I marvel at how some take words by a Prophet of God, one of His 12 Apostles and see anything in his words that is not in accordance to the view of the Savior. I saw nothing in this talk that I could not support. I am a convert of 58 years and still love this Church and Elder Holland so much. He has always been my favorite speaker in the church. I love many others, including our Prophets, but he is the person who makes me cry every time I hear him speak because I feel the Spirit so strongly when he speaks. He finds me wherever I am and helps me through his talks. God bless you Elder Holland, Jesus was persecuted too, and people talked badly of Him because they didn't like what he told them. You are in the greatest company possible, so keep going and preaching His gospel. We love you. I just feel bad when people talk badly of you. Know that the majority support you and love you.
I endorse what you say. It is precisely that some take his words this way, because they dont see him as a prophet of God and one of his 12 apostles. That is the difference x
Absolutely. People often hear what they are looking for instead of what is being said. I think it’s only going to get worse with the expedited speed that the adversary is encouraging wickedness.
I agree completely. What is wrong with people that think there are bad things happening under the Prophets watch? I will be as obedient to the word of our beloved leaders as I can. Do not try to steady the ark!
The Gods of the Copybook Heading - Rudyard Kipling As I pass through my incarnations in every age and race, I make my proper prostrations to the Gods of the Market-Place. Peering through reverent fingers I watch them flourish and fall. And the Gods of the Copybook Headings, I notice, outlast them all. We were living in trees when they met us. They showed us each in turn. That water would certainly wet us, as Fire would certainly burn: But we found them lacking in Uplift, Vision, and Breadth of Mind, So we left them to teach the Gorilas while we followed the March of Mankind. We moved as the Spirit listed. They never altered their pace, Being neither clud nor wind-borne like the Gods of the Market-Place; But they always caught up with our progress, and presently word would come That a tribe had been wiped off its icefield, or the lights had gone out in Rome. With the Hopes that our World is built on they were utterly out of touch. They denied that the Moon was Stilton; they denied she was even Dutch. They denied that Wishes were Horses; they denied that a Pig had Wings. So we worshiped the Gods of the Market Who promiced these beautiful things. When the Cambrian measures were forming, They promiced perpetual peace. They swore, if we gave them our weapons, that the wars of the tribes would cease. But when we disarmed They sold us and delivered us bound to our foe, And the Gods of the Copybook Headings said: 'Stick to the Devil you know.' On the first Feminian Sandstones we were promiced the Fuller Life (Which started by loving our neighbor and ended by loving his wife) Till our women had no more children and the men lost reason and faith, And the Gods of the Copybook Headings said: 'The Wages of Sin is Death/' In the Carboniferous Epoch we were promised abundance for all, By robbing selective Peter to pay for collective Paul; But, though we had plenty of money, there was nothing our money could buy, And the Gods of the Copybook Headings said: 'If you don't work you die.' The the Gods of the Market tumbled, and their smooth-tounged wizards withdrew, And the hearts of the meanest were humbled and began to belive it was true That All is not Gold that Glitters, and Two and Two make Four--- And the Gods of the Copybook Headings limped up to explain it once more As it will be in the future, it was at the birth of Man--- There are only four things certain since Social Progress began:--- That the Dog returns to his Vomit and the Sow returns to her mire, And the burnt Fool's bandaged finger goes wabbling back to the Fire; And that after this is accomplished, and the brave new world begins When all men are paid for existing and no man must pay for his sins, As surely as Water will wet us, as surely as Fire will burn, The Gods of the Copybook Headings with terror and slaughter return!
Jesus’ suffering (if he existed) was nothing compared to the suffering experienced by millions of innocent LGBTQ people over the last 2,000 years at the hands of his “followers”.
And this was 3 years ago. Can you imagine this same speech today? The world has gotten even more divisive. I appreciate his sincere position of caring and showing compassion. You can be compassionate without agreeing with people who go against church doctrine. And he surely is. Yes, I attended BYU 50 years ago. Simpler times for sure, and a wonderful experience.
As a bisexual member of the church I am so glad that Elder Holland has said these things. I know the struggles that come with same sex attraction. It is real and extremely difficult to deal with at times. But this I know, that he is an Apostle of the Lord and I sustain him! I know some may not like what he has said. But it only because you do not understand the Doctrine of Christ. Living and keeping my covenants brings me immense peace and joy that I cannot find anywhere else! 💜 I know that there is a difference between love and lust. I know that true love comes from righteousness…and that true love is bound with the sanctity of marriage. Between a man and a woman. Who need one another, we are unique and different for a reason. I know this to be true without a doubt!
This made me cry. I really hope one day you can love and accept yourself for who you are. You don’t need to feel shame. You are wonderful and accepted by so many. Being yourself, being free….chase that. Please.
Thanks so much for your honest comment! You are so amazing for staying strong and continuing with what you know is right! I hope that you can find peace and comfort through all of your struggles :)
Though it does cause struggle, I don’t think that being bi-sexual typically exposes you to the things that types of struggles that a gay man or woman deals with in the church. You have choices that can lead to a much more fulfilled life than the church tries to offer to someone who is never supposed to marry or have children.
I have been a close student of Elder Holland's life, words and works over the past 20 years. It was his words that rescued me during the darkest and most challenging time in my life. At a time when I was just trying to hang on to hope, I downloaded every speech he ever gave as president of BYU and listened over and over again - some more than a dozen times. I felt the Spirit so strongly as I listened and tried to apply his words to my own life. His deep love for and certain witness of the Savior, coupled with his masterful teaching brought me closer to Christ, who saw me through the darkness until the light came again. I love him. I stand by him. He is a true messenger. And, by the way, he has also been a true friend to our LGBTQ brothers and sisters - he has shown the way in hearing, loving, and reaching out to this community. Anyone who has studied his words will know this. Thank you Elder Holland.
@Tyler G Below is the extent of what he said about the valedictory message. I did not feel this was an "attack" on the student or the message (which I agree was uplifting and faith-promoting). My take on Elder Holland's statement, addressed to the faculty, was that he was concerned that about allowing individualism to prevail at a ceremony meant to represent the entire student body. The student's message was pre-approved by a high-ranking faculty member. Elder Holland's words: If a student commandeers a graduation podium intended to represent everyone getting diplomas that day in order to announce his personal sexual orientation, what might another speaker feel free to announce the next year, until eventually anything goes? What might commencement come to mean-or not mean-if we push individual license over institutional dignity for very long? Do we simply end up with more divisiveness in our culture than we already have? And we already have far too much everywhere.
@@johnw4619 well said thank you! Besides...the last thing I want to hear about when I go to a graduation, or any other public situation is someone's sexual orientation! Talk about awkward! I have friends and family who are gay or have children who are gay and I could not care less about it. I just want them to be content. It's none of my business and neither is it anyone elses! Sex is not a topic in polite conversation. It shouldn't be brought up in a public forum. When did that change?
I have no idea why this message has been attacked with such vitriol. It was absolutely beautiful, as usual from Elder Holland. There was nothing hostile in this sermon whatsoever. Criticism aimed toward this message simply goes to show that those eager to erode the church will only hear what they want to hear and will twist and contort any message to fit their own wroth filled narratives. Clearly this quote (also an Elder Holland quote) applies: "Sadly enough, my young friends, it is a characteristic of our age that if people want any gods at all, they want them to be gods who do not demand much, comfortable gods, smooth gods who not only don’t rock the boat but don’t even row it, gods who pat us on the head, make us giggle, then tell us to run along and pick marigolds."
Deuteronomy 6:4 King James Version 4 Hear, O Israel: *The Lord our God is **_ONE_** Lord:* Isaiah 44:6 King James Version 6 Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts; *I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.* ONE God.
Yeah, all of us do not like to be called out for doing things we shouldn't be doing. As a Liberal Arts student at BYU, I can see that this talk hit a very real issue at BYU on the head. I am upset at the more Socially Liberal attitudes (such as on the LGBT issue) I have perceived in BYU's Liberal Arts. It makes sense to me that those called to repentance by this talk would take issue with it.
Whats wrong with a Lord who wants us to pick marigolds? If we were as a people more concerned with the picking of marigolds than condemning a boy and his graduation speech, I believe we'd have a healthier and kinder people.
As a member of the faculty at BYU, I wholeheartedly endorse Elder Holland's much needed reminder about what this university and its faculty are to be about, what the sacred mission is, and why it all matters. I wish all of my colleagues and fellow saints felt the same way, it deeply saddens me that they don't. Still, most do and most were heartened, strengthened, and encouraged to greater effort to contribute to the building up of the kingdom of God in the classroom, the laboratory, and the world. Elder Holland is guilty of nothing more than teaching the truth, obeying God, following the prophet, and loving all of God's children. To suggest otherwise is to defame the man, to mangle his words, and mislead others.
Your faithfulness made the world of difference to my daughter who attended several of your psychology classes. Your class/teachings gave her increased strength to stand for truth. Thank you Dr. Gantt!
I too have heard from friends that stated that they just wanted to graduate as quickly as they could to get out for frustrations of the pressures BYU professors were putting on those that did not side with change and the ideas of the world. It made me sad to hear as I feel all of our Heavenly Father's children should be able to study and grow in knowledge and learning without distractions or fearing that their grades will suffer academically because they don't share the same views as the professor or the world.
Thankyou elder Holland. Courage is needed today to stand up for something and he has that courage. It would be so much “easier” for the church to go the way the majority want to hear in the world. It takes courage to be different. It takes courage to give this kind of talk
What an absolutely amazing talk. I believe it was Jesus’s talk, just delivered by Elder Holland. This man loves B.Y.U. more than anybody on the planet. What a humble, intelligent, wise, man of God. God bless you Elder Holland! And thank you for your remarkable delivery of Jesus’s talk. He would be proud of you.
26:29 "As near as I can tell, Christ never once witheld his love from anyone. But he also never once said to anyone, Because I love you, you're exempt from keeping my commandments. We're tasked with striking that same sensitive, demanding balance in our lives."
The scriptures are clear about sexual relationships out side of the marriage of a man and women. Dont know what your point is but just because your gay doesn't mean your breaking God's law and doesn't mean your not loved by Christ. The scriptures are clear what is a sin and what isn't.
Just as poignant and perspicacious and needed now (Feb. 2024) as it was when given. I loved his inspired leadership in 1984 when I was a graduate student at BYU, and have been inspired for the last 40 years by his continued apostolic leadership, example of charity and kindness, and balanced by the courage it has taken to address the issues that are wounding this generation of God's children both in and out of the Church.
Are you saying he speaks for God? Because numerous prophets and apostles have told untrue stories or taught false things from the pulpit, including Elder Holland. I think George Orwell was speaking more towards people like Holland who speak hatefully and literally use violent Musket firing imagery to describe defending archaic ideals.
I heard this talk stirred up much contention. After having listened to it, I can not imagine how people could interpret this offensively. It breaks my heart that So many people have been so perfectly deceived. So much so in fact that they see the world through lenses of hatred and think themselves tolerant...hatred toward anyone who does not believe the way they do or accept ideologies they do. The very acceptance they clamor for is a quality they refuse to offer to those with differing views. They can't fathom how a person can love another but at the same time not be accepting of a specific behavior; it's the old adage "love the sinner. Despise the sin." Some people are so far gone, that they can not see how such a doctrine could even be possible. To all members of the church, and all men everywhere, do not be deceived by the world. Do not let their twisting of this great man's words lead you down a path of deception. There can be no peace in wickedness and there will be times we will need to stand with much boldness against it. But it was easy to see, for those who are not blinded by hatred, that this message was one of love and peace making and unity. Follow and give heed to the watchmen on the towers. They see far more than we are able to. Stay on the path that will lead you back to our Father. Do not be among the elect who are deceived by the adversary . Do not let the culture of the world fill your mind with distraction and deception and hate. There is far too much of that already surrounding us at every turn. The Lord expects us to be better...he NEEDS us to be better. Elder Holland, you are loved and deeply respected by many. We, the faithful saints, support and sustain and pray for you!
I heard so many bad things about this talk so I came to listen for myself. From what I read, I expected controversy and bigotry, but was surprised to hear only love. He defends truth and urges others to do so, but to do so with Christlike compassion. Really a beautiful talk.
This talk was a pivotal moment for my family. Elder Holland’s message provided such clarity on subjects that had been troubling mine and my wife’s minds for months leading up to this. Thank you Elder Holland! And thanks be to God for modern prophets!!
I have been seeing distressing comments by those who consider leaving the Church but wonder where they would go. Simon Peter asked the same question in John 6. Then he answered his own question. "66 ¶ From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God." Peter chose to stay. Was he perfect in his discipleship? No. None of us are. But even after denying Jesus, Peter still knew Christ is the source of eternal life and so he did his best to follow the Son of God and to bring others to the Savior.
One of the most common tactics of abusers is to tell the person they're abusing that they don't have anywhere to go, that no one else will take them in. This is false and manipulative, and there are strong, loving communities and support groups ready to take people in when they leave the church.
@@koriel-in-real-life So now you will even call the holy scriptures abusive. The truth is hard to hear for those who reject the teachings of the Lord. The cry of repentance that Jesus told His disciples to raise is called abuse. No one is using force. You can follow your own conscience. Any good member will support you in defining your own life. But radicalized members have no right to try and force the church to conform to their views.
