Elder Quentin L. Cook on the fruits of true conversion

Elder Quentin L. Cook (1940- ) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"In our day, many have adopted the concept that there should be no consequence for sin. They support the unconditional condoning of sin without repentance. Our revealed doctrine not only refutes the idea that most people would be eternally condemned to hell and damnation but also establishes that personal repentance is a commanded prerequisite to partake of the Savior’s Atonement and inherit the celestial kingdom. I testify that Joseph Smith was truly an instrument in the Lord’s hands in bringing forth the Restoration of His gospel!

"Because of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ, we understand the importance of both repentance and the 'works of righteousness' (D&C 59:23). We understand the overwhelming significance of the Savior’s Atonement and of His saving ordinances and covenants, including those performed in the temple.

"The 'works of righteousness' emanate from and are the fruits of conversion. True conversion is brought about by the conscious acceptance and commitment to follow the will of God. The banquet of consequences and blessings that flow from conversion is true and permanent peace and the personal assurance of ultimate happiness—despite the storms of this life.

"Conversion to the Savior changes a natural man into a sanctified, born again, purified person—a new creature in Christ Jesus."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Conversion to the Will of God," General Conference April 2022, Saturday afternoon

Click here to read or listen to the full discourse

So much incorrect or unclear doctrine in Christianity is clarified and corrected by the Restoration through Joseph Smith in the latter days! The interplay of grace, repentance, and obedience is a one of the most important of these.

The "works of righteousness" in our lives are a byproduct of true conversion:

As we truly commit to follow God's will, we become converted; and righteous works will follow that step. I love the description of "the banquet of consequences and blessings" - the ultimate happiness that comes only from Him, and will carry us through any storm in life.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2022)

Elder Dallin H. Oaks on conversion and becoming

Elder Dallin H. Oaks (1932- ) was sustained to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1984.

"The Final Judgment is not just an evaluation of a sum total of good and evil acts—what we have done. It is an acknowledgment of the final effect of our acts and thoughts—what we have become. It is not enough for anyone just to go through the motions. The commandments, ordinances, and covenants of the gospel are not a list of deposits required to be made in some heavenly account. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan that shows us how to become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become.... 

"We qualify for eternal life through a process of conversion. As used here, this word of many meanings signifies not just a convincing but a profound change of nature.... 

"The gospel of Jesus Christ is the plan by which we can become what children of God are supposed to become. This spotless and perfected state will result from a steady succession of covenants, ordinances, and actions, an accumulation of right choices, and from continuing repentance. 'This life is the time for men to prepare to meet God' (Alma 34:32). 

"Now is the time for each of us to work toward our personal conversion, toward becoming what our Heavenly Father desires us to become." 

- Dallin H. Oaks, "The Challenge to Become," General Conference Oct 2000;
Click here to read the full talk

This was a landmark address by Elder Oaks. His insight on the purpose of our existence helps us understand that we're not checking off a checklist of deeds, actions, even ordinances. We are transforming ourselves into the kind of person for whom all those things are natural occurrences.

So it's not about what we do; it's all about what we become. The purpose of religion and obedience is conversion—the transformation of our natures, as we try to "become what our Heavenly Father desires us to become." And the encouraging message is that the transformation is gradual, but guaranteed, as we pursue the course that leads to it. As we change our natures, as we become more like the Savior, then the actions are a natural outcome.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2021)

February 11, 2015

Elder Ronald A. Rasband on the challenges of the rising generation

Elder Ronald A. Rasband (born February 6, 1951) served as a Seventy beginning in 2000.  He was the senior president of the Seventy when he was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2015. This talk was given in a General Priesthood session of conference when he was serving as a Seventy.

"In an early Book of Mormon time, the members of the Church also gathered near a temple to receive instruction from their prophet and leader. Late in his life, King Benjamin called upon fathers to bring their families together, to give them counsel and admonitions....

"As recorded in Mosiah, families received the word of the Lord through their prophet with enthusiasm and commitment. The people were so moved by King Benjamin’s teachings that they entered into a new covenant to follow the Lord Jesus Christ.

