Personal Testimony

Archive of messages sent while serving as a bishop in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

About the middle of Joseph Smith History, the Prophet compares himself to Paul before King Agrippa, which we read this week. I’ve always loved the sternness of Joseph’s conviction in these verses. 

Joseph’s and Paul’s testimonies are similar in their conviction in the face of doubt. Joseph describes them this way: “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. 

“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.” (JS-H 1:24-25) 

That strong testimony spread the gospel through the known world after Christ’s death and fueled the restoration of the gospel in the latter days. Those testimonies continue to change people’s hearts and people’s lives today. The lesson this week invites us to, “Consider the opportunities you have to share your testimony.” I would add, after considering the opportunities to look for your next opportunity and share your testimony with someone this week. Your own testimony will grow, and who knows who you will affect by doing so. 

Have a great week! 

-Bishop Sullivan