Common denominator Quote by Ezra Taft Benson
““Youth leaders, are you holding aloft our standards, or have you compromised them for the lowest common denominator in order to appease the deceived or vile within the Church? Are the dances and music in your cultural halls virtuous, lovely, praiseworthy, and of good report (Articles of Faith 13), or do they represent a modern Sodom with short skirts, loud beat, strobe lights, and darkness?””
About This Quote
Source Speech: General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, 1975
The speaker questions whether youth leaders uphold moral standards or lower them to appease popular but questionable culture.
In simple terms: Leaders must choose between high standards and compromising for popularity.
Key Takeaway
Uphold principles despite cultural pressure.
Themes
religion
morality
leadership
Mood
concerned
inspirational
Type
didactic
motivational
When to use this quote
- church youth programs
- media consumption
- public speaking
- policy formation
Key Concepts
ethical integrity
cultural influence
youth guidance
Questions to Reflect On
- What standards are non‑negotiable for you?
- How can leaders engage youth without compromising values?
A Different Perspective
Balancing tradition with relevance can be complex.
