A child’s curiosity and natural desire to learn are like a tiny flame, easily extinguished unless it’s protected and given fuel. This book will help you as a parent both protect that flame of curiosity and supply it with the fuel necessary to make it burn bright throughout your child’s life. Let’s ignite our children’s natural love of learning!
June 17th, 2013
The Righteous, Seduced by Secret Combinations
The Book of Mormon was intended, and is correctly read, to be applied to current events and personal relationships in our day. “In its descriptions of the problems of today’s society,” said President Hinckley, “it is as current as the morning newspaper and much more definitive, inspired, and inspiring concerning the solutions of those problems.”
One of the many emphases made in this book is a warning regarding a millennia-old effort to use government to promote and enforce Satan’s standards. During the years leading up to Christ’s coming, the Gadiantons achieved surprising success—in the end, nearly destroying an entire civilization—by exploiting the natural human condition of deferring to authority. Despite early opposition, they ultimately achieved victory, and were thus able to advance their objectives, by “obtain[ing] the sole management of the government.”
This wasn’t a group of gangsters or foreign terrorists. The secret combination was comprised of Nephites who wanted to usurp power to uphold their preferred leaders and alter the laws to suit their own desired ends. They weren’t enemies from a distant land, or recognizable criminals on the street—they were people who blended into society at large whose distinguishing features were not visible and superficial, but ideological and thus largely undetectable. Thus it was that after Kishkumen murdered the chief judge, he and his followers were unable to be ferreted out, “mingl[ing] themselves among the people, in a manner that they all could not be found.”
But how did the Nephites allow themselves to be overtaken by their true enemies? Why did God’s people fall for Satan’s tricks? More specifically, how did the group of Gadiantons infest and overtake the government, replacing God-fearing men with Satan-supporting statists?
The Book of Mormon explains:
…the Nephites did build them up and support them, beginning at the more wicked part of them, until they had overspread all the land of the Nephites, and had seduced the more part of the righteous until they had come down to believe in their works and partake of their spoils, and to join with them in their secret murders and combinations.
First, the Gadiantons focused on the wicked—those who, like them, lusted after power and wanted to play the same game. Once successful with their target market, they expanded their efforts to likewise target the righteous. Amazingly, the individuals who should have known better were propagandized to the point of “believ[ing] in their works” and, even worse, “partak[ing] of their spoils.”
If the Book of Mormon is meant to be applied to our day, then what in the world does this mean?
To address this question, let’s first continue the quote from President Hinckley above:
I know of no other writing which sets forth with such clarity the tragic consequences to societies that follow courses contrary to the commandments of God. Its pages trace the stories of two distinct civilizations that flourished on the Western Hemisphere. Each began as a small nation, its people walking in the fear of the Lord. But with prosperity came growing evils. The people succumbed to the wiles of ambitious and scheming leaders who oppressed them with burdensome taxes, who lulled them with hollow promises, who countenanced and even encouraged loose and lascivious living. These evil schemers led the people into terrible wars that resulted in the death of millions and the final and total extinction of two great civilizations in two different eras.
It makes sense that wicked people in government would be attracted to imposing burdensome taxes to fund their desired projects and please the majority of their constituents who want them to bring home the bacon. Wicked politicians likewise flatter people with promises they have no intention of fulfilling. And it’s little surprise that wicked people encourage or personally exemplify a debasement in moral conduct, which necessarily permeates the political process of which they become a part. And wicked people love war as a tool to centralize power and wealth. There’s no shock in any of this.
What is a shock is to see supposedly righteous people tolerate such a system, let alone praise and participate in it. Even Latter-day Saints have become seduced by secret combinations.
Many in our faith support the status quo of already burdensome taxes, and some want even more. Many make hollow promises in pursuit of political power. Mormons have been instrumental in justifying the brutal exercise of centralized political power, including torture, and are heavy players in all levels of the military industrial complex. And the Mormon masses by and large praise these people and policies, ignorant of the eternal principles, individual liberty, and personal responsibility being violated in the process.
My intent here is not to direct attention to specific individuals per se, but to highlight a worrisome trend that happened once before, and if the Book of Mormon is indeed relevant to our day, is happening once again.
We Mormons are committed to bringing the truth of the gospel to “who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it.” But what happens when the very same messengers of truth have failed to understand and internalize the principles they profess to believe in? Many of those who know where to find the truth have been unable or unwilling to act on it appropriately, instead (knowingly or ignorantly) supporting secret combinations.
Like most people, Latter-day Saints are good at rejecting evil in hindsight. We revile the despots of world history, and recognize their tyranny quite readily. But few are able to apply such scrutiny in the present, and thereby tolerate or support the very violations they claim to detest. Helmuth Hübener’s story highlights this problematic condition.
Unpersuaded by the propaganda in Nazi Germany, Hübener and a few close friends defied Hitler’s regime—a secret combination that overpowered the German government by following the very practices President Hinckley described—by distributing leaflets containing news he picked up from the British Broadcasting Corporation using a shortwave radio. Hübener had little support from his fellow Latter-day Saints; the branch president was a Nazi loyalist who attempted to excommunicate him and many fellow members disagreed with his efforts. Ultimately, the young protestor was beheaded for his supposed crime.
Latter-day Saints who know of Hübener’s story generally regard him as a heroic defender of freedom, despite his having broken Nazi law in carrying out his protests. Books, films, and other works have been produced describing his praiseworthy efforts. But the fact that he found so few friends among those who shared his faith illustrates the very point I’m making here: even the very elect have been, and will be, deceived.
The context of that scripture is a warning about false prophets. But as then Elder Harold B. Lee reminded us, “False prophets and Christs (Matt. 24:24), as foretold by the Savior, may come to deceive us not alone in the name of religion, but if we can believe the history of Italy and Germany and Russia, they may come under the label of politicians or of social planners or so-called economists, deceitful in their offerings of a kind of salvation which may come under such guise.”
The righteous never have been immune.
96 Responses to “The Righteous, Seduced by Secret Combinations”
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This is so frustrating. The LDS people can be some of the worst defenders of tyranny. I teach gospel doctrine in my ward and I often wonder whether I should be more outspoken about my views. As it is, I keep it to myself while in front of the class. Is that right? perhaps. Either way, we as a people need to get our act together and stand up for freedom.
AMEN AMEN AMEN!!!
I’ll give you another example of why members of the Church are in trouble…
Under the guise of tolerance and love, I am sure, or in an effort to prevent debate and contention in Gospel Doctrine class, the lesson for Ether chapter 8 last year had the warning to latter-day Gentiles in verse 24 (Wherefore, the Lord commandeth you, when ye shall see these things come among you that ye shall awake to a sense of your awful situation…) placed in the material as an “Additional Teaching Idea”, rather than in the main body of the lesson.
So… we never even talked about that stern warning! A warning for us!
Some may say, “Well, we can’t talk about everything, there isn’t enough time…”
To which I would respond, “Then why is SO MUCH of the Book of Mormon dedicated to war, and government intrigue, and the description of the fall of two nations (Jaredites and Nephites), and then wrapped up with dire warnings from both Mormon and Moroni in the closing pages?
Church members have the “All is well in Zion” problem. As a general rule, they coast along, never concerning themselves with what is happening around them, until it is far too late. Your example of Hubener is perfect. And all I can say is people had better wake up.
Good job, Connor, as usual.
@Creighton–
I can tell you that if you do, their eyes will glaze over–
we’ve tried for decades, and over 90% of LDS are sound asleep–
it was prophesied–
in many ways–
paraphrasing, “and if it were possible even the very elect shall be deceived”–
if, by some ‘lucky’ stroke, you got awakened, feel grateful and pray for your family and ward members–
and pray that Jesus will come; it’s only going to get worse–
but who am I to give advice like this? Sorry–
I think you’re right. I quoted President Benson in sacrament meeting saying that being involved in the liberty issue determined your salvation and that’s pretty much what I got. Actually, everyone looked really nervous.
Creighton,
My first thought when I read your comment was, “Well, of course you should express your views,” but then, I didn’t when I taught Gospel Doctrine, all in the name of trying to keep the spirit. So, I guess that makes me a hypocrite. Darn… 🙁
Keeping the spirit was always my number one goal. If I lost that by allowing contention in, then I was not going to be an effective “teacher”. So, I kept quiet on my more extreme views hoping the spirit would touch the adults in my class and they could come to a realization on their own. Or, I would touch on it enough to get people thinking, but not enough to get them arguing, but even then I only dared engage in that dance on limited occasions, and only when I felt the spirit was directing me.
In the end, I guess that it was a case of picking your battles, and picking your battlefield. Gospel Doctrine was a good battlefield for winning over souls and helping people grow closer to Christ, my #1 objective as the GD guy. There are other forms of communication and media to discuss waking people up from their political stupor.
My two cents, though I know I’m coming across as very wishy-washy.
James
James, I’m pretty sure my original post is the definition of “wishy-washy.”
I agree with you. It’s all about picking your battles. In the end, Gospel Doctrine really is all about bringing others closer to Christ and not sharing political views. On the other hand, I think that I am much closer to Christ since I adopted the anti-war position and stopped hating on Muslims. I was talking with an LDS friend the other night and she said she thought we should just nuke Iran and she looked serious. I can’t believe I used to think along a similar vein.
