“A Minister and a Witness”

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We hear it all the time in our church setting," I'd like to bear my testimony."  Its not a phrase that is worldly known, and not widely used in other religious or church settings.  In fact it can even be a strange thing to those visiting a congregation on fast Sunday or when speaking to others about Jesus Christ.  It is a unique feature to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and one that sometimes, we as Saints, don't understand ourselves.  So what does that mean, "I'd like to bear my testimony," what is a testimony? 

When googled the definition of the word testimony states the following:  Testimony: a formal written or spoken statement, especially one given in a court of law. Evidence or proof provided by the existence or appearance of something. A public recounting of a religious conversion or experience and a solemn protest or declaration.

By this definition how does the word testimony fit into our gospel principles, what does it mean to you?

For a better understanding the book of Acts in the New Testament, is replete with testimony, it is what grows the newly organized church, it is what brings the children of God home and to great understanding. Likewise today, our testimonies are what grows the now established church, as well as providing us with the means to obtain knowledge and salvation.  So, how is your testimony coming along?

As we study this week in Acts 22–28 let us have a prayer in our hearts that the Holy Ghost will inspire us to know what to focus on when building and bearing our testimonies to the world, or maybe just to the neighbors next door. 

“When we are on the Lord’s errand,” President Thomas S. Monson promised, “we are entitled to the Lord’s help” (“To Learn, to Do, to Be,” Ensign Nov. 2008, 62). 

We are not entitled, however, to a smooth road and an endless stream of successes. For evidence of this, we need look no further than Paul the Apostle. His errand from the Savior was “to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15). In chapters 22–28 of Acts, we see Paul fulfilling this errand and facing great opposition including chains, imprisonment, physical abuse, a shipwreck, and even a snake attack. But we also see that Jesus “stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul” (Acts 23:11). Paul’s experiences are an inspiring reminder that when the Lord’s servants accept His call to “go and teach all nations,” He will fulfill His promise to them: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:19–20).

History and Background Acts 22–28 

The events of Paul’s ministry recorded in Acts 21–28 have notable similarities with the conclusion of the Savior’s mortal ministry. Both Paul and Jesus Christ traveled to Jerusalem; on the way, both foretold hardships that would come upon them in Jerusalem; both faced a plot by certain Jews in Jerusalem; both were arrested and handed over to Gentile authorities; both were tried before the Jewish council and a Roman governor. This portrayal of Paul is part of a theme in Acts emphasizing the continuity between Jesus Christ and His Apostles who followed Him.

In these chapters, Paul gave five speeches defending himself before religious and civil authorities in Jerusalem and Caesarea, culminating in his masterful defense before Agrippa  Acts 22:1–21; 23:1–10; 24:10–21; 25:8–11; 26:1–29. Paul used these opportunities not only to defend himself against unjust charges, but also to bear testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. These speeches represent fulfillments of the Lord’s prophecy that Paul would testify before kings and rulers  Acts 9:15. In addition, Paul’s journey to Rome helped fulfill Jesus’s commission to the Apostles to take the gospel “unto the uttermost part of the earth” Acts 1:8.

Acts 22 Paul recounts the story of his conversion and also tells of seeing Jesus in a vision. He also tells the people that he was told by Ananias, "Thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard" The people listened to his defense until he reached the story of his return to Jerusalem at which time the tribune gave orders that Paul was to be brought into the barracks and examined by being scourged, so that the truth of what the uproar was about could be learned.

As Paul was being prepared for the scourging, he asked the centurion, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?" The tribune stayed his hand, not knowing what to do about Paul now that he had declared Roman citizenship. Roman citizenship carried with it certain rights. The following day, Paul was taken before the Sanhedrin.

Acts 23 Paul is smitten at Ananias’s order and the Lord again appears to Paul. Then forty Jews plot his death and he is delivered over to Felix. Paul was taken before the Sanhedrin and testifying before the council was able to create an argument between the Pharisees and Saducees, by pointing out that he was a Pharisee. When the dissension grew great, the chief captain took Paul and returned him to Roman custody "fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces" The night following the Lord stood by Paul and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome"

Acts 24 Paul is accused of sedition, he answers in defense of his life and doctrine. He then teaches Felix of righteousness, temperance, and the judgment to come. Within five days of being delivered to the Sanhedrin, Ananias, the High Priest, came down to Caesarea to formally present the case before the Roman court. Paul presented his defense. Felix (Procurator of Judea) then postponed a decision and retained Paul in custody until he had conferred with Lysias. Paul was retained in custody for two years, although he was allowed some freedom within Caesarea. A complaint was then lodged by the Jews with Nero. Felix was recalled to stand trial and Porcius Festus succeeded him.

