In his talk “Mom, Are We Christians?” Elder Gary J Coleman addresses on of the most common misconceptions of those who are of the LDS faith. Elder Coleman begins by speaking of his upbringing in another faith as a child. He grew up with the goal of someday entering the ministry. However when he went to college, he became acquainted with members of the church. He says:
“When I was a university student, however, I became acquainted with the members and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a Christian faith centered on the Savior. I began to learn about the doctrine of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ in these latter days. I learned truths that I had not known before that changed my life and how I viewed the gospel. After much studying, prayer, and faith, I chose to embrace beautiful restored truths found only in this Church.”
Elder Coleman goes on to speak specifically about two points that stood out to him specifically. The first point was revealed as a result of the First Vision. This involves the nature of the Godhead, and Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are two distinct separate people. Elder Coleman speaks of the confusion that people of other faiths have regarding the doctrine.
Elder Coleman goes to say that the Book of Mormon and additional revelation is really from God. Elder Coleman goes on to bear his testimony of the Book of Mormon. He points out that it is another testament of the reality and teachings of Christ on this earth. A third restored truth that Elder Coleman discovered upon investigating the church was the restoration of the Priesthood to the earth today. Elder Coleman points out that the church is the only with direct Priesthood authority on the earth today.
Elder Coleman ends his talk by bearing his testimony of the divinity of Christ. We are indeed Christians. This was an excellent talk. It addresses a few common misconceptions of the church, as well as explains the restoration of the gospel to the truth. This is a powerful message. The First Vision, the Book of Mormon and the restoration of the Priesthood are keys in understanding the restoration of the true church to the earth today. I hope that you will take the time to read this talk, as well take the opportunity to strengthen your testimony on these important principles.
Related Articles:
General Conference: “The Restoration of the Gospel”
General Conference: “The Things of Which I Know”
General Conference: “Do You Know?”