I think it is best to continue to try. I am reminded of this from the doctrine and covenants:
13 Therefore, that we should waste and wear out our lives in bringing to light all the hidden things of darkness, wherein we know them; and they are truly manifest from heaven—
14 These should then be attended to with great earnestness.
15 Let no man count them as small things; for there is much which lieth in futurity, pertaining to the saints, which depends upon these things. (Doctrine and Covenants, Doctrine and Covenants, Section 123)
Waste and wear out our lives? Attended to with great earnestness? Much depends on this that pertains to the saints? This language alone would provide the answer as to what and how we should teach such things. Going on it talks about cheerfully doing all things that lie in our power. That’s the recipe for which I would answer your question Creighton.
Teaching this isn’t about a political view, but about truths which we have been blessed with and MUST understand.
I’m really missing the Facebook “Like” button right about now. It’s true that this isn’t about politics. These are eternal principles that we all fought for in the war in heaven. It’s sad so many that fought on the side of freedom defected when they got down here.
Creighton,
I think we share similar views. Though, I’m not sure I can consider myself anti-war, as I think defending others against tyranny is a good thing (WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam, Kuwait), but I don’t like that being the first option. Or the second. But the last option. War is a horrible, horrible thing, but in the BoM, many righteous men took up arms in the name of defending liberty.
Nuking Iran? That sounds good on paper, but we’d more than pay for such an atrocity, and be held accountable for the great loss of innocent lives. As scary as they are, there are so many other options on the table. It isn’t like dropping a nuke in a few key locations is going to defeat the evil that lives in this world.
I would add to the list of reasons not to nuke Iran by saying that, of all the nations on earth, we are the only one to have used nukes on a civilian population (or any population for that matter). For that reason, I hardly think our government is qualified to decide who should have nukes and who shouldn’t. I don’t want Iran to have nukes anymore than the next man. I just don’t want any other nations to have them either.
In this, Israel has it right by constructing the iron dome and Jacob’s sling. That’s the way to fight nukes–not more nukes.
I have listened to the other side of the story—from the mouth of Karl-Heinz Schnibbe, who died a few years ago, still strong in the LDS faith and in his testimony of the Book of Mormon and Jesus Christ. Not once did he claim that the LDS religion abandoned him. It was no doubt his faith that drove him to do what he did.
He participating in a “secret combination” as you have termed it, (ironic that you would use the term, inadvertently spitting on his act of heroism) to distribute flyers in defiance against a society bent on eradicating each and every Jew. Fear was the motivator at the time and very few people were able to break past that fear and stand up against the tide of tyranny, inside and outside the LDS faith.
To compare our current political state, although lacking, to the horrific Holocaust is a gross exaggeration. Please don’t use the words of a prophet of God to further a political or personal agenda. He was explicit in his teachings and urged everyone to be more Christ-like and more forgiving. That was his purpose. Not to brain-wash believers and allow them to slip further and further into the clutches of the “Obama Robbers”.
“Not once did he claim that the LDS religion abandoned him.”
Not sure what “other side of the story” you’re referencing. I didn’t claim that the LDS religion abandoned him/them. I completely agree that their faith drove them to do what they did. Perhaps you’re misunderstanding what I’m saying.
“He participating in a ‘secret combination’ as you have termed it…”
I didn’t claim that at all. In fact, I stated the opposite.
“To compare our current political state, although lacking, to the horrific Holocaust is a gross exaggeration.”
I didn’t compare our state of affairs to the holocaust. I pointed out similarities. Your reaction is akin to suggesting that we shouldn’t reference and apply the Book of Mormon, since society then was different then now—the Nephites got so bad that they were raping women and eating people they killed. Surely such horror means that any comparison between their society and ours, at any point along the path towards that point, would be a “gross exaggeration,” right?
So Conner, you see how easy it is to be mis-understood? Here you have done an excellent job presenting a viewpoint (that I share), and someone who otherwise seems normal, and in every respect would appear to be brother so and so, is in fact one of that 90% which perceives life from an alternative reality vantage. There are so very many.
Good job here. Well done.
The Book of Mormon is a witness and a warning. A witness that Christ is the Saviour of the world. A warning that all events that have been pointed out in that book are going to happen. The elect are deceived. I have friends who are members. Their friends are gay and they say that we should support their choice. Blurred lines as a result of propaganda to the elect to deceive and to bring down. Our current political, social environment is run on secret combinations. We are in the time where men are beginning to be past feeling.
Great post. Here’s something from the Book of Mormon which has been particularly eye-opening and applicable to today’s politics.
To understand the purpose of war, and the intents of people who stir up wars, just read Alma 43:8 and pay particular attention to who “them” refers to.
James, The willingness of some people to follow government so closely and use war as a solution comes partially from ignorance of what has come before. Looking at the big picture—the true scope of the Gandianton’s reach—helps in determining who and what to trust. Are they content with controlling government? Or do they also control the entities that make their continued success possible? For instance, mass media, public schooling agendas, and the false histories repeated in both. “I think defending others against tyranny is a good thing (WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam, Kuwait)” So are you sure that’s what these conflicts were about? Are you sure that’s what motivated the US government to be involved? These are the rare instances that a corrupt, inept, and inefficient government can get it together and choose the right?
Loved the post. Not sure how to act or change because of it… Maybe stand stronger for freedom and the Gospel?
“Not sure how to act or change because of it…”
That’s the subject of an upcoming article. Stay tuned!
Well said sir –
Amazing the kickback I get when I argue the same line of logic –
“President Hinckley, “it is as current as the morning newspaper and much more definitive, inspired, and inspiring concerning the solutions of those problems.”” doesn’t seem to fit well with those that look at it as just some story rather than a handbook of operation.
Connor,Thanks for your article.
Also I loved your book. It was so well said. It seemed to come just when I thought everyone had gone back to sleep because Dr. Cleon Skousen and the other Mormon Conservatives were gone. Nice to have someone from your generation who totally grasps the words of the scriptures and the prophets.
“Satan-supporting statists?” I understand you may not mean it this way but it sounds like you accuse every statist of knowingly supporting Satan. I don’t believe that is the case. There are many that I know and love that are clearly statists on some issues (Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents, Parents…)
Other than that loved the article. But that is a small thing. Makes me wonder if your gonna write a Latter Day Tyranny book to point out gross violations such as Hübener’s Branch President.
It is sad when you say employing the same tactics as the Robbers, you clearly mean that he engaged in conspiracy, but did so in the name of God and not Evil. That good men conspire just as evil men to change the world (look at the colonies declaring independence, the creation of the United States Constitution from the Articles of Confederation) the Constitution was a grand conspiracy to even take over and overthrow the current government system. But it was less tyrannical not more so.
Why would someone not understand your calling the man a patriot for engaging in conspiracy, not attacking him.
As much as some may not like to compare the US to Germany, Hitler did many things in Germany to limit freedoms that sound wonderful on paper, Gun Permits were used to keep guns out of the hands of terrorists and their sympathizers or those who fit the profile. (after the Reichstag false flag burning of the capital that meant Jews and Blacks.) We are not at the point of the Holocaust. nor do i think we would ever have one. but it is a bad idea to move toward a state that has the power to carry one out. I would prefer not to have “anything like unto it”
Isaac,
As you read the stories about the Gadianton robbers and their usurping of power within the Nephite government, you read that they also controlled the judgement seats as well as the lawyers. They had control of every level of the legal system. They created the laws, enforced the laws, and defended the laws. Pretty much what we have now.
I agree that it is difficult to stand up to those who have been lulled into a false sense of security. I have had many discussions with LDS friends and family about the War on Drugs and the War on Terror, just to be told that I was wrong and unpatriotic. Why was I wrong? Because I expressed compassion for those harmed by those unjust and wasteful wars.
Remember, guys, the Book of Mormon was written to, for, and ABOUT the Restored church. Read 2 Nephi 28 and Mormon 8 with that in mind, then realize how the church has fulfilled those prophesies because of its own infiltration by secret combinations from within.
Is it any small wonder that it needs to be cleansed?
If I say “funny people” I’m not saying that all people are funny. The descriptive word narrows the reference of the subject. So when I say Satan-supporting statists, I’m referring to statists who are upholding gadiantonism, whether through bailouts, war, immorality, etc. And good people can still be supporting policies which fall under that umbrella, even though they are still people—just ignorant, misinformed, or whatever, without necessarily being malicious.
“It is sad when you say employing the same tactics as the Robbers, you clearly mean that he engaged in conspiracy, but did so in the name of God and not Evil.”
You’re the second person to confuse what I’m saying, and I went back to read the article and see why it might be confusing. And I can’t tell.
I was saying that the Nazis were the secret combination, not Helmuth and his friends.
Again… More evidence that many people function in a world of alternative reality.
Great article – looking forward to more. We do need to help wake up our brothers and sisters to what is happening around them.
Morgan,
It is not a “gross exaggeration” to “compare our current political state… to the horrific Holocaust.” We are exterminating 1.3 million innocent unborn children every year in the United States. Tens of millions of unborn children exterminated in the U.S. since Roe v. Wade. The Nazis were amateurs compared to the abortionists and their supporters. Nearly the entire world came to stop the Nazis but the abortionists have nearly free reign to commit their holocaust. Look up Margaret Sanger and the abortion rate within minority communities to see an even closer connection to the holocaust you mention.
