of False Prophets and False Teachers

[Nephi294]

Found this talk and thought it was worthy of sharing. It’s from Elder Russell M. Ballard. Here’s some of what it says:

Brothers and sisters, the exact time of the Second Coming is known only to the Father (see Matt. 24:36). There are, however, signs that scriptural prophecy relating to that tumultuous day is being fulfilled. Jesus cautioned several times that prior to His Second Coming, “many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many” (Matt. 24:11).

As Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is our duty to be watchmen on the tower, warning Church members to beware of false prophets and false teachers who lie in wait to ensnare and destroy faith and testimony. Today we warn you that there are false prophets and false teachers arising; and if we are not careful, even those who are among the faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will fall victim to their deception.

President Joseph F. Smith gave wise and clear counsel that applies to us today:

“We can accept nothing as authoritative but that which comes directly through the appointed channel, the constituted organizations of the Priesthood, which is the channel that God has appointed through which to make known His mind and will to the world. … And the moment that individuals look to any other source, that moment they throw themselves open to the seductive influences of Satan, and render themselves liable to become servants of the devil; they lose sight of the true order through which the blessings of the Priesthood are to be enjoyed; they step outside of the pale of the kingdom of God, and are on dangerous ground. Whenever you see a man rise up claiming to have received direct revelation from the Lord to the Church, independent of the order and channel of the Priesthood, you may set him down as an imposter” (Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. [1939], 41–42).

When we think of false prophets and false teachers, we tend to think of those who espouse an obviously false doctrine or presume to have authority to teach the true gospel of Christ according to their own interpretation. We often assume that such individuals are associated with small radical groups on the fringes of society. However, I reiterate: there are false prophets and false teachers who have or at least claim to have membership in the Church. There are those who, without authority, claim Church endorsement to their products and practices. Beware of such.

Therefore, let us beware of false prophets and false teachers, both men and women, who are self-appointed declarers of the doctrines of the Church and who seek to spread their false gospel and attract followers by sponsoring symposia, books, and journals whose contents challenge fundamental doctrines of the Church. Beware of those who speak and publish in opposition to God’s true prophets and who actively proselyte others with reckless disregard for the eternal well-being of those whom they seduce. Like Nehor and Korihor in the Book of Mormon, they rely on sophistry to deceive and entice others to their views. They “set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion” (2 Ne. 26:29).

Of such President Joseph F. Smith warned when he spoke of the “proud and self-vaunting ones, who read by the lamps of their own conceit; who interpret by rules of their own contriving; who have become a law unto themselves, and so pose as the sole judges of their own doings” (Gospel Doctrine, 381).

However, in the Lord’s Church there is no such thing as a “loyal opposition.” One is either for the kingdom of God and stands in defense of God’s prophets and apostles, or one stands opposed. Let us remember that it is our duty to be faithful to the restored truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It takes faith—real faith, total and unreserved—to accept and strive to live prophetic counsel. Lucifer, the adversary of truth, does not want us to feel or exhibit that kind of faith. He encourages disobedience, planting defiance in the hearts of the unwary. If he is successful, they will turn away from the light into the darkness of the world. Our safety, our peace, lies in working as hard as we can to live as the Father and Son would have us live, in fleeing from false prophets and false teachers, and in being anxiously engaged in good causes.

Here's the link for the full talk: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/ ... s?lang=eng

[Jeremy]

Due to many of the threads I have read on here in the past I am wondering if anyone is seeing these "false prophets" among us? For myself, while I do come across false teachings, I have not felt as if these individuals are claiming to have received direct revelation from the Lord TO THE CHURCH. I think this would be a bit problematic. However, I do not see a problem with the notion that people can receive revelation for themselves

Whenever you see a man rise up claiming to have received direct revelation from the Lord to the Church, independent of the order and channel of the Priesthood, you may set him down as an imposter”

Interestingly enough, in one of those quotes it says:

And the moment that individuals look to any other source, that moment they throw themselves open to the seductive influences of Satan, and render themselves liable to become servants of the devil; they lose sight of the true order through which the blessings of the Priesthood are to be enjoyed...

Something to note about this quote is it is in reference to speaking God's "will to the world". It is my experience that Gods will to the world is given by "appointed channels", "the constituted organizations of the Priesthood". However, when God wants to speak to me as an individual He does so by the still small voice which by a man may know the truth of ALL THINGS. This is the appointed channel for individuals. For the world though, look to the prophets.

[TZONE]

I agree Jeremy. These are all great quotes to be reminded of.

To summarize the OP quotes and Jeremy

JFS...Whenever you see a man rise up claiming to have received direct revelation from the Lord to the Church

claim Church endorsement to their products and practices. Beware of such.

attract followers by sponsoring symposia, books, and journals whose contents challenge fundamental doctrines of the Church.

Beware of those who speak and publish in opposition to God’s true prophets[/u]

who actively proselyte others with reckless disregard for the eternal well-being of those whom they seduce.

One is either for the kingdom of God and stands in defense of God’s prophets and apostles, or one stands opposed

He encourages disobedience, planting defiance in the hearts of the unwary.

[laronius]

+1

No one in the history of world, whether modern or ancient, who has ever opposed the Prophet, of their time, has prospered. This includes times when the Prophet's imperfection are made manifest. I think that's pretty good evidence that we should pay close attention to what our Prophet says today, rather than thinking that some how things are different now.

[Jeremy]

No one in the history of world, whether modern or ancient, who has ever opposed the Prophet, of their time, has prospered. This includes times when the Prophet's imperfection are made manifest. I think that's pretty good evidence that we should pay close attention to what our Prophet says today, rather than thinking that some how things are different now.

At the same time we need to recognize that prophets are sometimes told to do things that might contradict what another prophet is told to do. For instance, Lehi was told to flee into the wilderness while Jeremiah was told to stay.

Kinda "funny" how Jeremiah says:

Oh that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! for they be all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men.

What I find interesting is that both these men where prophets but both of them were told to take a different action. In consequence, Lehi took his family with him. My guess is that some could have recognized Jeremiah as a prophet and said "the prophet" is still here so let us stay.
But as with us, Lehi was a prophet in his own stewardship. We are prophets in our own stewardship. The Holy Ghost is so vital for us to know the will of the Lord. It doesn't come through our prophet, though it may. Our source should always be the Holy Ghost. Let us be confident we can receive revelation directly from Him to us...as individuals. If we are, then we will. Let us continue to strive for more by following the council we receive by that same spirit, even if it contradicts what the prophet is doing at the time. The prophet is speaking the the whole and often times the whole is condemned and limited. However, you individually can lift that condemnation and receive blessings that are not limited as the whole.