"However, there is a sad epilogue to this story. We learn later in Mosiah concerning those who were but little children in the tents at the time of King Benjamin’s sermon:

"'Now it came to pass that there were many of the rising generation that could not understand the words of king Benjamin, being little children at the time he spake unto his people; and they did not believe the tradition of their fathers' (Mosiah 26:1).

"What happened to that rising generation, brethren? Why didn’t the young children accept the righteous traditions of their fathers? More importantly, here we are centuries later, in a day of many temples and constant prophetic direction, and what of our rising generation? Do we have reason to be concerned? Certainly we do! ...

"Our rising generation is worthy of our best efforts to support and strengthen them in their journey to adulthood."

- Ronald A. Rasband, "Our Rising Generation," General Conference April 2006
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

Spiritual manifestations and deep conversions are profound events, and the experience of the people as they were taught by King Benjamin is a wonderful example of the life-changing impact of such an event (see Mosiah 2). However, the rapid loss of the impact of that conversion is a sad sequel. In only a single generation, the "rising generation" who were too young to fully experience the spirit of the event drift away from the teachings of their fathers. Elder Rasband warns us to be vigilant in our care of that next generation:

We must never neglect any opportunity to bless lives or make a difference for each individual.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)

Elder Marvin J. Ashton on being fully committed to the gospel

Elder Marvin J. Ashton (1915-1994) served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles from 1971 until his death in 1994 at age 78.

"I’m thinking of a five-year-old boy who fell out of bed during the night and came crying to his mother’s bedside. To her question, 'Why did you fall out of bed?' he replied, 'I fell out because I wasn’t in far enough!'

"It has been my experience over the years that, generally speaking, those who fall out of the Church are those who aren’t in far enough.

"In a simple statement, the difference between those committed and those who are not is the difference between the words want and will. For example, 'I want to pay tithing, but our funds are so limited,' or 'I will pay my tithing.' 'I want to go to sacrament meeting if I have time,' or 'I will go to sacrament meeting.' 'I would like to be a good teacher, but the children are so noisy,' or 'I will be a good teacher.'

"To reap the full benefits of life, we must fill our days with commitment to worthy goals and principles. There is no other way. As these commitments lead us to action, we will find added growth and dimension which will guide us toward a productive life here on earth and open the door for eternal life with our Father in Heaven."

- Marvin J. Ashton, "The Word is Commitment," General Conference October 1983
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

Elder Ashton's analogy of the boy falling out of bed is interesting—they boy said he fell because he wasn't in far enough, and Elder Ashton applies that to people who "drop out" of participation in the Church. What does it mean to be "in far enough"? Perhaps to be more thoroughly involved, more deeply committed, more deeply converted. As our membership in the Church becomes a more significant and meaningful part of our life, we'll understand the analogy better.

Elder Ashton continues by suggesting a characteristic of a member who is "in far enough"—the level of commitment that is demonstrated by our attitude towards assignments or obligations, as expressed in the words want and will. Do we just desire to do good things, or are we committed to make them happen?

Blessings come to us when we "fill our days with commitment to worthy goals and principles" that will then lead us to action and growth.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2019)

Elder D. Todd Christofferson on having the gospel as our defining focus

Elder D. Todd Christofferson (born January 24, 1945) was called to the Seventy in 1993, and as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2008.

"To persevere firm and steadfast in the faith of Christ requires that the gospel of Jesus Christ penetrate one’s heart and soul, meaning that the gospel becomes not just one of many influences in a person’s life but the defining focus of his or her life and character....

"Most of us find ourselves at this moment on a continuum between a socially motivated participation in gospel rituals on the one hand and a fully developed, Christlike commitment to the will of God on the other. Somewhere along that continuum, the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ enters into our heart and takes possession of our soul. It may not happen in an instant, but we should all be moving toward that blessed state.

"It is challenging but vital to remain firm and steadfast when we find ourselves being refined 'in the furnace of affliction' (1 Nephi 20:10; see also Isaiah 48:10), something that comes soon or late to all of us in mortality. Without God, these dark experiences tend to despondency, despair, and even bitterness. With God, comfort replaces pain, peace replaces turmoil, and hope replaces sorrow. Remaining firm in the faith of Christ will bring His sustaining grace and support. He will convert trial into blessing and, in Isaiah’s words, 'give … beauty for ashes' (Isaiah 61:3)."

