Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Money, not as valuable in the kingdom of God

Money has value and helps things get done in nearly every aspect of life. Even in the church, we pay tithing which is used to help build the kingdom. Also, having enough money to survive is critical for every individual. However, it must be noted that on an individual basis, money is not important. No one is chosen to be Bishop or advanced in the priesthood due to money. No one gets a better seat in church or has less to do or more to do than another because of money.

This principle is illustrated well in Acts 8. Simon (not Peter, a convert) sees the power the Apostles have when giving the gift of the Holy Ghost and wants that same power. We don't know Simon's intentions, but considering he was a somewhat famous person in that area, perhaps he wants that notoriety again that would come from having the priesthood and giving people the gift of the Holy Ghost. Simon offers money for the priesthood and is told it's a grave error to believe money will give someone access to the priesthood. Here's the account in Acts 8:

17 Then alaid they their hands on them, and they received thebHoly Ghost.

18 And when Simon saw that through alaying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,

19 Saying, Give me also this apower, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the agift of God may be bpurchased with money.

21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not aright in the sight of God.

22 Repent therefore of this thy awickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the bthought of thine cheart may be forgiven thee.

23 For I perceive that thou art in the agall of bitterness, and in thebbond of iniquity.

24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.

I appreciate that the priesthood and right to do things in the name of God is instead intended for all men who desire to come unto Christ and do His work. See D.C. 1:

20 But that every man might aspeak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world;

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