Updates to Preach My Gospel

[blueglass]

Looked through the differences between the 2005 and 2018 Preach my Gospel manual which all the missionaries use.    https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service?lang=eng

On June22, the 1st discussion was changed and now missionaries introduce the existence of 4 different accounts of the first vision to people. “We have four different accounts of what followed, recorded by him or scribes under his direction (see Gospel Topics essay, “First Vision Accounts”). In one account, he described his experience: “I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head . . . . ”

It’s also good to see the misleading artwork for the book of mormon translation removed.   

The Gospel Blesses Individuals and Families 

Also added is the possibility to ascend higher “in the world to come” by accepting the fulness of the gospel rather than staying in the terrestrial or the telestial kingdoms. 

An openness to identifying as gay, lesbian, or bisexual is not a sin.

Atonement coupled to Jesus Christ in every mention, and more emphasis on exaltation rather than “eternal life”. 

Removed all mention of the word "investigator(s)".

Commitments replaced with Invitations.

For the 5th discussion added to the section for Priesthood and Auxiliaries is the question, "How does this apply to women?"

"President Dallin H. Oaks taught that women who are set apart as missionaries, officers, or teachers in the Church are “given priesthood authority to perform a priesthood function” (“The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 51). 

Then it appears to cancel this out with the quote by Joseph Fielding Smith in 1959, "While the sisters have not been given the Priesthood, it has not been conferred upon them , that does not mean that the Lord has not given unto them authority".  This is where I thought Oaks overturned Joseph Fielding Smith by equating this authority with priesthood authority.  "We are not accustomed to speaking of women having the authority of the priesthood in their Church callings, but what other authority can it be? When a woman—young or old—is set apart to preach the gospel as a full-time missionary, she is given priesthood authority to perform a priesthood function. " We could do more to embrace the female potential of Doctrine and covenants 113:7-8, "7 Questions by Elias Higbee: What is meant by the command in Isaiah, 52d chapter, 1st verse, which saith: Put on thy strength, O Zion—and what people had Isaiah reference to?  8 He had reference to those whom God should call in the last days, who should hold the power of priesthood to bring again Zion, and the redemption of Israel; and to put on her strength is to put on the authority of the priesthood, which she, Zion, has a right to by lineage; also to return to that power which she had lost."  

Edited June 25, 2018 by blueglass
edited to master link for new preach my gospel 2018

[sunstoned]

I think these changes/enhancements are a positive thing.  

[Stargazer]

2 hours ago, sunstoned said:

I think these changes/enhancements are a positive thing.  

I agree

[ksfisher]

8 hours ago, blueglass said:

Also added is the possibility to ascend higher “in the world to come” by accepting the fulness of the gospel rather than staying in the terrestrial or the telestial kingdoms. 

Doing a cntrl+F search on the page you've linked to, I cannot find the phrase you've put in quotes.  Which section is it in?

[ksfisher]

9 hours ago, blueglass said:

"President Dallin H. Oaks taught that women who are set apart as missionaries, officers, or teachers in the Church are “given priesthood authority to perform a priesthood function” (“The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 51). 

Then it appears to cancel this out with the quote by Joseph Fielding Smith in 1959, "While the sisters have not been given the Priesthood, it has not been conferred upon them , that does not mean that the Lord has not given unto them authority".  This is where I thought Oaks overturned Joseph Fielding Smith by equating this authority with priesthood authority.  "We are not accustomed to speaking of women having the authority of the priesthood in their Church callings, but what other authority can it be? When a woman—young or old—is set apart to preach the gospel as a full-time missionary, she is given priesthood authority to perform a priesthood function. " We could do more to embrace the female potential of Doctrine and covenants 113:7-8, "7 Questions by Elias Higbee: What is meant by the command in Isaiah, 52d chapter, 1st verse, which saith: Put on thy strength, O Zion—and what people had Isaiah reference to?  8 He had reference to those whom God should call in the last days, who should hold the power of priesthood to bring again Zion, and the redemption of Israel; and to put on her strength is to put on the authority of the priesthood, which she, Zion, has a right to by lineage; also to return to that power which she had lost."  

