Today's Favorite Verse: John 7:16-18

Today's Favorite Verse: John 7:16-18

"Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.

If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.

He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him."

This made me reflect on how some have thought to pressure church leaders to change doctrine. That simply is not possible. It's not up to church leaders or even the prophet to change doctrine. Commandments are commandments. Even the Savior, Jesus Christ cannot change doctrine. He can only do the express will of the Father. The Savior may have sounded like he was changing doctrine, with somethings that he taught, but actually he was fulfilling what had already been taught for generations. The law of Moses all pointed to Him. In some cases he was clarifying what they should have already understood. This is where He was giving them a higher law. This is why its so important for us to understand the doctrine of Christ. First, to make sure no one deceives us by teaching false doctrine. But, mainly so we can "know of the doctrine" for ourselves, and receive the blessings from it, and bless others.

“True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior. The study of the [doctrine] of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior.”

(President Boyd K. Packer, "Little Children", Oct 1986 General Conference)

I remember the first time I was asked what the Doctrine of Christ was and I felt such panic. I was unsure of what the answer was. Then I found it laid out so beautifully in 2 Nephi 31. Here are the highlights.

Doctrine of Christ

(1) faith in the Lord Jesus Christ

(2) repentance through the Atonement of Christ

(3) baptism by immersion in Christ’s name

(4) the gift of the Holy Ghost

(5) enduring to the end

Sometimes we make things so complicated we miss the whole point. Just like the Jews couldn't recognize the Messiah when he came because they had gone beyond the mark. All these very simple things point to Christ, and have us come to know Him. Enduring to the end is my favorite part, its where I develop a personal relationship with the Savior and know Him.

Day 3163