No, comparing our day to the holocaust committed by the National Socialists is no exaggeration at all.
Bonhoeffer,
The term holocaust does not seem a fitting word to describe abortion rates in the U.S. Women willingly seek this service to be unburdened by an unwanted pregnancy. Although rates may be higher for particular ethnic groups, I am not sure this is a conscious attempt at genocide or eradication.
Why the world isn’t coming to stop US abortions? I am assuming because it does not threaten other countries. A second reason might be hypocrisy. As I understand it abortion rates are higher in countries were it is illegal and much, much more dangerous.
Iimx,
I think you are missing the point, this is truly a Holocaust. The fact that it is perpetrated by the unborn children’s own mothers does not excuse it, nor does the fact that it is supported by the government and defended by a large portion of the population, in fact these combined facts speaks volumes as to how close the nation and world are to being ripe for destruction.
In the end, there may be more non-LDS who “get” it than LDS who get it.
excuse mis-spelling please. Never was a strength. For 40 yrs since my mission, I hv added to organized topics with references in the back of my scriptures when studying the gospel. It is past 2,000 thin lined notes now. I group topics that are related. The following are some notes on the topic: Secrecy, Conspiracy, secret combinations. We must remember that both sides (good and evil) use careful and sometimes secret methods to accomplish the good , or the evil. Re: Egyptian Hieroglyphs in P.of Gr. Price. Explanation page says “not to be revealed at this time” on item after item ! 2/3 of the B. of M. sealed. Nephites at their best with the Lord guiding them, sent spy’s, and used secretly planned methods to win.
Satan communicates it is said through crystal balls, bowls 1/2 filled with water and possessed people. Prophets wear the breast plate to see things hidden through the transparent Urim / Thum. Satan has his oaths and “PH”, The Lord has His true, eternal PH. Considering worlds without number, opposition leader’s methods are also eternal. Our blessing to have more revealed to us from heaven depends much on our ability to keep our mouths shut. A prudent man concealed knowledge Prov.12:23. Some call it sacred not secret. I say it is sacred and secret from those not advanced enough spiritually to have it known. We don’t reveal those chosen for a calling in church until directed to do so. Ne. wore Laban’s garments and his countenance was changed to obtain the plates. Against the law, gospel taught secretly. Mosiah 18:31. Alma prophesied to Helaman and told to keep it secret. Al.45:9
Abinidi disguised himself Mosi 12:1 Cain secretly conspired with Cain to kill his brother and later, others to gain power and resources. At times the Lord asked his disciples to tell no one of his miracles. Our guide through the dark mists is the iron rod.
Patrick,
Have you ever seen a list of countries where abortion is illegal? There isn’t any that I would want to live in. Honduras is one of them, and is considered the most violent place on earth. San Pedro Sula saw 159 homicides per 100,000 residents last year. There is also a lot of drug trafficing. One would think that abortion would be legal there, it is not.
Congo, Haiti, Madagascar are also in the list of poorest countries. Others on the list seem pretty poor to me, and would not rate very highly for health, womens rights, freedom, education. Some are also prone to civil unrest like Syria.
http://www.whichcountry.co/countries-where-abortion-is-illegal/
Ether 9 11 defines the secret combination as the lust for money from the people and the lust of power by the leaders. Secret combinations are a secret because they don’t have a single specific name. The secret combination can be called many things from socialism to communism to fascism to stateism etc.. but the definition given in ether 9 11 is always easily identified. Ether 9 11 is the key to understanding book of mormon secret combinations and how we identify them.
“The record of the Nephite history just prior to the Savior’s visit reveals many parallels to our own day as we anticipate the Savior’s second coming. The Nephite civilization had reached great heights. They were prosperous and industrious…
“But, as so often happens, the people rejected the Lord. Pride became commonplace. Dishonesty and immorality were widespread. Secret combinations flourished because, as Helaman tells us, the Gadianton robbers “had seduced the more part of the righteous until they had come down to believe in their works and partake of their spoils” (Hel. 6:38 )…even as today.” (April 1987 General Conference, President Ezra Taft Benson]
Thanks, Connor. And recall in Ether 8 as Moroni warns the Gentiles (us) about the “secret combinations” he also pronounces a “wo” upon those who build it up. Yes, even if they are LDS. We need look no further than the crowning of Dick Cheney with an Honorary PhD for Public Service at the 2007 BYU Commencement, soon followed by invited talks at BYU by Zbigniew Brzezinski, General Petraeus, Brent Scowcroft, Sen. Harry Reed and other globalists. Generally to standing ovations. Banker Mayer Rothschild was also honored in glowing terms at the 2007 BYU commencement, and that talk is still available on-line at the BYU web site.
Here in France, lds members are all opposed to war. There is almost no debate over that question.
Someone talked about ww I & II, kuwait, vietnam etc.
Whats bugs me most is we do not know “the desires of their hearts”, of those who enter the war.
I am so glad americans came to free my country and died far from their homes for me. I visited twice the normandy american cemetery and memorial and everytime I felt something strong there. I want to believe that Roosevelt helped France at least in part because it was right and not “that they might get gain” (helaman 6:18).
But only God will judge the heart of those who sent the troops to Irak Vietnam Cuba or Afghanistan. Was it for oil ? ROI ? global domination ? croony capitalism ? charity ? I don’t know.
The plan of the devil is subtle because he mingles truths and lies. Sadam was a dictator and Irak has also a rich soil…
May I also add that the Holy Ghost is the only one who can testify to us if we should support a war/decision/policy or not. Let ask the Father that we might not be deceived. I do not want to support an evil government (and trust me, ours in France is pretty wicked !!) or its decisions such as abortion gay parenting or war.
I want to be “clean from the blood of this wicked generation” (d&c 88:75)
I also teach gospel doctrine class…I hold back somewhat but I do teach that what happened in the BOM is happening today. I speak out…as of yet, I have not been approached by anyone in the SS presidency. I believe I have the DUTY to proclaim the gospel and to get the LDS people to see what is happening today. I know I have their attention when all eyes are riveted to me and there is silence. We also have much comments and discussion. Thankfully many are aware, a few are sheep.
I really like your article, and the points it makes. It strongly reminds me of “Many are Called, Few are Chosen” By Verlan. H. Anderson. He makes many of the same points you do, as does President Ezra Taft Benson in An Enemy Hath Done This, not referring to an outside enemy but one from within. I am only 31, and it has taken me a long time to get to this place and point in my life, where I feel I have awakened to my awful situation, or rather the situation were all in at this point. I feel like the only reason I even have come this far in understanding and waking up is due to diligent study, and seeking out the “meat” of the gospel, instead of settling for the milk.
As true as all this is, I don’t think Gospel Doctrine is really the place for it, i think its a place to receive the “milk” of the gospel and that the LDS people should be seeking out the meat on their own. I think its the same reason why we receive “milk” during general conference. Not everyone is ready to be at the place we are at, although its important for them to know it, it would take away their agency to force knowledge onto them they aren’t ready for.
My only thought really at this point is, what can I do now that I know? I wish my parents generation had been more awake and aware and had the gumption to try and stop this thing, and now its so bad, I end up wondering who do i vote for? How do I show my support for the things of God, when it comes to government, i don’t really feel like any of them are for the things of God.
“My only thought really at this point is, what can I do now that I know? ”
That will be the subject of an article I’m doing in the next week or so. Stay tuned!
Great article. As a convert, the concept of “secret combinations” was sometimes confusing. I appreciate your insight and comments. I have found my political opinions growing more and more towards libertarianism as I have grown in the gospel. I am glad I recently got introduced to this web site and blog. Thanks for your time and work regarding these subjects.
These two versus used in conjunction have been pretty effective for disentangling peoples minds from the lies.
Awaken in Christ!
As we began to be prompted to awaken ourselves to the scandal and corruption around us and are summoned to either join with our brothers on the left or on the right to defend ourselves against the opposing party. Please remember this; The commandment to awaken ourselves has been amongst us ever since the resotoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In Ether 8:24 it says,
Wherefore , the Lord commandeth you, when ye shall see these things come among you that ye shall awake to a sense of your awful situation, because of this secret combination which shall shall be among you. For it cometh to pass that whoso buildeth it up seeketh to overthrow the freedom of all lands, nations and countries, and it bringeth to pass the destruction of all people, for it is built up by the Devil, who is the father of all lies.
So the commandment has always been there, but now we are being pushed and prodded to awaken ourselves, but by whom?
Are they friend are foe? Check out this scripture.
D&C 38:30
I tell you these things because of your prayers; wherefore treasure up wisdom in your bosoms, lest the wickedness of men reveal these things unto you by their wickedness, in a manner which shall speak in your ears with voice louder than that which shall shake the earth; but if ye are prepared ye shall not fear.
If we want a true awakening in Christ, it is my prayer that we will all subscribe to the teachings of ancient and latter day prophets. We have a living prophet, his presidency and 12 apostles. These men are oracles of God. If God intends on establishing his Kingdom in this dispensation you can be rest assured that he has reserved the most qualified for the last days. Let us all turn from worldy teachings and place our faith in the instructions of God’s servants. God Bless.
Lots of Gospel Doctrine teachers here ! I teach that class too.
