Reviewing what the scriptures say regarding priesthood authority. The focus first seems to be the proper form of priesthood transmission namely that it is given by the laying in of hands by someone with authority to give it. What I really wanted to consider was the message found in Doctrine and Covenants Section 121. I was thinking about the doctrine that no power or influence it to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood. I think it’s even more powerful when the context is included. Let me summarize that context:
Many are called but few are chosen because most are so interested in the things of the world that they fail to realize that all priesthood rights are dependant on the powers of heaven which can only operate on principles of righteousness which means that we can’t be busy covering our sins or satisfying our pride or ambition. In that context we are taught this powerful doctrine:
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
43 Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; and then showing forth afterwards an increase of love toward him whom thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy;
44 That he may know that thy faithfulness is stronger than the cords of death.
Those are the principles of righteousness that allow someone to exercise the rights of the priesthood and in that spirit they would only be exercised for the benefit of the children of God. They could never be used vindictively or spitefully.
Leave a Reply