I'm not sure how you see these two quotes as cancelling each other out.  Having authority given to you by the priesthood and having the priesthood conferred upon you are two different things. 

The relief society president has all the necessary authority given to her when she is set apart by a bishop without being ordained to the priesthood.

[hope_for_things]

9 hours ago, blueglass said:

An openness to identifying as gay, lesbian, or bisexual is not a sin.

Where does it talk about this part?  I couldn't find this in the link you provided.  I'd be curious how the new manual addresses married same sex couples. 

[blueglass]

1 hour ago, ksfisher said:

Doing a cntrl+F search on the page you've linked to, I cannot find the phrase you've put in quotes.  Which section is it in?

Lesson2 plan of salvation https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service/lesson-2-the-plan-of-salvation?lang=eng

In the past Preach My Gospel taught rejection to the gospel in mortality as fatal.  The "one strike rule" as per  D&C 76:73–74.   The new preach my gospel is closer to the teachings of Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, Lorenzo Snow, BH Roberts, James Talmage, Joseph F. Smith, J. Reuben Clark Jr., and James E. Faust.

[blueglass]

16 minutes ago, hope_for_things said:

Where does it talk about this part?  I couldn't find this in the link you provided.  I'd be curious how the new manual addresses married same sex couples. 

Lesson4.  https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service/lesson-4-the-commandments?lang=eng

"identifying as gay, lesbian, or bisexual is not a sin and does not prohibit one from participating in the Church, holding callings, or attending the temple."  On same sex marriage or those who believe in section 132, the missionaries may cease teaching them if they don't divorce, "People in same-sex marriages or same-sex relationships, or those who are married to more than one person at a time, may not be baptized."    My hope is they will invite same sex married couples and polygamous families to church and continue teaching them and inviting to events, and activities, "Use caution and follow the promptings of the Spirit when discussing sexual behavior to avoid compromising situations or accusations."  

Edited June 25, 2018 by blueglass

[ksfisher]

1 minute ago, blueglass said:

Lesson2 plan of salvation https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service/lesson-2-the-plan-of-salvation?lang=eng

In the past Preach My Gospel taught rejection to the gospel in mortality as fatal.  The "one strike rule" as per  D&C 76:73–74.   The new preach my gospel is closer to the teachings of Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, Lorenzo Snow, BH Roberts, James Talmage, Joseph F. Smith, J. Reuben Clark Jr., and James E. Faust.

Found it, thank you.

I do not, however, see anything which teaches that one can " ascend higher “in the world to come” by accepting the fulness of the gospel rather than staying in the terrestrial or the telestial kingdoms"

Are you saying that Preach My Gospel teaches that there is progression between kingdoms are you?

Here are the relevant sections:

Terrestial Kingdom

People who do not accept the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ in this life or in the world to come but live honorable lives will receive a place in the terrestrial kingdom. This kingdom is compared to the glory of the moon (see Doctrine and Covenants 76:71–80).

Telestial Kingdom

Those who continued in their sins and did not repent in this life or accept the gospel in the world to come will receive their reward in the lowest kingdom, which is called the telestial kingdom. This kingdom is compared to the glory of the stars (see Doctrine and Covenants 76:81–86).

[ksfisher]

13 minutes ago, blueglass said:

Lesson4.  https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service/lesson-4-the-commandments?lang=eng

"identifying as gay, lesbian, or bisexual is not a sin and does not prohibit one from participating in the Church, holding callings, or attending the temple."  On same sex marriage or those who believe in section 132, the missionaries may cease teaching them if they don't divorce, "People in same-sex marriages or same-sex relationships, or those who are married to more than one person at a time, may not be baptized."    My hope is they will invite same sex married couples and polygamous families to church and continue teaching them and inviting to events, and activities, "Use caution and follow the promptings of the Spirit when discussing sexual behavior to avoid compromising situations or accusations."  

This is the doctrine of the church.

