How We Know What We Know

In our day there are many voices like that of Korihor (Alma 30). There are those who would have us believe there is no sin and thus, no Christ; that morals and values can and should change over time; and that we would be foolish to allow ourselves to be restricted by the values and culture of the last generation.

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints we are privileged to know many marvelous truths. We are not limited in our access to knowledge or truth--for truth can be made known to us through authority figures such as Prophets; through our own observance and experiences; through logic; through our senses--what we see, for example; and also ( but not limited to) revelation. Korihor, and those like him, claim we cannot know. We declare we can and do know! For we have "all things as a testimony" (Alma 30:41). By launching an "experiment upon [his] words " (Alma 32:27) our knowledge of truth grows and the fruits thereof are most precious and delicious.

We know we have a Father in Heaven who loves us. Through His Son Jesus Christ we have, to name just a few: access to God through prayer; the opportunity to live and learn; the precious gift of repetance and redemption; and principles by which we can live after the manner of happiness. The Holy Ghost declares truth to us, this we know. The Spirit lights our path. We know we have the power of the priesthood and the blessings of temple covenants. This life is not the end thereof, and men and women prosper not only by their own efforts but by the grace and mercies of Christ. We know these things and more.

President Ezra Taft Benson taught us that "The Book of Mormon exposes the enemies of Christ. It confounds false doctrines...it fortifies the humble follower of Christ against the evil designs, strategies, and doctrines of the devil in our day" (Teachings of ETB, 56).

Reading this precious book--the Book of Mormon--will help us know what we say we know. "Ye shall reap the rewards of your faith, and your diligence, and patience, and long-suffering, waiting for the tree to bring forth fruit unto you" (Alma 32:43).