Question
Gramps,
Hello, I have a question about the constitution. President Ezra Taft Benson said the constitution of the US will be saved, but not in Washington. What does that mean? How will it be saved?
Patrick
Answer
Patrick,
President Benson firmly believed in the divine inspiration of the U.S. Constitution. He referenced the revelation found in Doctrine and Covenants 101:80, which states that the Constitution was established by wise men raised up by God. This belief is foundational for many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who view the Constitution not merely as a legal document but as a “heavenly banner” that embodies eternal principles of freedom and agency.
Benson emphasized that the Constitution’s preservation rests upon the shoulders of the citizens rather than the political elite. He stated,
I have faith that the Constitution will be saved as prophesied by Joseph Smith. But it will not be saved in Washington. It will be saved by the citizens of this nation who love and cherish freedom.
This assertion underscores the belief that active civic engagement is essential in upholding the values enshrined in the Constitution.
A central theme in Benson’s teachings is the responsibility of citizens, particularly members of The Church, to engage in civic affairs. He highlighted that the preservation of the Constitution requires individuals to be informed, righteous, and active participants in their communities. This notion of civic responsibility aligns with the teachings of other Church leaders throughout history.
Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church, described the Constitution as a “glorious standard” and a “heavenly banner.” His view was that the Constitution was divinely inspired to protect the rights and freedoms of all individuals. In the early years of the Church, when persecution was rampant, the need for such protections became particularly evident.
Brigham Young, the second president of the Church, recognized the importance of the Constitution in safeguarding individual liberties. He asserted that Latter-day Saints should be devoted to upholding the Constitution, regardless of their unique beliefs. This sentiment echoes the call for righteous citizens who understand and defend constitutional principles.
In more recent discourse, President Dallin H. Oaks reiterated the divine nature of the Constitution. He stated,
The United States Constitution is unique because God revealed that He ‘established’ it ‘for the rights and protection of all flesh.
Oaks called upon members to be knowledgeable, actively involved in civic affairs, and to support leaders who honor constitutional principles, reinforcing Benson’s emphasis on the crucial role of citizens.
Benson’s teachings also highlight that the Constitution is designed to function effectively only within a moral and righteous society. He echoed John Adams’ assertion that the Constitution was made for a moral and religious people. Without a foundation of virtue, the principles of freedom and self-governance may falter.
In this context, Benson warned of the dangers of apathy and moral decline. He cautioned that the Constitution would be “on the brink of ruin” if citizens do not recognize their responsibilities to uphold its principles. The prophetic warnings of leaders like Joseph Smith, who foretold that the Constitution would need saving by Latter-day Saints, serve as a clarion call for members to remain vigilant and proactive in their civic duties.
President Ezra Taft Benson’s assertion that the Constitution will be saved, but not in Washington, reflects a profound understanding of civic responsibility and the active role of citizens in preserving liberty. His teachings, along with those of other leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasize the importance of a moral society and the duty of members to uphold constitutional principles in their lives and communities. This call to action serves as an inspiring reminder that the preservation of freedom lies in the hands of individuals who cherish and defend the values enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
In a time when civic engagement is more critical than ever, let us heed President Benson’s message and rise to the occasion, ensuring that the Constitution remains a guiding light for future generations.
Gramps
