Discernment and Deception

“Behold, verily I say unto you, that there are many spirits which are false spirits, which have gone forth in the earth, deceiving the world.
And also Satan hath sought to deceive you, that he might overthrow you”[1]
“That I may proceed to bring to pass my act, my strange act, and perform my work, my strange work, that men may discern between the righteous and the wicked, saith your God”[2]


In the last days, the power of the adversary will be so great that signs and wonders will deceive even the very elect. “For in those days there shall also arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, insomuch, that, if possible, they shall deceive the very elect, who are the elect according to the covenant.”[3] Wonders and signs will be wrought that can undermine the testimonies of those who do not use discernment. But the concept of deception is not exclusive to matters spiritual. Those who seek to destroy the righteous also employ deceit to cloud our ability to make sound judgments in matters of government and freedom.

Understanding that there are many actively seeking to deceive us will reduce the chances of being led astray. However, this is not sufficient to avoid being ensnared. In Doctrine and Covenants, the Savior indicates three factors that separate the wise from the foolish virgins and those who will be destroyed.

And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins. For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day.[4]

The wise are those who receive the truth, are guided by the Holy Ghost and avoid deception. Knowing that even the very elect can be deceived, what can be done to ensure that we do not fall prey to deception? This article fortifies us against deception by reviewing some of the tools available to assist us in recognizing truth from error, the wicked from the righteous and in identifying correct principles.[5] There is a direct connection between truth and freedom. “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free”[6] If truth makes us free, fallacy brings us into bondage, not only in a spiritual sense but also in a temporal sense. For such is the adversary’s objective. Refuting the myriad of fallacious philosophies is not as effective as understanding sound principles of discernment that we can apply ourselves. The following are some of the principles of discernment.

Study the scriptures and doctrines of the church.

Daily scripture study is fundamental to spiritual growth. It deepens our understanding of the things of God and provides inspiration and guidance. Elder Eyering stated, “The Lord seemed to anticipate all of our problems and all of our needs, and He put help in the scriptures for us—if only we seek it.”[7] And one of the problems we face in our time is recognizing threats to our freedom, especially threats to the Constitution. Understanding scripture and doctrine are critical to avoiding deceit. “And whoso treasureth up my word, shall not be deceived”.[8] The Doctrine and Covenants teaches the scriptures are for our instruction. “And the Book of Mormon and the holy scriptures are given of me for your instruction”.[9] Additionally, we are encouraged to “Search these commandments”.[10] Understanding the scriptures and doctrines of the gospel can strengthen our ability to detect the subtle deceptions used to undermine liberty protected by the Constitution.

We should seek spiritual gifts.

“Wherefore, beware lest ye are deceived; and that ye may not be deceived seek ye earnestly the best gifts, always remembering for what they are given”.[11] It is interesting that one of the criteria for not being deceived is to ‘seek’ spiritual gifts. We cannot simply expect to discern unless we ask for the gift. This counsel is reiterated in 1 Corinthians 12:31, “But covet[12] earnestly the best gifts” and in Doctrine &Covenants 11:10, “thou shalt have a gift if thou wilt desire of me in faith”. If we are to be among the wise, we must not only fill our lamps, but inquire as to what they should be filled with.

Recognize that the things of God edify.

Some may say that the study of those things that threaten the Constitution, secret combinations especially, does not edify. Delving deeply into the myriad of institutions that oppose freedom is not spiritually uplifting and can be counter-productive if taken too far. But we are not merely studying secret combinations. We are educating ourselves to avoid deception and to protect the Constitution from its greatest enemy. President Faust stated, “In the future the opposition will be both more subtle and more open. It will be masked in greater sophistication and cunning, but it will also be more blatant. We will need greater spirituality to perceive all of the forms of evil and greater strength to resist it.” President Faust continues by saying, “President Brigham Young said that it is important to “study … evil, and its consequences.”[13] The enlightenment that comes from understanding freedom’s foes, and the deceptions that disguise them, permits the patriot to preserve the precious gift of liberty. There are few things are as uplifting as preserving this blessing.

What does it mean to edify? Merriam-Webster describes the word as “to instruct and improve, especially in moral and religious knowledge”. The Topical Guide directs us to words such as build, enlighten and instruction. In Proverbs, we learn that edification is, “To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity”.[14] The key to recognizing truth is to identify that which edifies. Doctrine and Covenants instructs on how to recognize that which edifies.