Thanks Mike for the references. A couples weeks ago was the “word of wisdom” class. D&C 89 starts with that same warning :
V4: Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation—
Example : here in Europe we eat a lot of salmon that come from Norway. There’s basically too kinds of salmon. The wild ones and the ones from aquaculture.
We’ve just found out that in aquaculture they use a pesticide(diflubenzuron) that is not allowed in EU and wich is very dangerous for human beeings. It can cause cancer.
“Conspiring men” and “secret combinations” go hand in hand.
Pierre, Interesting point about salmon and diflubenzuron. I am sure there are many pesticides other than that applied to pen raised salmon. I appreciate your consciousness on that. Do the LDS have any particular restriction on pesticide use or consumption?
Thank you for this discussion — with many insights. May I add a little from personal experience?
This is ex-Professor of Physics, Steven Jones. Starting in 2005, I learned about 9/11 using scientific methods (experiments on thermite etc). I spoke out regarding the collapse of WTC7, the lack of air defenses that day, the whistle-blower testimony of Norman Mineta — and I was placed on Admin. Leave in September 2006. My classes — teaching the students I loved — were taken from me at that time and it was clear that I would not be allowed to teach again at BYU.
But just before I was called in abruptly and told that I was being outed, I had a wonderful experience that morning. In teaching my Physics 121 class on Newtonian physics, during class I felt strongly prompted to bear my testimony to the class of students whom I loved. I had taught at BYU by this time for over 21 years and hesitated momentarily — “bear your testimony now!” SO I DID.
I paused in my discussion of Physics and simply expressed my love for the Savior – I spoke of Jesus Christ and my testimony of Him. And my love for the students.
At that class, I had NO IDEA what was coming later that afternoon — I was severely placed on Admin. Leave in a public manner (you can read the press releases). Of course, I requested (in writing) a full hearing, but that hearing was denied me. I was invited to accept early retirement.
A few days later, BYU Prof. Alan Keele met me on campus. Prof. Keele is one who has spoken out about Hubener and the Nazis. He told me that what they had done to me had cast a “CHILL on campus” regarding speaking out, particularly about 9/11 and related events.
The editor of the BYU newspaper, the Daily Universe, wrote a nice article about my service at BYU. My research on muon-catalyzed fusion, solar cookers, etc. Also, I had served as a Bishop of a campus ward (BYU 99th ward) and as a Stake High Councilman (BYU 10th Stake). He said that there were many letters from students to the newspaper in my behalf.
But you know what? most of those letters (he said) were NEVER published. And the nice article about me that he wrote — NOT published! Later I later asked him why, but got no response from him.
One physics professor, who had been a friend of mine, wrote an email to the department comparing me to a circus clown. It was very offensive. I asked him if he had even read my paper on 9/11 — he had not. I asked if he would, he said yes and to his credit he did. Then he said I had good points, good reason to question the “official story of 9/11”, and offered an apology to me for what he had written about me being a clown. However, that apology was private (not public like his earlier email to the department).
Yet, I had that experience of being prompted to bear my testimony IN PHYSICS CLASS — my last class ever! I cherish that prompting. The Lord knew what was coming and he gave me that prompting and that opportunity. And HE stood by me with comfort when others were downing me.
There are other experiences I will not relate for now — except one more. Shortly after I was publicly placed on admin. leave, Jack Monnette came to my office at BYU. He was writing a book about secret combinations (Ether 8, Alma 37, D&C 89, etc) – and he wished to include a DVD-video of my talk on 9/11 which I had given at UVSC (now UVU). I gave him permission, of course, and Jack has since become one of my dearest friends. I love that man and his dear wife!
My wife and I felt to move away from the “shadow” of BYU. We now live in the midwest where I serve as High Priests group leader. Yesterday, we went to the KC Missouri Temple, our Temple. On the way home, we visited a brother and his wife who have become “less active”. A wonderful little branch.
I will always cherish that experience of my last testimony to the students I loved and the sustaining Spirit of the Lord in a time of great pain and difficulty.
__________________
My website: http://www.physics.byu.edu/research/energy/
@ Steven Jones
Wow, that is really awful, although not all that surprising. I am learning a little bit more piece by piece about BYU, and some of it is rather surprising. I Am Reminded of Hugh Nibley when he said “We have met here today clothed in the black robes of a false priesthood…”. I also read an essay in a collection distributed by Deseret book about the second coming and this essay was devoted to being aware of false Christs. I never really drew a line between BYU and a false Christ until that essay touched off in my mind what Hugh Nibley was referring to. Anything that presents a false system of salvation or tries to take the place of the Savior like some intellectuals who put nature/science/intellect at the same level as they put God are falling for the false Christ we have been so warned over.
I am sure this will light a fire under some people, but this is what I am coming to understand, not just about BYU but higher education in general. It just sickens me that BYU would be a party to it considering the make up of it is mostly church members who really ought to know better. But isn’t that why they say many are called and few are chosen?
@Steven Jones–
I read much of what you said originally. I’m not strong in physics, so I had a hard time understanding it, to be frank–
but I was very concerned about how you were treated at BYU; it seemed, to me, that there was a black hole into which you were thrown–
(sorry to write dramatically)–
It is good to hear that you left that place; I have known others who have had to leave.
As a 9/11 ‘truther’ (well, I don’t accept everything I read or see, but I have questioned from day #1)–
I have been really interested in the work you did (and the engineers and architects)–
and I think that it is really great that you took the time to talk to *us* here on Connor’s blog–
I am sure that you will be both saddened and validated some day when all the truth is known, and those who did not have the courage to stand up for you are exposed. It WILL be sad, but you will be exonerated–
@iimx, I have often wondered why toxic chemicals are not indicted in so many circumstances where health is compromised. I think many LDS feel restrained, because there are quite a few ‘prominent’ LDS who have made a lot of money from chemicals–
and also, speaking out against chemical use is a back door method of criticizing the military/industrial complex, since so many chemicals come from that complex–
but individual members of the church are certainly concerned about the use of pesticides and other agricultural/environmental chemicals/toxins.
As for what to do about it, the libertarian in me boycotts chemicals; I don’t know that *we* need more laws–
but I am deeply concerned.
OTC, wow, I didn’t know you felt so much about pesticides. I really think they are over used in our world. But toxic chemicals are in a lot of places, clothing, food, common everyday items. Plastics contain stuff that leach out into beverages and food. Sound levels in cities can also be a health hazard. I have heard that Nepal is the first official organic country. I think thats great. Well, even if no new laws are passed I am sure you will say no whenever you realistically can.
iimx, I really do feel strongly about them–all synthetic chemicals–
I think I should go to Nepal to live! LOL!
I am so glad that Steven Jones has joined in. Connor brought up one of my heroes, Helmut Hübener. I served in the same ward as Helmut, and have also talked with Schnibbe. The likeness and type is oh-so-obvious; Jones is like Hübener who was beheaded, and BYU is like the branch president who excommunicated him. Helmut is now a legend and a hero, and the branch president has been denounced when a Church Authority later (after Helmut’s death) reinstated Helmut’s membership.
I have listened to lectures by Jones, even was on the first few rows as he gave his lecture at UVU that was later included in Monnett’s book. I have also personally attended lectures by Monnett and Joel Skousen, having been a 9/11 truther (at least I am not a 9/11 liar) since early in 2003 when I was awakened to the lies and cover-up given to us by Cheney.
All I can say is that like Jones, the Lord has given me my own affirmation that his purposes will roll forth, with or without BYU. If BYU would have endorsed Jones, perhaps His church would have been black-listed to the detriment of progress, whereas now we just are flying under the radar of the NSA, and can enjoy our tax-exempt status for a while longer, even if that means having Darth Cheney speak there because Cheney himself invited himself there. Cheney and Satan must have had a great laugh when Cheney tried to give the prophet his “secret” handshake. (Google that one!)
The other big myth that most LDS believe is that because the B of M states that as long as the inhabitants of the Americas serve God, God will somehow endorse every action USA takes in starting wars. How naive. The B of M promise always qualifies that blessing of protection by stating that when we do NOT serve and honor God, we will be cursed. Well, the USA is now being cursed. We need to wake up to the lesson of the B of M, and recognize the cursings that have come upon us from the Gadiantons’ Secret Combinations that have taken sole management of our own government.
How many LDS have fallen for the Libertarian flavor of gadianton propaganda?
Wasn’t Ron Paul’s biggest financial backer, fellow libertarian Peter Thiel, a member of the Bilderberg steering committee? Up to his eyeballs in big brother espionage and CIA funded social networking endeavors?
What about his book partner Lewis Lehrman? Signatory to the infamous 9/11 PNAC document? Fellow libertarian? Also pushing for one world government and one world gold denominated currency? Lehrman’s PNAC publication called – “Money and the Coming World Order” sure is insightful…pretty much the same agenda Ron Paul and his crew have proposed.
Absolutely fascinating that the rant here is the kettle calling the pot black….
Yophat, you’re stretching, and it’s quite obvious.
To support Ron Paul does not imply support for others who have financially backed him. Further, Peter Thiel supported a completely independent Super PAC (Endorse Liberty), and not Ron Paul or his campaign directly. And one’s affiliation with an individual (in this case Lewis) does not imply an endorsement of (or association with) that individual’s actions in the future.
Get a grip.