[laronius]

No one in the history of world, whether modern or ancient, who has ever opposed the Prophet, of their time, has prospered. This includes times when the Prophet's imperfection are made manifest. I think that's pretty good evidence that we should pay close attention to what our Prophet says today, rather than thinking that some how things are different now.

At the same time we need to recognize that prophets are sometimes told to do things that might contradict what another prophet is told to do. For instance, Lehi was told to flee into the wilderness while Jeremiah was told to stay.

Kinda "funny" how Jeremiah says:

Oh that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! for they be all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men.

What I find interesting is that both these men where prophets but both of them were told to take a different action. In consequence, Lehi took his family with him. My guess is that some could have recognized Jeremiah as a prophet and said "the prophet" is still here so let us stay.
But as with us, Lehi was a prophet in his own stewardship. We are prophets in our own stewardship. The Holy Ghost is so vital for us to know the will of the Lord. It doesn't come through our prophet, though it may. Our source should always be the Holy Ghost. Let us be confident we can receive revelation directly from Him to us...as individuals. If we are, then we will. Let us continue to strive for more by following the council we receive by that same spirit, even if it contradicts what the prophet is doing at the time. The prophet is speaking the the whole and often times the whole is condemned and limited. However, you individually can lift that condemnation and receive blessings that are not limited as the whole.

Agreed. We see this same thing with the visions of the Tree of Life. Lehi, who was A prophet, only saw the vision as it related to his own family. Nephi, on the other hand, who became The Prophet for his people, saw the vision in terms of what it meant for his people down through the ages all the way up until the Second Coming. Very different stewardships at work there.

[TZONE]

My guess is that some could have recognized Jeremiah as a prophet and said "the prophet" is still here so let us stay.

Never thought of this! =p~

[Amonhi]

Found this talk and thought it was worthy of sharing. It’s from Elder Russell M. Ballard. Here’s some of what it says:
...

President Joseph F. Smith gave wise and clear counsel that applies to us today:

“We can accept nothing as authoritative but that which comes directly through the appointed channel, the constituted organizations of the Priesthood, which is the channel that God has appointed through which to make known His mind and will to the world. … And the moment that individuals look to any other source, that moment they throw themselves open to the seductive influences of Satan, and render themselves liable to become servants of the devil; they lose sight of the true order through which the blessings of the Priesthood are to be enjoyed; they step outside of the pale of the kingdom of God, and are on dangerous ground. Whenever you see a man rise up claiming to have received direct revelation from the Lord to the Church, independent of the order and channel of the Priesthood, you may set him down as an imposter” (Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. [1939], 41–42).

How do we resolve contradictions between prophets? For example here we have Joseph F. Smith using fear of the being deceived by the devil to scare us away from looking for "authoritative" truth outside the "appointed channel" which he says is the priesthood. He seems to indicate that we are not capable of learning the truth of ALL things by the spirit and so we had only learn those thing which our leaders tell us is true.

Then you have the recent priesthood manual telling us that President John Taylor said,

In regard to our religion, I will say that it embraces every principle of truth and intelligence pertaining to us as moral, intellectual, mortal and immortal beings, pertaining to this world and the world that is to come. We are open to truth of every kind, no matter whence it comes, where it originates, or who believes in it. Truth, when preceded by the little word "all", comprises everything that has ever existed or that ever will exist and be known by and among men in time and through the endless ages of eternity. And it is the duty of all intelligent beings who are responsible and amenable to God for their acts, to search after truth, and to permit it to influence them and their acts and general course in life, independent of all bias or preconceived notions, however specious and plausible they may be.
If any person in the religious world, or the political world, or the scientific world, will present to me a principle that is true, I am prepared to receive it, no matter where it comes from.
We are after the truth. We commenced searching for it, and we are constantly in search of it, and so fast as we find any true principle revealed by any man, by God, or by holy angels, we embrace it and make it part of our religious creed.
A man in search of truth has no peculiar system to sustain, no peculiar dogma to defend or theory to uphold. He embraces all truth, and that truth, like the sun in the firmament, shines forth and spreads its effulgent rays over all creation. If men will divest themselves of bias and prejudice, and prayerfully and conscientiously search after truth, they will find it wherever they turn their attention.
If there are any good principles, any moral philosophy that we have not yet attained to, we are desirous to learn them. If there is anything in the scientific world that we do not yet comprehend, we desire to become acquainted with it. If there is any branch of philosophy calculated to promote the well-being of humanity, that we have not yet grasped, we wish to possess ourselves of it. If there is anything pertaining to the rule and government of nations, or politics, if you please, that we are not acquainted with, we desire to possess it. If there are any religious ideas, any theological truths, any principles pertaining to God, that we have not learned, we ask mankind, and we pray God, our Heavenly Father, to enlighten our minds that we may comprehend, realize, embrace, and live up to them as part of our religious faith. Thus our ideas and thoughts would extend as far as the wide world spreads, embracing everything pertaining to light, life, or existence pertaining to this world or the world that is to come.
There is no man nor set of men who have pointed out the pathway for our feet to travel in, in relation to these matters. There are no dogmas nor theories extant in the world that we profess to listen to, unless they can be verified by the principles of eternal truth. We carefully scan, investigate, criticize, and examine everything that presents itself to our view, and so far as we are enabled to comprehend any truths in existence, we gladly hail them as part and portion of the system with which we are associated.
If there is any truth in heaven, earth, or hell, I want to embrace it; I care not what shape it comes in to me, who brings it, or who believes in it; whether it is popular or unpopular, truth, eternal truth, I wish to float in and enjoy." - "Chapter 23: Eternal Truth," Teachings of Presidents of the Church: John Taylor, 209

So, when two prophets contradict, which one do you agree with? Or do you not agree with either one?

I think most or many of us have heard the silly little system/game where apostles beat bishops and stake Presidents in regard to authoritative truth so that if a bishop teaches an idea and it contradicts an Apostle then you are supposed to believe the Apostle who is a better source of truth. And if an Apostle contradicts the Prophet then you go with thee prophet and if two prophets contradict then you go with the latest model or rather the more recent Prophet wins, kind of like the Ace in the deck. So we spend all this time focusing of trying to prove truth by laying down quotes to see who can find the best quotes?

The Catholics play the same game with their popes…

The thing is that who said it has no bearing on how close to truth it is. A prophet can’t say a thing and make it truth because he said it. Even when “Thus saith the Lord” escapes his lips, it is not a “sign” that the prophet has spoken truth. And if one prophet says “Thus saith the Lord” and contradicts another prophets “Thus saith the Lord” it doesn’t mean that either one is aligned with truth. Rather than focusing on who said it to determine what is true, why don’t we focus on WHAT THEY SAID to determine if it is true?!?!?! And if what they said can be ratified by the Holy Ghost? And if what they said can be tested and experimented on and proved to be true in actual practice?

Now, I get that the prophet directs the church. It is an organization like a business. Imagine if Wal-mart had a checker rise up and start trying to tell the Corporate head how to run the business and thy convinced an large number of checkers to agree that that needed to be done and all the checkers up and started their own store so that they could do it the way they wanted. Well, great, we have yet another store. And nothing has really changed.
Change in organizations must come through the chain of command. So to with the church, we have stewardship over our callings and not over the callings and positions of others. All change in the church will come from the top down, even if they are adopting that change because some inspired Bishop was instructed by the Lord on how to better run his ward, the Church leadership recognized it as successful and implemented it church wide. Or is someone like Eliza R. Snow prints a poem/prayer in the newspaper revealing the existence of heavenly mother to the church and the infuriated men tell the prophet to correct her and shut her up and he tells them that it isn’t his place to silence the prophetess and we make the poem into a song and add it to our hymn book. It didn’t get added to the hymn book except by the decision of the top leaders of the church who are stewards over which songs go in the hymn book and which ones don’t.
My point being that quotes like Joseph F. Smith given above ONLY work in regard to the government of the church and not in regard to truth. As far as doctrine, the church can declare what it thinks is truth via what we call “Current Church Doctrine” which changes for the church just like our beliefs change as individuals, with new insight, more experience and new challenges. Unlike us, the current church doctrine changes with each leader. For example, Brigham Young believed and taught as “saving church doctrine” a great number of things that later leaders refuted and removed from church doctrine.
Truth does not have a steward, or a single source or a chain of Command save it be the Holy Ghost which is the ONLY thing authorized to "teach us all things". The church does not have the patent on truth. Neither does the prophet or the priesthood line of authority nor any man. Truth can be learned from God whether we are members of the church or not. To say "We can accept nothing as authoritative but that which comes directly through the appointed channel, the constituted organizations of the Priesthood, which is the channel that God has appointed through which to make known His mind and will to the world." is ONLY applicable as far as the organization, structure, programs procedures and even the DOCTRINES of the church are concerned. (It is statements like this that get taken so far as to prevent members of organizations to listen to the radio or watch TV because they want to be sure the people aren’t being misguided. This is one of the ways various polygamist groups and governments like North Korea keep control of their people. Control the information and you control the mind, the thoughts and feelings and actions of your members.
I repeat, and our history bears record, that the doctrines of the church, ultimately have no bearing on TRUTH. It would be nice if the doctrines of the church were always in line with truth, but they aren't. That is why we have the term, "Current Church doctrine" meaning the most current doctrine that negates and voids the previous church doctrine because we learned something new that we feel, or at least our leaders feel, is more accurate. To think that any individual in or out of the church is limited in the truths that they can learn from God directly is just silly.
Or that teach that we, the lowest members of the church, cannot progress beyond the level of truth, experience and blessings that our current prophet has is also a rediculas notion. That would really be a scary world because as President Hinckley said of himself and the leadership of the church regarding their experience with revelation,

"Revelation no longer comes by vision," Mr. Hinckley said, "but in the 'still, small voice,' like that heard by Elijah." "We wrestle with a problem, we discuss it, we think about it, we pray about it," he said... "And the answer comes in a remarkable and wonderful way." (Washington Times, Dec. 3, 1996, page A8)

I know for myself that revelation does indeed come by the still small voice which is a very remarkable and wonderful way. But I also know that revelation continues to come by visions, because I have a good number of them by vision. And by angels, and by the visitation of Christ, Gods, prophets, ancestors and the like. So I for one am VERY grateful that I and my experiences and progress is not bound to or limited by the experiences and progress of any man or institution. That is Good News indeed!!!

Things to consider...

[Simon]

"By their fruits ye shall know them".. A tree will only bring forth fruits as long as he receives the proper noursihment. Only this keeps a tree alive and allowes it to bring forth sweet fruits. Ths light and the life of the world, the only true noursihment that keeps the soul alive, is Christ.

Therefore, true prophets MUST stand in contact with Christ, and bring forth fruits according to that. This is how we shall dicern.

[Amonhi]

There are those who, without authority, claim Church endorsement to their products and practices.

Yeah, that is a problem. I think that people should not try to say that the church teaches one thing or another. Only the general "authorities" can tell us what the church "endorses". When you are trying to decide what the church endorses, then yes, you have to play the authority game like the Catholics where the highest leader up to the living Pope or Prophet/President gets final say on what the church endorses. I agree with Ballard on the point that you need to watch out for people who say that the church endorses something or other with the intent of selling a product or practice, like a book for example... To say that the church endorses a thing that it does not is a lie which should be with all effort intentionally avoided.

That is a far different thing than to say, "The church currently believes and teaches X. I think that X is wrong for these reasons and I invite any intelligent person to persuade me otherwise." (Not prove mind you, but to reason to believe otherwise.)

Personally, I hang my hat with John Taylor as quoted in my previous post on this thread. I am in search of truth and I have no peculiar system to sustain, no peculiar dogma to defend or theory to uphold. (Not even the Current Church Doctrine.) I embrace all truth. I carefully scan, investigate, criticize, and examine everything that presents itself to my view, and so far as I am enabled to comprehend any truths in existence, I gladly hail them as part and portion of my beliefs. I cannot hail them as part of the LDS church because I don't have that authority to do so.

I understand that President Taylor came before President Joseph F. Smith and others who teach that we should only listen to the authoritative truth that comes from the approved sources, and so his doctrine kind of got voided when the newest prophet disagreed with him, but I find it is more in line with truth than the other doctrines that are presented as the current church doctrine. So, I align with truth even if that truth is not aligned with the present church.

BTW, Just because the church is not aligned with all truth does not make the church false... it just means that the church is progressing with the majority of its members and leaders... In my current opinion anyway.

(Wondering if my freedom and ability to think for myself is called apostasy?)
hehehe,
Amonhi

[InfoWarrior82]

There are those who, without authority, claim Church endorsement to their products and practices.