- D. Todd Christofferson, "Firm and Steadfast in the Faith of Christ," General Conference October 2018
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

This was one of several talks from the recent conference that taught about the importance of focusing our efforts and attention on Jesus Christ, our Savior. Elder Christofferson explained powerfully the difference between having the gospel as one of many influences in our life, versus having it be the "defining focus" of all we do as it penetrates our very heart and soul. I felt the truth of his warning about the "continuum" of conversion that we are on:

Clearly, many of us are on that "socially motivated participation" end of the spectrum. It's interesting for each of us to honestly and seriously consider where we might be along that path towards a "fully developed, Christlike commitment to the will of God." That's what Elder Quentin L. Cook referred to as a "deep and lasting conversion"; it happens when the gospel "takes possession of our soul."

The blessings from this whole-souled conversion become apparent to us when we take our turn "in the furnace of affliction." The one who is truly converted will find comfort, peace, and hope, and feel God's "sustaining grace and support." Those are the critical times in life when our previous preparation is so crucial to our survival. How important for us to be moving steadily towards that state of whole-hearted conversion!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)

Elder Quentin L. Cook on nurturing deep and lasting conversion at home

Elder Quentin L. Cook (b. 1940) was called as a Seventy in 1996, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 2007.

"The Church’s traditional curriculum has emphasized the Sunday Church experience. We know that when we have better teaching and more spiritually prepared class members, we have a better Sunday Church experience. We are blessed that often the Spirit increases and strengthens conversion in the Church setting.

"The new home-centered and Church-supported curriculum needs to influence more powerfully family religious observance and behavior and personal religious observance and behavior. We know the spiritual impact and the deep and lasting conversion that can be achieved in the home setting. Years ago, a study established that for young men and women the influence of the Holy Ghost most often accompanies individual scripture study and prayer in the home. Our purpose is to balance the Church and the home experiences in a way that will greatly increase faith and spirituality and deepen conversion to Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

"In the home-centered, Church-supported portion of this adjustment, there is flexibility for each individual and family to determine prayerfully how and when it will be implemented."

- Quentin L. Cook, "Deep and Lasting Conversion to Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ," General Conference October 2018
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

President Nelson spoke briefly at the beginning of general conference, introducing what would become an important theme and focus:

"For many years, Church leaders have been working on an integrated curriculum to strengthen families and individuals through a home-centered and Church-supported plan to learn doctrine, strengthen faith, and foster greater personal worship."
- Russell M. Nelson, "Opening Remarks," General Conference October 2018, emphasis added

Elder Cook had the assignment to then expand and explain the new focus. After introducing the concept of the adjusted Sunday meeting block and the various manuals and resources that will be provided to support it both in meetings and at home, he expanded on the vision of what these changes are intended to accomplish:

While resources including manuals and guidelines are provided for individuals and families, so much will depend on our individual willingness to seek inspiration as we begin to implement these programs in a few months. Elder Cook explained that "there is flexibility for each individual and family to determine prayerfully how and when it will be implemented." But the vision of the changes is to enable each of us to find "a deep and lasting conversion" as disciples of Jesus Christ.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)

Elder David A. Bednar on what we do and what we are

Elder David A. Bednar (born June 15, 1952) was serving as the president of BYU–Idaho when he was called and sustained as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2004.

"The thirteenth article of faith begins, 'We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men.' It is significant to me that the first trait listed in this inspired summary of basic Christian virtues is honesty. Indeed, the very fountain and foundation of our daily discipleship are integrity and honesty.

"People of integrity and honesty not only practice what they preach, they are what they preach. And the Savior stands as the finest example. He said, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me' (John 14:6). It is not just that the Son of God brought light into a darkened and fallen world; He is the Light (see 3 Ne. 11:11). It is not just that our Savior showed us the way; He is the Way. It is not just that Christ made the resurrection available; He is the Resurrection (see John 11:25). And it is not just that Jesus of Nazareth restored the truth and taught the truth; He is the Truth."