Pierre & OTC,
I found an irony with the pesticide diflubenzuron, that was mentioned with salmon. Its a pesticide used to control the Mormon cricket in Utah.
There is another interesting ‘secret combination’, I think this applies, but let me know. Especially in regard to food. I have been listening to some very interesting information from Dr. Michael Greger about veganism. Claims about health benefits of animal foods are flat out lies to protect the beef, dairy and other animal food industries. Information about the health benefits of a whole food plant based diet are not advocated enough in the country, and doctors don’t say enough about them, if any.
Well, I know that its just me and my personal experience, but I recently went on a whole foods vegan diet, and I have been healed of a significant health problem with my foot. I honestly thought that I would be limping around for the rest of my life with arthritis. Also general stiffness in the lower back is vastly improved. I am anticipating full recovery in a year if I keep it up.
@Connor: Thanks for the interesting and thought-provoking post. I greatly appreciate, and am, in fact, inspired and sobered by what you’re saying in this message (and I’m not even Mormon). I will be reading more of your stuff.
@Steven Jones: Dude, you are a solid man of God and somewhat of a hero to many of us. Thanks so much for your work!!!
@all the rest of you: What a great conversation in the comments! Many excellent points were made without rudeness or disrespect, for the greater part. Refreshing in this world!
It is curious huh. The protocols of zion note that freedom will only be talked about in religions where the people will defer OBEDIENTLY to the leaders in following what they call “freedom”. So while they will talk about it only there, if anywhere, it will never be in such tones as we need to deal with the corrupt political situation, instead it will be just constant gospel reiteration while ignoring the state of the world at large which I see as a crime of Omission by the church… One would think if the Church was about Gods work, some utterance about being prepared and a measure of guidance for how to act coherently as a organizational body might be forthcoming, but it hasn’t been thus far.
I look back at Romney and I think he woulda pushed the button on Syria, without a second thought, just as he didn’t give a second thought to the dog on the roof of his station wagon on family vacations. The senseless are useful idiots when all they do is chase sensed entertainment.
I think it really comes down to it being time for personal responsibility to both self and each other. We can’t defer our authority to an organization which will then just sit on it. If WE see something that needs doing, we should be about doing it. The “AUTHORITY” will either tell you about other unimportant stuff that they make seem important, or they will stay completely quiet about the thing they don’t want discussed completely omitting any reference to it so its never seeded as a concern in the members of that organizations minds…
Great article! Keep it up!
Gene
LOL…yeah Connor its all a coincidence and anonymous associations….
Why did he hire CIA insider Doug Weed as a campaign adviser? How does Ron Paul get all his pork in the bills vs all the other crooked greedy politicians? I could go on…but what’s the point its quite obvious you’ve been at the libertarian koolaid for quite some time now.
At the end of the day it doesn’t square with the gospel…that ought to be a big clue. To bad it isn’t…
I could not tell where he was going with this. I agreed with his beginning but he was so vague as the article progressed that by the end I could not say if he supports truth and following the Prophet or if he is telling us that by supporting truth and following the Prophet we are allowing or being a part of secret combinations.
In 1985 Bp. H. Burke Peterson said that no selfish person ever thought himself to be selfish. That was eye opening to me. Since then I’ve realize that selfishness isn’t the only weakness that hides itself from it’s possessor. We surely can’t think that those that are asleep and are being lead down the path of carnal security are aware of it, because they think they are on track.
Few Mormons would vote for Harry Reid but most would vote for Orin Hatch or Jon Huntsman who have the same objective just a difference in timing.
I’ve been back at church for 1yr after being very far away from the church for 13yrs, indolging and acting in this very subject…
I think we shouldn’t worry our selfs to much with Evil or secrete combinations…
As Latter Day Saints it is our job to learn/teach the Gospel as it is given in our manuals not to stray from or dig to deep into doctrine and in that teaching of negative things…
it is not that we’re asleep it’s that teaching or talking of the negative isn’t the intent of The Lord…
Our job in living righteously is to do all we can in our lives around us, not to go out of our way in looking for or spending to much time in negative subjects. We use the scriptures and the words of our Prophets as a protection for us…
This subject is for amongst friends not for online, Sunday school or on the polepit, all we can do is be the best we can not look at others in what they do, But always speak and act in a positive way…
We should refrain from all negative and always teach or lead in righteousness our example in the way that we live will be one to follow…
Sorry if I’ve offended anyone, as I said I’ve only been around for a year… but these things I’ve learnt, and followed through examples! from my past life to my life now. And in a matter of 3 months I was able to regain the priesthood and be sealed to my family for all time and Eternity… Through the example of righteous wife, family and men/women that allowed this evil man to be amongst them (which was there intent and reason for including me) and now
29 My soul hath been redeemed from the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I was in the darkest abyss; but now I behold the marvelous light of God. My soul was racked with eternal torment; but I am snatched, and my soul is pained no more.
(Mosiah 27:29)
@Steven Jones – I was sitting in a class of yours at BYU Education Week on August 19, 2005 when my 22-year-old daughter was drowning in Yosemite. You were explaining the fallacy of Ex Nihilo creation beliefs and bearing testimony of eternity. I didn’t know of her accident until many hours later, but I remember feeling a warm peace as I sat and listened to you. Thank you.
“Heavy players” link is broken. Very well said, Connor. I couldn’t agree more. I found myself sorely lacking in real knowledge and understanding of the scriptures. As I have been learning, I see that most people also lack the understanding as well. People who are authorities even, who I used to assume knew what they were talking about. If we have a prayer, we have to jump back into those scriptures for all we’re worth and learn and apply them.
Just a comment from someone who’s taught pretty much all ages in the church. I read much of the comments people writing about whether they should teach about their views in Gospel Doctrine. The answer is NO! Gospel Doctrine is not for YOUR VIEWS, its for the DOCTRINE of the Church to be taught. IF your views are aligned with the doctrine, then your input will align just fine with the scriptures.
I’m all in for what this article presents, am very tapped into what’s happening on the planet. But, it may not be your job or mine to “wake people up” in Gospel Doctrine. Be careful of what your calling entails as a teacher in the Church; it’s not to be a political activist. So, just know your line and allow others their time and place to learn as is appropriate.
We have ignored the principle to care for the elderly, the sick and disabled. We have left it to government leaders to lead the charge for programs to help them which requires taxes. They don’t do it well but now we are accustomed to the government doing what was suppose to be our Christian duty.
We are in need of a leader who has charity for all, ,who shares concern for the troubles in our society. One who has called out the establishment for business as usual with the obscenely wealthy that receive government privileges, subsidies and special laws for their corporations.
We need change not more of what candidates on both sides that want business as usual in D.C.. Plus let’s dump the chump winning the votes with his message that is the opposite of all things Christ taught, primarily to love one another and seek to do much good.
Connor, your statement that “even the very elect have been, and will be, deceived.” is incorrect (but you are not the first to state this error). Matthew 24:24 tells us “…if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” It is NOT possible to deceive the elect. So who are the elect who are immune to being deceived? Joseph Smith provided us some incite with a more complete translation which adds “…who are the elect according to the covenant.” (JS Mat 1:22). Furthermore, D&C 29:7 says, “…mine elect hear my voice and harden not their hearts.” Lehi’s dream also teaches us that if we are ashamed of the covenants we make with the Lord that we will be lead into strange paths (see 1 Nephi 8:33-34). So, who are going to be deceived in the last days? They who are angry at what the Brethren say and those who are ashamed of the covenants that we make with the Lord. But if we sustain the Brethren by obeying their council, and keep the covenants we make in the waters of baptism and in the temple, we are the elect and will NOT be deceived.
So when Nephi killed Laban is that considered torture? Obviously not as the Lord directed him to do it. Why do you judge that the judge referenced in the article was not directed by the Lord as well? At least they didn’t lose their lives like Laban did.
Connor… very well articulated.
Yophat… you are right to watch the associations of all – Ron Paul can be manipulated – all of us can be manipulated. Be careful of how you characterize Libertarianism – everyone has their own interpretation of what Libertarianism is – some are very wrong… some are very right, and you do the cause no service by lumping them all together as wrong. Instead, why no just articulate what is right.
Rutanica, welcome back to the fold. It is a joy and honor to have you. I commend you in your wish to focus on good, and to learn line upon line, precept upon precept. It is right to have a solid foundation in the most basic principles of the gospel – the greatest of all is LOVE for all your fellow men / women. As you follow your personal path back to our Father in Heaven, keep in mind that there are responsibilities placed on the Priesthood of God to be a “voice of warning” to all. I say this for the following reason… as you search the words of the prophets more and more, you will find that they do mandate the Priesthood to know of these things, first as described in the Book of Mormon, but then as interpreted by prophets since the Restoration. In doing so, you will find that your comment “I think we shouldn’t worry our selfs to much with Evil or secrete combinations…” is not the intention of those prophets, but it IS VERY MUCH OUR RESPONSIBILITY to point them out and WARN the people or them, and to not get deceived or caught up in their doctrine…for their will is to remove the agency of man and fulfill Lucifer’s plan. In saying this, let me clarify something important – those who soley focus on this topic are in fact in danger, but those who stress it while also stressing the good, are in line with the prophets. It is also true that we must use the Book of Mormon, D&C, and words of the prophets as our guides, and not get carried away with other “winds of doctrine” concerning secret combinations. Having said that, we are duty bound to raise the voice of warning against the doctrines of Lucifer… that is, those that are subtle and barely recognizable – such as using government to coerce charity…to “take care of everyone”. Giving government power to “take care of the poor” is absolute false doctrine – for it is Lucifer’s doctrine, and many, many prophets have so articulated. The problem is, Church leaders are now so bound by corrupt laws across the globe, that they can no longer plainly articulate these truths because the governments would then be able to completely shut the work of preaching the gospel down. Here in the United States, if the Church were to come out and articulate true doctrine on these issues, not only would they be in very real danger of loosing their “non-profit” tax status, they could also have every asset the church owns in the United States confiscated by the Federal Government. The very fact that so few of our members even know about these laws, and that our Church leaders’ hands are tied so forcefully, is an absolute demonstration of proof as to what Connor is talking about here. PLEASE DON’T GET LULLED AWAY INTO CARNAL SECURITY. THIS IS OUR DUTY NOW OF THE LAY MEMBER TO KNOW, TO UNDERSTAND, AND TO WARN ALL PEOPLE ABOUT THE WARNINGS FROM THE PROPHETS. The Book of Mormon is an absolute “type” for our day – the prophets have said it OVER… AND OVER… AND OVER AGAIN. I cannot stress this enough. It is then our duty, to go forth and preach the gospel of happiness with boldness, humility, and clarity.
Lee, while your comment uses excellent sources, your point, from my view, can only be considered “out of context”, as many subsequent prophets have made clarifying comments on this subject (which you do not included) that clearly state that members of the Church are and will be completely deceived. President McKay spoke clearly on the subject when he said that the literal fulfillment of the parable of the 10 virgins would be that members of the Church would break away from the Church because the disagreed with Church leaders on the role of the Government in Charity, redistribution, etc. You are absolutely right in that people will become ashamed of their covenants, but it will be due to the fact that the church who administered those covenants does not (and never has) condone the government’s role in these things as it removes the people’s agency. From my own study of the words of the prophets on this subject, I cannot be convinced over to the point of your argument. Many people in the Church with the best of intentions will be deceived because they will not, first, agree with the Church’s stance on many issues concerning the Government’s role in our lives (some due to bad moral values, some due to the fact that they wish to remove agency and replace with forced adherence to “charity”), and second, as such, they will not be able to weather the storm of shame, mocking, and persecution. Others may hold strong until their family’s lives are in danger, and then will turn away (an understandable force to be sure, but one any faithful member may be faced with in the future, and must be able to endure). AGAIN, DON’T BE LULLED INTO CARNAL SECURITY. We have great tribulation ahead, and choosing to remain ignorant to the vast wealth of information that the Prophets have given us on this subject is really the sure way to being broken by the coming winds of persecution.
David Hill, I am perplexed by your response on torture. It seems to lack real scholarship and understanding on the subject, as it neither addresses the established rights of man in regards to torture, nor explores whether anyone in our government is actually receiving revelations from the Lord as permission to break those established laws. Before making an argument like this (in my view), you must first address these two things with demonstrated scholarship and wisdom. What Nephi did was murder under any other context than the Lord expressly told him to do it. In my view, we must be VERY CAREFUL in our arguments for torture, or we very well may find ourselves under terrible guilt at judgement. This is not a subject to make trifle arguments to.
@Steven Jones: Thank you for that quote from President Benson. It is ironic that that talk was pretty much the last hard-hitting doctrine presented by the Church on the subject.
@ALL: Many ask “WHAT SHOULD I DO ABOUT THIS?” Ezra Taft Benson gave a talk which he wrote specifically to answer this question entitled “RIGHTEOUSNESS EXALTETH A NATION”, given as President of the Church at the Provo Freedom Festival at the Marriott Center, Sunday, June 29, 1986. It is this talk that he personally testified was written for the purpose of teaching the people what we needed to do to preserve our Heritage of Liberty, eventually save our country from the Gadiantons, and that as we faithfully exercise the tasks as contained therein, we would be given both the spiritual protection, and the “answers from on High” to do so. This talk is our starting point.
Ted, You seem to equate nominal membership in the Church with being the Lord’s elect. My comment illustrates several methods by which members of the Church can forfeit their election. I have enough experience as a priesthood leader to have seen up close several examples of each method, for a variety of reasons. Gay marriage, women being ordained, temple covenants, etc. The world and the Church will never see eye to eye on those things, but many members have left the Church over these issues. I’m not sure what point you thought I was trying to make that you cannot be convinced over to. I simply stated that the idea that even the elect will be deceived in the last days is a misunderstanding of what the scriptures say. And I reiterate, the elect (members who sustain the living prophets) cannot be deceived by any false prophet or anti-Christ in any form nor by any of their teachings.
I said nothing of the role of government or the Church’s stance on its role. Living prophets and apostles have been firm about the Church’s neutrality in politics and policy. They said in a recent statement that principles of righteousness can be found in all political parties’ platforms. Never a word against Obamacare when it went through Congress or any other time, just as one example. In fact, when non-US citizens are called to be senior missionaries these days, the Church calls them to serve in their home country to the extent possible so that they can receive the benefits their government provides. Sorry to break this to you, but much of the rhetoric against government programs from years gone by was the opinions of those speaking. Leaders today don’t preach against government-supplied benefits, at least not that I have heard. If you can find a quote from any apostle given in General Conference in the last 20 years, I’d be happy to hear it. Frankly, I am more concerned that some people will forfeit their election in the Kingdom of God while quoting something from Ezra Taft Benson or someone else as they denounce the current prophet for being soft on something like welfare or social programs.
Actually Connor, you missed one of the most common means by which the Gadianton Robbers and other groups of dicentors used to gain followers and which modern day wicked men also use to gain support. Stirring up people to anger by telling them that they have been wronged by others is a very effect tactic that Satan’s leaders used in the Book of Mormon and in our day. For some examples in the Book of Mormon, see Mosiah 10:12-13; Alma 54:17-24; and 3 Nephi 3:10-11. The most blatant example of modern-day people have been seduced by the wicked claiming that wrongs have been committed against them is how the Nazis claimed the Treaty of Versailles wronged Germany.
A recent example of how someone seduced some members of the Church into a not so secret combination is the stand offs with the Bundy family. They claimed that wrongs were being committed against themselves and others, encouraged others to join them, and even cited scripture to justify what they were doing. Even after the Lord’s anointed had the Church PR Dept. issue a statement denouncing the standoff in Oregon, the Bundy boys and their gang continued to defy the law and ignore the Brethren. Instead of being like Captain Moroni, Ammon Bundy was more like Morianton, who had his own land dispute that Captain Moroni ordered to be put down. (See Alma 50:25-36.) Unfortunately, LaVoy Finicum was so seduced by Cliven and Ammon Bundy that he decided he would rather go out in his own blaze of glory reaching for a gun in his belt after trying to run a roadblock. If he had followed the Brethren and went home after being told that there was no scriptural justification for the stand off, his wife and kids wouldn’t need to live off of fast offerings now. He had been among the Lord’s elect, but he allowed himself to be deceived because he believed the lies that the Bundy’s feed him. I suspect he was also angry that the Brethren denounced the stand off as well, but I do not have proof of that.
Although I agree that there are some political ideologies that are just plain not compatible with the gospel of Jesus Christ, this article makes me uncomfortable. One thing I hate about politics is that anyone who has a different opinion is called “stupid”. Haven’t we all heard the derogatory terms “Trumptards, Libtards, Clinton idiots, etc, etc”? So, how is this article any different? Instead of calling everyone who disagrees with you “stupid”, you accuse them of being seduced by the dark side because they aren’t smart enough to see through it. Isn’t that the same thing? Sorry, but this seemed like just another article bashing people who see things differently.
Anne V, I understand your frustration, however, I would like to make one case in Conner’s defense. The 134th section of the Doctrine and Covenants requires us to know what good law is and vigorously defend it. I am an active member of the church. I have been trying to find even one fellow member who can tell me how to measure a law to determine if it is good or bad. I have been unsuccessful. So my two part question to you is this. Can you explain the basic steps in determining if a law is good or bad? And, if you cannot, is it that you see things differently or is it that you just do not see at all?
All of this talk of whether laws are “good” or “bad” reflects the dichotomous, black or white thinking that is so prevalent in Utah—especially Utah County. If you think this way, you might want to entertain the notion that things are never that simple. There is some good and some bad in most laws depending upon whether or not you are among those who are affected the most. That’s because laws are created by human beings who are not infallible. Even church leaders fall under that category.
Because the article appears to condemn church members for being passive about secret combinations, I would like to point out that Helmuth Hübener’s story includes the fact that he was excommunicated from the church at the time he was passing out those flyers and he died excommunicated from the church because the church’s policy is and has always been to support the governments of the land where the member lives. It is only because Germany lost that war and it is now politically correct to view Hitler and his government as “bad” that Helmut is being published in church publications as a hero. The scriptures say that “what is loosed on earth shall be loosed in heaven” and Helmuth died an excommunicated member of the church. Just like where the Book of Mormon says “they hid themselves among the people in a manner that they could not be found”, we can interpret this to mean we have secret members of secret combinations hiding amongst the members of the church then and today.