Yeah, that is a problem. I think that people should not try to say that the church teaches one thing or another. Only the general "authorities" can tell us what the church "endorses". When you are trying to decide what the church endorses, then yes, you have to play the authority game like the Catholics where the highest leader up to the living Pope or Prophet/President gets final say on what the church endorses. I agree with Ballard on the point that you need to watch out for people who say that the church endorses something or other with the intent of selling a product or practice, like a book for example... To say that the church endorses a thing that it does not is a lie which should be with all effort intentionally avoided.

That is a far different thing than to say, "The church currently believes and teaches X. I think that X is wrong for these reasons and I invite any intelligent person to persuade me otherwise." (Not prove mind you, but to reason to believe otherwise.)

Personally, I hang my hat with John Taylor as quoted in my previous post on this thread. I am in search of truth and I have no peculiar system to sustain, no peculiar dogma to defend or theory to uphold. (Not even the Current Church Doctrine.) I embrace all truth. I carefully scan, investigate, criticize, and examine everything that presents itself to my view, and so far as I am enabled to comprehend any truths in existence, I gladly hail them as part and portion of my beliefs. I cannot hail them as part of the LDS church because I don't have that authority to do so.

I understand that President Taylor came before President Joseph F. Smith and others who teach that we should only listen to the authoritative truth that comes from the approved sources, and so his doctrine kind of got voided when the newest prophet disagreed with him, but I find it is more in line with truth than the other doctrines that are presented as the current church doctrine. So, I align with truth even if that truth is not aligned with the present church.

BTW, Just because the church is not aligned with all truth does not make the church false... it just means that the church is progressing with the majority of its members and leaders... In my current opinion anyway.

(Wondering if my freedom and ability to think for myself is called apostasy?)
hehehe,
Amonhi

I am curious. What are some of these truths that the church does not endorse, but should?

[Amonhi]

Therefore, let us beware of false prophets and false teachers, both men and women, who are self-appointed declarers of the doctrines of the Church and who seek to spread their false gospel and attract followers by sponsoring symposia, books, and journals whose contents challenge fundamental doctrines of the Church. Beware of those who speak and publish in opposition to God’s true prophets ..." (2 Ne. 26:29).

Truth stands on its own is presents greater light than darkness. It shines in the darkness and dispels it. Yet darkness cannot "shine" in the light making the light darker.

In this instance, Elder Ballard doing what many today do which is to avoid the discussion that might maintain influence by persuasion and rather attempts to maintain power and influence in our lives by virtue of the priesthood held by the "true Prophets" (ie, the 15 men at the top). This method of leadership is a direct contradiction of and in conflict with the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood as given in D&C 121.

Know one should ever use their priesthood position as a reason for believing, obeying, or doing anything. Not only is that an obvious truth, but it is spelled out in D&C 121 and in that same chapter we are told the correct way to lead...

39 We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion.
40 Hence many are called, but few are chosen.
41 No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
42 By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile—" - D&C 121:39-42

if you want to be a great priesthood leader, then learn to be a great persuader and NEVER fall back on your position in the priesthood as if it were sound reason.

Think about it... the difference between TEACHING and TELLING is that one uses persuasion and the other uses position, one empowers and one enslaves. Christ taught and thereby empowered men. The truth sets you free, etc.

I have expressed before, that the term "Follow the Prophet" doesn't TEACH us anything!!! It TELLS us to do something, and particularly it TELLS us to follow a position without regard to any other thing.

If we are to attain any power of influence over others, I suggest that we and our leaders learn to be like 3rd Nephi of old of whom it is written:

17 And he did minister many things unto them; and all of them cannot be written, and a part of them would not suffice, therefore they are not written in this book. And Nephi did minister with power and with great authority.
18 And it came to pass that they were angry with him, even because he had greater power than they, for it were not possible that they could disbelieve his words, for so great was his faith on the Lord Jesus Christ that angels did minister unto him daily.

In this instance, Elder Ballard has placed his entire focus on three points:
1 - Self appointed declarers of the Doctrines of the church -
2 - Those who seek followings
3 - Challenging the fundamental doctrines of the church
4 - Speaking in opposition to God's true prophets

I already addressed my thoughts on point 1 - "Declaring the Doctrines of the Church" in my previous post on this thread.

Point 2 - "Those who seek followings" - Seeking a following is wrong regardless of whether you are the prophet/president to the church or joe the barber. I have always said that true prophets point people to God and avoid followers. They make equals, not subservience. In the end, no man will counsel their fellow men. That is the goal, to make yourself unneeded.

Unfortunately there are some who are so starved on the milk that the church presents that when someone like myself comes along with a bit of meat, the poor souls hound us like starved dogs begging for scraps.

As rewarding as that may sound to a man's pride, it is not the way things should be. This is one of the reasons I remain anonymous. It is hard to gain a following or get idol worshipped when nobody knows who you are. I attempt to not set myself above others, although I may at times do well, I admit that I may not always meet my own standards on occasion. I am no greater than anyone else on this forum or the planet for that matter. (I am not sure how I got on to talking about myself, but I will return to this important topic...)

My point is that I do not seek a following nor do I encourage anyone else to either follow or be followed. Even the prophet/president. GO TO GOD!!!!

Points 3 & 4 I want to address together because they are linked in relation to my comments on this topic.

I wish everyone could have the faith to talk with angels, breach the veil and commune with the church of the firstborn and the general assembly of heaven and to sit at the feet of Christ or some great prophet as they expound on some principle using four-dimensional visions for illustrations instead of white boards. (Trust me, General Conference is no comparison, don't even try to go there.)

As some here know, I claim to be one of the 144,000 who are called and ordained by angels to bring as many as will come to the church of the Firstborn as detailed in D&C 77:11. In that role, I have found great success. Even a reasonable number of members on this forum have received their Calling and Election made sure which is the "baptismal" or joining ordinance to this spiritual Church of the Firstborn.

Now, I will tell you why I harp on this particular topic so much and so adamantly. To be an active member of the Church oof teh Firstborn and commune with the hosts of heaven and God, we MUST learn to recognize truth by the light of our own lamps. We cannot hope to learn things by the spirit, Angels or Gods which we have already rejected by leaders. Teachings like Elder Ballard's here which tell us that there is no authorized channel aside from the priesthood line prevents us from learning from Angels, ancients, Christ and God who teach outside the priesthood line. Why would they, the angels, even bother?!? They couldn't tell you anything that you haven't already heard from your church leaders. So just go learn from your church leaders. The whole point of being ministered to by angels, ancients and Gods is to learn something new. Something you're not able to access with your current resources. Or clarifications on things which confuse or confound you. Why would they attempt to clarify things to you just to have you turn around and say, "Which prophet said that? Can you show me a quote? But Elder McConkie or President Joseph F. Smith said that..."