@@koriel-in-real-life The point is to do the best we can to stay close to the Savior who pleads for us to come to Him and receive eternal life. He (and those who follow Him) will "take us in" for “He inviteth them ALL to come unto him and partake of his partake of his goodness; and he denieth NONE that come unto Him, black and white, bond and free,. . . all are alike unto God." 2 Ne 26:33 Will we let Him gather us into His loving arms and heal us or will we go somewhere else?
Regarding “Trowel and Musket” analogy - I did not find it difficult whatsoever to understand the obvious symbolism. The trowel represents progress, labor, and building the gospel of Christ. The musket represents the defense of Christs gospel and all Christian principles from attackers who would try to twist, bend, and distort the doctrine. Has His gospel ever NOT been under attack? Isn’t it under attack now more than ever? How can anyone possibly criticize an apostle of Jesus Christ for not being PC enough, when he’s so diligently and sincerely fulfilling his call to warn us and inspire us to defend the truth and doctrine that is under attack in The gospel. I loved this address and I love this apostle. I wouldn’t change a single word.
It's just a little hurtful that he moved into the topic with symbolic violence instead of love. I can see where people misinterpret. He should have told the faculty and students HOW to support gay students; how to help them feel loved instead of alone.
@@Glen.Danielsen I didn't make an analogy. Holland did and I asked, what if Taliban made the same analogy in defending itself from America. How would you feel?
@@tylerg3605Tyler, brother of Liberal lash, secularist fist: please consider that no UA-cam channel host is under obligation to let their Comments space be used for someone’s propaganda. The Church will watch over their platform to guard it from wordwaste that will taint the Saints. That’s why UA-cam has controls for hosts. There are Liberal sites and YT channels that will roll with you. You know who they are. Go to them to spit phlegm. Rabid dog with stark bark, foul growl, flared nostril: why not rescind send, repent of what was sent! Be blessed, have peace.
I've listened to mainly criticism about this talk. And that it was ..........whatever. Once any organization tries to tackle a subject that is very complex and not easy to understand. When my best friend and brother told me back in 1985 that he was gay, I was shocked, I was raised in the Church, but at this time in my life,I was as inactive as you could be ! But,I asked my friend a few questions and then left and went home to talknabput this with my 17 year old wife ,who at 16 ,and I 18 ,she was pregnant and I had officially left the Church for about 2 years. I was on my way to lots of painful lessons I could have avoided, if in had stayed an active member,but at that time, I saw no one to turn to,but was I really looking? Back to my best friend ,he called me the next day to ask if I hated him for what he told me,I said ,you are like my brother and best friend, why would that change because of what you told me ,he cried, we were playing in heavy metal bands and he hadn't told anyone this ,except me. I asked him to please try and explain why or whatever being gay meant ,why was he,etc. We had many long talks ,and cried a lot together. I think I know a little about it,but really ,not that much, it turned out I was friends with a lot of gay people, male and female ,and they all knew I liked or loved them for who they were, not anything about what they did ,but because we were friends, and later when I came back to church ,I assured them nothing has changed. I still feel the same,its the world that makes it a much more difficult and unnecessary, contention filled LABEL! People are not labels , they are all children of the same Father in Heaven ,just stop there and be kind to everyone. I find a lot of this unnecessary. There is nothing wrong with this talk.if you really understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ, then this is still just another part of your and others time on this earth, and dealing with the Advisary. My brother ,who was so afraid to tell me about himself,is now in the Spirit world ,and I did his Temple work for him after years of him appearing in dreams, asking me for help, and I'm glad I did ,I could feel him next to me as I was baptized for him. Since that time, he has not come back ,but is learning about the Gospel, on the other side of the veil, and that is what everyone who has eyes to see and ears to hear,should keep in mind .
He may well be studying with my dad, who felt, in the months before his impending death from complications associated with ALS, that his next assignment would be something like that of a mission president. My dad’s professional training as a taxonomic (or, as he called it, evolutionary) botanist never got in his way of turning to the Lord for direction and guidance, especially around his family. And as a scientist, he was specially equipped to consider “alternative hypotheses,” explanations he had not considered before. What we ourselves do not struggle with, we cannot honestly say we understand. How then can we criticize, much less condemn, anyone who does struggle with it? Some things we cannot condone, but we are not equipped to stand as judges over ANY infinite-and infinitely complex-eternal soul. We are commanded to love one another. And that is not to help God. It is to help us.
@@dherman0001 there is nothing complex about what is right and what is wrong . But trying to figure out the reasons, which some are simply ..... well, not hard to figure out, and some are, and I'm only referring to homosexuality, a term that people have seemed to have forgotten. The trouble started when leaders start to use the politically correct terms, I think that was the first ,but I understand why,they are being compassionate, trying to show love for all Gods children. But I think you should simply stick to what it is ,and nothing as far as policy has changed, but when people start standing up and announcing they are........whatever ,that is a label they put on themselves, don't, keep it simple and there will be no misunderstanding. That is not complex.
Elder Holland, as a gay member of the Church, thank you for what you said! I am so saddened to see so many members falling to the deceptions of Satan because of the very effective propaganda of the LGBT and Pride movement. I am gay myself but want nothing to do with those movements. God is the one who saves me, and He asks me to lose myself and take up my cross and follow Him.
Yours is the " Alphabet Cross" to carry. I hope you understand the tremendous efforts by this man to find the way to best help you find your own way back to the Lord. It does not matter if you are not in the streets rioting, you have chosen to be part of that movement that goes against everything the Plan of salvation and the Lords gospel stands for, hence the pain of Elder Holland and his still confirmation: " Christ never once withheld His love from anyone, but He also never said to anyone, because I love you, you are exempt to keep my commandments". I truly hope you take advantage of the power of repentance without delay. All the love in the church cannot replace your part(repentance). There is not such a thing as a "gay member of the Lord's church" ... don't fall for that lie... in the end, you know you will have to choose to be either "gay" or a " member of the Lord's church" ... I sincerely pray for you to join us at the saints side for eternity... you have already done this in our pre-existance ... you have already once walk the tough road following Christ... turn around and come back fully...we are waiting for you with confidence and hope.
@@thundersmacksss3712 "your truth" is the greatest embodiment of moral relativism. In case you didn't know, moral relativism is absolutely a teaching of Satan. And that's true whether you're LDS or Catholic or Protestant. "your truth" is treating yourself like a God and ignoring the God who created you. I stepped away from the church for a while and had multiple boyfriends. I chose to come back and repent. So I would hardly say I'm brainwashed. But hey, enjoy your Satan worship. May God have mercy on you.
@@EricJonesadventure You got that right! The church loves to make their rules when there is something the members are uncomfortable with. Look what they did to the blacks and the excuses they used in why they could not hold the priesthood. I guess they did not take into consideration that Joseph Smith approved of Elija Able being ordained to the priesthood. The church does a lot of flip flopping for sure!
BYU gave me some great & poignant spiritual, social, educational & personal experiences & memories that have Helped me for the 40 years since And gave me friends that have helped me along that long too. BYU gave me an anchor of hope for a better day, & Gave me a view of the possibilities A forever zion can be even through Struggling to overcome the many adversities that constantly try to beset me From time to time.
I would die for this man and everything he stands for. I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints is the Lord's true and living church here on earth and that our Church leaders are called, ordained and given the keys to lead in these the last dispensation of the world. I stand with you Elder Holland!
You would die for homophobia, purity, and shame culture that causes thousands to hate themselves so much they commit suicide and millions more proven irreparable damage. I wonder if you ever think about kids like my nephew who wound up blowing his brains out in a church parking lot because he was gay and could never have a place in the celestial kingdom. Probably not.
I listened to every word of this exquisitely composed and graciously delivered devotional address. He appropriately expressed and implored all to embrace Christian love and respect toward our LGBT brothers and sisters, while sensitively proclaiming Eternal truths regarding the Great Plan of Happiness. I judge his sermon to be a masterpiece of understanding and balance relative to the chosen subject. I invite all to prayerfully consider his words in the context of one who is uniquely qualified to address all facets of this subject material. Love all, serve all, speak truth in kindness. Home run, Elder Holland!
@@harryhenderson2479 They are choosing to take their lives because the Godless leftist false promises of the rewards of indulging in sin only leads to more sin and compounding guilt. And you are selling that sin as a cure for Christ, encouraging the guilt, bringing on the despair.
I am so proud of Elder Holland...I have piece in my soul as I listen to his talk...I truly have a testimony of what true prayer and faith as my partner and I prayed daily together on our knees and ask humbly if our relationships was wrong in the eyes of our lord Jesus christ...we both at this time made a physical sacrifice not to have a physical relationship as we re seeking the truth for us...not what man says..but what our lord could only answer...it was almost 2yrs before that was shown to her and i...today. we have such love for each other we never new was possible...Sister harper read the book of Mormon and is now baptized...we are sisters in christ ....not partner s in sin...she is my best friend and I now know how confused satin tried to twist our relationship into sin..I stand proud a reborn retired lesbian...lol..and I'm so proud of the 360 change we both have made in changing our hearts for the knowledge Jesus christ blessed us with the truth.. Thank for your love !nd prayers..Sister Dawn Michelle. BEATTY
ok?? and should those that don’t find that comfort in the church and the gospel stay? if they feel alienated and alone do they just have to push through it until they die? not having the same joy and peace in the church as their counterparts? i used to have so much comfort in the church until i found out things about it and the people involved and now i’m so much happier believing what i know now is right. all the comfort i could ever need i have with my family and my pride in how far i’ve come.
@@sammyj2424 Glad you have found the right peace for you, brother Sam. Maybe the Church is not for you. Still, maybe keep an open mind. Never say never, valued brother. When you can, talk to God. 💛🙏🏼
There have been times when I have felt that life’s burdens were heavy and driving me into the dirt. Your special words and love have always picked me up, dusted me off, and sent me on my way. Your truly an Apostle of the Lord and cannot thank you enough for your service! Thank you, I love you Elder Holland! I love and sustain all of you from President Nelson down to the very nursery leaders! Thank you, Thank you!
Thank you elder dodo we sustain you as the last crying dodo who denies science and professors their retirement for not denying science and showing cristlike love for students. Good job Davey you should be ashamed of yourself.
I am a graduate of Brigham Young University, MFA 1995. I stand with the leadership of our church, and the decisions they make regarding the things Elder Holland discussed in his address. While I have friends who think very differently than what the standards of the Gospel are, and have chosen a life with a same sex partner, I stand with our Prophet and his associates. May BYU remain faithful to the standards of the gospel. May BYU remain a vital part of our education system. May all who attend and teach at BYU realize what it is they are a part of. Thank you Elder Holland for your forthrightness. There is a place for people who think and feel differently than what Elder Holland has talked about, and it is not at BYU. I mean no disrespect to anyone by that, only that there needs to be a separation between the things of the world, and the standards of the Church and our Lord's Gospel.
"May BYU remain faithful to the standards of the gospel." What gospel and whos gospel? The LDS church has its own gospel and its not the same as the one taught by Christ in the Bible. Sure, the LDS faith has some of the Gospel but they mingle it with the teachings of men. To me, the gospel of Christ can be summed up into Loving ones neighbor as them self. Would the LDS church leaders treat the gay community as they do if they truly viewed them as they do their self? Would the church had band the priesthood from the blacks if the church leaders of the day had truly viewed black people as they do them self? The answer is No.
I am a graduate of BYU (bachelors and masters) and a former instructor there, and I wholeheartedly denounce Jeff Holland's words, as they do not come from a place of love or charity. If we are really wanting to invoke "the gospel" here, then we should be focusing on the two most important commandments. Inflammatory and negative rhetoric towards LGBTQ+ people, and trying to recast who they are as a "lifestyle," is antithetical to loving your neighbor as yourself.
After hearing so much about this talk, I figured I’d come and listen. I’m glad I did. The Spirit of love and kindness was so present as He proclaimed what so many of us believe, yet have a hard time expressing without hurting others. Such a difficult subject for so many, but is important to hear.
I wonder if you would feel that same love and kindness from this talk if you were gay. Or maybe if you were Matt Easton. After two years of that incident evidently festering, Holland finally got it off his chest. Didn't feel so loving to me. Watch what they do, not what they say, or even the tearful, heartfelt way they say it. Love is an action, not "heartfelt" emotion. Maybe the leaders could do something more about suicide among LDS gay teens since it's the church policies that have caused so much despair (although, admittedly, it is better than it was a couple decades ago). I can tell you for sure that the church's policies on gays are not authored by the God I worship. On that we can both agree. Since He made them this way, maybe this is all about us (straight church members), not them. Maybe you and I and Elder Holland are all on trial. And one more quick response to your final comment. This is not a difficult subject at all. It's super easy. Just accept gay people as they are, unconditionally and in every way, then it's a non-issue. We gave blacks the priesthood. Now let's give gay people the same full rights and privileges in the church that us straight people have, no difference between us and them, just like blacks. I'm pretty sure (I would bet my life on it) that that's what the unconditionally loving God that I worship does. The church is the one with the problem, not the LGBTQ community.
@@bradflinders4302 Gays already can have everything blacks and all members of the church have. They just have to live the law of chastity like the rest of us.
