In my opinion alone,
I believe the typical atmosphere of Sunday School, Relief Society and Priesthood classes lends to an attitude of contention, self-righteousness, and pride. I confess I am guilty of these heinous sins and contributing wholeheartedly.
The constant need to explain our own interpretations of scripture or feel-good quotes lends to the natural belief that our interpretation of the matter at hand is the best and correct one. We take pride in offering the most unique and thoughtful explanation which no one has considered before. We do this on a weekly basis, for two hours. And then some of us go a step further and take it to online forums.
When we suppose weekly for two hours that our correct interpretation is better than the interpretation of the person next to us, our beloved brother or sister, we fill our hearts with pride. We place enmity between us, and our heart is grows harder.
Add to this the preceding hour of talk & testimony of participating in the "one true church" which is more special, peculiar, and wonderful than the church across the way and we have a beautiful, luscious, delicious recipe for pride, haughtiness, and self-righteousness. We have found and thereby now possess it all! We have no need for more light, knowledge, or progression. I don't think that's what the Lord intended when He called us his church. And I don't know that that compliment still holds true. Should He join us in our meetings, would He approve of our discussions?
"They draw near unto me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
Not a one of us is guiltless. At least not this one.
Bravo, saints. Bravo, one true church.
Wow, this is so true of myself. How easy it is for me to caught in this trap of self aggrandizement. Ugh! I like the idea of listening to the ideas of others more and maybe speaking less. Maybe!!! I speak an awful lot, haha!
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