The essence of religion
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President Gordon B. Hinckley of the First Presidency quoted a statement attributed to a prominent journalist who, during a visit to Salt Lake City, said, "Certitude is the enemy of religion."
The journalist's words, said President Hinckley in an October 1981 general conference address, caused much reflection. President Hinckley then countered, "Certitude, which I define as complete and total assurance, is not the enemy of religion. It is of its very essence."Certitude is certainty. It is conviction. It is the power of faith that approaches knowledge - yes, that even becomes knowledge. It evokes enthusiasm, and there is no asset comparable to enthusiasm in overcoming opposition, prejudice, and indifference."
President Hinckley pointed out there was no doubt on the part of Peter when the Lord taught the multitude in Capernaum, declaring Himself to be the bread of life. Many of His disciples, who would not accept His teaching, `went back, and walked no more with him. Then Jesus said unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.' " (John 6:66-69.)
President Hinckley continued: "As it was anciently, so has it been in modern times. Without certitude on the parts of believers, a religious cause becomes soft, without muscle, without the driving force that would broaden its influence and capture the hearts and affections of men and women. Theology may be argued over, but personal testimony, coupled with performance, cannot be refuted."
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(ADDITIONAL INFORMATION)
Articles on this page may be used in conjunction with the Gospel Doctrine course of study.
Information compiled by Gerry Avant
Sources: Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, compiled by Joseph Fielding Smith; Jesus the Christ, by James E. Talmage; and October 1981 and October 1982 general conference reports.