@@jeremysmith9694 You can't be serious. So this is all about gays living the law of chastity and nothing else. Then what on earth are we talking about here? Ask the LDS LGBTQ community if that's all this is about, and I'm pretty sure you'll get an earful. Get real man. There is one, and only one question here, and we all keep skirting around it. Does God fully accept gays for who and what they are or not? And I mean fully. And if not, then why did He make them this way? We'll never know God's stance for sure until we get to the other side, but my money is on unconditional love and acceptance. Unconditional means there are NO conditions. Not even one. Like I said above, I am quite certain (and I'm sure you'll agree) that you and I don't believe in the same God. But mine is for sure nicer. Oh, and one other thing. If this is solely about the law of chastity, then why don't we just let them get married? Problem solved. The "challenge" or "difficulty" is not with gays. It's with the church.
@@bradflinders4302 You think that gays are the only ones born with problems? You think they're the only people who struggle conforming to the teachings of the church? I don't think God does place conditions on His love. But He clearly places conditions on full membership in His church. He clearly has rules that all of us have to follow. If you don't want to follow Him then don't. You think a parent is more loving if they give no rules to their children? The law of chastity isn't about marriage. It's about marriage between man and a woman. So they still are not living the law of chastity if they get married.
@@bradflinders4302 Unconditional love and acceptance for individuals means something different to you than it does to God, I think. I would never harm anyone, and I know that God loves you perfectly. You are His son. However, same-sex relationships, even so-called same-sex "marriage," can never fit in God's plan because they are by definition a biological and geneological dead-end. (Neither can ANY non-covenental sex fit in His plan, btw. They are against His laws.) God's work and His glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal lives of man--His children. Part of our test here is to see if we are truly willing to help in His work and His glory, partly by being willing to live by His laws of marriage and family AND by being willing to have children. This is true even if, because of various challenges (whether it be same-sex attraction, or lack of opportunity, or health challenges, or whatever) we do not get a chance to have children in this life. Even in the Eternities, with perfect bodies, there is NEVER a chance for a homosexual relationship to produce children. Like I said, it is a dead-end. God's plan is all about families, ancestors, parents, children, seed, generations, all sealed together in one eternal family, with no insurmountable dead ends. This is clear all throughout the history of the earth, through all the scriptures, through all prophecies of the eternities. Homosexuality is not part of God's design for His children. Nor is homosexual sex lawful in His eyes. This law cannot be protested out of canon, despite all earthly wailing and gnashing of teeth of those suffering painful challenges now. Yes, love is important, and God's unconditional love for you surpasses your understanding. Christ will wipe all tears from your eyes, too. He does truly know best.
Thank you, Elder Holland. I loved BYU, loved that I obtained a wonderful education there, with God and Jesus Christ at the center. I'll be forever grateful for BYU.
As a life long member of the church I’m so thankful to be taught pure doctrine by Elder Holland who teaches as Christ would teach. Thank you Elder Holland.
It was an honor to attend beloved BYU. I should not have been accepted and had severe sins but it was there that I quickly and sincerely repented. The Spirit is tangible there. My gratitude is eternal.
Another person who has never read the bible. He literally wearing an out fit from 2 different cloths. Stop reading the Book of Mormon and read the bible and see how Jesus really behaved.
Thank you, Elder Holland. You are truly an apostle of the Lord, Jesus Christ, and you speak the truth with love, sensitivity and power just as the Savior would.
I started at BYU in 1966. What I learned at BYU has been written on my heart! My testimony grew and my love of the Savior. Elder Holland I love BYU so much let’s not let it fall from its might goal. Come forth to learn. Go out and serve.
Well , im a convert of 44 years. And I also love hearing Elder Holland. Once at the ward I attend he gave all of us an apostolic blessing . That to this day has been a comfort that I rely on. If people do not care for the policies at B Y U , then I suppose they have the prerogative to chose one of the not so unique universities . I personally pray B Y U never changes. God bless you Elder Holland.
@@Cyrusmagi The way I look at is if you choose to go to BYU and you sign the honor code then you follow it. UVU is 10 miles from BYU and they don’t have a honor code.
@@Cyrusmagi You are incorrect you have free agency to go anywhere you would like to go. If you choose to go to BYU then you sign a honor code of your own free will. What I don’t understand is why would anyone go to a school that has a honor code that you don’t want to live?
@@Cyrusmagi because it’s a church school and a the honor code has always been a part of it??agency is COMPLETELY DIFFERENT from signing an honor code of your own free will, then breaking a rule it states. if you sign the honor code then you agree to its rules, breaking the rules is more than just “free agency”, it’s defiant and wrong. people have the agency to break whatever rules they want, that doesn’t make it right though.
@@shortsallyear8602 well when people are young they have a tendency to change their minds on many things via education and learning. If they do why should they have to move from the place of learning. If people identify as lbgti why should they have had to leave the university of their choice or home. Plenty of hetro students at byu break codes and stay there!
The mention of a trowel in one hand and a revolver in the other goes back to the dedication of the Saints to the cause of finishing the Nauvoo temple after the exodus had begun. Joseph had been martyred and the pressure was on for the Saints to leave. Brigham knew he needed a covenant people and thus before leaving they began the covenant process and finished it with their lives in peril as they worked. Understand the history so they the quote makes sense. Stand true to the covenants. President Holland is urging BYU to stand for their principles.
They worked with a trowel in one hand and revolver in another since their lives were in peril. In the eye of persecution they stayed true to their principles and completed their tasks.
I appreciate people like Elder Holland who dare to focus on the importance of building and maintaining the guard rails of the path. There will always be critics who are quick to take offense-instead substituting views that disproportionately focus exclusively on the spiritual trauma care for those who get mangled by the fall from the Gospel path. As a trauma surgeon, I am especially grateful for those that prioritize and teach principles of wisdom that keep people safe. Only distantly secondary in comparison should be my role in treating injuries that too often result from actions that disregard that protective wisdom. But love be to all, regardless of choice or circumstance.
They needed this. My daughter was in a class where the professor advocated abortion. My daughter was so shocked and angry. It's time to clean out the mess.
@@James-rf8ee Not intellectually challenged by killing their faith, at a school paid for by the faithful donations of tithing funds of the Church. Seriously. And a spot at BYU is SO rare these days. It is SO hard to get in, the competition is so fierce. You need near a 3.8 GPA and around a 27 on the ACT to be considered. BYU should NOT be a place where ANY testimonies go to die. BYU should be where we can safely send our children to LEARN WISDOM, OUT OF THE BEST BOOKS. Not to learn any form of Marxism, out of the mouths of liars. That is what my daughter experienced and had to fight last term. There is SO MUCH that can be taught, so many different opinions, so many wonderful things to learn, that do not contradict the Prophets. Those dingbats in the faculty who feel it necessary to teach from the great and spacious building need to be kicked out of BYU NOW.
@@James-rf8ee no one said not to have a different opinion. But BYU is the university the Lord wanted, for a particular reason. Abortion is a whole different subject
Did the professor advocate for abortion, or did the professor advocate for a woman's right to choose what happens to her body? Pro-Choice does not mean Pro-Abortion. Pro-Choice means that no matter what your personal feelings or beliefs about abortion are, you understand it is not your place to make a decision for another woman about what she can and can't do with her body. Religion should be kept out of politics. If you don't want an abortion, don't get one. Freedom of religion is "hey that's against my religion so I can't do that." NOT, "hey that's against my religion so YOU can't do that."
@@James-rf8ee And I am sick of persons thinking they have to right to force their religion and beliefs onto others. Religion should be kept out of politics. If you don't want an abortion, don't get one. Freedom of religion is "hey that's against my religion so I can't do that." NOT, "hey that's against my religion so YOU can't do that."
Love you Elder Holland!!!! No matter what people say, I personally know you care so much about everyone no matter what they choose in life! I trust you & the Lord! I know we are in the mists of a great divide that even happening within members of this church! I know this has been prophesied to happen in the final days before Christ returns! I pray for your safety and health and your heart!
Stephanie salzar the church the one you belong to has been divided since its very early days of conception if you learn of its history and stop seeing it through Rose tinted glasses. Even Joseph Smith stopped looking through his urim and thumin glasses preferring his familar (seer)stone.
@Macbook Lifestyle have you really dived headlong into the church history.?? Or are you just saying this to gain some credibility. Have you sought the real truth of matters before recent times of the many youtube sites , many which are constructive but some i agree are just hype. Actually i had my opinions and suspicions a long time before the likes of the CS letters. Much of my source reference came from the book ,discourse of Brigham Young, miracle of forgiveness, marvellous work and wonder. Also various priesthood manuals. Church handbooks for bishops. Boyd k packer himself! Spencer w kimballs wife and her quotes! These sources inthe main but also some passages of the book of mormon! As to a moral framework which i work to is my own view of what i think is acceptable, what i think is possible, what i think is a lie or just a perception? If you still have a faith in Christ thats a good thing. If you got it through you studying and praying about a book describing events of history great. Many do also from books of the bible. Some even have a great faith in Christ from the early words of Mohammed. Its not the source that is so important but the figure and communative powers of Jesus himself thats whats important. Did he rise again Do you know him Does he know you! Ps what subject of the lds church makes u feel persomally " let down" remember when something feels like a let down there is always a positive experience to gain out of it!
@@Cyrusmagi Like that other man, I also enjoy learning about the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I refuse to accept the bad information and the faulty conclusions of people who try to subvert the Church of Jesus Christ. The "CES Letter" isn't helpful. It is crucial that we receive truth from God, which is what the Book of Mormon and living prophets encourage us to do. If you expect perfection from prophets, you're bound to be disappointed, but the true, restored Church of Jesus Christ does carry on God's work in our time and it blesses the lives of millions of people. Some of its members rely on faith as God desires and don't have the ability to do much Church history research. Some of us can research more, but we find that historic detail are not vital, whereas our faith in Jesus Christ and the revelation we receive from God is vital.
Love you Elder Holland! This talk was amazing, filled with love for the whole human race. Now I know what the pure love of Jesus Christ is like. Thank you so much!
I love Elder Holland. He is a absolute rock!! Nothing wavering. I understood his talk, I heard it through my heart and the spirit. He spoke the truth as Jesus would if he was standing right there. I sustain him and applaud him for his honesty and his love for everyone. God bless you Elder Holland. God bless BYU and all serving there 🙏♥️🙏 Amen.
Thank you Elder Holland for your Heartfelt Testimony of the Sacredness of Brigham Young University. I’m proud to be an Graduate , at age 49, of this great University.
Thank you Elder Holland. I have had so many concerns. My son graduated from BYU a few years ago and he had many experience - specifically a rather hard one in a sociology class - that were really frustrating. He kept repeating to me over the many years he was there that BYU was getting messed up in stuff he was thought he wouldn't have to deal with while there. He actually has told his younger sister to NOT go to BYU - don't waste her time. It's been hard to learn of all the things going on that are not in line with the gospel. Thank you for addressing the deviation so many academic minds at BYU have made. Thank you for reminding us all the mission of BYU is to be unique in the way we stay true to gospel teachings - no matter what the world preaches. Thank you for bravely addressing how BYU has fallen into some of the philosophies of the world and urging all to re align teaching back to the gospel basics - not the ideologies of the world. I expect there will be those that try to throw you under the bus for speaking the truth - those that take the truth to be hard. Remember there are so many more that are grateful for your words of encouragement that not only does leadership understand there are issues that need addressing, but that we can continue to have faith that BYU can still be a place of spiritual as well as academic learning without worldly views being forced upon our children. As a BYU graduate myself - I thank you for looking out for my Alma Mater. I hope it's not to late to root out the philosophies of man being taught to young minds.
@@markpatterson4881 I have, too. I graduated 6 years ago and it's quite different even now. I sometimes feel so ashamed that I would like to remove my name completely from the alumni lists.
@@Naturefan354 James doesn’t respond. He just copy pastes the same paragraph on every and any feed that he can. He lies by omitting other details about what is ultimately electro shock therapy that was very popular in the era he refers to. Many colleges and other psychological entities used electro shock therapy to try and change certain behaviors. One of those behaviors that a faculty member along with a student at BYU tested was trying to shock gayness out of gays by attaching electrodes to gay man balls and shocking them if they became aroused by gay porn or the like. It was not unique to BYU as James implies, and that’s why he is a liar.
I love that he acknowledges that he will be attacked for speaking so boldly, and then continues to speak truth. What an example! Thank you Elder Holland!
Renegade Mormon here...this is why I joined the church in 1994 “against" my wife's wishes...I was admonished for intending to get close with Christ through the good LDS members whose hearts I still love greatly. We are one in the fellowship of the spirit, no matter how detached from the body that I have become.
Elder Holland, I love you and I am so grateful for you and your testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ. You are truly an example of love for everyone and one to be followed. Thank you for all you do and stand for.
Why did Elder Holland slander the gay valedictorian at BYU? The young man got his speech pre approved. And the message was very faith promoting and briefly touched on his sexuality saying "at BYU I learned to love myself as a gay child of God." That was it, but Elder Holland decided to slander him and attack that speech that brought so many faithful LGBT people at BYU comfort. There is no justification for Holland's slander.
@Jeffrey, it is interesting you claim *other* people don't believe in scriptures. Do you? What is God's definition of marriage? Is it one man + one woman or something else? Genesis 2:24 KJV 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
There was nothing controversial about what he said. Too bad those who got offended are blinded by pride. Elder Holland is a great man and my favorite apostle. May the Lord continue to protect him.