Acts 25 The Jewish authorities made a case against Paul to Festus and asked that Paul be brought to Jerusalem. They were plotting to ambush and kill him on the road. Festus asked Paul if he would be willing to go up to Jerusalem and stand trial on the charges brought before him by the Jews. Paul refused to go. Paul was of the opinion that if he went down to Jerusalem he would be killed. He knew that his mission was not complete and thus he refused to go. Paul, before Festus, appeals unto Cæsar. It was Paul's right as a Roman citizen to appeal to Caesar. About this time Festus was visited by King Agrippa II (king of the region about the Sea of Galilee), great grandchild of Herod the Great. Festus, not being a Jew, wanted counsel from Agrippa on how he should present his case to Rome regarding Paul. King Agrippa desires to hear Paul.

Acts 26 Paul recounts his former persecution of the Saints as a Pharisee and testifies of the appearance of Jesus on the Damascus road. He then bears his testimony to King Agrippa.

Acts 27 Paul, in a perilous voyage, travels toward Rome and an angel comforts him. He then uses the gift of seership and prophesied, "Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them, And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives." The centurion did not heed Paul's warning and continued the trip. "Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul. They are then shipwrecked.

Acts 28 After being shipwrecked on the island of Melita or Malta Paul is unharmed by a viper’s bite. The father of the governor of the island was ill. Paul blessed him and he was healed. Other sick people on the island also came to Paul and were healed. Paul spent three months on Malta teaching and testifying before continuing his journey to Rome. He then preaches in Rome, first to the Jews and then to the Gentiles.

Part 1: Acts 22:1–21; 26:1–29 A testimony is a declaration of truth based on personal knowledge or belief.

The Apostle Paul had the courage to share his testimony of Jesus Christ even though there were severe consequences  Acts 22:1–24. When Paul delivered the powerful testimonies recorded in Acts 22 and 26, he was being held prisoner by Roman soldiers. The people he spoke to had the power to condemn him to death. Yet he chose to boldly bear witness of Jesus Christ and “the heavenly vision” he had received. Acts 26:19 

1 Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you.
2 (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)
3 I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.
4 And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.
5 As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished.
6 And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me.
7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
8 And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.
9 And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.
10 And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.
11 And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.
12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,
13 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.
14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.
15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.
17 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;
18 And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.
19 And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee:
20 And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.
21 And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.

22 And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.

1 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:
2 I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:
3 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.
4 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews;
5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.
6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:
7 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.
8 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?
9 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.
10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.
11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.
12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,
13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.
14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.
16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;
17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,
18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:
20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judæa, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.
21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.
22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:
23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.
24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.
25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.
26 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.
27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.
28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

Paul’s testimony to Festus and King Agrippa can be an opportunity to learn what it means to bear testimony.

What do we learn from Paul’s example about bearing testimony?  Even in the face of adversity, Paul was true to his knowledge of Jesus Christ and bore powerful testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel.  President Thomas S. Monson taught that courage to do what is right, even if unpopular, is still required of disciples of Jesus Christ:  “Courage comes in many forms. Wrote the Christian author Charles Swindoll: ‘Courage is not limited to the battlefield … or bravely catching a thief in your house. The real tests of courage are much quieter. They are inner tests, like remaining faithful when no one’s looking, … like standing alone when you’re misunderstood.’ I would add that this inner courage also includes doing the right thing even though we may be afraid, defending our beliefs at the risk of being ridiculed, and maintaining those beliefs even when threatened with a loss of friends or of social status. He who stands steadfastly for that which is right must risk becoming at times disapproved and unpopular” (“Be Strong and of a Good Courage,” Ensign May 2014, 67).

What seems to have been one of the central focuses of Paul’s testimony?