Really, if you want to know what the church has to teach, read the church manuals. If you want to know what the scriptures say, read the scriptures, and if you want to know what God has to say, then go to God. But don't read the scriptures and say that they don't teach something that is written clear as day because the church teaches to the contrary. And don't try to tell God what God believes because the Church or some prophet told you otherwise.

We need to be open to all things if we are going to be humble enough to opens the heavens. We need to "Believe all things" before we can understand them well enough to see the error. And we need to realize where the church administers using protocols, procedures and organization but that these things should not be confused with the gospel or truth.

Ballard continues:

However, in the Lord’s Church there is no such thing as a “loyal opposition.” One is either for the kingdom of God and stands in defense of God’s prophets and apostles, or one stands opposed.

Not when they are wrong my friend. You don't defend your children when they are in the wrong, and you don't defend your leaders when they are wrong either. Your leaders should be humble and welcome opposition as all true leaders do. Not mirror the techniques of Communist tyrants who fear, avoid and remove opposition. Remember how Joseph welcomed it. He to the point of letting other preachers take his stand and teach his people for contrast? The greater light shines in darkness and the darkness fears the light but the light never fears the darkness.

Our safety and our exaltation are not found in obedience, but in righteousness. And obedience is a fools version of righteousness.

We must learn to hear the voice of God for ourselves or we cannot hope to live by every word to us.

"There are those among this people who are influenced, controlled, and biased in their thoughts, actions, and feelings by some other individual or family, on whom they place their dependence for spiritual and temporal instruction, and for salvation in the end. These persons do not depend upon themselves for salvation, but upon another of their poor, weak, fellow mortals. I do not depend upon any inherent goodness of my own, say they, to introduce me into the kingdom of glory, but I depend upon you, brother Joseph, upon you, brother Brigham, upon you, brother Heber, or upon you, brother James; I believe your judgment is superior to mine, and consequently I let you judge for me; your spirit is better than mine, therefore you can do good for me; I will submit myself wholly to you, and place in you all my confidence for life and salvation; where you go I will go, and where you tarry there I will stay; expecting that you will introduce me through the gates into the heavenly Jerusalem....Now those men, or those women, who know no more about the power of God, and the influences of the Holy Spirit, than to be led entirely by another person, suspending their own understanding, and pinning their faith upon another's sleeve, will never be capable of entering into the celestial glory, to be crowned as they anticipate; they will never be capable of becoming Gods. They cannot rule themselves, to say nothing of ruling others, but they must be dictated to in every trifle, like a child. They cannot control themselves in the least, but James, Peter, or somebody else must control them, They never can become Gods, nor be crowned as rulers with glory, immortality, and eternal lives. They never can hold scepters of glory, majesty, and power in the celestial kingdom. Who will? Those who are valiant and inspired with the true independence of heaven, who will go forth boldly in the service of their God, leaving others to do as they please, determined to do right, though all mankind besides should take the opposite course." - (Brigham Young, presented in the Salt Lake Tabernacle on February 20, 1853, found in Journal of Discourses, 1:312)

Your Servant,
Amonhi

[Amonhi]

I am curious. What are some of these truths that the church does not endorse, but should?

I don't know, it isn't my right to say what the church should endorse. I am not over the church. There are an infinite number of eternal truths that the Church does not yet endorse, or even know about. But that doesn't mean that people like you or I can't learn them and even share them with those who are ready and willing to receive them.

Anciently the prophets were called directly by God from the lowest ranks to call the people to move forward, repent or prepare for the coming changes.

Like Amos who said "Surely the Lord God will do nothing save he revealeth his secrets to his servants the prophets." He was called by God as he watched his flock. He was not a prophet or even a prophet's son. He was a good man called of God from out of the ranks. So was Lehi. And Abinadi, and Amulek and etc... Many of these prophets like John the Baptist did not hold rank with the church of the day. This is how the Lord works. He has always worked this way. Right now, today, the prophets are popping up everywhere, just like they did anciently. It is a wonderful time!

Listen to these prophets and learn from them to see if they have anything valuable to say. Check them by the Spirit inside of you. Be open to angels and ancients but remember that even these must be checked by by the spirit. Learn to speak with God through the veil and to light your path by your own lamp. The time is coming shortly when those who can't will be separated from those who can and unless you know how to guide yourself, you will not know where to go.

Excited for the future,
Amonhi

[keep the faith]

"As some here know, I claim to be one of the 144,000 who are called and ordained by angels to bring as many as will come to the church of the Firstborn as detailed in D&C 77:11. In that role, I have found great success. Even a reasonable number of members on this forum have received their Calling and Election made sure which is the "baptismal" or joining ordinance to this spiritual Church of the Firstborn."


I can claim to be Superman and Batman and every other superhero rolled into one but that does not necessarily make it so Bro. If people want to buy into your delusions of grandeur thats up to them. Personally I am amazed that people are this gullible and they honestly believe what you are peddling is on the up and up but as my friend Jason Bourne always said to each their own. As for me and my house, we will remember those immortal words of my favorite space robot.. :-ss

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=REvmhBO99I ... EvmhBO99I4" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[log]

And here I was thinking it was by a man's fruits he was known, and that as we judged so shall we be judged.

It's not Amonhi's claim to be among the 144,000 (is that a literal 144,000 btw?) that should cause one to turn up his nose, just as it is not Snuffer's claims to have stood in the presence of the Father and the Son which should cause ire, unless it is for envy's sake.

What does Amonhi say to do that would cause anyone to fear? Or how about Snuffer?

And if everything they say to do is good (Moroni 7), then what?

[Amonhi]

"As some here know, I claim to be one of the 144,000 who are called and ordained by angels to bring as many as will come to the church of the Firstborn as detailed in D&C 77:11. In that role, I have found great success. Even a reasonable number of members on this forum have received their Calling and Election made sure which is the "baptismal" or joining ordinance to this spiritual Church of the Firstborn."