- David A. Bednar, "Be Honest," BYU-Idaho devotional September 10, 2002; see New Era October 2005, p. 7
Click here to read the full talk

Virtues such as honesty seem so basic and fundamental to Christian discipleship. And on the surface, perhaps in our interactions with others, we seem to do a fairly good job. But Elder Bednar is talking about a more in-depth view of that virtue and its companion integrity, relating to the deeper motivations and subtleties of our behavior and actions.

So in this interpretation, integrity relates more to not just what we do, but what we are in our internal and spiritual motivations. And what we are will then define what we do.

The Savior is the premiere example; it's not just what He did, but what He is that demonstrate the power of His life and message. As our hearts and motivations become pure and clarified, we will realize how much of our discipleship depends on that same principle.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)

President Harold B. Lee on the importance of nurturing a testimony

President Harold B. Lee (1899-1973) was called to the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1941. He served as a counselor in the First Presidency from 1970-1972, then as Church president from July 1972 until his passing less than 18 months later in December 1973.

"A testimony can grow or diminish. [The Master said to Peter,] 'Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren' (Luke 22:31-32). Now, mind you, He is saying that to the chiefest of the Twelve. I am praying for you; now go out and get converted, and when you get converted, then go strengthen your brother. It means [we can become] unconverted just as well as we can become converted.

"Your testimony is something that you have today but you may not have it always. That testimony is either going to increase and grow until you become as sure of the things, through faith, as you are that the sun shines; or if you allow it to dwindle, either through sin or through your ignorance or neglect, it's going to be just as dim and you are going to be standing in the dark more lost than if you had never seen.... When we see with our eyes what we ought to see, when we hear with our ears what we ought to hear, and when we understand with our hearts what we ought to understand, then we are converted. But by this same token, when we fail to do that, we can become unconverted."

- Harold B. Lee, address to Ricks College Student Body and Student Leaders, March 3, 1962; see also THBL 138

The idea of becoming "unconverted" is an intriguing one. Just as we can gain in light and knowledge, in our faith and surety—we can equally diminish and decline in those same qualities and characteristics. President Lee warns us to be careful about the direction we are heading. Even the chiefest of the ancient apostles was instructed by the Lord to nurture and strengthen his faith and testimony in order to be truly converted. But then be wary about drifting the other direction!

The things we do to become converted, will also help us to stay converted. President Lee warns that if we fail to do them, we risk losing our strength and testimony. What a great topic to ponder regularly as we consider our activities and our personal progress.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)

Elder Marvin J. Ashton on the evidence of conversion to Christ

Elder Marvin J. Ashton (1915-1994) served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles from 1971 until his death in 1994 at age 78.

"It seems interesting that the first principles the Lord Jesus Christ chose to teach His newly called Apostles were those that center around the way we treat each other. And then, what did He emphasize during the brief period He spent with the Nephites on this continent? Basically the same message. Could this be because the way we treat each other is the foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ?

"During an informal fireside address held with a group of adult Latter-day Saints, the leader directing the discussion invited participation by asking the question: 'How can you tell if someone is converted to Jesus Christ?' For forty-five minutes those in attendance made numerous suggestions in response to this question, and the leader carefully wrote down each answer on a large blackboard. All of the comments were thoughtful and appropriate. But after a time, this great teacher erased everything he had written. Then, acknowledging that all of the comments had been worthwhile and appreciated, he taught a vital principle: 'The best and most clear indicator that we are progressing spiritually and coming unto Christ is the way we treat other people.'

"Would you consider this idea for a moment—that the way we treat the members of our families, our friends, those with whom we work each day is as important as are some of the more noticeable gospel principles we sometimes emphasize.

"Last month the Relief Society celebrated its 150th anniversary. Its motto, 'Charity Never Faileth,' has been a way of life for its members and others around the globe.

"Imagine what could happen in today’s world—or in our own wards, or families, or priesthood quorums and auxiliaries—if each of us would vow to cherish, watch over, and comfort one another. Imagine the possibilities!"