We need to be aware that another assault by gadiantons is the diminishing freedom of religion and establishment of new world religion which is presently invading the church. It includes “the secret”, and energy healing. It amounts to worship of the self rather and personal will, than worship of God or of seeking His will. It is the religion of Nehor and of Ammoniha of the Book of Mormon. It is the belief that all will have eternal life and can tap into the same power God has simply because our Father is God and we are His children.
Hits the nail right on the head. Very few actually ee what is going on in this country, or what is going to happen. With all the evil being spread in this counrty through the politicians and government, as you say, even the elect are being decieved. People are starting not to listen to the general authorities saying they no longer speak for God. If things keep happening the way they are, we will be having a revolution on our hands, and Joseph Smiths, White Horse Prophesy, will come to pass.
Love this article. I like how you think. You might like this video and the thoughts shared. I think this is where we are heading. During the millennium, we will govern ourselves under Christ’s authority and perfect leadership. The free market is another way of describing the law of consecration. https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=share&v=IUcicyMCgC4
I am already there! This election is a case farse and man made authority and it’s days are numbered.
Thank you Connor. You put it so, so well. I love the line about the eternal principles of individual liberty and personal responsibility.
I taught a RS lesson on the 3rd of July about this. We made a list of the characteristics of the plans that were presented in the pre-existance. I proposed if we keep these in mind we will know how to rightly judge things going on around us. Everybody thought that sounded great until I brought up the example of mandatory immunizations. Boy did some people’s walls fly up. One even spoke up to point out what a terrible example that was because one person’s choice to not immunize their child might impact her child. (I thought that kind of proved my point!)
I ended with this quote from Elder Holland’s most recent conference address: “[Through] the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ, we can escape the consequences of both sin and stupidity–our own and that of others–in whatever form they may come to us in the course of daily living.”
When we forget Christ and His plan, that’s when security at the cost of liberty becomes an issue.
And the very next week in a lesson a teacher asserted that if someone was offended and left the church it was the fault of the offender, and most of the room was in agreement.
Huge head shakes!!
Your article moved me on a very deep level. Through my own studies of the Book of Mormon, I have known for years that it mirrors our day perfectly. If one reads prayerfully and carefully, he can actually match historical and current events, thus accurately forecasting the next step. Be careful, however, for when you know where we are in this process, and turn the page, the story gets much worse before it gets better. Thanks for sharing.
So many mormons are all about ‘merica when America, especially government and institutions. is usually what is holding them down.
Something I am noticing within our church is a lack of honest dialogue for fear of offending. Because of separation of church and state being so ingrained within us, honest dialogue seems to be frowned upon, especially in church and in our classes. What an opportunity we are missing. The focus is on keeping the spirit and feel good issues but nobody is ever specific as to what they truly need us to do to defend society as a whole. There is a lot of confusion with many because when we push concerns about today’s political environment we feel we should focus on our own families and communities. This is vitaly important but we need more exchanges of ideas so we know what needs to be done going beyond our communities.
Most people are willing to defend the constitution but with today’s society, the media has distorted much information. We resort to our church leaders for guidance. Sometimes I feel I need to try to decode just what they are trying to tell us beyond the family and it is frustrating. I feel many of us are floundering trying to do the right things and going through the motions but there must be more that can be done. We need to stop being offended and stick up for each other and our decisions.
Going back to the Doctrine and Covenants, the prophets of older days seemed to more specific and were able to be honest and forthright with the saints. They collectively knew exactly what they needed to do to move forward. Today is a different ball game. There is too much fear from the Government and we should be pushing back fiercely.
Something I am noticing within our church is a lack of honest dialogue for fear of offending. Because of separation of church and state being so ingrained within us, honest dialogue about political matters seems to be frowned upon because of fear, especially in church and in our classes. Everything seems to be a political issue. What an opportunity we are missing. The focus is on keeping the spirit and feel good issues but nobody is ever specific as to what they truly need us to do to defend society as a whole. There is a lot of evil going on out there and there is a lot of confusion with many because when we push concerns about today’s political environment we feel we should focus on our own families and communities instead. This is vitaly important but we need more exchanges of ideas so we know what needs to be done going beyond our communities. I am patriotic and feel the need to go beyond my neighborhood borders. I have a love for the gospel and my country. The country consists of every one of us.
Most people are willing to defend the constitution but with today’s society, the media has distorted much information. We resort to our church leaders for guidance. Sometimes I feel a need to decode just what they are trying to tell us beyond the family and it is frustrating. I feel many of us are floundering trying to do the right things and going through the motions but there must be more that can be done. We need to stop being offended and stick up for each other and each others decisions.
Going back through the Doctrine and Covenants, the prophets of older days seemed to more specific and were able to be honest and forthright with the saints. The saints collectively knew exactly what they needed to do to move forward ad a whole. Today is a different ball game. There is too much fear from the Government and we should be pushing back fiercely. The Government is not my world but The Church IS my world. I need to hear more from church leaders about HOW to defend my rights as well as being sure I have my food storage in order, my family is obeying its covenants and doing family history all in a Christ like manner.
Excellent analysis, Conner. But I hasten to point out two things:
I set out this very thesis in greater detail and scope in a book I published in 1989, “Parallel Histories: the Nephites and the Americans.”
While you accurately delineate one facet of the Gadianton threat in Nephite time, you fail to acknowledge the second component of the Gadianton robbers: the terrorists. That contingent hid in the mountains and caves, as the Taliban did in Afghanistan and Pakistan. They were lawless bandits who sallied forth to raid and terrorize Nephite communities.
This aspect if Nephite history allowed me to predict the advent of terrorism in our day and time over 25 years ago, and long before the events of 9/11. It is an aspect you seem to have overlooked altogether.
Additionally, I am not at all invested in your description of our political situation as being entirely controlled by Satan. Both candidates are not frauds, part of a satanic conspiracy to delude us into voting for the lesser of two evils. The Nephite blueprint does not include such a notion. This, in my opinion, is the argument of the satanic left that wishes to divide the forces of good. Things were never as clear for the Nephites, nor are they for us, as you note. But standing completely on principle rather than practical realities really plays into the hands of the satanic forces by deluding the righteous into paralysis, which is the equivalent of defeating them.
See my recently inaugurated Facebook page for more: https://www.facebook.com/ParallelHistories2/
Otherwise, nicely done.
Love this article but find one part I would recommend you revisit and ponder on. You quote Matthew and state the elect CAN be deceived. You quote it in context, but miss a main but important distinction within the scripture.
In the JS Matthew in the back of your scriptures in 1:22 it says “For in those days there shall also arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch, that, if possible, they shall deceive the very elect, who are the elect according to the covenant.”
This scripture is often quoted with an incorrect conclusion, so I wasn’t surprised to see it quoted the same way in your article… BUT… It says “IF possible ” not that it is possible to deceive the elect. If the elect were deceived they would be willfully rebelling which is a whole different distinction. I believe it is possible for members in the church to be deceived, and sadly many many are, but I don’t see that the scripture supports stating the ELECT will be deceived. Also, it makes an additional distinction that I feel supports this conclusion. It says they “are the elect according to the covenant” but not that they are all elect because they are in the covenant (or in other words the church) there is a difference, kinda like a wheat and tares difference…Just some food for thought. So I’m not saying your wrong, but just that some additional clarification helps in understanding that scripture.
I appreciated the points made in this article. It illustrates a great danger that lurks in the practice of taking counsel from men, any men, not God. It highlights the peril in filtering the Gospel through the philosophies of the world, progressive, conservative, or otherwise. When in your thoughts, the other side is always wrong even when they say the sun is shining at noon, and your “own” side’s righteousness is never questioned, you are at risk of deception. Just because one political party doesn’t advocate killing babies as a legitimate lifestyle choice, says grace over dinner, and still pays lip service to a true definition of the family and its role doesn’t mean that every other policy is true and righteous by association. You can veer off the straight and narrow to the right or left.
Another point: who are those who seek power? It’s not just elitist politicians and greedy businessmen. It’s people who want power to force us to not only accept their perversions, but teach them to our kids in school or in the media. I’m talking about the “little people” who just want to be left alone to sin, not just movement leaders. It’s also those “just trying to get ahead” who condone and practice dishonest actions and oppressions of hirelings just fine as long as they are in “industrious” pursuit of gain. In short, it can be us too, not just those ill-intentioned, obstinate others. It can be our friends, kids, politicians, and media hosts who deceive too.
Until we are humble enough to accept that we too can in fact be wrong and fooled, we are vulnerable. Don’t waste so much time bemoaning (and maybe exulting) that someone else has been deceived. Have you been is the question that matters.
It’s great that you point out that the Book of Mormon is written to us for our day, but I don’t think you’re fully taking in the full message of secret combinations and our awful situation.
Secret oaths and covenants come from Satan.
26 Now behold, those secret oaths and covenants did not come forth unto Gadianton from the records which were delivered unto Helaman; but behold, they were put into the heart of Gadianton by that same being who did entice our first parents to partake of the forbidden fruit (Helaman 6)
God has clearly forbidden swearing and oaths.
