Forgotten Symbols in the Parable of the Good Samaritan

Symbols that Christ incorporated into his parable of the good Samaritan have been lost over time. Learn how this parable can teach us about the plan of salvation. Jesus Christ taught with parables to convey deeper meanings to his followers. John W. Welch, a professor of law at Brigham Young… Continue reading

Learning from an Outside View of Mormonism

Three women laughing on a park bench

A university professor tells what helps non-LDS students of Mormonism to gain a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the faith. When Dr. Laurie F. Maffly-Kipp teaches her Mormon studies class at the University of North Carolina, she uses the study of Mormonism as a model that can be applied… Continue reading

Environmental Stewardship

blue skies on blue water

As children of God, we have a divine calling to care for the earth, use its resources wisely, and preserve it for future generations. The budding of a flower, the pounding of a waterfall, the shining of the stars—each scene and element contributes to the masterpiece of the earth. God… Continue reading

A Pearl, a Penny, and Christ’s Infinite Grace

pearl in oyster

A medieval poem sheds light on the New Testament parable of laborers in the vineyard, showing us that the Savior’s grace can satisfy all who seek it. In the parable of the laborers in the vineyard in Matthew, chapter 20, laborers and readers are left unsatisfied. The lord of the… Continue reading

A Historical Context for Race and the Priesthood

Priests blessing sacrament

The topic of race and the priesthood has tried the faith of Latter-day Saints and others. To understand this issue, discover the historical context. An article titled “Race and the Priesthood” in the Gospel Topics section of lds.org provides rich historical details and spiritual insight. The Church of Jesus Christ… Continue reading

Why It Matters How We Use the Word Marriage

Family of four standing in front of door in New Delhi.

Why do Church leaders object to the use of the word marriage in the context of homosexual relationships? In light of current conflicts concerning same-sex marriage, Mormon Newsroom published an article explaining the Church’s stance on marriage. The article reiterates a statement made by the First Presidency and Quorum of the… Continue reading

War, Politics, and Power of the Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon includes details and principles of war that would have been impossible for young Joseph Smith to make up. Although the Book of Mormon was published by Joseph Smith, a young man with little education and no war experience, it is remarkably accurate in its portrayal of… Continue reading

Understanding the Church’s Stance on Same-Sex Attraction

multiple hands around man

In a world of conflicting voices, it is important for us to understand and be able to articulate the Church’s teachings on homosexuality. Recently, there have been conflicting views among some Church members about whether judicial rulings regarding same-sex marriage should be upheld. Groups such as Mormons Building Bridges are… Continue reading

Gaining Maturity by Cultivating Appreciation

field of flowers

The often-forgotten virtue of appreciation can transform your relationships with others and with God. Think of all the people you’ve interacted with today. Regardless of whether you’re related to them, whether you’re friends with them, or whether you just met them, did you treat them with kindness? Did you say… Continue reading