Verily I say unto you, he that is ordained of me and sent forth to preach the word of truth by the Comforter, in the Spirit of truth, doth he preach it by the Spirit of truth or some other way? And if it be by some other way it is not of God. And again, he that receiveth the word of truth, doth he receive it by the Spirit of truth or some other way? If it be some other way it is not of God. Therefore, why is it that ye cannot understand and know, that he that receiveth the word by the Spirit of truth receiveth it as it is preached by the Spirit of truth? Wherefore, he that preacheth and he that receiveth, understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together. And that which doth not edify is not of God, and is darkness.[15]

The Lord’s Pattern.

Another passage of scripture that enhances our ability to discern reads:

And again, I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not be deceived; for Satan is abroad in the land, and he goeth forth deceiving the nations—
Wherefore he that prayeth, whose spirit is contrite, the same is accepted of me if he obey mine ordinances. He that speaketh, whose spirit is contrite, whose language is meek and edifieth, the same is of God if he obey mine ordinances. And again, he that trembleth under my power shall be made strong, and shall bring forth fruits of praise and wisdom, according to the revelations and truths which I have given you. And again, he that is overcome and bringeth not forth fruits, even according to this pattern, is not of me.
Wherefore, by this pattern ye shall know the spirits in all cases under the whole heavens.[16]

In this pattern, we learn another key to discernment, if “he that speaketh” obeys God’s ordinances, uses language that edifies, speaks in humility and bears “fruits of praise and wisdom”, then shall he know the validity and truthfulness of what is being said. We can simplify this by asking: Does this bring fruits of praise and wisdom? If so, we can be confident that what is being stated is of God. If not, we must understand that it is not of God.

The Light of Christ.

The phrase ‘Light of Christ’ is not found in the Bible, but is found in Alma 28:14, Moroni 7:18 and in D&C 88:7. The Bible Dictionary describes the Light of Christ as “enlightenment, knowledge, and an uplifting, ennobling, persevering influence that comes upon mankind because of Jesus Christ”.[17] The Light of Christ is the “light by which ye may judge”[18] It affirms that which persuades us to do good is from God, and that which persuades not to do good, is of the devil. Moroni states, “[E]very thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God”.[19] We cannot claim ignorance as a defense for failing to judge righteously. “For behold, the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil”.[20]
Moroni states “see that ye do not judge wrongfully”.[21] Compare this to Isaiah 5:20, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” The Light of Christ helps us to recognize truth.

The challenge before us is to apply the principles of discernment in our lives to avoid supporting leaders and measures that are detrimental to the Constitution. We can readily discern truth from error and recognize the philosophies of men from righteous principles, and thus be among the wise which are not deceived. And with the gift of discernment, deception will not hinder us in defending the Constitution.

[1] D&C 50:2- 3
[2] D&C 101:95
[3] JS-Matthew 1:22
[4] D&C 45:56-57
[5] Much of this chapter is based on Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual,, lesson 24, Be Not Deceived, But Continue In Steadfastness, 134-139.
[6] John 8:32
[7] Ensign, July 2005, A Discussion On Scripture Study, Elder Henry B. Eyring, interview conducted by LaRene Porter Gaunt.
[8] JS-Matthew 1:37
[9] D&C 33:16
[10] D&C 1:37
[11] D&C 46:8
[12] The Greek translation for covet is ‘seek’.
[13] Ensign, January2007, First Presidency Message, The Forces That Will Save Us.
[14] Proverbs 1:3
[15] D&C 50:17-23
16 D&C 52:14-19
[17] See Bible Dictionary, Light of Christ.
[18] Moroni 7:18
[19] Moroni 7:13
[20] Moroni 7:16
[21] Moroni 7:18

Citizenship: More Than Just Voting

Approximately 92 BC , the Nephite civilization changed their government from monarchy, to a democratic form of government. This blessing meant greater personal freedom, and more responsibility. Five years following the peaceful transition in government in which the people became accountable for their own governance, a man called Amlici rose in power and sought to make himself a king over the people of Nephi. Fortunately, the majority of the Nephites were not deceived by Amlici and were diligent in their responsibility as citizens. “Now this was alarming to the people of the church, and also to all those who had not been drawn away after the persuasions of Amlici; for they knew that according to their law that such things must be established by the voice of the people.” Their diligence as citizens was manifest by knowing the law, perceiving the danger and knowing what to do. In short, they were practicing good citizenship.

But what is citizenship? What does it mean to be a good citizen? Elder L. Tom Perry commented on the subject of citizenship in conjunction with the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. He stated, “We should be familiar with the history, heritage, and laws of the lands that govern us. In those countries that allow us the right to participate in the affairs of government, we should use our free agency and be actively engaged in supporting and defending the principles of truth, right, and freedom”. This aricle illustrates that good citizenship is practiced by serving our community, serving in elected or appointed positions, wisely choosing leaders and being ”anxiously engaged” in a worthy cause.

