Quote:
Originally Posted by KristofferUmfrey
"When our leaders speak, the thinking has been done. When they propose a plan--it is God's Plan. When they point the way, there is no other which is safe. When they give directions, it should mark the end of controversy, God works in no other way. To think otherwise, without immediate repentance, may cost one his faith, may destroy his testimony, and leave him a stranger to the kingdom of God."
Ward Teachers Message, Deseret News, Church Section p. 5, May 26, 1945
Also included in the Improvement Era, June 1945 (which was the official church magazine before the Ensign)"
"Heber C. Kimball, First Councilor to Brigham Young, exhorted the Mormon people to "... learn to do as you are told, ... if you are told by your leader to do a thing, do it, none of your business whether it is right or wrong" (Journal of Discourses, vol. 6, p.32)."
I have the complete JOD at my disposal so I checked to make sure the Kimball quote is in context.
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Lool at it this way. If your employer tells you to complete a task, gives you the tools to complete the task and tells you how to complete the task, are you going to use different tools, complete the task in a different manner and way? If you do, and the task gets completed but not in the manner perscribed and laid down, causing the company loss in profits. Does your employer have the right to terminate your employment on the basis of insubordination?
In fact, when your boss asks you to do something (unless it is discriminatory, puts your health and life in danger/or those who work with you in danger) and you decline to do it, then are you not insubordinate?
Much like with the Prophets and leaders. People think that they should listen to the Prophet and Apostles when it comes to serious and obvious theological and doctrinal instruction. Yet, when it comes to the little things of faith, we tend to just reason and justify why we ought not to do those things.
How many members of the early saints murmured about the Word of Wisdom, trying to justify why they should have a beer, why they should smoke a little.
Now, we understand the health risks to drinking and smoking. There is empirical scientific and medical evidence to support the reason why one ought not to smoke and drink.
So, yes, when the Prophets and the Apostles say something, we should listen and listen carefully, prayerfully because what they say is just as authoritative as if Christ or Heavenly Father have said it.
Simple as that.