@@kyliesmith729 I do know first hand of the burden that is carried by someone who is gay. My son who was 18 he had a long struggle with that. He is now gone, he committed suicide in 2018. I could have been angry with my Bishop and his counselors who only worked on lip service. Two months before my son Elijah passed away, the Bishop ran down to meet with my husband and I, just so happen we had no Stake assignments. We met with the Bishop, and he came asked us, “How can we help Elijah?” I had so many angry and negative thoughts going through my head. Fortunately I have such a great husband, and he had said to our naive young Bishop, “How about you and your counselors come together and pray on how you all can be inspired to help Elijah.” It was sad that many of our youth in our ward fell away during that Bishop’s tenure. Anyway, prior to Elijah’s passing, I really did not truly understand the Gift of the Atonement. We go through church hearing about the atonement, we hear in prayers that people are thankful for the atonement, but do they really understand it. One thing I was glad to say was that Elijah always stood up for the Church in its doctrines and principles that were taught, he always knew that to be true.
Sorry Kylie I pressed it to early and was not done. What I mean when it comes to pride. My husband and I alongside with our children serve wholeheartedly and with unconditional love. I would have been eaten up with pride, and that would not have been good for me and my family. What I had to do was constantly pray to ask for forgiveness because I seriously wanted to rip the Bishop another a......! That pride for me at that time was hatred, enmity toward the Lord’s servant. As I prayed every minute, because I also felt shame that maybe we were to hard as parents. We were not good parents. It was a quiet voice that told me this is not your journey, you are a part of Elijah’s journey, so his struggles are no more. I had to find solace, peace, and understanding. This is what Satan wants us to do. He wants us to pick a part Elder Holland’s words and turn it around to divide people. This is what is happening for us with the pandemic in our own ward. Creating division and hatred one towards another. I thank you for asking me my thoughts. You have a great day, May Heavenly Father continue to bless you throughout your journey. A hui hou, mahalo.
@@shawndellekamalani2960 thank you for sharing your story. My heart is with Elijah and your family. I am so sorry for his pain and for your loss. I can tell you have wrestled with this and that you have come to do what feels best for you. I do want to point out, that what was the right path for you may not be the right path for someone else. I am a gay ex-mormom and staying in would have never worked for me or brought me the kind of peace it brings you. That isn't to say that your experience is invalid, just that we are all on our own journeys. I found elder holland’s talk hurtful. I don't think that's pride. I'm not angry. I'm hurt. I don't feel seen. I don't understand how he can speak about how much he cries for the lgbtq community while not seeing that it's teachings from his own church causing the pain they are in. I agree that we need less divisiveness. I just struggle to see how the message of “lets love and support queer people.” is divisive. Isn't it more divisive to tell people not to have flags in BYU campus and not to come out? I don't think Holland is evil by any means, but I think we can acknowledge that elements of his talk were hurtful, at least to many of us.
@@kyliesmith729 Being from Hawai’i and being Hawaiian, many of our Ohana are gay and their struggles are real. My brother is gay, he is married and has a wonderful husband, who we dearly love. It is our free agency to agree and disagree with the General Authorities. As of right now I disagree with the General Authorities about being vaccinated. Why do they have to go on television to show that they took the vaccine. What I have come to know for myself is that are progression is an individual process. What I say to myself is they are still men. In the scriptures never trust in the arm of flesh. I ask you just make sure you have that personal relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Ask them to soften the hearts of the apostles and prophet. For us in Hawaii and our family members being gay we love them no matter what, we invite them to our kids baptisms, and other milestones in the church. My kids also invited them on zoom when they had to do talks. I feel I have known you for a long time. I am glad we got to connect. If ever you need an ear to listen or someone to vent to, please contact me. Aloha.
@@TMorgansomeonespecial I don’t know how anyone could listen to this talk and come away with such a thought. I hope you can re-listen and better understand his message of love and concern for the welfare of everyone.
@@harrylongabaugh7402 So you are saying that I am full of hatred because I don't agree with Hollands comments? He and those that agree with him are the ones that need to repent. His comments were so harsh and insensitive and so unchristlike!
I have listened to this from Elder Holland a couple of times. I find his remarks full of love and based on a desire to connnect with everyone. From my understanding this has ruffled the feathers many of those he tried to connect with. Which leads me to feel that those who take offense at these remarks are baselessly choosing to do so.
2 And it came to pass that I said unto them that I knew that I had spoken hard things against the wicked, according to the truth; and the righteous have I justified, and testified that they should be lifted up at the last day; wherefore, the guilty taketh the truth to be hard, for it cutteth them to the very center. 1 Nephi 16:2
The student who was called out was in complete fidelity with the Code of Conduct and the Law of Chastity. It is not a sin to be gay, not in the Church or at BYU. The Church has called at least one gay man to be a bishop. This student's talk was in praise of BYU, a place where he could work continue the struggle to live by his faith. He did not commandeer the podium. He was speaking from it as the valedictorian for that particular graduation. What's more, he didn't go rogue. The speech he delivered was the same speech he submitted for approval. If you are condemning him, you are doing so baselessly. Get your facts straight.
Love this talk from Elder Holland. I admire his testimony and courage and love of all of his fellowmen in giving this talk. He had to know in advance that it would be controversially received. He shared a lot of love in this talk! I felt it!! ❤️ I am grateful for you Elder Holland for your constancy in upholding and teaching the Lord's will for us, His children. What is a truth or principle if it is not upheld? We must anchor ourselves to these principles in order to not succumb to the adversary! The challenge is bridging the gap of God's will and still being a welcome light for those who are given the challenge of same sex attraction. That challenge is bridged by love. And I hope all who feel uncertain by the Lord's message, delivered by Elder Holland this past week will approach this with the faith that they do have, and give Elder Holland, and those in the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve the benefit of the doubt. And hopefully we can all know and feel these courageous and loving leaders are doing as the Lord instructs them. They love us, and it is for our benefit they do teach us what they teach us. Obedience and love is their motivation, it seems to me. ❤️❤️❤️
Part of the conflict I felt was a rift between other recent words given on same-sex attraction and how people are receiving what they think he said. The brethren are nothing if not consistent. So I knew he wasnt calling for violence or any ill feelings or actions against LGBTQ folks. With that knowledge I then knew I needed to read his actual words and not rely on ill placed and poorly used quotes. Having done so I have resolved my feelings and have also dispelled any confusion I may have had.
With respect, you and Elder Holland both referenced those who are given the “challenge” of same-sex attraction. Have you considered the fact that if the Holland and the LDS church truly treated the LGBT community with the same respect as heterosexual relationships, it would not be a “challenge”? In other words, the only reason it’s a challenge to LGBT is because the church holds this prejudice view, treating them like 2nd class citizens about something they were born with.
@Tyler G There are a multiplicity of reasons I am sure or Elder Holland would not have said that. Perhaps he felt a valedictorian’s talk was not the right situation for this information. I know of BYU parents who see BYU as becoming too much like the world. This idea is evidenced in Elder Holland’s talk.
@Tyler G These are such hard times. I love the gay individuals. I have a cherished one in my family, but I agree this was not the place for this topic. However, we all have our own opinions. I understand how you feel. I also understand how my daughter feels when she sends her daughter to BYU and is disappointed this talk was approved for a valedictorian address at BYU. President Holland’s comments make us wonder if this complete talk was preapproved. In the end, we have to pray for understanding if we feel conflicted. We don’t know all that goes on behind these statements.
@@barbaramosley9081 I love gay people and then you go on to spout bigotry. LDS is so unlike Jesus and the bible tells people not to wearing clothing out of 2 different cloths. This fake elder is doing exactly that he is no more Christian than Buddha was. If you have a daughter who is worried about consenting adults living their best lives and being happy maybe the cult is the problem not the person giving the talk. There was nothing wrong with the talk he gave, in fact it was full of church doctrine. This man is triggered because maybe he has unresolved sexual tendencies himself. I worry far more about fake elders being around children than Matt's talk.
@@neongirluk I understand your feelings. I love gay people too. I have a wonderful family member who is gay and I couldn’t love him more. I trust our Heavenly Father and his commandments though. I don’t take any offense from your heartfelt comments because I really understand how you feel. We each have to walk our own road in this life. Love going your way.
Thank you for speaking the truth!! It is heart breaking how one is demonized these days just for ones beliefs or opinions. No one has the courage to say what they believe anymore and stand up for their faith. I pray the leaders of the church will always have the courage to speak the truth no matter what pressure they may feel to bend to what is perceived as popular opinion.
"Musket fire. Yes, we will always need defenders of the faith." Holland may not mean actual physical violence against those who are LGBTQIA+ or are allies, but when he uses a firearm as a means of explaining what he means by defend...I don't know how you can see it for anything other than what it is, a call to use VIOLENCE against LGBTQIA+ to "defend the faith" if need be.
@Geminfaeri To support a man who has never preached anything but love and kindness for EVERY child of God is very easy. To malign, misrepresent and find the worst in comments made, invites a spirit of contention and negativity that I am interested in entertaining in my life. Please refrain from further spewing hate and negativity in your comments toward me.
@@lizzylingual8906 This guy preached musket fire the very day that a lesbian couple was gunned down on their honeymoon in Utah. Utah has the 4th highest suicide rate among LGBT youth in the nation. My nephew was one of them. Your willful ignorance is what is helping keep the body count high. Blood is on Holland's hands and he doesn't care.
Thank you Elder Holland. We love and sustain you. Thank you for saying the unpopular thing that needs to be said and knowingly exposing yourself at the abuse of evil for the cause of Christ.
Unpopular? The majority of both the people who will hear this and the people of the world as a whole holds the same or harsher opinions of LGBTQ people as Holland and the Church of now or the past. Besides, most people who are opposed to what Holland is talking about are more hurt and afraid of what his words and the Church’s perpetuated views of the LGBTQ community might do, they are not looking to abuse someone.
@Macbook Lifestyle I guess I had two points. He said that what Holland was saying and talking about was unpopular. Most of the people in the church and at BYU agree with him about LGBTQ people, as well as in the world. It is simply not an unpopular thing to say. Second, he talked about how Holland was exposing himself to “the abuse of evil.” I brought up that the majority of people who would hear what he said and disagreed are not looking to attack or “abuse” anyone unjustly. Those who do disagree are hurt by what he said and are worried about what he words might do for not only LGBTQ people at BYU, but all over and around the Church. This original comment is an example of persecution complex, which is very popular in modern Christianity and in Mormonism. It is when someone is convinced that the majority of people out there are against them and want to hurt them or their church. It comes from Christ and from apostles talking about how persecution is a sign of being righteous under God. Most people don’t know about the Church, and those who do don’t care about it much. The minority of people who care about the church don’t even persecute it that much, and those who do persecute the church often do so on justified grounds. Does this help explain a little more?
Anyone who listens to this Great Apostle give this Great Heart Felt talk , and don’t hear an feel and see the sincerity of his truths….. the adversary has you right where he wants you. Absolutely superb talk given by our beloved Elder Holland. Listen with your heart not just your ears
🤔 if you don’t feel what I feel then you’re wrong? A beautiful hand reaching out to bridge the divide of believers and doubters. Thank you so much for your love and empathy
Jay Britton Fisher agree that perspective is everything. Always comes down to how someone is viewing the world. For me, when someone makes a comment that suggests that if I don’t see what they see then the adversary has me…well I personally view that as not very empathetic and kind. It’s a very black and white Steve stance which I actually understand. I was there once. So although I appreciate what you’re saying that it’s a warning nothing more, I can’t see it that way. I see someone saying that I either believe and feel the way they do or I’m wrong and in this specific case apparently in Satan’s grasp. For me that is teaching by fear and I don’t prescribe to that sort of motivation.
@@mikerowe3776 I would always want to be empathetic toward people and personally, I seek to always approach people in a way that expresses love. (I try, anyway.) But I would suggest that sometimes showing love to people means extending a warning (and neglecting to warn would be the opposite of love), and that it's hard to completely separate the ideas of fear and any sort of warning; they kind of go together necessarily in a way. I do think we should try to find a good balance, but I don't think the warning itself is poorly motivated. Those are just a few thoughts. Thanks for letting me step into the conversation for just a moment.
Jay Britton Fisher I get where you’re coming from. I don’t know if I agree on the warning stuff but I do appreciate your more empathetic and compassionate tone. It makes conversation much easier. I just feel like many times there’s a Samuel the Lamanite on the wall approach and it makes me wonder how people feel qualified to do that. Additionally I think there’s assumptions as the original poster suggest that all those that see differently are a specific category of people or they are being categorized as ones that have fallen or ones that are tainted. There is a very specific narrative that’s given about those of us that were 100% in and now not so much. I think it’s important to note that almost every person I associate with that is in a faith crisis or leaving the church wants nothing more than to believe the church is true. I’m not gonna speak for John Dehlin I don’t know him I’m talking about my specific circles. I want so badly to know the book of Mormon is true that Joseph smiths a prophet I want all of those things that I believe since I was a little kid to be true and I fight daily for that confirmation. However for me and where I’m at and what I found and what I’m receiving from God is that it’s not true. And the response I get from the faithful is that well then there’s something wrong with you you haven’t prayed enough you haven’t studied enough you haven’t fasted enough you don’t have the faith. And I’m not a lazy learner I have been fully engaged in the faith I even worked for the church and yes everybody that reads this you’re welcome for online donations I built that. I works closely with the brethren I’ve seen all of the behind the scenes stuff. I know all of the finances I know all of the process. So when people tell me I haven’t put in the effort it makes me sad that that’s all they can see me as. I’ve given the warnings to and I felt justified as someone with the truth to do so and I have to live with that guilt. But I can promise you warning without empathy warning without the spirit conveying it to the heart of the receiver won’t do anything. And an attitude of well I’m justified to warn and if it hurts you then that’s your problem and shows your entrapment with Satan doesn’t get very far. Again I really appreciate your words and the patience and kindness you’ve shown I hope that my words will help others see another side of how to communicate
His words were unmistakably a call to arms: Holland used the word “fire” 10 times, “musket” eight times, and made multiple references to “friendly fire,” “wounds,” and “scarring.” In particular, he called for “more musket fire” from BYU’s faculty to defend Mormonism’s official position on the inferiority and social dangers of same-sex relationships and marriages.