- Marvin J. Ashton, "The Tongue Can Be a Sharp Sword," General Conference April 1992
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

This was a classic address by Elder Ashton, filled with insight and wise counsel. What an important and true insight: "The way we treat each other is the foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ." I love the story about a fireside discussion during which the speaker invited thoughts about evidence of true conversion, and then summarized with a very clear and concise statement:

How true that is! Being a disciple of Christ means nothing if it doesn't focus on the way we treat others. His message, His way is the way of service and love to those around us. As we continue to grasp the truth and importance of that divine and eternal principle, we will be blessed and we will be instruments in His hands to do much good.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)

Elder M. Russell Ballard on the essential habits of conversion

Elder M. Russell Ballard (born October 8, 1928) was called as a Seventy in 1976, and has served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles since 1985.

"The Lord outlined simple, personal habits that keep us rooted, grounded, and connected to Him. Such habits, when done with full purpose of heart, real intent, and without hypocrisy and deception, allow us to be unwavering disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.

"These essential habits include the things that seem to easily slip away in the rush of our very busy lives, even when we are engaged in good things like pursuing an education, working to support a family, and involving ourselves in community and Church service.

"They include sincere daily prayer, faithful fasting, regular study and pondering of the scriptures and the words of the living prophets, making the Sabbath day a delight, partaking of the sacrament with humility and always remembering the Savior, worshipping in the temple as often as possible, and, finally, reaching out to the needy, poor, and lonely—both those close by and across the world.

"When someone stops doing these simple but essential things, they cut themselves from the well of living water and allow Satan to muddle their thinking. Sin and guilt cloud the mind—leading them to deny past inspiration and revelation and causing a 'de-conversion' from the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ."

- M. Russell Ballard, "To the Saints in the Utah South Area," broadcast to the 235 stakes in the Utah South Area on September 13, 2015
Click here to read the full talk

While these remarks were shared with a subset of the Church (members living in the Utah South Area), the principles Elder Ballard shares are insightful and generally applicable. It's good to review and ponder the simple, basic, personal habits that will "keep us rooted, grounded, and connected" to God in our time.

Elder Ballard mentions seven specific things:

• sincere daily prayer
• faithful fasting
• regular study and pondering of the scriptures and the words of the living prophets
• making the Sabbath day a delight
• partaking of the sacrament with humility and always remembering the Savior
• worshiping in the temple as often as possible
• reaching out to the needy, poor, and lonely—both those close by and across the world

These seven simple practices truly can transform us as we make them "habits of conversion."

I think the idea of "de-conversion" is important to ponder. Just as we can be converted to the gospel, Elder Ballard warns that we can be de-converted from it. As we fail to do the simple things that keep us focused and growing, we:

• are cut off from the well of living water
• allow Satan to muddle our thinking
• begin to see sin and guilt cloud our mind
• are led to deny past inspiration and revelation

I'm grateful for the reminder of how much impact the simple "essential habits" can have in my life!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

Elder Dale G. Renlund on developing an attitude of charity

Elder Dale G. Renlund (born November 13, 1952) served in the First Quorum of Seventy starting in 2009, until his call to the Quorum of Twelve in October 2015.

"The pure love of Christ or charity is selfless and self-sacrificing, emanates from a pure heart and a good conscience. Charity is more than an act or action. Charity is an attitude, a state of heart and mind that accompanies one’s actions. It is to be an integral part of one’s nature. In fact, all things are to be done in charity. Charity casts out all fears and it is a prerequisite for entering the kingdom of heaven....

"The underlying, fundamental principle that we have shared is that conversion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and His Atonement is the key to developing charity, the pure love of Christ. The development of charity then leads to the development of other Christlike attributes."

- Dale G. Renlund and Ruth L. Renlund, “One in Charity,” BYU Women’s Conference, April 29, 2016
Click here to read the full talk

As one of the three cardinal virtues ("faith, hope, and charity") of discipleship, it is good to ponder what charity is and how we can both develop and express it. This interesting address, by Elder Renlund and his wife, was shared with a BYU Women's Conference and gives a number of insights into the important principle.

We often use phrases like "act of charity" in our conversation, and it's tempting to think that the act is the charity. Elder Renlund points out that charity is the inner attitude that generates the act:

The scriptural injunction "Let all your things be done with charity" (1 Cor 16:14) should give us cause to ponder. Do we truly do all things in an attitude or spirit of charity? Do we allow that underlying "state of heart and mind" help to determine all of our actions?