 

https://mormonandgay.lds.org/articles/church-teachings?lang=eng

Feelings of same-sex attraction are not a sin. Elder M. Russell Ballard stated:

“Let us be clear: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes that ‘the experience of same-sex attraction is a complex reality for many people. The attraction itself is not a sin, but acting on it is. Even though individuals do not choose to have such attractions, they do choose how to respond to them. With love and understanding, the Church reaches out to all God’s children, including [those with same-sex attraction]’” (“The Lord Needs You Now!” Ensign, Sept. 2015, 29).

 

I think it's a good thing that the missionaries will be teaching this as I believe this is a barrier for many people in accepting the gospel, and more than just those who identify as such. 

 

 

[blueglass]

It's a little odd, considering this is available only on the web or on the gospel library app, that they do not provide a link to the gospel topics essay in Lesson1 for 4 accounts of the first vision.  It says, (see Gospel Topics essay, “First Vision Accounts”).  Hyperlinks abound for everything under sun for all other scriptures and references, but for this one reference the link is removed.  If you find these accounts under gospel library under the church history tab first vision accounts, they also need to activate the link to "Read these accounts here" as it is also dead.   Can missionaries access the joseph smith papers - anyone know?   http://www.josephsmithpapers.org/site/accounts-of-the-first-vision  also see https://history.lds.org/story/first-vision?lang=eng

 

Edited June 25, 2018 by blueglass

[blueglass]

20 minutes ago, ksfisher said:

Found it, thank you.

I do not, however, see anything which teaches that one can " ascend higher “in the world to come” by accepting the fulness of the gospel rather than staying in the terrestrial or the telestial kingdoms"

Are you saying that Preach My Gospel teaches that there is progression between kingdoms are you?

Here are the relevant sections:

Terrestial Kingdom

People who do not accept the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ in this life or in the world to come but live honorable lives will receive a place in the terrestrial kingdom. This kingdom is compared to the glory of the moon (see Doctrine and Covenants 76:71–80).

Telestial Kingdom

Those who continued in their sins and did not repent in this life or accept the gospel in the world to come will receive their reward in the lowest kingdom, which is called the telestial kingdom. This kingdom is compared to the glory of the stars (see Doctrine and Covenants 76:81–86).

In the 2005 preach my gospel it definitely reads more final to me, "Those who continued in their sins and did not repent in this life will receive their
reward in the lowest kingdom, which is called the telestial kingdom. This kingdom is compared to the glory of the stars."

[hope_for_things]

37 minutes ago, blueglass said:

Lesson4.  https://www.lds.org/manual/preach-my-gospel-a-guide-to-missionary-service/lesson-4-the-commandments?lang=eng

"identifying as gay, lesbian, or bisexual is not a sin and does not prohibit one from participating in the Church, holding callings, or attending the temple."  On same sex marriage or those who believe in section 132, the missionaries may cease teaching them if they don't divorce, "People in same-sex marriages or same-sex relationships, or those who are married to more than one person at a time, may not be baptized."    My hope is they will invite same sex married couples and polygamous families to church and continue teaching them and inviting to events, and activities, "Use caution and follow the promptings of the Spirit when discussing sexual behavior to avoid compromising situations or accusations."  

Thanks for helping to clarify. 

I'd like to consider this a step forward, but on this topic its so fraught with mixed messages.  I can't imagine trying to communicate that being gay is not a sin and telling people they are welcome at church, but at the same time telling a happily married couple that they should get divorced and become celibate for the rest of their lives in order to be truly accepted in the LDS church.  I imagine the missionaries won't have too much success with this demographic.  

Edited June 25, 2018 by hope_for_things

[hope_for_things]

19 minutes ago, ksfisher said:

This is the doctrine of the church.

 

https://mormonandgay.lds.org/articles/church-teachings?lang=eng

Feelings of same-sex attraction are not a sin. Elder M. Russell Ballard stated:

“Let us be clear: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes that ‘the experience of same-sex attraction is a complex reality for many people. The attraction itself is not a sin, but acting on it is. Even though individuals do not choose to have such attractions, they do choose how to respond to them. With love and understanding, the Church reaches out to all God’s children, including [those with same-sex attraction]’” (“The Lord Needs You Now!” Ensign, Sept. 2015, 29).