The perfect balance between mercy, empathy, and compassion on one hand and righteousness, justice, and truth on the other is only found in Jesus Christ. ♥️ I think Elder Holland did a beautiful job extending love to all while defending Christ's doctrine at the same time.
Remember that god loves ALL of his children. Not just straight Mormons. God wants us to love and except everyone even people with different views. You’re contradicting yourself.
@@jainahall8069 nowhere in the Bible or the Book of Mormon does it say we have to accept anyone. The only one we have to accept is Jesus Christ and the proof that we have accepted Him is that we will keep the commandments He has set forth. The first great commandment is to Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart. The second is like unto it, to love thy neighbor as thyself. I love myself but there are times when I make mistakes, cause hurt and pain to others or step outside the bounds God has given us. That makes me a sinner, as are all of us. That doesn't mean I accept that reality and do nothing to try and overcome those behaviors. It means I repent, try to change and continue forward. Do I hate myself, no. Do I hate my neighbor if I don't agree with their lifestyle choices, no. Love is NOT complete and utter acceptance.
I find your comment quite interesting and tone-deaf. Would you find this comment of yours equally appropriate if the subject matter was regarding the sin of the black race represented in their skin color?
I loved hearing Elder Holland's passion, honesty, and wisdom. From a branding perspective I think it is wise to urge BYU to embrace its uniqueness. Relatedly, I love having options, but it is hard to have options (freedom of choice) if everything is same. I also loved hearing his growth through the years in listening to prayers...something I know I could do better on. It is edifying to know our leaders are people just like us that are also improving as we all strive to follow the Savior! Great talk. Listen to the whole thing, don't just settle for harsh criticism after reading or listening to just a snippet.
You need his example to be bigoted and homophobic? last I checked, the great commandment is to love thy neighbor. Fullstop. If this talk helps you live out your prejudices towards other human beings, check your heart if this is helping you be a better person more in line with Christ.
I hope your love doesn't get misinterpreted as condoning or advocating his reference to deadly tools in relation to a persecuted minority. Make no mistake, Holland is on the side with the power here, financial power especially.
@@leem3299 he isn’t, the whole presidency is though and I truly hope that the church cuts all financial support to BYU soon. ;) There are better causes that promote Christ-centered service and care than the massive amounts of money being wasted at a college that used to be special but now wants to become one with the world. Let them become one with the world. Utah as a whole sound be left by the church as the “nephites” in Utah are becoming just as worldly, loathsome and evil as their “lamanite” rivals. I wish there was a “Samuel the Lamanite” sent to awaken Utah but…they’re all lamanites or desire to become them now because it easier than defending standards of truth.
@@dcarts5616 Yes, the highest church authorities are sitting on a pile of gold, big enough that they don't need to cut support for BYU to put more money toward caring for the least of these - who Jesus loves as himself. I seriously wonder if the church even spends what is contributed under "humanitarian aide" on tithing slips. They spend some of it, and I appreciate any and all good they do - but if they spend anywhere near the total contributed even under just "humanitarian aide" I'd be very surprised. The pile of gold is big enough to sustain church operations perpetually just on investment income. They actually could direct members to give tithing directly to the least of these (as Jesus himself directed) right now, and not risk the financial future of the church at all. That would make headlines. Members, and former members, and nonmembers, and questioning members, around the globe would thrill at the headlines that would be written. The pile of gold would instantly turn from a golden chain around the church's neck, into a worldwide example of brilliance. Let the church keep what it has accumulated to sustain itself perpetually - and all the members can be set free to...: "I was hungry, thirsty, sick, stranger, prison, and you came to me. As you have done to the least you have done to me." Let's follow Jesus. How would you personally feel if Pres Nielsen said: "Through the generous donations of members over so many years, the church is now financially sound enough to sustain operations perpetually. This is a great blessing. Please continue to pay tithing, but give it to the least of these as Jesus directs. The Lord is with you, and will guide you as you ponder how to bless the poor, the sick, the stranger, the captive. These are all loved by Jesus as himself - as are you." How would you feel hearing that? I'm near tears just thinking about it.
I loved the spiritual growth and knowledge I gained at BYU. I loved the devotionals and forums. Socially I was a very small pebble and sometimes felt inadequate-but the spiritual food and progress, love from dear roommates, I gained have made all the difference.
I wish that everyone today could have that same experience that you had Unfortunately, the enemies of the church have a great hold on the university today.
But it’s not about you. It’s about the LGBTQ students, and how they feel excluded and penalised based on who they are. White people loved the church back when blacks were banned from the priesthood and endowments. This is a similar issue of exclusion. Just because you enjoyed BYU, doesn’t mean its therefore fair for everyone. It’s actually a really negative place for some people. Brigham Young and Jesus Christ would not be able to attend BYU as they do not follow the honor code
@@mikkifrompreston4396 Do you realize what this speech was given for? He was speaking at the foundation of a new department at BYU to help promote belonging for those who identify as being LGBTQ and others, while admonishing us to stay true to Christ and defend what he teaches us in the scriptures. That's all.
@@Operamoms I understand :) Can you help me? Between 2015-2019 Russel M Nelson stated he received promptings from God that the church should exclude children of LGBTQ from baptism, Holy Ghost, priesthood, and temple ordinances. Once they turn 18 they would need first presidency approval and to disavow their parents lifestyle in order to receive these blessings. What good was this 4 year ban? Was this revelation from Russel M Nelson and the Authorities correct and necessary? Was it maybe a mistake?
I loved this talk! So emotional. I heard critics tear it down. I did not hear anything but love and sincere concern for our well-being. So powerful! Especially that apostolic blessing.
"Musket fire. Yes, we will always need defenders of the faith." Holland may not mean actual physical violence against those who are LGBTQIA+ or are allies, but when he uses a firearm as a means of explaining what he means by defend...I don't know how you can see it for anything other than what it is, a call to use VIOLENCE against LGBTQIA+ to "defend the faith" if need be.
@@Geminifaerie if your take away was a “call to violence”, then that is what you had in your heart, friend. My take away was “learn war no more”. This talk was a call for unity and peace. “But we do all look forward to the day when we can “beat our swords into plowshares, and our spears into pruning hooks,” and at least on this subject, “learn war no more.””
@@CAnthonyVidal If one's intention is not a call to violence then using a firearm as a metaphor to express how one should defend themselves, is a very poor choice in words indeed. I stand by what I said. Of all the words he could have chosen to express how one should "defend the faith", a firearm is violent. Words have meaning and some words carry more weight than others. You can talk yourself into circles all you want about his intention, but you're blind if you don't see how using a firearm in his example doesn't have an underlying tone for a call of violence, with a firearm, against LGBTQIA+ folx and their allies. No one is coming to destroy your temples. No one is coming to destroy your universities. But yeah, defend the faith with firearms (that's not violent at all, SMH).
@@Geminifaerie I’m pretty sure whatever metaphor would have been chosen would have resulted in the same backlash. It is not about the trowel or musket, it is about the messenger for critics. I believe you have the right to think what you’d like about the talk. You don’t need my permission or approval, friend. I personally like the scriptural context of this borrowed metaphor and what the people who were described with a tool in one hand and a weapon in the other were doing at the time. It is very insightful and encourages to be better. If you have a sincere desire to seek out what was meant by this talk, that would be a good place to start. If you already made up your mind and are just seeking to contend with others, well it seems like you already chose to carry a weapon in both hands. I absolutely loved this talk. I think the conclusion of critics that Elder Holland, while speaking to a room filled with BYU staff, highly educated individuals that understand the imagery of a “builder” and “protector”, somehow was trying to encourage them to incite violence with a firearm against their students, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, friends and family, simply because they have same sex attraction, is farfetched, intellectually dishonest and extremely improbable.
Five people were m*rdered because of this talk(not counting those who took their life because of hate). Do you cry for their lives or will you continue to support those whose fruit is hate.
@@Darronsanderson why can't she love his spirit as well? We each have one. When I hear him speak I feel the spirit of God. in order for him to convey that spirit through his words it only makes sense that he must have a lovely spirit as well. One worthy of love. Just as your spirit is worthy of love. ❤️
Thank you, Elder Holland for speaking truth! We can be kind and Christlike while still following God's commandments. 🥰 I don't understand the push back behind this talk. I didn't catch any call to violence against the LGBT community.
We will see the same thing happen again of people not walking with him anymore. Which is sad, because the tribulation has already begun. To whom will they go?
@@britty4755 "Homophobia" isn't a helpful word to use. If anything, it should literally mean "fear of things that are alike", but in practice it's used to suggest that people who don't advocate for homosexual lifestyles have a mental illness, which is terribly unfair and inaccurate and will also inhibit productive discussion. It sounds like you're suggesting that something Elder Holland taught is not supported by what Jesus Christ taught. It would be helpful if you could refrain from using pejoratives and instead be clear about what your particular concern is. What did Elder Holland say here that you feel you disagree with?
The reactions to this BYU talk bring to mind Lehi’s counsel to Nephi’s rebellious brothers. (2 Nephi 1:25 and 26) These words seem to apply in practically every detail to many things said about Elder Holland this week.
25. . .ye have accused him that he sought power and authority over you; but I know that he hath not sought for power nor authority over you, but he hath sought the glory of God, and your own eternal welfare. 26 And ye have murmured because he hath been plain unto you. Ye say that he hath used sharpness; ye say that he hath been angry with you; but behold, his sharpness was the sharpness of the power of the word of God, which was in him; and that which ye call anger was the truth, according to that which is in God, which he could not restrain, manifesting boldly concerning your iniquities. PS The TRUTH is that we ALL have sinned BUT we can repent and be forgiven because Christ atoned for those sins. When we trust in the Savior, we receive that truth with gladness, when we don't rely upon His grace, the truth can make us angry and resentful. (2 Nephi 28:28)
What exactly is the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Is it building malls and hording billions of dollars? No it is not! Christ taught that we are to love our neighbor as ones self. Jeff Holland does not do that with his musket rhetoric against the gay community.
@@jasonford7481 Oh, please. Get real. You're reading things into this that were never intended or implied. He was rightfully critical of the valedictorian who shanghaied the podium for his own agenda when it should have been a speech for all the graduating students. You're just upset that he didn't validate it.
@@1zcott Every one deserves a safe place and yes, cookies if that is what the person is into. :) Can't argue with my original comment. Holland is like the Pharisees and Sadducees, though he speaks of Christ, his actions and deeds are far from him and his teachings.
@@jasonford7481 and yet, there occurrences in His life where Christ rebuked the Pharisees and Saducees for their wickedness. He threw the people out that were defiling the temple. What came from that? They came together to fight against His doctrines because they had taken offense and didn't want to be told how they should be living a higher standard as Children of God. So the question is Jason, do you stand as the Pharisees and the Saducees ready to string him up or stone him, taking offense, or do you choose to follow our Savior and come to understand why He called a man like Jeffery R. Holland as one of His Apostles? You drag something into the conversation that had nothing to do with what He had discussed to try and tarnish him, but it does not matter how hard you try. Elder Holland is far more closer to loving those who struggle with these issues, and all of Heavenly Father's children, then you are right now. And he is much closer to Christ than we are as well. He understands the expectations the Lord has of those who educate at His sacred university for all His children.
Thank you Elder Holland, your loving, courageous ways reflect those of the savior who loved all, but did not condone sin. I believe the Lord himself would be condemned today for simply telling someone, 'go and sin no more'. Recognizing someone as sinful is hateful now, and somehow Christ and his Church need to surrender to our sinful ways in the name of love, instead of us surrendering to him. Our surrender, as imperfect as it may be and as revolving as it may be (for me personally), the refining fire, our trials, that's all hateful speech now. Isaiah 5:20 "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" I remember as a kid thinking that only the very evil people of the world would be able to fulfill this prophecy, but now I understand that the 'very elect' can be deceived to the point of calling evil good and good evil. My prayer is that we can all discern for ourselves what the Lord wants us to do in this troubled times but watching the lies, misrepresentations and hateful opposition to this talk, I wonder how that is even possible. The same people that not too long ago were gleefully mocking others for the Church's urgent suggestion to get the vaccine and mockingly asking,' well, are you going to follow the prophet and the apostles or not?!' are now denouncing you for what they perceive to be an attack on their beliefs. Thank you!
@@MrKenRury What part did you find hateful or vindictive? I'd be very glad to hear your thoughts on it. But, people seem to be misrepresenting Elder Holland's words a lot, so please refer to exact quotations.