Elder Renlund concludes with the reminder that "conversion to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and His Atonement is the key to developing charity." We should first seek that conversion, knowing that true charity will be a gift that follows.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

Elder David A. Bednar on the need for true conversion in today's world

Elder David A. Bednar (born June 15, 1952) was serving as the president of BYU–Idaho when he was called and sustained as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2004.

"Testimony is the beginning of and a prerequisite to continuing conversion. Testimony is a point of departure; it is not an ultimate destination. Strong testimony is the foundation upon which conversion is established.

"Testimony alone is not and will not be enough to protect us in the latter-day storm of darkness and evil in which we are living. Testimony is important and necessary but not sufficient to provide the spiritual strength and protection we need. Some members of the Church with testimonies have wavered and fallen away. Their spiritual knowledge and commitment did not measure up to the challenges they faced....

"A testimony is spiritual knowledge of truth obtained by the power of the Holy Ghost. Continuing conversion is constant devotion to the revealed truth we have received--with a heart that is willing and for righteous reasons. Knowing that the gospel is true is the essence of a testimony. Consistently being true to the gospel is the essence of conversion. We should know the gospel is true and be true to the gospel."

- David A. Bednar, "Converted Unto the Lord," Ensign, Nov 2012, pp. 106-109
Click here to read or listen to the full article

Elder Bednar's remarks in the October 2012 general conference explored the relationship between testimony and conversion, giving insights into each and particularly into the ways they relate and interact. The first important point to understand is that testimony is not the ultimate goal; it is a foundational step, a necessary and required one, on the way to conversion. But alone it is not sufficient to provide the "spiritual strength and protection" that are needed against the "storm of darkness and evil" in today's world. It is crucial that our testimonies grow into true conversion:

I love this summary of the principle. It's so critical that we know the gospel is true. But it's far more crucial to be true to the gospel. It's in the implementation of the principles, and not just in understanding them, that we gain power!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

Elder David A. Bednar on mighty conversion through Christ

Elder David A. Bednar (born June 15, 1952) was serving as the president of BYU–Idaho when he was called and sustained as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in October 2004.

"The Lord's authorized servants repeatedly teach that one of the principal purposes of our mortal existence is to be spiritually changed and transformed through the Atonement of Jesus Christ....

"We are instructed to 'come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny [ourselves] of all ungodliness' (Moroni 10:32), to become 'new creature[s]' in Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:17), to put off 'the natural man' (Mosiah 3:19), and to experience 'a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually' (Mosiah 5:2). Please note that the conversion described in these verses is mighty, not minor—a spiritual rebirth and fundamental change of what we feel and desire, what we think and do, and what we are. Indeed, the essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ entails a fundamental and permanent change in our very nature made possible through our reliance upon 'the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah' (2 Nephi 2:8). As we choose to follow the Master, we choose to be changed—to be spiritually reborn....

"The spiritual rebirth... typically does not occur quickly or all at once; it is an ongoing process—not a single event. Line upon line and precept upon precept, gradually and almost imperceptibly, our motives, our thoughts, our words, and our deeds become aligned with the will of God. This phase of the transformation process requires time, persistence, and patience."

- David A. Bednar, "Ye Must be Born Again," Ensign, May 2007, p. 19
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

In the process of growth and change that occurs through our lives, the most important changes should be happening in our spiritual nature, as we are "changed and transformed through the Atonement of Jesus Christ." Elder Bednar points out that the scriptures teach this is not a minor change, but a mighty one:

So we are seeking "a fundamental and permanent change in our very nature." This process is not quick and not easy. It's a life-long process, though we should be able to notice ongoing progress towards the ideal. The key is that "our motives, our thoughts, our words, and our deeds become aligned with the will of God." I love that description; step by step, our natures change so that we are more godlike. In Moroni's words, we deny ourselves of anything that is ungodly (Moroni 10:32) so that the only thing that remains are god-like traits. What a beautiful and glorious process!

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

Elder Robert D. Hales on personal conversion and service to others

Elder Robert D. Hales (born August 24, 1932) served as a Seventy from 1976 to 1985, when he was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles.

"Knowing the truth and gaining a testimony strengthen us to stay on the straight and narrow path that leads to eternal life. As testimony grows, we become more and more converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ. When we follow Him, we commit ourselves to serve Him by serving others....