I can claim to be Superman and Batman and every other superhero rolled into one but that does not necessarily make it so Bro. If people want to buy into your delusions of grandeur thats up to them. Personally I am amazed that people are this gullible and they honestly believe what you are peddling is on the up and up but as my friend Jason Bourne always said to each their own. As for me and my house, we will remember those immortal words of my favorite space robot.. :-ss

(Chuckling to myself)
In this thread, I showed the following:

• Prophets/Presidents DO in fact contradict each other on Exalting Principles
• Prophets/President DO NOT teach false "Current Church Doctrine" because they decide what the current church doctrine is, but they can and do teach contrary to truth.
• Prophets/President sometimes use the power of fear, (not of God - 2 Timothy 1:7), to bind/close our minds to "unauthorized" ideas (cult tactics BTW).
• Truth is NOT determined by who said it, so playing the quote game to prove truth with the higher most current authority is pointless.
• The Current Church Doctrine Game does work by using quotes like poke-mon cards.
• People like you, me or Eliza R. Snow can receive and reveal new truths to the world, like the existence of a heavenly mother. And just because it didn't come through the living Prophet/President doesn't make it false.
• Truth does not equal Current Church Doctrine.
• The current church doctrine changes with each leader.
• The church and its chain of command do not have the patent on truth.
• Our progression is not limited by our our leaders and church.
• Current church doctrine is that Visions have ceased. (Per President Hinckley)
• The truth is, President Hinckley was wrong. Visions have not ceased for everyone. Revelations can still come by visions.
• Just because the church is not aligned with all truth does not make the church false.
• We should consider all ideas and know that truth ones will shine brighter than dark ones.
• Know one should ever use their priesthood position as a reason for believing, obeying, or doing anything.
• Elder Ballard broke the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood by using the virtue of his priesthood position to maintain power and influence over us.
• If you want to be a great priesthood leader, then you need to learn to be a great persuader. (Addition: You have to learn True Doctrine first and not confuse it with Current Church Doctrine.)
• The difference between TEACHING and TELLING is that one uses persuasion and the other uses position, one empowers and one enslaves.
• "Follow the Prophet" doesn't TEACH us anything!!! It TELLS us to do something...
• True Prophets make equals, not subservience.
• If you are pointing people to a man, then you are not pointing them to God.
• We MUST learn to recognize truth by the light of our own lamps.
• We cannot hope to learn things by the spirit, Angels or Gods which we have already rejected by leaders.
• If you want to know what God has to say, then go to God.
• We should not try to tell God what God believes.
• The church administers using protocols, procedures and organization but that these things should not be confused with the gospel or truth.
• True/good leaders are humble enough to welcome opposing thoughts rather than silence them.
• Obedience is a fools version of righteousness.
• Prophets are popping up everywhere, just like they did anciently.
• The time is coming shortly when unless you know how to guide yourself, you will not know where to go.

I showed or made all those points and all you've got is Superman, Batman and delusions of grandeur? Not one word about a single relevant point, just an attempt at character assassination? LOL

The problem with character assassinations is that I have never seen someone pull that move unless they both disagreed with/didn't like what was said AND were incapable of refuting it with reason, logic, any other option. It is an attempt to discredit the message by discrediting the messenger. As if somehow me being "delusional" meant that all my points, examples reasoning magically became invalid.

The problem is that even if I have "delusions of grandeur" and am crazy as a loon, the examples, points and reasoning still stands unchallenged. So, you can attempt to discredit me till your blue in the face, but unless you are able to show my errors or even provide a greater light or enlightenment on the points listed, you have done nothing to stop or change my message.

That being said, you're right, my claims don't make it so. I knew that when I wrote it.

The funny thing is that if it wasn't me or those like me, then the prophecy and role would have to be fulfilled by someone else. But IT WOULD BE FULFILLED, and you would still reject whomever was fulfilling it with exactly the same criticism, "delusions of grandeur". So, your beef is not with me but with the prophecy. The questions I have for you, "keep the Faith" are, do you believe the prophecy recorded in D&C 77:11? and How do you expect it to be fulfilled?

Really liking these emotion icons,
Amonhi

[natasha]

I ask again, can we have a "thumbs down" icon?

[keep the faith]

Again another quote from Joseph F Smith. People on this forum will have to discern for themselves whether or not to accept the declarations of those made here by Amonhi. I already have my answer based on the spirit of his accusations aimed at church leadership. I consider him to be an imposter. His declaration of being one of the 144,000 high priests called to bring people unto the Church of the Firstborn and seal them up unto eternal life is imo akin to many others who have come forward in our day proclaiming to be the one mighty and strong. It just does not hold water based on scriptural and prophetic declarations made since the days of Joseph. Based on Amonhi's demeaning attitudes toward the church and the Brethren called into its leadership I would wonder if He were even an active member of TCOJCOLDS.

From the days of Hiram Page (Doc. and Cov, Sec. D&C 28), at different periods there have been manifestations from delusive spirits to members of the Church. Sometimes these have come to men and women who because of transgression became easy prey to the Arch-Deceiver. At other times people who pride themselves on their strict observance of the rules and ordinances and ceremonies of the Church are led astray by false spirits, who exercise an influence so imitative of that which proceeds from a Divine source that even these persons, who think they are “the very elect,” find it difficult to discern the essential difference [Matthew 24:24]. Satan himself has transformed himself to be apparently “an angel of light” [2 Corinthians 11:14; 2 Nephi 9:9].

When visions, dreams, tongues, prophecy, impressions or any extraordinary gift or inspiration conveys something out of harmony with the accepted revelations of the Church or contrary to the decisions of its constituted authorities, Latter-day Saints may know that it is not of God, no matter how plausible it may appear. Also they should understand that directions for the guidance of the Church will come, by revelation, through the head. All faithful members are entitled to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit for themselves, their families, and for those over whom they are appointed and ordained to preside. But anything at discord with that which comes from God through the head of the Church is not to be received as authoritative or reliable.6

[Simon]

Again another quote from Joseph F Smith. People on this forum will have to discern for themselves whether or not to accept the declarations of those made here by Amonhi. I already have my answer based on the spirit of his accusations aimed at church leadership. I consider him to be an imposter. His declaration of being one of the 144,000 high priests called to bring people unto the Church of the Firstborn and seal them up unto eternal life is imo akin to many others who have come forward in our day proclaiming to be the one mighty and strong. It just does not hold water based on scriptural and prophetic declarations made since the days of Joseph. Based on Amonhi's demeaning attitudes toward the church and the Brethren called into its leadership I would wonder if He were even an active member of TCOJCOLDS.

From the days of Hiram Page (Doc. and Cov, Sec. D&C 28), at different periods there have been manifestations from delusive spirits to members of the Church. Sometimes these have come to men and women who because of transgression became easy prey to the Arch-Deceiver. At other times people who pride themselves on their strict observance of the rules and ordinances and ceremonies of the Church are led astray by false spirits, who exercise an influence so imitative of that which proceeds from a Divine source that even these persons, who think they are “the very elect,” find it difficult to discern the essential difference [Matthew 24:24]. Satan himself has transformed himself to be apparently “an angel of light” [2 Corinthians 11:14; 2 Nephi 9:9].