@@00Fisher00 I decided not to respond because it only devolves into a name calling session and hatred from the tolerant side. I have said my peace and I will stand by my words, but I will not be baited into an argument that the other person would not have the courage to make in person, in front of me, but only because of the anonymity of the internet, they feel emboldened to misrepresent and out right lie about something that is so clear, only the willfully blind could not see. Only those of us that want to accept our errors can be helped, the rest, it's as useless as plowing the sea.
Thank you much Elder Holland for your love. Your message impacted my soul profoundly. Being loving and caring to those who do not accept the will of God, just like Jesus showed us, should not mean that we are condoning that which is against the will of God.
An anti-cultist idea I had to learn in therapy: you can't set a proper boundary AND protect someone else's feelings. And you shouldn't have to. Their thoughts, feelings, and choices are their business, just as your own are yours. And/but organizations have the right and the need to clearly set their values and policies. Google gets applauded when they remove employees who don't hold their ideals. We all make our choices, and they're not always correct, or not always popular. That's the natural consequence of being your own person, and, in my mind, the real meaning of diversity and tolerance. Can we handle the fact that there will always be deep disagreements on critical issues? I trust that we can learn to.
That's an argument for different faiths to have, but it is not a defense for the internal conflict in the group. It also does not address whether the principles taught are Christlike and good.
@@EricJonesadventure because it goes against the worlds view right now. As you can see, today many are degrading him, and reinterpreting his words to feel aligned with the church and the world views.
@@jordemdris4029 He lives more in his church circle than he does in the real world. Everyone around him supports him. He feels more like a hero because he feels like the world is against him. If he risked his calling in the church to speak in support of the people the church makes suffer, that would be courageous. He's against gay people, so yeah, people are against his view.
Love you Elder Holland and support you and the ideals of this great institution. We are grateful for all the BYU universities and know it’s a privilege that not all are able to attend. Thank you teaching with love what the savior would here
It is very interesting to see how so many people are advising (God and Jesus Christ the creator of this world) how things should be done in the Gospel of the Lord. God is very patient with us, but everything has a limit except his love. We all struggle with sins and adversity of all kinds If people understood the atonement of Jesus Christ and His gospel, they would not be offended at Elder Holland’s message, but rather it would give them hope in Christ that no matter what they struggle with, they can find solace in the Atonement.
Grateful for Elder Holland for speaking the TRUTH and being BOLD. Thank you for your courage. I’ve already seen people on my timelines accusing him of hate and intolerance but he is doing anything but! I love the part where he says that just because we are loved by God doesn’t mean we are exempt from keeping the commandments.
@Macbook Lifestyle they are the biggest group of gaslighting power hungry old men. My membership is none of your business 😘 perhaps you need homework into the true affairs of this cult
The board of trustees of BYU subsidizes this school with sacred tithing funds of the Church. So each of us must be concerned with institutional integrity-our commitment to academic and spiritual excellence. That integrity can only be safeguarded as each teacher and each student remains individually strong. The integrity of this institution can never be stronger than that of its representatives. BYU devotional, February 23, 1993 Integrity of HeartRussell M. Nelson
As a member of the church who struggles with SSA, I greatly appreciate Elder Holland’s talk. BYU is a great institution.
Hang in there. We love you!
I'm praying for you, keep going, you are doing great. Elder Hollands words always help me.
I marvel at how some take words by a Prophet of God, one of His 12 Apostles and see anything in his words that is not in accordance to the view of the Savior. I saw nothing in this talk that I could not support. I am a convert of 58 years and still love this Church and Elder Holland so much. He has always been my favorite speaker in the church. I love many others, including our Prophets, but he is the person who makes me cry every time I hear him speak because I feel the Spirit so strongly when he speaks. He finds me wherever I am and helps me through his talks. God bless you Elder Holland, Jesus was persecuted too, and people talked badly of Him because they didn't like what he told them. You are in the greatest company possible, so keep going and preaching His gospel. We love you. I just feel bad when people talk badly of you. Know that the majority support you and love you.
I endorse what you say. It is precisely that some take his words this way, because they dont see him as a prophet of God and one of his 12 apostles. That is the difference x
Absolutely. People often hear what they are looking for instead of what is being said. I think it’s only going to get worse with the expedited speed that the adversary is encouraging wickedness.
I agree completely. What is wrong with people that think there are bad things happening under the Prophets watch? I will be as obedient to the word of our beloved leaders as I can. Do not try to steady the ark!
The Gods of the Copybook Heading - Rudyard Kipling
As I pass through my incarnations in every age and race,
I make my proper prostrations to the Gods of the Market-Place.
Peering through reverent fingers I watch them flourish and fall.
And the Gods of the Copybook Headings, I notice, outlast them all.
We were living in trees when they met us. They showed us each in turn.
That water would certainly wet us, as Fire would certainly burn:
But we found them lacking in Uplift, Vision, and Breadth of Mind,
So we left them to teach the Gorilas while we followed the March of Mankind.
We moved as the Spirit listed. They never altered their pace,
Being neither clud nor wind-borne like the Gods of the Market-Place;
But they always caught up with our progress, and presently word would come
That a tribe had been wiped off its icefield, or the lights had gone out in Rome.
With the Hopes that our World is built on they were utterly out of touch.
They denied that the Moon was Stilton; they denied she was even Dutch.
They denied that Wishes were Horses; they denied that a Pig had Wings.
So we worshiped the Gods of the Market Who promiced these beautiful things.
When the Cambrian measures were forming, They promiced perpetual peace.
They swore, if we gave them our weapons, that the wars of the tribes would cease.
But when we disarmed They sold us and delivered us bound to our foe,
And the Gods of the Copybook Headings said: 'Stick to the Devil you know.'
On the first Feminian Sandstones we were promiced the Fuller Life
(Which started by loving our neighbor and ended by loving his wife)
Till our women had no more children and the men lost reason and faith,
And the Gods of the Copybook Headings said: 'The Wages of Sin is Death/'
In the Carboniferous Epoch we were promised abundance for all,
By robbing selective Peter to pay for collective Paul;
But, though we had plenty of money, there was nothing our money could buy,
And the Gods of the Copybook Headings said: 'If you don't work you die.'
The the Gods of the Market tumbled, and their smooth-tounged wizards withdrew,
And the hearts of the meanest were humbled and began to belive it was true
That All is not Gold that Glitters, and Two and Two make Four---
And the Gods of the Copybook Headings limped up to explain it once more
As it will be in the future, it was at the birth of Man---
There are only four things certain since Social Progress began:---
That the Dog returns to his Vomit and the Sow returns to her mire,
And the burnt Fool's bandaged finger goes wabbling back to the Fire;
And that after this is accomplished, and the brave new world begins
When all men are paid for existing and no man must pay for his sins,
As surely as Water will wet us, as surely as Fire will burn,
The Gods of the Copybook Headings with terror and slaughter return!
Jesus’ suffering (if he existed) was nothing compared to the suffering experienced by millions of innocent LGBTQ people over the last 2,000 years at the hands of his “followers”.
And this was 3 years ago. Can you imagine this same speech today? The world has gotten even more divisive. I appreciate his sincere position of caring and showing compassion. You can be compassionate without agreeing with people who go against church doctrine. And he surely is. Yes, I attended BYU 50 years ago. Simpler times for sure, and a wonderful experience.
As a bisexual member of the church I am so glad that Elder Holland has said these things. I know the struggles that come with same sex attraction. It is real and extremely difficult to deal with at times.
But this I know, that he is an Apostle of the Lord and I sustain him! I know some may not like what he has said. But it only because you do not understand the Doctrine of Christ.
Living and keeping my covenants brings me immense peace and joy that I cannot find anywhere else! 💜 I know that there is a difference between love and lust. I know that true love comes from righteousness…and that true love is bound with the sanctity of marriage. Between a man and a woman. Who need one another, we are unique and different for a reason. I know this to be true without a doubt!
You need to get far far away from the church while you still can
This made me cry. I really hope one day you can love and accept yourself for who you are. You don’t need to feel shame. You are wonderful and accepted by so many. Being yourself, being free….chase that. Please.
You’re awesome, and thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much for your honest comment! You are so amazing for staying strong and continuing with what you know is right! I hope that you can find peace and comfort through all of your struggles :)
Though it does cause struggle, I don’t think that being bi-sexual typically exposes you to the things that types of struggles that a gay man or woman deals with in the church. You have choices that can lead to a much more fulfilled life than the church tries to offer to someone who is never supposed to marry or have children.
I have been a close student of Elder Holland's life, words and works over the past 20 years. It was his words that rescued me during the darkest and most challenging time in my life. At a time when I was just trying to hang on to hope, I downloaded every speech he ever gave as president of BYU and listened over and over again - some more than a dozen times. I felt the Spirit so strongly as I listened and tried to apply his words to my own life. His deep love for and certain witness of the Savior, coupled with his masterful teaching brought me closer to Christ, who saw me through the darkness until the light came again. I love him. I stand by him. He is a true messenger. And, by the way, he has also been a true friend to our LGBTQ brothers and sisters - he has shown the way in hearing, loving, and reaching out to this community. Anyone who has studied his words will know this. Thank you Elder Holland.
@Tyler G Below is the extent of what he said about the valedictory message. I did not feel this was an "attack" on the student or the message (which I agree was uplifting and faith-promoting). My take on Elder Holland's statement, addressed to the faculty, was that he was concerned that about allowing individualism to prevail at a ceremony meant to represent the entire student body. The student's message was pre-approved by a high-ranking faculty member.
Elder Holland's words:
If a student commandeers a graduation podium intended to represent everyone getting diplomas that day in order to announce his personal sexual orientation, what might another speaker feel free to announce the next year, until eventually anything goes? What might commencement come to mean-or not mean-if we push individual license over institutional dignity for very long? Do we simply end up with more divisiveness in our culture than we already have? And we already have far too much everywhere.
@Tyler G ears that can't hear, eyes that can't see...evident in your response
@Tyler G beware of pride, Tyler; it’s the adversary’s best tool. Even our Savior submitted His will to His Father’s.
Beautifully said! Thank you!!! ❤
@@johnw4619 well said thank you! Besides...the last thing I want to hear about when I go to a graduation, or any other public situation is someone's sexual orientation! Talk about awkward! I have friends and family who are gay or have children who are gay and I could not care less about it. I just want them to be content. It's none of my business and neither is it anyone elses! Sex is not a topic in polite conversation. It shouldn't be brought up in a public forum. When did that change?
I have no idea why this message has been attacked with such vitriol. It was absolutely beautiful, as usual from Elder Holland. There was nothing hostile in this sermon whatsoever. Criticism aimed toward this message simply goes to show that those eager to erode the church will only hear what they want to hear and will twist and contort any message to fit their own wroth filled narratives. Clearly this quote (also an Elder Holland quote) applies:
"Sadly enough, my young friends, it is a characteristic of our age that if people want any gods at all, they want them to be gods who do not demand much, comfortable gods, smooth gods who not only don’t rock the boat but don’t even row it, gods who pat us on the head, make us giggle, then tell us to run along and pick marigolds."
Deuteronomy 6:4 King James Version
4 Hear, O Israel: *The Lord our God is **_ONE_** Lord:*
Isaiah 44:6 King James Version
6 Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his redeemer the Lord of hosts; *I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.*
ONE God.
Yeah, all of us do not like to be called out for doing things we shouldn't be doing. As a Liberal Arts student at BYU, I can see that this talk hit a very real issue at BYU on the head. I am upset at the more Socially Liberal attitudes (such as on the LGBT issue) I have perceived in BYU's Liberal Arts. It makes sense to me that those called to repentance by this talk would take issue with it.
Whats wrong with a Lord who wants us to pick marigolds? If we were as a people more concerned with the picking of marigolds than condemning a boy and his graduation speech, I believe we'd have a healthier and kinder people.
Says “I can’t imagine anything I could add” and then goes on to add one of the most powerful messages ever.
As a member of the faculty at BYU, I wholeheartedly endorse Elder Holland's much needed reminder about what this university and its faculty are to be about, what the sacred mission is, and why it all matters. I wish all of my colleagues and fellow saints felt the same way, it deeply saddens me that they don't. Still, most do and most were heartened, strengthened, and encouraged to greater effort to contribute to the building up of the kingdom of God in the classroom, the laboratory, and the world. Elder Holland is guilty of nothing more than teaching the truth, obeying God, following the prophet, and loving all of God's children. To suggest otherwise is to defame the man, to mangle his words, and mislead others.
Your faithfulness made the world of difference to my daughter who attended several of your psychology classes. Your class/teachings gave her increased strength to stand for truth. Thank you Dr. Gantt!
Thank you for your devotion.
@@James-rf8ee You mean the 5 sentences?
You are right. Elder Holland is guilty of nothing except teaching the truth and obeying God…..The same thing they crucified Jesus for.
I too have heard from friends that stated that they just wanted to graduate as quickly as they could to get out for frustrations of the pressures BYU professors were putting on those that did not side with change and the ideas of the world. It made me sad to hear as I feel all of our Heavenly Father's children should be able to study and grow in knowledge and learning without distractions or fearing that their grades will suffer academically because they don't share the same views as the professor or the world.
Thankyou elder Holland. Courage is needed today to stand up for something and he has that courage. It would be so much “easier” for the church to go the way the majority want to hear in the world. It takes courage to be different. It takes courage to give this kind of talk
What an absolutely amazing talk. I believe it was Jesus’s talk, just delivered by Elder Holland. This man loves B.Y.U. more than anybody on the planet. What a humble, intelligent, wise, man of God. God bless you Elder Holland! And thank you for your remarkable delivery of Jesus’s talk. He would be proud of you.