33 And again it is written, thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths; 34 But verily, verily, I say unto you, SWEAR NOT AT ALL; neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 Nor by the earth, for it is his footstool; 36 NEITHER SHALT THOUGH SWEAR BY THY HEAD, because thou canst not make one hair black or white; 37 But let your communication be Yea, yea; Nay, nay; for whatsoever cometh of more than these is evil. (3Nep 12:33-37)
12 But above all things, my brethren, SWEAR NOT, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, NEITHER BY ANY OTHER OATH: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. (James 5:12)
10 For the land is full of adulterers; for BECAUSE OF SWEARING the land mourneth; the pleasant places of the wilderness are dried up, and their course is evil, and their force is not right. 11 For both prophet and priest are profane; yea, IN MY HOUSE HAVE I FOUND THEIR WICKEDNESS, saith the Lord. 12 Wherefore their way shall be unto them as slippery ways in the darkness: they shall be driven on, and fall therein: for I will bring evil upon them, even the year of their visitation, saith the Lord. (Jer 23:10-12)
God does not work in secret.
9 I HAVE NOT SPOKEN IN SECRET, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, Seek ye me in vain: I the Lord speak righteousness, I declare things that are right. (Isa 45:19)
16 Come ye near unto me; I HAVE NOT SPOKEN IN SECRET; from the beginning, from the time that it was declared have I spoken; and the Lord God, and his Spirit, hath sent me. (1Nep 20:16 and Isa 48:16)
19. For the Lord worketh NOT IN SECRET COMBINATIONS… (Ether 8)
Secret oaths, secret covenants and swearing are practiced in Mormon temples and are an affront to Christ’s doctine. THIS is our awfull situation!
Jesus made his doctrine of salvation clear to the Nephites
31 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, I will declare unto you MY DOCTRINE. 32 And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me. 33 AND WHOSO BELIEVETH IN ME, AND IS BAPTIZED, THE SAME SHALL BE SAVED; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God. 34 And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned. 35 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father; and whoso believeth in me believeth in the Father also; and unto him will the Father bear record of me, for he will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost. 36 And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one. 37 And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and become as a little child, and be baptized in my name, or ye can in nowise receive these things. 38 And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God. 39 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and whoso buildeth upon this buildeth upon my rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them. 40 And WHOSO SHALL DECLARE MORE OF LESS THAN THIS, AND ESTABLISH IT FOR MY DOCTRINE, THE SAME COMETH OF EVIL, and is not built upon my rock; but he buildeth upon a sandy foundation, and the gates of hell stand open to receive such when the floods come and the winds beat upon them. (3Nephi 11:31-40)
Is there any mention of secret oaths, covenants or swearing in the doctrine of Christ? No. Is there any mention of sealings, washings, anointings, endowments, work for the dead to be saved? No. Christ’s doctrine is clear that if you believe, repent and are baptized you are saved.
Yes, secret combinations are had among all people, but if we really want to understand the intent of the Book of Mormon and its warning to the Gentiles we need to look at ourselves. The message is to us. WE are the ones that the prophets are warning.
This is fantastic. Thanks for sharing. We must rely on the Spirit of the Lord and the prophets as all other guides are subject to some folly.
Love the article, Connor, as usual.
I must say, Gadiantons are not just political in nature, in fact, they are primarily economic. They start out seeking wealth by taking it from others, then after they grow strong enough, they realize that if they controlled the government, they could legalize their plunderings and make even more money.
With that said, how do we LDS come to support secret combinations? By our participation in Commerce. Yes, Commerce — the buying and selling of goods and services. (I realize this is a VERY difficult pill to swallow, especially for modern American Mormons, but stay with me for a minute).
Secret combinations are a natural consequence of the existence of Commerce.
After studying all the verses in the BoM mentioning “gain”, I identified 6 steps clearly illustrated in the BoM, how societies move from Pride through Secret Combo’s to destruction. It follows like night follows day. But, it is Commerce that greatly enhances Pride’s ability to push the society along the road to destruction. No, I’m NOT saying Commerce is evil; I’m saying Commerce acts as a catalyst for Pride to do it’s worst on a society.
[And, no, I’m not for Socialism or Communism or any other authoritarian system. (Why do people always assume this when I point out the consequences of Commerce+Pride?)]
Here’s a brief explanation of the “Pride Flu” societies get and how it leads to Secret Combo’s and eventually to their destruction:
http://buildingzion.org/babylon-zions-antithesis/the-pride-flu-in-the-book-of-mormon/
I firmly believe the Council on Foreign Relations, Bilderbergers & Tri-lateral commission are fulfilling a prophecy made in Ether chapter 8. I recommend 2 books: 1) None Dare Call it Conspiracy co-authored by Gary Allen & Larry Abraham. 2) The Shadows of power by James Perloff. I encourage any open minded reader to pray & ask God if it is true. Right now I hope for 2 things. 1) Donald Trump gets elected & 2) He successfully moves us in the direction of national sovereignty.
In Alma 37 the Lord does counsel us to bring to light the hidden works of darkness… not the Satanic rituals per-se, but the murders, wickedness and abominations of these secret combinations. We need to organize in the body of the priesthood, millions of points of light around the world by every priesthood bearer keeping their eyes and ears open, and report back to priesthood leaders. Then we will have the best information in the world against these secret combinations and can bring them to light as directed by the Lord. With this kind of information the prophets, seers and revelators will know exactly what to pray for, and they will see what to do. We can help them, and help rid the world of all these secret combinations, which exist in every nation.
Its really a shock to see LDS congressmen toss their integrity aside to support such a vile, amoral, dishonest, self-serving windbag as trump. Even more disturbing perhaps, is their aggressive partisan disrespect and obstruction of President Obama and his administration- he is a decent man who loves this country and worked every day for the people. And, that very secret meeting that several Republicans attended, vowing to obstruct anything and everything Pres. Obama tried to accomplish was a deal made in darkness- they vowed to obstruct even things that were for the good of the country because they wanted him to be a 1 term president- that is pretty evil. That meeting is a “secret combination”. Republican hatred is still burning, even though the majority of Americans do not want the Affordable Care Act repealed, Mitch McConnell is trying to force it through anyway. The ACA can be fixed, but their hatred of Pres. Obama is the main reason they want it repealed. Trump is clearly trying to erase the existence of Pres.Obama from the pages of history, which is why McConnell & Ryan are supporting Trump, even supporting him on stupid things like withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accord- putting the US in the same category with Nicaragua and Syria. The Trump, Ryan & McConnell team is a secret combination. McConnell’s closed door creation of a terrible healthcare plan, with plans and schemes to push it through Congress is a secret combination. The GOP & Trump’s plan to slash taxes for the very wealthy & corporations, while taking away, privatizing or gutting every aspect of government that helps people, will turn our government into a one primarily run by the wealthiest families and big corporations- rolling back regulations on pollution is one example of placing corporations over the welfare and health of people. Some in the religious right are also part of this secret combination- by diverting funds from public Education to private/religious schools, generations of Americans will be taught ideas as science that have nothing to do with science, they will teach their stereotypes and their irrational fears- they will turn this country into the pre-apocalyptic nation they are longing for. Talk of the Illuminati is an old story as well- mostly based on conspiracies without any real proof. But, these secret meetings, secret agendas that will redefine the U.S. and our freedoms is very real is happening in front of our faces. Other groups the right accuses of practically everything, just want their civil rights, equal rights, and the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Orrin Hatch, Lee, Chaffetz & Heller have all shown their cruelty in their votes and are or have been part of these secret combinations. Orrin Hatch doesn’t even appear to have a soul anymore.
Given that this post was made in 2013, wondering if anyone here, may still be active? I think the topic, and thoughts here are especially relevant, with current events.
I wonder if this has any relevance to the “I can do anything I want” President who clearly can be labeled among the “King Men” —- any correlation at all??
Regarding speaking up: We know our Church leaders used to be much more openly anti-socialist and admonish food storage, etc. but we don’t hear so much now. Perhaps this is due to the Church being world-wide. In the USA of the past, freedom of speech was still protected but such teachings to Saints in other lands could get a lot of them into trouble. We may be limited to discussing such things among ourselves, now.
I read a message board of member saying they had promptings to finish their food storage, even though we’re not hearing as much about it now.
It seems to me, we’ve been warned and now we need to teach children and new members what we’ve already been taught. I also tell my non-member friends to follow what the prophets tell the members to do. For example, I tell them if we are told to Pack up and go! Go with us! You don’t have to be a member of the Church to follow their counsel.
Just as Jesus said My sheep hear my voice, we still need to admonish our brothers and sisters. His sheep will hear it. I’m afraid many members will continue to not follow the prophets counsel and judge their counsel by the politically correct standards they have accepted instead of the other way around.
Along this line, I think when we are being told that the War in Heaven continues here on earth today, it is another way of saying our agency is still under attack and we should make that our factor in our political understanding.
Again, when we teach the prophets, even of decades past, the Lord’s sheep will hear it. If we can persuade our brothers and sisters to understand and prepare, it will pay off in their (and their families) testimonies being strengthened.
I do preach these truths and more… per the four standard works (as I am compelled to by my Patriarchal Blessing) and I am a pariah.
As a convert of almost 30 years (Baptised in NorCal in 1993) I have been shunned, publicly ridiculed and threatened with denouncement (?) numerous times… this continued until I moved back to Appalachia (where I was born and reared). Here in the Hills, my ancestors settled (pity the Shawnee that fell under my ancestors’ sights and tomahawks) I am welcomed by all LDS… even by some from out west… 😉
Yes, this is what the LDS church does.