Serving in the community

One of the simplest ways to practice good citizenship is through community service. Most of us have a charitable organization that holds a special place in our heart and we serve our community by contributing our resources. But community service can be performed without participating in organizations. Community service can be rendered by clearing litter from the street or helping an elderly neighbor with yard work. Often, acts of community service benefit in many ways. The Savior taught, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” Acts of service set an example for others and encourages them to do likewise.

Serving in elected/appointed positions

One of the most effective ways of practicing citizenship is serving in public positions, elected or appointed. Although this may entail sacrifice, there are compelling reasons for doing so. As an elected official, you can support constitutional measures or oppose legislation that goes beyond the scope of constitutional authority. Additionally, there will be opportunities to set an example for other lawmakers. Beyond these good reasons for serving the public, our church leaders have encouraged such involvement. “We strongly urge men and women to be willing to serve on school boards, city and county councils and commissions, state legislatures, and other high offices of either election or appointment”.

Choosing leaders

The scriptures teach that we should diligently seek and uphold good, wise and honest men. “Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil”. This raises the question of how do we select honest and wise leaders. Once again, we turn to the scriptures for guidance, specifically to the pattern that the Lord states as a “pattern in all things”. Do the leaders or candidates we are considering bear fruits of praise and wisdom? Discernment and knowledge are critical in having the ability to detect right from wrong, wisdom from foolishness and truth from fallacy. The Lord has warned us of the consequences for not choosing wisely: “Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn”. Recall the influence of the righteous leader, Lachoneus, and how he, and others, led the Nephites to victory over the Gadiantons of their day. It is not difficult to imagine the consequences had the Nephites, in the days of Alma the Younger, chosen Amlici as their leader. Are we choosing leaders who ‘bear fruits of praise and wisdom’, or are we choosing leaders who will cause ‘the people to mourn’?

Contributing to a worthy cause

The greatest cause we can contribute to is to build the kingdom of God. This entails raising righteous families (or preparing to do so) and forwarding the three-fold mission of the church: Perfect the Saints, redeem the dead and proclaim the gospel. But this does not prevent us from participating in other worthy causes. However, with so many good causes to choose from, how can we make the best choice? There are a plethora of noble organizations striving to preserve freedom in one way or another. When weighing the choices, it is helpful to consider the words of Henry David Thoreau, “For every thousand hacking at the leaves of evil, there is one striking at the root.” Whatever course of action we take to preserve the Constitution, let it be action that strikes at the root of the problem. Too often, efforts are focused on the symptom and not the disease itself. For instance, many people recognize that government control of personal firearm ownership poses a serious risk to our ability to protect ourselves from criminals or to serve as a last check against a tyrannical government.

Many join well-intentioned organizations that concentrate their efforts on protecting the Second Amendment unfortunately a myopic focus on the Second Amendment, or any other single-issue, limits our ability to act effectively in preserving the Constitution. Our efforts will be more successful as we add our strength to others who are striking at the root.

I would like to share with you a personal experience of being anxiously engaged in a worthy cause. I share this that you may know that I ‘practice what I preach’, but more importantly, to illustrate that strength is not necessarily found in numbers. Also, my role was minor and part of a group of well informed and concerned citizens. But first some necessary background information.

There are two ways to alter the Constitution. The most commonly known method involves making alterations through amendments, a challenging process that requires a two-thirds majority vote by Congress and ratification of the amendment by two-thirds of the states. This process was intentionally difficult to prevent changes being made for light or transient reasons. The other method is to convene a constitutional convention. A constitutional convention is convened when 36 states submit an application to Congress requesting such an event. The short version of describing how the Constitution can be altered in a convention is to compare it to signing a blank check. And the ones writing the check would primarily be today’s Gadiantons.

While living in Salt Lake City, the year of 2001, I learned that 34 of the 36 required applications for a constitutional convention had been submitted. The country was two states away from the CFR controlling he process for re-writing the Constitution. I, along with others, informed neighbors and friends of the impending danger. We also prepared information packets for state legislators that apprised them of the perilous potential to the Constitution and the process itself. A sponsor was found, Representative Fred Fife, who was willing to introduce a bill that would rescind Utah’s application.

With the Lord’s assistance, the measure passed without any dissenting votes. Two years later, an additional seven states rescinded their applications to convene a Constitutional Convention. And so a crisis was narrowly averted. This act of citizenship reminds me of a scripture that teaches how small things can make a big difference. “there is much which lieth in futurity, pertaining to the saints, which depends upon these things. You know, brethren, that a very large ship is benefited very much by a very small helm in the time of a storm”. This was indeed an example of how a few dedicated individuals made a difference because this effort was initiated and led by approximately 16 concerned people who were willing to raise the Title of Liberty and who understood that citizenship was more than just voting.