Elder M. Russell Ballard spoke about Paul’s testimony before King Agrippa and taught what it means for us to bear testimony:  “Our testimony meetings need to be more centered on the Savior, the doctrines of the gospel, the blessings of the Restoration, and the teachings of the scriptures. We need to replace stories, travelogues, and lectures with pure testimonies. Those who are entrusted to speak and teach in our meetings need to do so with doctrinal power that will be both heard and felt, lifting the spirits and edifying our people. …“… While it is always good to express love and gratitude, such expressions do not constitute the kind of testimony that will ignite a fire of belief in the lives of others. To bear testimony is ‘to bear witness by the power of the Holy Ghost; to make a solemn declaration of truth based on personal knowledge or belief’ [Guide to the Scriptures, “Testify,” scriptures.lds.org]. Clear declaration of truth makes a difference in people’s lives. That is what changes hearts. That is what the Holy Ghost can confirm in the hearts of God’s children” (“Pure Testimony,” Ensign Nov. 2004, 41).

What have you done to make this doctrine a part of your personal testimony?

What warnings can King Agrippa’s response to Paul’s testimony have for us today? Acts 26:28.

 28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

President Harold B. Lee applied the words of King Agrippa to members of the Church who attempt to excuse themselves from obedience:  “A good bishop made an interesting comment about what he called the saddest words that he knows of a man in high station. He read from the words in the days of the Apostle Paul when Paul before King Agrippa had borne his powerful testimony of his conversion. King Agrippa’s reply was, ‘Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.’ (Acts 26:28.)

Then the bishop said, ‘The king knew the truth but he lacked the courage to do that which would be required. … ’

“And then [the bishop] characterized some things that he discovered in his own ward in a short but powerful sermon. ‘In response to the Master, “Come … follow me” (Mark 10:21), some members almost,’ he said, ‘but not quite, say, “thou persuadest me almost to be honest but I need extra help to pass a test.”’ …“‘Almost thou persuadest me to keep the Sabbath day holy, but it’s fun to play ball on Sunday.  “‘Almost thou persuadest me to love my neighbor, but he is a rascal; to be tolerant of others’ views, but they are dead wrong; … to go home teaching, but it’s so cold and damp outside tonight; to pay tithes and offerings, but we do need a new color TV. … Almost! Almost! Almost!’” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1964, 23–24).

Elder Bruce C. Hafen of the Seventy emphasized: “If we must give all that we have, then our giving only almost everything is not enough. If we almost keep the commandments, we almost receive the blessings” (“The Atonement: All for All,” Ensign May 2004, 98).

Agrippa’s famous response to Paul is sometimes translated as, “In so short a time are you trying to persuade me to be a Christian?” or “In a short time you will persuade me to be a Christian!” In the varying translations, Agrippa implied that Paul’s reasoning was persuasive, but he refrained from saying that he personally believed Paul.

How does Paul describe his initial vision? Acts 22:6–9

6 And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me.
7 And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
8 And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.
9 And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.

Compare the Prophet Joseph Smith's experiences with testifying of the First Vision to Paul’s experience before King Agrippa Joseph Smith—History 1:24–25. What do you find? 

24 However, it was nevertheless a fact that I had beheld a vision. I have thought since, that I felt much like Paul, when he made his defense before King Agrippa, and related the account of the vision he had when he saw a light, and heard a voice; but still there were but few who believed him; some said he was dishonest, others said he was mad; and he was ridiculed and reviled. But all this did not destroy the reality of his vision. He had seen a vision, he knew he had, and all the persecution under heaven could not make it otherwise; and though they should persecute him unto death, yet he knew, and would know to his latest breath, that he had both seen a light and heard a voice speaking unto him, and all the world could not make him think or believe otherwise.

25 So it was with me. I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation.

How does this help us understand how to share our testimony even when doing so is hard?  The book of Acts contains three accounts of Paul’s miraculous vision on the road to Damascus Acts 9:3–20; 22:1–21; 26:9–20. Each of these accounts is slightly different from the others, and some provide more detail than others. Because the accounts were told to different audiences for different purposes, it is reasonable that Paul chose to emphasize different parts of the experience for each audience. Similarly, Joseph Smith recorded several accounts of his First Vision (“First Vision Accounts,” Gospel Topics, topics.lds.org). The various accounts were given to different audiences for different purposes and provide insights that would not be available if only one account existed. Likewise, as we seek inspiration to know when and whom to share our testimony with, we too will share accounts of our life differently to each individual or group we testify too. The Lord will lead us to what we need to say, as we seek him diligently and have a genuine desire to testify.