When visions, dreams, tongues, prophecy, impressions or any extraordinary gift or inspiration conveys something out of harmony with the accepted revelations of the Church or contrary to the decisions of its constituted authorities, Latter-day Saints may know that it is not of God, no matter how plausible it may appear. Also they should understand that directions for the guidance of the Church will come, by revelation, through the head. All faithful members are entitled to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit for themselves, their families, and for those over whom they are appointed and ordained to preside. But anything at discord with that which comes from God through the head of the Church is not to be received as authoritative or reliable.6

I don't know wether Amonhi is one of the 144000, but I think that this statement also could have prooven Joseph, Samuel the Lamanite and even Christ as an imposter. They all came into an religious system which was convinced of its truthfullness and chosen status before God, and they all were offended by prophets called from the outside, but history prooved that often these were the chosen one. I just think we should not judge to fast, even though that might be inviting and logical at first sight. The Lord said something intereting about the last days:

1 Corint. 1:27

But God hath chosen the FOOLISH THINGS of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the WEAK things of the world to confound the things which are mighty

Where do we find those foolish and weak things of the world today?

2 Nephi 28:16

Wo unto them that turn aside the just for a thing of naught and revile against that which is good, and say that it is of no worth!

Lets always ne wise and humble

2 Nephi 28:24-25

Therefore, wo be unto him that is at ease in Zion! Wo be unto him that crieth: All is well!

Never feel to save, not even in Zion

D&C 50:7

Behold, verily I say unto you, there are hypocrites among you, who have deceived some, which has given the adversary power but behold such shall be reclaimed;

[keep the faith]

Again another quote from Joseph F Smith. People on this forum will have to discern for themselves whether or not to accept the declarations of those made here by Amonhi. I already have my answer based on the spirit of his accusations aimed at church leadership. I consider him to be an imposter. His declaration of being one of the 144,000 high priests called to bring people unto the Church of the Firstborn and seal them up unto eternal life is imo akin to many others who have come forward in our day proclaiming to be the one mighty and strong. It just does not hold water based on scriptural and prophetic declarations made since the days of Joseph. Based on Amonhi's demeaning attitudes toward the church and the Brethren called into its leadership I would wonder if He were even an active member of TCOJCOLDS.

From the days of Hiram Page (Doc. and Cov, Sec. D&C 28), at different periods there have been manifestations from delusive spirits to members of the Church. Sometimes these have come to men and women who because of transgression became easy prey to the Arch-Deceiver. At other times people who pride themselves on their strict observance of the rules and ordinances and ceremonies of the Church are led astray by false spirits, who exercise an influence so imitative of that which proceeds from a Divine source that even these persons, who think they are “the very elect,” find it difficult to discern the essential difference [Matthew 24:24]. Satan himself has transformed himself to be apparently “an angel of light” [2 Corinthians 11:14; 2 Nephi 9:9].

When visions, dreams, tongues, prophecy, impressions or any extraordinary gift or inspiration conveys something out of harmony with the accepted revelations of the Church or contrary to the decisions of its constituted authorities, Latter-day Saints may know that it is not of God, no matter how plausible it may appear. Also they should understand that directions for the guidance of the Church will come, by revelation, through the head. All faithful members are entitled to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit for themselves, their families, and for those over whom they are appointed and ordained to preside. But anything at discord with that which comes from God through the head of the Church is not to be received as authoritative or reliable.6

I don't know wether Amonhi is one of the 144000, but I think that this statement also could have prooven Joseph, Samuel the Lamanite and even Christ as an imposter. They all came into an religious system which was convinced of its truthfullness and chosen status before God, and they all were offended by prophets called from the outside, but history prooved that often these were the chosen one. I just think we should not judge to fast, even though that might be inviting and logical at first sight. The Lord said something intereting about the last days:

1 Corint. 1:27

But God hath chosen the FOOLISH THINGS of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the WEAK things of the world to confound the things which are mighty

Where do we find those foolish and weak things of the world today?

2 Nephi 28:16

Wo unto them that turn aside the just for a thing of naught and revile against that which is good, and say that it is of no worth!

Lets always ne wise and humble

2 Nephi 28:24-25

Therefore, wo be unto him that is at ease in Zion! Wo be unto him that crieth: All is well!

Never feel to save, not even in Zion

D&C 50:7

Behold, verily I say unto you, there are hypocrites among you, who have deceived some, which has given the adversary power but behold such shall be reclaimed;

Knock yourself out Simon. I've been down this road before with those who claim to have a higher spiritual calling. I know the results that come from following false spirits. They aint pretty. Anybody who claims to have a direct connection with the heavens and then displays an attitude of faultfinding and accusatory defaming and criticizing of church leadership is not following the spirit of Christ-like charity in my book. I saw this happen with many who organized the TLC church out of Sanpete County years ago. They also claimed great spiritual manifestations and higher spiritual callings just as Amonhi has done here and I KNOW they were following false spirits. Amonhi is following their same patterns. Buyer beware is all I can say. Do with it as you please. I want no part of it.

[jo1952]

(Chuckling to myself)
In this thread, I showed the following:

