March 14 — Purpose of God’s Word. John 20:30–31 “And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: 31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”
2 Timothy 3:15-17 “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
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Today’s LDS reference comes from a talk by one of their apostles whose words cause more confusion than clarity.
Mr. Christofferson’s definition for the purpose of God’s word is disingenuous. The Bible is God’s revelation of Himself. Therefore, its purpose is for us to know Him, and even ourselves. God’s Holy Spirit indwells the believer, thereby filling our souls.
Because Mormonism doesn’t teach His Spirit resides in believers, Christofferson’s explanation purposefully misleads the unknowing. Also see Hebrews 4:12! In reality, the purpose of LDS scriptures is to confuse because it contradicts itself, and even contradicts their leaders.
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“The central purpose of all scripture is to fill our souls with faith in God the Father and in His Son, Jesus Christ.” — D. Todd Christofferson, “The Blessing of Scripture,” Ensign, May 2010, 34
“But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached to me is NOT AFTER MAN,. FOR I NEITHER RECEIVED OF MAN NOR WAS I TAUGHT IT, but by REVELATION of JESUS CHRIST (Galatians 1: 11,12)
In other words, it was God’s spirit, residing within the hearts of (chosen) men, such as David, Isaiah and Paul, to act as scribes as God revealed his will to them.
How important are God’s Word to Him? In Psalm 138:2, the Lord tells us that he magnifies His Word above his own name.
David trusted God’s Word to comfort him during times of war or trials: “This is my comfort in my afflictions: for thy word hath quickened me (Psalm 119:50)