How does Paul’s example help us to understand that a testimony requires work and sacrifice? Even though Paul wasn’t seeking the spiritual witness he received on the road to Damascus, he spent the rest of his life working to maintain and defend his testimony  Acts 22:10, 14–16; 26:19.

How did the Lord stand by Paul, and what does this teach you about your own efforts in the Lord’s service?  As Paul’s ministry clearly shows, difficulties in our lives are not a sign that God disapproves of the work we are doing. In fact, sometimes it is during the difficulties that we feel His support most strongly.

What efforts must we make to gain and strengthen a testimony?  President M. Russell Ballard  counseled Church members to make decisions based on more than mere convenience: “Sometimes we are tempted to let our lives be governed more by convenience than by covenant. It is not always convenient to live gospel standards and stand up for truth and testify of the Restoration. It usually is not convenient to share the gospel with others. It isn’t always convenient to respond to a calling in the Church, especially one that stretches our abilities. Opportunities to serve others in meaningful ways, as we have covenanted to do, rarely come at convenient times. But there is no spiritual power in living by convenience. The power comes as we keep our covenants” (“Like a Flame Unquenchable,” Ensign, May 1999, 86).

Part 2: Acts 26:9–23 We have a responsibility to minister to others.

In these verses we find that The Lord called Paul to be “a minister”

9 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.
10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.
11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.
12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,
13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.
14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.
16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;
17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,
18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:
20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judæa, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.
21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.
22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

What does this word mean? What does it mean to "be a minister?' Matthew 20:25–28; Acts 26:16–18; 3 Nephi 18:29–32;   To do the work of the Lord on the earth. God’s chosen servants must be called of God in order to minister in His work. When true ministers do the Lord’s will, they represent the Lord in their official duties and act as His agents (D&C 64:29), thus conducting the work necessary for the salvation of mankind. The Lord has given apostles, prophets, evangelists, high priests, seventies, elders, bishops, priests, teachers, deacons, helps, and governments for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the ministry.  (Guide to the Scriptures)  

How can we as disciples minister to others, including in our Church callings? 
The work of ministering is not confined to ordinances or home teaching visits or occasional service projects. We have a duty to minister wherever we stand. Ministering is not just something we do—it defines who we are. Opportunities are all around you. Look for them. Ask the Lord to help you recognize them. You will find that most consist of small, sincere acts that help others become followers of Jesus Christ. As you strive to be worthy of the Spirit, you will recognize thoughts and feelings prompting you to minister. As you act on these promptings, you will receive more of them and your opportunities and ability to minister will increase and expand.  (“Your Sacred Duty to Minister,” Ensign May 2013, 55–57).

Part 3: Acts 27 If we heed the Lord’s prophets, He will guide us and protect us from evil. 

Many members have had experiences when they followed the direction of prophets even when it differed from the advice of worldly experts or the opinions of people around them. Paul also had this experience and teaches us how to endure it in Acts 27

In this chapter uses the gift of seership as an Apostle of Jesus Christ. While sailing to Rome to be tried by Caesar, Paul prophesied that “hurt and much damage” would come to the ship and its passengers (Acts 27:10).  The centurion did not heed Paul's warning and continued the trip. "Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.  They are then shipwrecked. 

How are some people’s responses to prophetic counsel similar in our day?  President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency spoke of people today who choose to disregard prophetic counsel: “Every time in my life when I have chosen to delay following inspired counsel or decided that I was an exception, I came to know that I had put myself in harm’s way. Every time that I have listened to the counsel of prophets, felt it confirmed in prayer, and then followed it, I have found that I moved toward safety. Along the path, I have found that the way had been prepared for me and the rough places made smooth. God led me to safety along a path which was prepared with loving care, sometimes prepared long before” (“Finding Safety in Counsel,” Ensign, May 1997, 25).

