How do you truly know when someone is called of God? In a world filled with voices, opinions, and countless religious messages, this question matters more than ever. In this episode, we explore the powerful doctrine that sets the restored Church of Jesus Christ apart from every other organization on earth: divine authority—how it is given, how it is recognized, and why it is essential for your personal journey toward Christ.
If you've ever wondered how revelation operates, how priesthood authority was restored, or how to personally confirm God's messengers, this discussion will deepen your understanding and strengthen your confidence in the Lord's pattern.
In this study session, Jeffery dives into Article of Faith 5, exploring what it means to be "called of God" and why divine authority is foundational to Christ's true church. He walks through Joseph Smith's First Vision, the Savior's bold confrontation of false creeds, the restoration of the priesthood by heavenly messengers, and the structure of the modern Church that mirrors the organization Christ established anciently. Throughout the episode, Jeff emphasizes how personal revelation allows every disciple to know truth for themselves.
What it means to be "called of God," and why this doctrine is the dividing line between the restored Church and all other organizations.
Reviewing the First Vision and the surprising instruction not to join any church of Joseph's day.
Exploring why the Lord declared that the creeds of the time were an abomination and what that teaches today.
A conversation about a prominent minister's response and why the Savior sometimes uses strong language to correct false systems.
Scenes from the New Testament showing Christ's sharp rebukes when leaders misled God's children.
Examining Luke 20 and the question of authority that mirrors Joseph's experience.
What it means to be called through prophecy and by authorized priesthood holders.
John the Baptist's visit and the return of priesthood authority to the earth.
Peter, James, and John confer higher priesthood power and keys upon Joseph and Oliver.
Why the primitive church's structure matters and how it functions today.
The modern church mirrors the ancient one—including its divine hierarchy.
A powerful analogy of the "common stick" and why the position—not the person—holds the authority.
Thoughts for application, a call to study Article of Faith 7 next, and Jeffery's sign-off.
Thank you for studying with me today. As we've seen, knowing who is called of God isn't guesswork—He has always provided patterns, authority, and revelation to guide His people. The same is true in our personal lives. When we seek, ask, and act with real intent, the Holy Ghost confirms truth just as surely as He did for Joseph Smith.
If you'd like support in building daily consistency in your scripture study—or any spiritual practice—the MyStreaks – Streak Tracker App is a simple and powerful way to keep moving forward one day at a time.
I'd love to hear any thoughts or experiences you've had as you study the Articles of Faith. Send them to me at jeffery@mystreaksapp.com.
Until we study again, have a marvelous day, show charity in traffic, and as always—keep streaking the scriptures.