This year we celebrated the 400th anniversary of the King James Version of the Holy Bible. "It is not by chance or coincidence that we have the Bible today,” said Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. “Men like John Wycliffe, the courageous William Tyndale, and Johannes Gutenberg were prompted against much opposition to translate the Bible into language people could understand and to publish it in books people could read. I believe even the scholars of King James had spiritual promptings in their translation work." The blessings and truths that flow from this miraculous record are innumerable. Many gave their lives in preserving it. Something that came with so great a cost must be important, right? So what is the purpose of the scriptures?
The Apostle John taught us that, "...these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believeing ye might have life through his name." (John 20:31) The Old and New Testament were written, so that we may come to know that Jesus is the Son of the living God. Many generations of mankind never had the privilege of sitting at His feet listening to the greatest sermons ever uttered. Countless others have never witnessed a single miracle He so lovingly performed. Personally, I never walked the streets of Jerusalem at His side. Though, salvation for all comes only in and through Jesus Christ. We must have faith in that eternal principle! That is why scripture has been provided. We can read it, feel the Spirit of the Lord testify of the truth, and come to know for ourselves that He truly lives. Because the Word of God is so invaluable, why would we shun more of it?
The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ. It is a record of Holy scripture comparable to the Bible. It is a record of God’s dealings with the ancient inhabitants of the Americas and contains the fulness of the everlasting gospel. Faith in Jesus Christ is paramount to finding true and eternal happiness, and solace in an upheaving world. Our Father in Heaven loves us. And He has given us more scripture to ensure us that Jesus is the Christ. I know this to be true with all of my heart. The Book of Mormon, as does the Bible, teaches us who Jesus Christ really was. And the role He has in the salvation of mankind. I love the scriptures and I am overwhelmed by the blessings they pour into my life. God lives. And Jesus is the Christ. Please, read the Word of God and come to know this for yourself. It is of upmost importance. I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill
