Apostles

In Jesus' time, He ordained 12 men to stand beside him and to lead his flock.  These twelve were each unique.  The path they took to discipleship was different.  Some were fishermen.  One was a tax collector.  They were strong personalities who would need to bear up the weight of following Christ and helping others come unto Him. 

Christ didn't choose His apostles from the ranks of the Sadducees and Pharisees.  He chose laymen-- working men-- who weren't vying for such a position.  He asked them to "leave their nets" and follow him.  And they did. 

In our day, we also have Apostles who are called to be Special Witnesses of Christ to all the world. 

 

These twelve living apostles have been called from the ranks of working men.  None of them campaigned to be an apostle.  They simply lived lives of service and discipleship and were chosen to lead us by the Lord.

These men have had a profound effect on my life.  I know they are called of God.  Twice a year, they speak to the membership of our church through a broadcast called General Conference.  Their words are the words the Lord inspires them to say, just as Prophets of old wrote inspired words, or scriptures, for us to have as a guide. 

In Doctrine and Covenants Section 68:4 it says:

"And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation." 

In other words, when these men speak, we feel they are acting as mouthpieces for the Lord.

One of the documents the Apostles have written together is called The Living Christ.  It is a beautiful witness of these men who love the Lord.

 

One of my favorite apostles during the time of Christ was Peter.  I love his zeal and energy.  

One of my favorite apostles today is Jeffrey R. Holland.

He delivers wonderful sermons.  Here is one to enjoy: "And None Were with Him"