Question
Dear Gramps:
Are the words of Gordon B. Hinckley given the same weight and consideration as the words of Moses and the other Prophets of the Old Testament? This speaks to my earlier question to you regarding solo scriptura and the doctrine of continuing revelation. I once read an article by Ezra Benson Taft, “14 Steps for Following the Prophet” (I think that was the title), in which he taught that the Mormon Prophet should be followed, no matter how erroneous his teachings or instructions might seem, because over time, their correctness would become apparent. However, is this not a doctrine (or teaching) that is similar to the Roman Catholic doctrine of “Papal Infallability”, that the Pope is incapable of errors when making pronouncements regarding matters of faith or morals? These are issues which keep arising in my mind, as an investigator of the Mormon Church. Thank you for any guidance you can provide. Sincerely,
Shane
Answer
Dear Shane,
Here’s the problem. If the words of the prophet don’t seem logical, or reasonable, where is the standard of judgment? Their seeming illogicalness or unreasonableness is judged by the particular individual to be so. Against what standard would he be judging? There is a scripture that bears directly on this issue—
What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same. (D&C 1:38)
President Gordon B. Hinckley is every bit as much a prophet to the members of the Lord’s Church and to the world today as was Moses in his day.
Gramps