"Conversion requires consecrating our lives to caring for and serving others who need our help and to sharing our gifts and talents. The Lord didn't say tend my sheep when it is convenient, watch my sheep when you aren't busy. He said feed my sheep and my lambs; help them survive this world, keep them close to you. Lead them to safety—the safety of righteous choices that will prepare them for eternal life."

- Robert D. Hales, "When Thou Art Converted, Strengthen Thy Brethren," Ensign, May 1997, p. 82
Click here to read or listen to the full talk

Gaining a testimony and growing towards conversion are key steps in our spiritual progress in this life. A key part of the discipleship that accompanies conversion, according to Elder Hales, is the commitment to serve God by serving others. Those who are converted "consecrate" their lives to service of others. The word "consecrate" means to make sacred, and truly a life is made sacred through service.

The service of a converted soul is sincere, unselfish, and sacrificing. We don't serve only when it's convenient. We strive always to help one another "survive this world" and prepare for a better one. Ultimately, the only way our own soul can truly progress is to bring others along that path towards eternal life.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2017)

Elder Robert D. Hales on gaining and strengthening testimony

Elder Robert D. Hales (b. August 24, 1932) served as a Seventy from 1976 to 1985, when he was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles.

"Gaining a testimony and becoming converted begins with study and prayer, then living the gospel with patience and persistence and inviting and waiting upon the Spirit....

"Once we receive a witness of the Spirit, our testimony is strengthened through study, prayer, and living the gospel. Our growing testimony brings us increased faith in Jesus Christ and His plan of happiness. We are motivated to repent and obey the commandments, which, with a mighty change of heart, leads to our conversion. And our conversion brings divine forgiveness, healing, joy, and the desire to bear our witness to others....

"Retaining that companionship requires an earnest effort on the part of Church members. If we are not obedient to the laws, principles, and ordinances of the gospel, the Holy Ghost will withdraw. He cannot be with us if we are angry in our hearts, contentious with our companions, or critical of the Lord's anointed. He departs whenever we are rebellious, are immoral, dress or act immodestly, are unclean or profane in mind or body, are slothful in priesthood callings and duties, or commit other sins, for 'the Spirit of the Lord doth not dwell in unholy temples' (Hel. 4:24).

"Therefore we must continually repent, partake of the sacrament, be worthy of a temple recommend, and serve the Lord with all our 'heart, might, mind and strength' (D&C 4:2).

"With the Holy Ghost dwelling in us, we feel a love for God and all His children. This love casts out fear and fills us with the desire to open our mouths. There is no greater gift we can give others than to bear our testimony to them. There is no greater joy we can have than to bring even one soul unto Christ (see D&C 18:15). And there is no greater way to strengthen our own testimony than to share our witness of Him with the world. As we do, our families will be strengthened. Our wards, stakes, and communities will be filled with peace and love, and, ultimately, the earth will be prepared for the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

- Robert D. Hales, "Receiving a Testimony of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ," Ensign, Nov. 2003, 28-29
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Elder Hales emphasizes the importance of "study, prayer, and living the gospel" both in gaining a testimony initially, and in the ongoing process of growing in faith and commitment. The need for all three of those crucial steps can't be overemphasized. If we neglect either one, we won't progress:

For those who have accepted the gospel and are on the path, study and prayer sometimes are inadequate to maintaining strength. We desperately need to be nourishing our testimony and seeking ongoing strength and light to aid in the journey. But that is all in vain if we don't actually implement the principles; we must act on what we learn and feel. The gospel is not just about changing our thoughts and beliefs; it's also about changing our actions and deeds.

So we must "continually repent" and strive to become better disciples as we practice the principles in our daily lives. This leads to a growing desire to share these principles with others around us; as we are filled with the joy of gospel living, we want others to feel it too!

Elder L. Tom Perry on evidences of the converted life

Elder L. Tom Perry (1922-2015) was called as an Assistant to the Twelve in 1972, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1974. At the time of his passing at age 92, he was the oldest living general authority and the third in seniority among the leading quorum.