 

I think it's a good thing that the missionaries will be teaching this as I believe this is a barrier for many people in accepting the gospel, and more than just those who identify as such. 

 

 

I think most investigators will be savvy enough to double check what the missionaries are telling them with respect to this subject.  In the western world at least most non-members will be aware of hearing the stereotypes about Mormons and that they discriminate towards this community.  If a missionary says "its no sin to be LGBT, and we welcome them to come to church."  I think most people would do a google search and find out the full story, and the reality about how the church does discriminate and treat these people as second class citizens.  

[blueglass]

15 minutes ago, hope_for_things said:

Thanks for helping to clarify. 

I'd like to consider this a step forward, but on this topic its so fraught with mixed messages.  I can't imagine trying to communicate that being gay is not a sin and telling people they are welcome at church, but at the same time telling a happily married couple that they should get divorced and become celibate for the rest of their lives in order to be truly accepted in the LDS church.  I imagine the missionaries won't have too much success with this demographic.  

I've been assigned as a ministering brother to 2 couples estranged from the church after the nov 2015 policy who are affirmative in support of same sex marriage.  As much as I liked sister Bingham's talk which we reviewed yesterday I think it would be great to hear more stories from those successfully ministering to those who have read the CES letter, or ministering to those who have serious problems with the endowment ceremony, or ministering to those who believe that gay marriage is a wonderful blessing.  I still remember working as an assistant ward mission leader soon after getting married and receiving an assignment to home teach a brother.  He walked me through all the great stuff he found in Tanner's shadow or reality book and all the problems with the book of Abraham.  He was very happy to be "light years ahead of mormonism" in his spirituality!  he invited me to come over any time to discuss.  I think all of us will receive great opportunities to stretch and grow in ministerial love.  

Edited June 25, 2018 by blueglass

[blueglass]

14 minutes ago, hope_for_things said:

I think most investigators will be savvy enough to double check what the missionaries are telling them with respect to this subject.  In the western world at least most non-members will be aware of hearing the stereotypes about Mormons and that they discriminate towards this community.  If a missionary says "its no sin to be LGBT, and we welcome them to come to church."  I think most people would do a google search and find out the full story, and the reality about how the church does discriminate and treat these people as second class citizens.  

Tyler Glenn after the church endorsed the Love Loud concert, "Is it enough? No. Is it a step? Absolutely. Is it confusing? Absolutely.”  https://www.sltrib.com/religion/local/2017/08/18/neon-trees-tyler-glenn-welcomes-mormon-backing-of-lgbtq-concert-but-says-pr-move-doesnt-atone-for-church-policies/

[hope_for_things]

18 minutes ago, blueglass said:

I've been assigned as a ministering brother to 2 couples estranged from the church after the nov 2015 policy who are affirmative in support of same sex marriage.  As much as I liked sister Bingham's talk which we reviewed yesterday I think it would be great to hear more stories from those successfully ministering to those who have read the CES letter, or ministering to those who have serious problems with the endowment ceremony, or ministering to those who believe that gay marriage is a wonderful blessing.  I still remember working as an assistant ward mission leader soon after getting married and receiving an assignment to home teach a brother.  He walked me through all the great stuff he found in Tanner's shadow or reality book and all the problems with the book of Abraham.  He was very happy to be "light years ahead of mormonism" in his spirituality!  he invited me to come over any time to discuss.  I think all of us will receive great opportunities to stretch and grow in ministerial love.  

The Nov 2015 policy is definitely a barrier for me feeling comfortable attending church these days.  I've been able to reconcile different perspectives on theology in general, to the point that I can navigate a class fairly well and contribute in positive ways.  However, this one issue is one where I feel some measure of anger towards the institution for.  And its not one I feel like I can just ignore.  I know people who attend specifically so they can be an ally for LGBT individuals at church, and I admire their fortitude, as thats not an easy path to take.  

[blueglass]

2 hours ago, ksfisher said:

I'm not sure how you see these two quotes as cancelling each other out.  Having authority given to you by the priesthood and having the priesthood conferred upon you are two different things. 

