Divine Authority Quote by James E. Talmage
““The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affirms her possession of divine authority for the use of the sacred name, Jesus Christ, as the essential part of her distinctive designation. In view of this exalted claim, it is pertinent to inquire as to what special or particular message the Church has to give to the world concerning the Redeemer and Savior of the race, and as to what she has to say in justification of her solemn affirmation, or in vindication of her exclusive name and title. As we proceed with our study, we shall find that among the specific teachings of the Church respecting...””
About This Quote
Source Book: Gospel Principles by James E. Talmage, 1909
The LDS Church claims exclusive divine authority in using Jesus Christ’s name, prompting inquiry into its unique message about the Savior.
In simple terms: Church asserts exclusive authority over Christ’s name, inviting scrutiny.
Key Takeaway
Examine the basis of exclusive religious claims.
Themes
religion
authority
identity
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- interfaith dialogue
- personal faith study
- missionary work
Key Concepts
theology
church doctrine
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports exclusive authority?
- How does this affect interfaith relations?
A Different Perspective
Exclusive claims can alienate others.
![“[Religion] attacks us in our deepest integrity - the core of our self-respect. Religion says that we would not know right from wrong, we would not know an evil, wicked act from a decent human act without divine permission, without divine authority or without, even worse, either the fear of a…” quote by Christopher Hitchens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ab6/christopher-hitchens-117_action_religion-attacks-us-in-our-deepest-integ_23299.jpg)
![“This [divine authority] must be our great and singular message to the world. We do not offer it with boasting. We testify in humility but with gravity and absolute sincerity. We invite all, the whole earth, to listen to this account [the first vision] and take measure of its truth. God bless us as…” quote by Gordon B. Hinckley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c91/gordon-b-hinckley-331_god-bless_this-divine-authority-must-be-our-great_982406.jpg)
![“Here they [the Jaredites] became a flourishing nation; but, giving way in time to internal dissensions, they divided into factions, which warred with one another until the people were totally destroyed (p. 15).” quote by James E. Talmage](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/844/james-e-talmage-19634_destruction_here-they-the-jaredites-became-a-flouris_648482.jpg)
