Power of Example

We are all to be faithful followers in Christ. The leaders of the Lord’s church have a special responsibility to set an example. But all members of the church need to set a good example. We have an influence on others. People around us know our standards and are witnesses when we fail to meet them. Our example can have lasting impression for good on others.

Paul's Priesthood Ordinances

Five Priesthood Ordinances 1. Baptism 2. Gift of the Holy Ghost 3. Healing the sick 4. Sacrament 5. Raising the dead Paul baptized and confirmed the Corinthian saints because it had not been done correctly the first time. Priesthood ordinances need to be done with proper authority and in the correct way. If it is not done correctly then it does not count. Paul bestowed the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. They met together to break bread on the first day of the week, the Sabbath. It was changed because that was the day the Savior was resurrected. I shared about this on my blog bethanyshowslove.blogspot.com

Paul As A Missionary

On Paul’s second missionary journey he traveled to Antioch, Tarsus, Derbe, Lystra, Iconium, the other Antioch, Troas, Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, Corinth, Ephesus, Cnidus, Caeserea, Joppa, and back to Jerusalem. The Holy Ghost helped them as missionaries by directing them away from some places. They were protected from danger and directed to another place to preach the gospel after being turned away at first. Paul had a vision of a man praying them to Macedonia. They went there to preach. The Holy Ghost helped them to know when to share and when to move on. The Holy Ghost has helped me many, many times with sharing the gospel. I try to use social media only for uplifting messages and thoughts. Just this last week I was inspired by a quote from Elder Oaks that was in our New Testament student manual. It was about how our most important defining characteristic is that we are children of God. I felt impressed to share it on Facebook. Many people commented on it and how they needed to be reminded of that message. I love how the spirit works in simple, powerful ways. Paul had visions, obeyed quickly, was diligent, prayerful, and had the spirit of discernment. He took advantage of the situations he was in to teach the gospel. When he was imprisoned the jailer was charged with keeping in incarcerated. But when he saw the miraculous way that Paul and his companions were delivered, he wanted to know about the work they were doing. The jailer had a desire to keep the commandments and follow the Savior. I can be better in my missionary efforts by sharing the gospel, even when situations can seem intimidating. I will not cause contention but I will stand for what I know to be true. I can follow Paul’s example.

Day of Pentecost

The Day of Pentecost took place after the Passover. It celebrated the harvesting of the crops. All males of the covenant would come to Jerusalem to participate. The city was crowded with men from all over who had made the journey. One this special day, Peter taught about the resurrection of the Savior, His second coming, the need to repent, baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. He was a special witness of Christ because he testified of the Savior’s divinity. Peter boldly taught the people about the need for covenant making. He was not ashamed of the gospel. Some of the spiritual gifts that were made manifest on the Day of Pentecost were the gift of revelation, visions, tongues and the ability to know truth. As a result of this festival and Peter’s teachings many people were converted to the gospel and baptized. This is one event in history that I would have liked to see. I’m sure it was marvelous to have a great outpouring of the spirit. There have been times in my life where the spirit has been so strong it’s as if I could fly. I am thankful that our loving Heavenly Father blesses us with His spirit.