26:29 "As near as I can tell, Christ never once witheld his love from anyone. But he also never once said to anyone, Because I love you, you're exempt from keeping my commandments. We're tasked with striking that same sensitive, demanding balance in our lives."
I don’t remember Christ talking about gay people.
@@jeffs.3348 not sure what point your trying to make but the term anyone means just that anyone
The point he's making is that Jesus never taught that being gay is wrong
@@koriel-in-real-life definitely not the point he’s making haha
The scriptures are clear about sexual relationships out side of the marriage of a man and women. Dont know what your point is but just because your gay doesn't mean your breaking God's law and doesn't mean your not loved by Christ. The scriptures are clear what is a sin and what isn't.
Just as poignant and perspicacious and needed now (Feb. 2024) as it was when given. I loved his inspired leadership in 1984 when I was a graduate student at BYU, and have been inspired for the last 40 years by his continued apostolic leadership, example of charity and kindness, and balanced by the courage it has taken to address the issues that are wounding this generation of God's children both in and out of the Church.
George Orwell said, "The further a society drifts from the truth, the more they will hate those that speak it." God always speaks the truth.
Are you saying he speaks for God? Because numerous prophets and apostles have told untrue stories or taught false things from the pulpit, including Elder Holland. I think George Orwell was speaking more towards people like Holland who speak hatefully and literally use violent Musket firing imagery to describe defending archaic ideals.
There is no evidence that God has ever spoken. Do you hate me for saying that?
@@IAmPeterCole he does because he is a prophet, seer, and revelator. That’s literally part of being an Apostle of Jesus Christ.
@@rachelczumaya2806 what are Elder Holland's prophesies?
Obviously he speaking for God, you have to have ears to hear.
I heard this talk stirred up much contention. After having listened to it, I can not imagine how people could interpret this offensively. It breaks my heart that So many people have been so perfectly deceived. So much so in fact that they see the world through lenses of hatred and think themselves tolerant...hatred toward anyone who does not believe the way they do or accept ideologies they do. The very acceptance they clamor for is a quality they refuse to offer to those with differing views. They can't fathom how a person can love another but at the same time not be accepting of a specific behavior; it's the old adage "love the sinner. Despise the sin." Some people are so far gone, that they can not see how such a doctrine could even be possible.
To all members of the church, and all men everywhere, do not be deceived by the world. Do not let their twisting of this great man's words lead you down a path of deception. There can be no peace in wickedness and there will be times we will need to stand with much boldness against it. But it was easy to see, for those who are not blinded by hatred, that this message was one of love and peace making and unity. Follow and give heed to the watchmen on the towers. They see far more than we are able to. Stay on the path that will lead you back to our Father. Do not be among the elect who are deceived by the adversary . Do not let the culture of the world fill your mind with distraction and deception and hate. There is far too much of that already surrounding us at every turn. The Lord expects us to be better...he NEEDS us to be better.
Elder Holland, you are loved and deeply respected by many. We, the faithful saints, support and sustain and pray for you!
In the name of jesus christ amen
YES YES YES…i love your response!!
@Tyler G grow up
@@arscheerio that’s not very Christlike of you
I couldn't agree more! May we view this as a counsel and admonition from a loving apostle of God.
I heard so many bad things about this talk so I came to listen for myself. From what I read, I expected controversy and bigotry, but was surprised to hear only love. He defends truth and urges others to do so, but to do so with Christlike compassion. Really a beautiful talk.
Exactly
Exactly my thoughts.
I don’t get it either. The Spirit accompanied his speech I thought.
It’s those without the spirit and who want to create contention are the ones who can’t feel the love and spirit of his talk. It’s no surprise.
You cannot say love someone while actively harming them.
This talk was a pivotal moment for my family. Elder Holland’s message provided such clarity on subjects that had been troubling mine and my wife’s minds for months leading up to this. Thank you Elder Holland! And thanks be to God for modern prophets!!
Thanks for sharing!
I have been seeing distressing comments by those who consider leaving the Church but wonder where they would go. Simon Peter asked the same question in John 6. Then he answered his own question. "66 ¶ From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God."
Peter chose to stay. Was he perfect in his discipleship? No. None of us are. But even after denying Jesus, Peter still knew Christ is the source of eternal life and so he did his best to follow the Son of God and to bring others to the Savior.
One of the most common tactics of abusers is to tell the person they're abusing that they don't have anywhere to go, that no one else will take them in. This is false and manipulative, and there are strong, loving communities and support groups ready to take people in when they leave the church.
@@koriel-in-real-life So now you will even call the holy scriptures abusive. The truth is hard to hear for those who reject the teachings of the Lord. The cry of repentance that Jesus told His disciples to raise is called abuse. No one is using force. You can follow your own conscience. Any good member will support you in defining your own life. But radicalized members have no right to try and force the church to conform to their views.
@@joybischoff9558 I'm not calling the scriptures abusive. I'm calling people that use that argument to keep people from leaving the church abusive.
@@joybischoff9558 Also, did you see my response on that other comment in regards to Brigham Young?
@@koriel-in-real-life The point is to do the best we can to stay close to the Savior who pleads for us to come to Him and receive eternal life. He (and those who follow Him) will "take us in" for “He inviteth them ALL to come unto him and partake of his partake of his goodness; and he denieth NONE that come unto Him, black and white, bond and free,. . . all are alike unto God." 2 Ne 26:33
Will we let Him gather us into His loving arms and heal us or will we go somewhere else?
Regarding “Trowel and Musket” analogy - I did not find it difficult whatsoever to understand the obvious symbolism. The trowel represents progress, labor, and building the gospel of Christ. The musket represents the defense of Christs gospel and all Christian principles from attackers who would try to twist, bend, and distort the doctrine. Has His gospel ever NOT been under attack? Isn’t it under attack now more than ever? How can anyone possibly criticize an apostle of Jesus Christ for not being PC enough, when he’s so diligently and sincerely fulfilling his call to warn us and inspire us to defend the truth and doctrine that is under attack in The gospel. I loved this address and I love this apostle. I wouldn’t change a single word.
It's just a little hurtful that he moved into the topic with symbolic violence instead of love. I can see where people misinterpret.
He should have told the faculty and students HOW to support gay students; how to help them feel loved instead of alone.
What would happen if the Taliban made a similar analogy about America?
@@nebulan people are not misinterpreting. They are seeing his words exactly as he states them
@@Glen.Danielsen I didn't make an analogy. Holland did and I asked, what if Taliban made the same analogy in defending itself from America. How would you feel?
@@Glen.Danielsen the church is the victim, claiming the need to defend itself.
Thank you for putting words to the feelings that many of us are having.
Thank you for tuning in and for your comment!
@@churchnewsroom It's really sad that you censored all comments that were critical of this speech. But not surprising.
@@tylerg3605Tyler, brother of Liberal lash, secularist fist: please consider that no UA-cam channel host is under obligation to let their Comments space be used for someone’s propaganda. The Church will watch over their platform to guard it from wordwaste that will taint the Saints. That’s why UA-cam has controls for hosts. There are Liberal sites and YT channels that will roll with you. You know who they are. Go to them to spit phlegm. Rabid dog with stark bark, foul growl, flared nostril: why not rescind send, repent of what was sent!
Be blessed, have peace.
@@tylerg3605 since your comment is still here, pretty sure they didn't.
I've listened to mainly criticism about this talk. And that it was ..........whatever. Once any organization tries to tackle a subject that is very complex and not easy to understand. When my best friend and brother told me back in 1985 that he was gay, I was shocked, I was raised in the Church, but at this time in my life,I was as inactive as you could be ! But,I asked my friend a few questions and then left and went home to talknabput this with my 17 year old wife ,who at 16 ,and I 18 ,she was pregnant and I had officially left the Church for about 2 years. I was on my way to lots of painful lessons I could have avoided, if in had stayed an active member,but at that time, I saw no one to turn to,but was I really looking? Back to my best friend ,he called me the next day to ask if I hated him for what he told me,I said ,you are like my brother and best friend, why would that change because of what you told me ,he cried, we were playing in heavy metal bands and he hadn't told anyone this ,except me. I asked him to please try and explain why or whatever being gay meant ,why was he,etc. We had many long talks ,and cried a lot together. I think I know a little about it,but really ,not that much, it turned out I was friends with a lot of gay people, male and female ,and they all knew I liked or loved them for who they were, not anything about what they did ,but because we were friends, and later when I came back to church ,I assured them nothing has changed. I still feel the same,its the world that makes it a much more difficult and unnecessary, contention filled LABEL! People are not labels , they are all children of the same Father in Heaven ,just stop there and be kind to everyone. I find a lot of this unnecessary. There is nothing wrong with this talk.if you really understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ, then this is still just another part of your and others time on this earth, and dealing with the Advisary. My brother ,who was so afraid to tell me about himself,is now in the Spirit world ,and I did his Temple work for him after years of him appearing in dreams, asking me for help, and I'm glad I did ,I could feel him next to me as I was baptized for him. Since that time, he has not come back ,but is learning about the Gospel, on the other side of the veil, and that is what everyone who has eyes to see and ears to hear,should keep in mind .
He may well be studying with my dad, who felt, in the months before his impending death from complications associated with ALS, that his next assignment would be something like that of a mission president. My dad’s professional training as a taxonomic (or, as he called it, evolutionary) botanist never got in his way of turning to the Lord for direction and guidance, especially around his family. And as a scientist, he was specially equipped to consider “alternative hypotheses,” explanations he had not considered before. What we ourselves do not struggle with, we cannot honestly say we understand. How then can we criticize, much less condemn, anyone who does struggle with it? Some things we cannot condone, but we are not equipped to stand as judges over ANY infinite-and infinitely complex-eternal soul. We are commanded to love one another. And that is not to help God. It is to help us.
There is absolutely nothing complex about this matter.
@@dherman0001 there is nothing complex about what is right and what is wrong . But trying to figure out the reasons, which some are simply ..... well, not hard to figure out, and some are, and I'm only referring to homosexuality, a term that people have seemed to have forgotten. The trouble started when leaders start to use the politically correct terms, I think that was the first ,but I understand why,they are being compassionate, trying to show love for all Gods children. But I think you should simply stick to what it is ,and nothing as far as policy has changed, but when people start standing up and announcing they are........whatever ,that is a label they put on themselves, don't, keep it simple and there will be no misunderstanding. That is not complex.
@@dherman0001 also, President Oakes said ,if we are not careful ,this church will politically correct itself out of existence! That to is not complex.
What a sacred experience. Thank you for sharing! 🙏🏻❤️
Elder Holland, as a gay member of the Church, thank you for what you said! I am so saddened to see so many members falling to the deceptions of Satan because of the very effective propaganda of the LGBT and Pride movement. I am gay myself but want nothing to do with those movements. God is the one who saves me, and He asks me to lose myself and take up my cross and follow Him.
Thanks for sharing this brother.
Yours is the " Alphabet Cross" to carry. I hope you understand the tremendous efforts by this man to find the way to best help you find your own way back to the Lord. It does not matter if you are not in the streets rioting, you have chosen to be part of that movement that goes against everything the Plan of salvation and the Lords gospel stands for, hence the pain of Elder Holland and his still confirmation: " Christ never once withheld His love from anyone, but He also never said to anyone, because I love you, you are exempt to keep my commandments". I truly hope you take advantage of the power of repentance without delay. All the love in the church cannot replace your part(repentance). There is not such a thing as a "gay member of the Lord's church" ... don't fall for that lie... in the end, you know you will have to choose to be either "gay" or a " member of the Lord's church" ... I sincerely pray for you to join us at the saints side for eternity... you have already done this in our pre-existance ... you have already once walk the tough road following Christ... turn around and come back fully...we are waiting for you with confidence and hope.
@@herlysarmiento9863 homophobia at its finest
I’m really sorry that you can’t live your truth because this church brainwashed you.
@@thundersmacksss3712 "your truth" is the greatest embodiment of moral relativism. In case you didn't know, moral relativism is absolutely a teaching of Satan. And that's true whether you're LDS or Catholic or Protestant. "your truth" is treating yourself like a God and ignoring the God who created you. I stepped away from the church for a while and had multiple boyfriends. I chose to come back and repent. So I would hardly say I'm brainwashed. But hey, enjoy your Satan worship. May God have mercy on you.
Neil A Maxwell in a similar talk said' "If BYU does only that which other colleges and universities do, then we don't need it".
Woah. Yeah. I guess it is a place for the people that don't fit in to modern society! Due to bigotry and the love of rules as far as I can tell.
Why do we need it at all? It’s been a pretty harmful school for many people.
We don't need it.
@@EricJonesadventure You got that right! The church loves to make their rules when there is something the members are uncomfortable with. Look what they did to the blacks and the excuses they used in why they could not hold the priesthood. I guess they did not take into consideration that Joseph Smith approved of Elija Able being ordained to the priesthood. The church does a lot of flip flopping for sure!
Yes we don't need a school that promotes gunfire on homosexuality in modern day America
BYU gave me some great & poignant spiritual, social, educational & personal experiences & memories that have
Helped me for the 40 years since
And gave me friends that have helped me along that long too.
BYU gave me an anchor of hope for a better day, &
Gave me a view of the possibilities
A forever zion can be even through
Struggling to overcome the many adversities that constantly try to beset me From time to time.
