Saturday, February 22, 2014

Do Not Preach for Gain

Today I read Micah 3 where the Lord condemns those that use their spiritual gifts for money.  Specifically those that preach for money.  Now, at first glance, one wonders how the vast majority of the world could miss this.  But when you read the chapter, it is not extremely clear that the Lord is talking about them specifically.  It is very easy to see how one could miss it.  Fortunately, the Book of Mormon clears up any misconception about this concept.  The Book of Mormon frequently condemns those who preach the word of God to get gain.  They call it priestcraft in the Book of Mormon.  Sadly, in this day and age, you can find it everywhere. 

I cannot think of any other religion beyond the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who receive no remuneration for their service to God.  Sadly, the world sees no challenge with this.  They do not seem to understand how a person would avoid preaching certain topics when their payment depends on their congregation being happy.  To me it is self evident, that to preach only that which would keep the people happy would make sense when they pay your bills and can fire you if they don't like what you have to say.  Such a person cannot be trusted to teach the true principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Rather, let us teach as the Lord has said, to preach for the betterment of all men, not for our own gain.  This is what Christ did before us.  Shouldn't we desire to emulate Him?  Until tomorrow.

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