In recent years I have had many conversation with friends who are spiritual or even Christian, but don't agree with any religious institutions, or don't think that they should even exist. Often they prefer instead to come to their own conclusions about religion and develop a relationship with God on their own terms, instead of (how some see it) their spirituality being dictated by a religious institution. So I was excited to realize that Elder Christofferson was presenting his ideas on the subject.
Elder Christofferson begins by giving some history to the church and explaining how the priesthood has been bestowed on individuals through family structures and then later through religious hierarchies. And indeed, it's hard to see why a Christian who acknowledges the need for priesthood (and the Bible makes it clear that priesthood is essential) would dispute the need for organized religion. Indeed, it's hard to see why any Christian would dispute the need for a church, when Christ Himself went to great lengths to organize one when He was on the earth.
Another excellent pint that Elder Christofferson brings up is the availability of a support network that a church can provide, as well as motivation and reminder to remain spiritual. It's very easy to fall away from striving for perfection without reminders or close friends doing the same. However within the church, if we stop showing up to sacrament meeting, someone will notice and reach out to us. That being said, it's all too easy to simply go through the motions, having all the appearance of a spiritual church member but not really feeling it.
A point he brought that I think is extremely apt is the fact that the gospel is what we must become converted to, net simply the Church. It's tempting to judge a person's testimony or devotion to the gospel based on how well it appears to us that they keep their commitments or magnify their callings or complete their home teaching, when really what is important is a person's personal testimony.
I like how you introduce your post with personal experiences you had with friends questioning the need for organized religion. I once sat by a man on a plane who believed all of the terrible things in our world were a result of organize religions that proselytized. He thought our church was the worst. Even though I made the argument of how much aid our church provides, he was not very fun to listen to for 5 hours. Elder Christofferson provides a great response to his claims. Thanks for posting.
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