What do we learn from Acts 27 about following the Lord’s prophets? Acts 27:11–12 illustrates several reasons why individuals sometimes choose to reject the counsel of Apostles or other Church leaders. (1) Worldly experience and training. Just as “the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship” Acts 27:11 rather than the counsel of Paul, a tentmaker, people today sometimes reject the words of seers or other Church leaders because their counsel does not coincide with the opinions of “experts” in the world. (2) Convenience. The ship’s crew contended that they should continue their journey because “the haven was not commodious to winter in” Acts 27:12, meaning it was not a convenient location to spend the winter months. Likewise, adhering to the counsel of Church leaders is not always convenient. (3) Majority mentality. “The more part” of the passengers advised the centurion “to depart” Acts 27:12. For many individuals, it makes more sense to agree with the majority than to agree with a servant of God, whose words are not meant to be popular.

President Ezra Taft Benson taught the following regarding prophetic teachings:  “The prophet is not required to have any particular earthly training or credentials to speak on any subject or act on any matter at any time.

“Sometimes there are those who feel their earthly knowledge on a certain subject is superior to the heavenly knowledge which God gives to His prophet on the same subject. They feel the prophet must have the same earthly credentials or training which they have had before they will accept anything the prophet has to say that might contradict their earthly schooling. …

“… The prophet tells us what we need to know, not always what we want to know. …

“How we respond to the words of a living prophet when he tells us what we need to know, but would rather not hear, is a test of our faithfulness. …

“… The prophet can receive revelation on any matter—temporal or spiritual” (“Fourteen Fundamentals in Following the Prophet,” in Brigham Young University 1980 Speeches [1981], 3–4; speeches.byu.edu).

Elder Ronald A. Rasband taught:  “[Our leaders], by divine inspiration, have been called to teach and guide us and … are calling out to us to beware of the dangers we face each day—from casual Sabbath-day observance, to threats to the family, to assaults on religious freedom, and even to disputing latter-day revelation. Brothers and sisters, are we listening to their counsel? …

“As we press forward, choosing to follow the counsel and the warnings of our leaders, we choose to follow the Lord while the world is going in another direction. We choose to hold fast to the iron rod, to be Latter-day Saints, to be on the Lord’s errand, and to be filled ‘with exceedingly great joy’ [1 Nephi 8:12].

“The growing question of today is clear: are you standing with the leaders of the Church in a darkening world so that you might spread the Light of Christ?” (“Standing with the Leaders of the Church,” Ensign May 2016, 47–48).

Paul assured the ship’s crew and passengers that they would not perish in the storm. His words brought comfort to those who had lost all hope  Acts 27:20. Similarly, we can find hope and reassurance in the words of modern prophets and seers, despite the trials and hardship that are so prevalent in our times. President Thomas S. Monson taught:

“The moral footings of society continue to slip, while those who attempt to safeguard those footings are often ridiculed and, at times, picketed and persecuted. Wars, natural disasters, and personal misfortunes continue to occur.

“It would be easy to become discouraged and cynical about the future—or even fearful of what might come. …

“The history of the Church in this, the dispensation of the fulness of times, is replete with the experiences of those who have struggled and yet who have remained steadfast and of good cheer as they have made the gospel of Jesus Christ the center of their lives. This attitude is what will pull us through whatever comes our way. It will not remove our troubles from us but rather will enable us to face our challenges, to meet them head on, and to emerge victorious. …

“I testify to you that our promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments. There will be nothing in this world that can defeat us.

“My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith” (“Be of Good Cheer,” Ensign May 2009, 89, 92).

How have we been blessed by following the counsel of living prophets?

Conclusion

In these chapters of Acts Paul teaches us of the great importance of conversion and gaining a testimony, of sharing that testimony, of standing by what we believe and know to be true even in the face of adversity. He teaches us to seek the spirit and use our testimony to inspire others to come unto Christ, and he teaches us the importance of following our leaders called by God to lead us while ministering to those in need. The journal and history of Paul are of great worth. As we seek a genuine study not just a read, we like him will learn to not be afraid and will be able to declare and share the truth valiantly thereby aiding in the gathering of Zion. As we do we will also be able to minister to those who are in need, sharing the tender mercies of our Lord and Savior to aid in their endurance as well as our own.

Rescources

New Testament Student Manual

Ensign
Conference Reports
Book of Morman
Doctrine and Covenants
Guide to the Scriptures
BYU Speeches
Joseph Smith History