• Prophets/Presidents DO in fact contradict each other on Exalting Principles
• Prophets/President DO NOT teach false "Current Church Doctrine" because they decide what the current church doctrine is, but they can and do teach contrary to truth.
• Prophets/President sometimes use the power of fear, (not of God - 2 Timothy 1:7), to bind/close our minds to "unauthorized" ideas (cult tactics BTW).
• Truth is NOT determined by who said it, so playing the quote game to prove truth with the higher most current authority is pointless.
• The Current Church Doctrine Game does work by using quotes like poke-mon cards.
• People like you, me or Eliza R. Snow can receive and reveal new truths to the world, like the existence of a heavenly mother. And just because it didn't come through the living Prophet/President doesn't make it false.
• Truth does not equal Current Church Doctrine.
• The current church doctrine changes with each leader.
• The church and its chain of command do not have the patent on truth.
• Our progression is not limited by our our leaders and church.
• Current church doctrine is that Visions have ceased. (Per President Hinckley)
• The truth is, President Hinckley was wrong. Visions have not ceased for everyone. Revelations can still come by visions.
• Just because the church is not aligned with all truth does not make the church false.
• We should consider all ideas and know that truth ones will shine brighter than dark ones.
• Know one should ever use their priesthood position as a reason for believing, obeying, or doing anything.
• Elder Ballard broke the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood by using the virtue of his priesthood position to maintain power and influence over us.
• If you want to be a great priesthood leader, then you need to learn to be a great persuader. (Addition: You have to learn True Doctrine first and not confuse it with Current Church Doctrine.)
• The difference between TEACHING and TELLING is that one uses persuasion and the other uses position, one empowers and one enslaves.
• "Follow the Prophet" doesn't TEACH us anything!!! It TELLS us to do something...
• True Prophets make equals, not subservience.
• If you are pointing people to a man, then you are not pointing them to God.
• We MUST learn to recognize truth by the light of our own lamps.
• We cannot hope to learn things by the spirit, Angels or Gods which we have already rejected by leaders.
• If you want to know what God has to say, then go to God.
• We should not try to tell God what God believes.
• The church administers using protocols, procedures and organization but that these things should not be confused with the gospel or truth.
• True/good leaders are humble enough to welcome opposing thoughts rather than silence them.
• Obedience is a fools version of righteousness.
• Prophets are popping up everywhere, just like they did anciently.
• The time is coming shortly when unless you know how to guide yourself, you will not know where to go.

May I add something?

[*] Through the process of Temple Recommends, we judge people's worthiness to receive saving ordinances. (What?? I thought that being a sinner qualified us for being saved. Rather than bringing people closer to Christ, our Temples block living people from getting to Him; since some of us aren't worthy of being saved.)

[InfoWarrior82]

but they can and do teach contrary to truth.

Didn't you just say that you didn't know what those truths were that the church leadership wasn't teaching or getting wrong? Now you are claiming the opposite. That they are indeed teaching falsehoods and withholding truth. Which one is it?

How does one of the 144,000 not have this kind of information readily available?

[log]

but they can and do teach contrary to truth.

Didn't you just say that you didn't know what those truths were that the church leadership wasn't teaching or getting wrong? Now you are claiming the opposite. That they are indeed teaching falsehoods and withholding truth.

No, he politely declined to step into your obvious snare. Any substantive answer to your "question"/snare would have netted a charge of apostasy. You are even here doing it. It is an offense against truth and virtue.

Jeremiah 5:26
26 For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men.

2 Nephi 27:32
31 For assuredly as the Lord liveth they shall see that the terrible one is brought to naught, and the scorner is consumed, and all that watch for iniquity are cut off;

32 And they that make a man an offender for a word, and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate, and turn aside the just for a thing of naught.

[InfoWarrior82]

but they can and do teach contrary to truth.

Didn't you just say that you didn't know what those truths were that the church leadership wasn't teaching or getting wrong? Now you are claiming the opposite. That they are indeed teaching falsehoods and withholding truth.

No, he politely declined to step into your obvious snare. Any substantive answer to your "question"/snare would have netted a charge of apostasy. You are even here doing it. It is an offense against truth and virtue.

Jeremiah 5:26
26 For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men.

2 Nephi 27:32
31 For assuredly as the Lord liveth they shall see that the terrible one is brought to naught, and the scorner is consumed, and all that watch for iniquity are cut off;

32 And they that make a man an offender for a word, and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate, and turn aside the just for a thing of naught.

Wow. What trap? Seriously. No need to be offended that I pointed out this dude/dudette's contradiction of words and called him/her out on it. I'm just asking for some clarification in case we are all misunderstanding.

[InfoWarrior82]

(Chuckling to myself)
In this thread, I showed the following:

• Prophets/Presidents DO in fact contradict each other on Exalting Principles
• Prophets/President DO NOT teach false "Current Church Doctrine" because they decide what the current church doctrine is, but they can and do teach contrary to truth.
• Prophets/President sometimes use the power of fear, (not of God - 2 Timothy 1:7), to bind/close our minds to "unauthorized" ideas (cult tactics BTW).
• Truth is NOT determined by who said it, so playing the quote game to prove truth with the higher most current authority is pointless.
• The Current Church Doctrine Game does work by using quotes like poke-mon cards.
• People like you, me or Eliza R. Snow can receive and reveal new truths to the world, like the existence of a heavenly mother. And just because it didn't come through the living Prophet/President doesn't make it false.
• Truth does not equal Current Church Doctrine.
• The current church doctrine changes with each leader.
• The church and its chain of command do not have the patent on truth.
• Our progression is not limited by our our leaders and church.
• Current church doctrine is that Visions have ceased. (Per President Hinckley)
• The truth is, President Hinckley was wrong. Visions have not ceased for everyone. Revelations can still come by visions.
• Just because the church is not aligned with all truth does not make the church false.
• We should consider all ideas and know that truth ones will shine brighter than dark ones.
• Know one should ever use their priesthood position as a reason for believing, obeying, or doing anything.
• Elder Ballard broke the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood by using the virtue of his priesthood position to maintain power and influence over us.
• If you want to be a great priesthood leader, then you need to learn to be a great persuader. (Addition: You have to learn True Doctrine first and not confuse it with Current Church Doctrine.)
• The difference between TEACHING and TELLING is that one uses persuasion and the other uses position, one empowers and one enslaves.
• "Follow the Prophet" doesn't TEACH us anything!!! It TELLS us to do something...
• True Prophets make equals, not subservience.
• If you are pointing people to a man, then you are not pointing them to God.
• We MUST learn to recognize truth by the light of our own lamps.
• We cannot hope to learn things by the spirit, Angels or Gods which we have already rejected by leaders.
• If you want to know what God has to say, then go to God.
• We should not try to tell God what God believes.
• The church administers using protocols, procedures and organization but that these things should not be confused with the gospel or truth.
• True/good leaders are humble enough to welcome opposing thoughts rather than silence them.
• Obedience is a fools version of righteousness.
• Prophets are popping up everywhere, just like they did anciently.
• The time is coming shortly when unless you know how to guide yourself, you will not know where to go.

May I add something?

[*] Through the process of Temple Recommends, we judge people's worthiness to receive saving ordinances. (What?? I thought that being a sinner qualified us for being saved. Rather than bringing people closer to Christ, our Temples block living people from getting to Him; since some of us aren't worthy of being saved.)

Obviously you don't understand what a "Judge in Israel" is. As well as the meaning "Holiness to the Lord". As well as the entire repentance process for that matter. Do you know what happens when you partake of the sacrament unworthily? Not good stuff. Not. Good. Stuff.