The relief society president has all the necessary authority given to her when she is set apart by a bishop without being ordained to the priesthood.

etymology on the word conferral looks like endowment of power to me.  "bestow as a gift or permanent possession," from Old French conférer (14c.) (see con-) + ferre "to bear, carry," from root *bher- (1) "to carry," also "to bear children."  I think it would be great if relief society presidents also ministered in the ecclesiastical organization with the office of priestess in blessings of healing, comfort and counsel.  Also with keys of authority promised in a number of places in the relief society minutes book.  On the other hand, 72 - 81% of active lds women have no desire to be ordained to the priesthood, yet 67 - 77% would be fully supportive if the prophet or Q15 received revelation on the matter.   https://religionnews.com/2015/12/15/mormon-women-and-priesthood-5-depressing-new-survey-findings/   I like what President Linda K  Burton said regarding the potential as “men’s vision of the capacity of women becomes more complete,”

Edited June 25, 2018 by blueglass

[ksfisher]

3 minutes ago, blueglass said:

etymology on the word conferral looks like endowment of power to me.  "bestow as a gift or permanent possession," from Old French conférer (14c.) (see con-) + ferre "to bear, carry," from root *bher- (1) "to carry," also "to bear children."

Right.  The priesthood is not conferred upon women. 

In the example I have about the relief society president, she has all the power and authority to accomplish the work of that calling.  When she is released that power and authority is given to another.

Both of the quotes from President Oaks and President Smith state this as well, they are given authority when they are set apart. 

[blueglass]

10 minutes ago, ksfisher said:

Right.  The priesthood is not conferred upon women. 

What is your understanding of Exodus 40 as read to women,  12 Then you shall bring Aaron and his [daughters] to the entrance of the tent of meeting and shall wash them with water 13 and put on Aaron the holy garments. And you shall anoint him and consecrate him, that he may serve me as priest. 14 You shall bring his [daughters] also and put coats on them, 15 and anoint them, as you anointed their father, that they may serve me as [priestesses]. And their anointing shall admit them to a perpetual priesthood throughout their generations.”

[ksfisher]

Just now, blueglass said:

What is your understanding of Exodus 40 as read to women,  12 Then you shall bring Aaron and his [daughters] to the entrance of the tent of meeting and shall wash them with water 13 and put on Aaron the holy garments. And you shall anoint him and consecrate him, that he may serve me as priest. 14 You shall bring his [daughters] also and put coats on them, 15 and anoint them, as you anointed their father, that they may serve me as [priestesses]. And their anointing shall admit them to a perpetual priesthood throughout their generations.”

 

My understanding is that women receive the same blessing through the priesthood as men do.

[blueglass]

7 minutes ago, ksfisher said:

 

My understanding is that women receive the same blessing through the priesthood as men do.

Doctrine and Covenants 76:54 They are they who are the church of the Firstborn.  55 They are they into whose hands the Father has given all things—  56 They are they who are priests and kings, [priestesses and queens] who have received of his fulness, and of his glory; 57 And are priests/[priestesses] of the Most High, after the order of Melchizedek, which was after the order of Enoch, which was after the order of the Only Begotten Son.  

[ksfisher]

33 minutes ago, blueglass said:

Doctrine and Covenants 76:54 They are they who are the church of the Firstborn.  55 They are they into whose hands the Father has given all things—  56 They are they who are priests and kings, [priestesses and queens] who have received of his fulness, and of his glory; 57 And are priests/[priestesses] of the Most High, after the order of Melchizedek, which was after the order of Enoch, which was after the order of the Only Begotten Son.  

What is your basis for your edit in verse 57?  I'm not aware of anything in the scriptures or taught by the general authorities that would infer that reading.

[blueglass]

46 minutes ago, ksfisher said:

What is your basis for your edit in verse 57?  I'm not aware of anything in the scriptures or taught by the general authorities that would infer that reading.

"priestess of the Most High" or "priestesses unto God" or "Priestess unto the most High God" is a linchpin key for sure.   

[ksfisher]

4 minutes ago, blueglass said:

"priestess of the Most High" or "priestesses unto God" or "Priestess unto the most High God" is a linchpin key for sure.   

But that's not how the scripture reads.