"Surely there would be an obvious difference between one who is attempting to conduct his life as though he were a citizen of the kingdom of God, and one who is conducting his life by the standards made by man. When a person determines to live a higher law, there should be a visible difference, a marked change in his appearance, his actions, the way he treats others, and the way he serves his fellowmen and his God. The scriptures are full of dramatic changes which occurred in the lives of individuals when they were converted to living the law of the Lord....

"Conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ brings a requirement to live according to a higher law. From there on we must conduct ourselves as citizens of His kingdom. President Stephen L Richards once defined what these attributes would be. He stated:

"'The attributes of Jesus are the standards of perfection in human living. Kindliness, sympathy, tolerance, mercy, forbearance, charity in judgment, loyalty, justice, integrity, and abiding love are Christian virtues that lie at the foundation of the idealism of the race. These and the incomparable concepts of the good neighbor, doing unto others as you would be done by, and the abundant life—losing one's self in the service of others that he may save it—are the soundest and truest philosophies in the society of men and the way to happiness.' (Where Is Wisdom? Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1955, p. 324.)

"We have the obligation when we accept the teachings of the gospel to demonstrate by our lives that we, indeed, keep God's commandments. We know His son, Jesus the Christ, stands at the head of this Church, and mankind has not been left alone to find the way by himself in a troubled world. There is great joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment in living God's law as He has declared it and will continue to declare it to His children here on the earth."

- L. Tom Perry, "The Kingdom of God," Ensign, May 1979, p. 12
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How is life different for one who is striving to be "a citizen of the kingdom of God"? Are there evidences of this commitment? Elder Perry believes it should be obvious and visible "in his appearance, his actions, the way he treats others, and the way he serves his fellowmen and his God." Discipleship should be evident and clear; one who strives to follow the Savior should act and behave like the Savior.

Elder Perry suggested we consider the list of attributes shared by President Stephen L Richards (1879 -1959) who served as an apostle from 1917-1951, then as 1st Counselor to President McKay until his death in 1959:

To consider "the attributes of Jesus" and evaluate our own in comparison is a good ongoing exercise that will help us find areas where we can still grow and improve. Truly, emulating these principles is "the way to happiness" in this life.

Elder Perry goes on to express his own feelings about the path of discipleship, the life of a converted follower:

It is not our words, but our lives, that should testify and demonstrate we accept the teachings of the Lord's gospel.

Elder Mark E. Petersen on the Atonement and the Sabbath

Elder Mark E. Petersen (1900-1984) served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve from 1944 until his death in 1984.

"Let us ask ourselves how important the Lord’s atonement is to us. How dear to us is the Lord Jesus Christ? How deeply are we concerned about immortality? Is the resurrection of vital interest to us?

"We can readily see that observance of the Sabbath is an indication of the depth of our conversion.

"Our observance or nonobservance of the Sabbath is an unerring measure of our attitude toward the Lord personally and toward his suffering in Gethsemane, his death on the cross, and his resurrection from the dead. It is a sign of whether we are Christians in very deed, or whether our conversion is so shallow that commemoration of his atoning sacrifice means little or nothing to us.

"Do we realize that most national holidays are observed more widely than is the Sabbath, so far as its divine purpose is concerned?

"Then have we put God in second or third place? And is that what we want to do? Is that where he belongs?

"I bear you testimony that to properly observe the Lord’s holy day is one of the most important things we can ever do. It is an essential step toward our eternal salvation."

- Mark E Petersen, "The Sabbath Day," Ensign, May 1975, p. 49
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Elder Petersen was one of the senior leaders of the Church when I was young, and I looked up to him in many ways. This talk on the Sabbath Day is truly a classic, and is worth referring to particularly as the concept is being re-emphasized in our day.

Elder Petersen makes a connection in a powerful way between the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and our attitude towards the Sabbath Day. At least part of the reason we are asked to keep the Sabbath holy is as a commemoration of what the Savior did for us. So the suggestion is that if our gratitude to the Lord is strong, it will show in how we commemorate His day. It becomes a sign of the depth of our conversion and our understanding of our dependence on Him:

Elder Petersen's comparison between the way the Sabbath is honored, and the effort sometimes put into commemorating other national holidays, tells a lot about the general attitude in out day towards sacred things. In large measure, people of our time have forgotten what it means to have a holy day. We must not let that happen in our individual lives!