260: The Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ - True Servants vs Miserable Wicked Men Part 14

The Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ - True Servants vs Miserable Wicked Men Part 14

In part 14 of this continuing series, Phil teaches that the measure of faith is shown by what it accomplishes, and that faith, hope, and desire work together in a divine cycle. Drawing from Moroni 7 and Moroni 10, Phil explains that belief and trust in Jesus Christ generate hope, and hope gives rise to stronger faith. A sincere heart and real intent, meaning we are willing to accept whatever answer the Lord gives will create the desire that leads to the exercise of powerful faith. Through this process, and by the power of the Holy Ghost, Father reveals truth and corrects our conclusions as we willingly align our will with Him. 

Phil teaches that hope through the Atonement is only possible when we offer the sacrifice of a broken heart and contrite spirit (Moroni 7). Examples from scripture show how humility transforms weakness into strength (Ether 12), including Enoch, who received the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, overcame his weakness in speech, and exercised a greater faith seeing through the veil with an “eye of faith” (Moses 6; Ether 12:19). Phil also explains the pattern of receiving higher priesthood authority, noting the First and Second Orders of the Melchizedek Priesthood bestowed upon prophets such as Enoch, Moses, and Nephi by the voice of the Father (Moses 6, Moses 1 & 3 Nephi 11). 

Phil highlights that throughout scripture; Helaman 5, Alma 14, 3 Nephi 19, Acts 2, disciples of Christ exercise exceedingly strong faith in Jesus Christ, resulting in the reception of the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, miracles, and other transformative spiritual experiences. He reminds us that revelation is never casual; it requires obedience, sacrifice, and preparation. Miracles have not ceased (Moroni 7:36–39), and the same power held by ancient servants of God is available to all who exercise great faith, hope, and trust in Christ. 

Phil concludes that the Lord continues to call “other servants” (JST Matthew 21; D&C 101, 112, 103), and that Joseph Smith stands as the prophesied servant raised up in the last days. The path remains the same: to seek Christ by revelation, exercise mighty faith, receive the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, and press forward keeping all of Christ’s commandments until we enter the rest of the Lord. 

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