Learning in Mortality

I had a dream that nobody would be here because of the banking holiday

Today, I would like to talk about the importance of education to gain intelligence.

D&C 88:78-79, 118

… that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain to the kingdom of God that are expedient for you to understand.

Of things both in heaven and in earth and under earth, things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad, the wars and perplexities of the nations and the judgements which are on lands; and the knowledge also of countries and kingdoms….

And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea seek out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning even by study and also by faith.

What I think this is saying to learn of all things, not just of the church but also earthly things.

At the end of The 13^th Article of Faith it says:

If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praise worthy we seek after these things.

Which I also think is saying that the LORD praises all good things.

Brigham Young once said, Quote

The improvement of the mind; to instruct us in all arts and sciences, in the history of the world, in the law and principles of life, and how to be useful while we live.

Enabling us to “understand… how to be useful while we live” is perhaps the greatest reason for disciples to seek learning. Simply stated, adding scholarship to discipleship better prepares us to build the kingdom of GOD.

Heavenly Father wants us to expand our knowledge of this world, in part so we can help and bless those around us.

Last year, I was fortunate to have Mrs. Bayer as my science teacher. She was the best teacher I have ever had. She has worked hard for years to learn about science and about interesting ways to teach us through labs, experiments, examples and by demonstrating her love for science. She has truly blessed thousands of students through her 20 years of teaching, and in many cases has helped me and other students develop a greater appreciation and love of science. She clearly does teach “words of wisdom”

Not only is it important to learn of the world, but the gospel that made it. In the 9^th Article of Faith it says…

We believe all that God has revealed, all that he does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God.

In other words God has given us several sources of spiritual truth that can help us to

All he has revealed is the scritpure

All that he does now reveal – teachings of the modern prophets and church leaders

Yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.

All these sources of truth are great blessings to us. From them we can learn what we should know, so we can learn to be a happier and better person.

D&C 88; 188; 109; 7 Seek learning even by study and also by faith will help us increase our ability to serve the church and others in many different ways.

The point is that intelligence can help us build up the kingdom of God, support our families, and most importantly to lighten the burdens of others.