I would die for this man and everything he stands for. I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints is the Lord's true and living church here on earth and that our Church leaders are called, ordained and given the keys to lead in these the last dispensation of the world.
I stand with you Elder Holland!
I stand with you bother Taylor.
I’m with you 100 %
You would die for homophobia, purity, and shame culture that causes thousands to hate themselves so much they commit suicide and millions more proven irreparable damage.
I wonder if you ever think about kids like my nephew who wound up blowing his brains out in a church parking lot because he was gay and could never have a place in the celestial kingdom. Probably not.
I listened to every word of this exquisitely composed and graciously delivered devotional address.
He appropriately expressed and implored all to embrace Christian love and respect toward our LGBT brothers and sisters, while sensitively proclaiming Eternal truths regarding the Great Plan of Happiness.
I judge his sermon to be a masterpiece of understanding and balance relative to the chosen subject.
I invite all to prayerfully consider his words in the context of one who is uniquely qualified to address all facets of this subject material.
Love all, serve all, speak truth in kindness.
Home run, Elder Holland!
Thank you. Please fight for the bridge.
@@dherman0001 you are exactly part of the reason why LGBTQIA+ kids, youth, and adult members are taking their lives. Do better. Be better.
@@harryhenderson2479 They are choosing to take their lives because the Godless leftist false promises of the rewards of indulging in sin only leads to more sin and compounding guilt.
And you are selling that sin as a cure for Christ, encouraging the guilt, bringing on the despair.
@@harryhenderson2479 You're a parrot repeating Godless leftist dribble. Do better, be better!
@@dherman0001 go watch Matt Easton’s story on YT. I promise you it’s not “leftist” influence.
I am so proud of Elder Holland...I have piece in my soul as I listen to his talk...I truly have a testimony of what true prayer and faith as my partner and I prayed daily together on our knees and ask humbly if our relationships was wrong in the eyes of our lord Jesus christ...we both at this time made a physical sacrifice not to have a physical relationship as we re seeking the truth for us...not what man says..but what our lord could only answer...it was almost 2yrs before that was shown to her and i...today. we have such love for each other we never new was possible...Sister harper read the book of Mormon and is now baptized...we are sisters in christ ....not partner s in sin...she is my best friend and I now know how confused satin tried to twist our relationship into sin..I stand proud a reborn retired lesbian...lol..and I'm so proud of the 360 change we both have made in changing our hearts for the knowledge Jesus christ blessed us with the truth.. Thank for your love !nd prayers..Sister Dawn Michelle. BEATTY
I'm glad you were able to take the bend of your eyes. It is only our Savior Jesus Christ who helps His children to walk the road in this life.
. . . peace
ok?? and should those that don’t find that comfort in the church and the gospel stay? if they feel alienated and alone do they just have to push through it until they die? not having the same joy and peace in the church as their counterparts? i used to have so much comfort in the church until i found out things about it and the people involved and now i’m so much happier believing what i know now is right. all the comfort i could ever need i have with my family and my pride in how far i’ve come.
@@sammyj2424 Glad you have found the right peace for you, brother Sam. Maybe the Church is not for you. Still, maybe keep an open mind. Never say never, valued brother. When you can, talk to God. 💛🙏🏼
Respect!
There have been times when I have felt that life’s burdens were heavy and driving me into the dirt. Your special words and love have always picked me up, dusted me off, and sent me on my way. Your truly an Apostle of the Lord and cannot thank you enough for your service! Thank you, I love you Elder Holland! I love and sustain all of you from President Nelson down to the very nursery leaders! Thank you, Thank you!
I love all his speeches and talks. This was a great talk. I sustain Elder Holland.
Thank you Elder Holland for your wonderful message. We love you and sustain you as an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Thank you elder dodo we sustain you as the last crying dodo who denies science and professors their retirement for not denying science and showing cristlike love for students. Good job Davey you should be ashamed of yourself.
@@44dton screw off mate
@@purpleboye_ and THIS is Christlike talk. Didn't you learn, if you can't say something nice, don't say nothing at all?
@@Iamaldswoman I was replying to Denton and so should you
@@purpleboye_ maybe you were. Telling him to do that, IS what I was talking about. If you can't something nice, don't say anything!
I am a graduate of Brigham Young University, MFA 1995. I stand with the leadership of our church, and the decisions they make regarding the things Elder Holland discussed in his address. While I have friends who think very differently than what the standards of the Gospel are, and have chosen a life with a same sex partner, I stand with our Prophet and his associates. May BYU remain faithful to the standards of the gospel. May BYU remain a vital part of our education system. May all who attend and teach at BYU realize what it is they are a part of. Thank you Elder Holland for your forthrightness. There is a place for people who think and feel differently than what Elder Holland has talked about, and it is not at BYU. I mean no disrespect to anyone by that, only that there needs to be a separation between the things of the world, and the standards of the Church and our Lord's Gospel.
"May BYU remain faithful to the standards of the gospel." What gospel and whos gospel? The LDS church has its own gospel and its not the same as the one taught by Christ in the Bible. Sure, the LDS faith has some of the Gospel but they mingle it with the teachings of men. To me, the gospel of Christ can be summed up into Loving ones neighbor as them self. Would the LDS church leaders treat the gay community as they do if they truly viewed them as they do their self? Would the church had band the priesthood from the blacks if the church leaders of the day had truly viewed black people as they do them self? The answer is No.
I am a graduate of BYU (bachelors and masters) and a former instructor there, and I wholeheartedly denounce Jeff Holland's words, as they do not come from a place of love or charity. If we are really wanting to invoke "the gospel" here, then we should be focusing on the two most important commandments. Inflammatory and negative rhetoric towards LGBTQ+ people, and trying to recast who they are as a "lifestyle," is antithetical to loving your neighbor as yourself.
@@dacarroll88 Sorry... you've got it backwards. May God bless you on your journey. ❤
After hearing so much about this talk, I figured I’d come and listen. I’m glad I did. The Spirit of love and kindness was so present as He proclaimed what so many of us believe, yet have a hard time expressing without hurting others. Such a difficult subject for so many, but is important to hear.
I wonder if you would feel that same love and kindness from this talk if you were gay. Or maybe if you were Matt Easton. After two years of that incident evidently festering, Holland finally got it off his chest. Didn't feel so loving to me. Watch what they do, not what they say, or even the tearful, heartfelt way they say it. Love is an action, not "heartfelt" emotion. Maybe the leaders could do something more about suicide among LDS gay teens since it's the church policies that have caused so much despair (although, admittedly, it is better than it was a couple decades ago). I can tell you for sure that the church's policies on gays are not authored by the God I worship. On that we can both agree. Since He made them this way, maybe this is all about us (straight church members), not them. Maybe you and I and Elder Holland are all on trial. And one more quick response to your final comment. This is not a difficult subject at all. It's super easy. Just accept gay people as they are, unconditionally and in every way, then it's a non-issue. We gave blacks the priesthood. Now let's give gay people the same full rights and privileges in the church that us straight people have, no difference between us and them, just like blacks. I'm pretty sure (I would bet my life on it) that that's what the unconditionally loving God that I worship does. The church is the one with the problem, not the LGBTQ community.
@@bradflinders4302 Gays already can have everything blacks and all members of the church have. They just have to live the law of chastity like the rest of us.
@@jeremysmith9694 You can't be serious. So this is all about gays living the law of chastity and nothing else. Then what on earth are we talking about here? Ask the LDS LGBTQ community if that's all this is about, and I'm pretty sure you'll get an earful. Get real man. There is one, and only one question here, and we all keep skirting around it. Does God fully accept gays for who and what they are or not? And I mean fully. And if not, then why did He make them this way? We'll never know God's stance for sure until we get to the other side, but my money is on unconditional love and acceptance. Unconditional means there are NO conditions. Not even one. Like I said above, I am quite certain (and I'm sure you'll agree) that you and I don't believe in the same God. But mine is for sure nicer. Oh, and one other thing. If this is solely about the law of chastity, then why don't we just let them get married? Problem solved. The "challenge" or "difficulty" is not with gays. It's with the church.
@@bradflinders4302 You think that gays are the only ones born with problems? You think they're the only people who struggle conforming to the teachings of the church?
I don't think God does place conditions on His love. But He clearly places conditions on full membership in His church. He clearly has rules that all of us have to follow. If you don't want to follow Him then don't. You think a parent is more loving if they give no rules to their children? The law of chastity isn't about marriage. It's about marriage between man and a woman. So they still are not living the law of chastity if they get married.
@@bradflinders4302 Unconditional love and acceptance for individuals means something different to you than it does to God, I think. I would never harm anyone, and I know that God loves you perfectly. You are His son. However, same-sex relationships, even so-called same-sex "marriage," can never fit in God's plan because they are by definition a biological and geneological dead-end. (Neither can ANY non-covenental sex fit in His plan, btw. They are against His laws.)
God's work and His glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal lives of man--His children. Part of our test here is to see if we are truly willing to help in His work and His glory, partly by being willing to live by His laws of marriage and family AND by being willing to have children.
This is true even if, because of various challenges (whether it be same-sex attraction, or lack of opportunity, or health challenges, or whatever) we do not get a chance to have children in this life. Even in the Eternities, with perfect bodies, there is NEVER a chance for a homosexual relationship to produce children. Like I said, it is a dead-end.
God's plan is all about families, ancestors, parents, children, seed, generations, all sealed together in one eternal family, with no insurmountable dead ends. This is clear all throughout the history of the earth, through all the scriptures, through all prophecies of the eternities. Homosexuality is not part of God's design for His children. Nor is homosexual sex lawful in His eyes.
This law cannot be protested out of canon, despite all earthly wailing and gnashing of teeth of those suffering painful challenges now. Yes, love is important, and God's unconditional love for you surpasses your understanding. Christ will wipe all tears from your eyes, too. He does truly know best.
Thank you, Elder Holland. I loved BYU, loved that I obtained a wonderful education there, with God and Jesus Christ at the center. I'll be forever grateful for BYU.
Jeffrey R. Holland may become president of the church in the future.
As a life long member of the church I’m so thankful to be taught pure doctrine by Elder Holland who teaches as Christ would teach. Thank you Elder Holland.
Jeffrey R. Holland may become president of the church one day.
It was an honor to attend beloved BYU. I should not have been accepted and had severe sins but it was there that I quickly and sincerely repented. The Spirit is tangible there. My gratitude is eternal.
I love this man, this apostle of Jesus Christ, his family, his brave wife. Everything he feels, says and portrays has the countenance of our Savior.
I love elder Jeffery R. Holland, and I sustain him. He is a true apostle of Jesus Christ.
Another person who has never read the bible. He literally wearing an out fit from 2 different cloths. Stop reading the Book of Mormon and read the bible and see how Jesus really behaved.
Agreed brother. No matter what anyone else says we will sustain the brethren of the church
Thank you, Elder Holland. You are truly an apostle of the Lord, Jesus Christ, and you speak the truth with love, sensitivity and power just as the Savior would.
6
I started at BYU in 1966. What I learned at BYU has been written on my heart! My testimony grew and my love of the Savior. Elder Holland I love BYU so much let’s not let it fall from its might goal. Come forth to learn. Go out and serve.
Great talk president Holland. I pray that the faculty at BYU will take your message to heart and turn their muskets to defending the Church doctrine.
I will take my friends advice and turn my muskets to protecting people from the LDS church
@@getharryonsax As will I. With my last breath.
We need less musket fire, please!
Well said!
Well , im a convert of 44 years. And I also love hearing Elder Holland. Once at the ward I attend he gave all of us an apostolic blessing . That to this day has been a comfort that I rely on. If people do not care for the policies at B Y U , then I suppose they have the prerogative to chose one of the not so unique universities . I personally pray B Y U never changes. God bless you Elder Holland.
@@Cyrusmagi The way I look at is if you choose to go to BYU and you sign the honor code then you follow it. UVU is 10 miles from BYU and they don’t have a honor code.
@@shortsallyear8602why should anyone have to sign an honour code? Obviously BYU dont like students having free agency
@@Cyrusmagi You are incorrect you have free agency to go anywhere you would like to go. If you choose to go to BYU then you sign a honor code of your own free will. What I don’t understand is why would anyone go to a school that has a honor code that you don’t want to live?
@@Cyrusmagi because it’s a church school and a the honor code has always been a part of it??agency is COMPLETELY DIFFERENT from signing an honor code of your own free will, then breaking a rule it states. if you sign the honor code then you agree to its rules, breaking the rules is more than just “free agency”, it’s defiant and wrong. people have the agency to break whatever rules they want, that doesn’t make it right though.
@@shortsallyear8602 well when people are young they have a tendency to change their minds on many things via education and learning. If they do why should they have to move from the place of learning.
If people identify as lbgti why should they have had to leave the university of their choice or home. Plenty of hetro students at byu break codes and stay there!
The mention of a trowel in one hand and a revolver in the other goes back to the dedication of the Saints to the cause of finishing the Nauvoo temple after the exodus had begun. Joseph had been martyred and the pressure was on for the Saints to leave. Brigham knew he needed a covenant people and thus before leaving they began the covenant process and finished it with their lives in peril as they worked. Understand the history so they the quote makes sense. Stand true to the covenants. President Holland is urging BYU to stand for their principles.
Yes!!!
X
They worked with a trowel in one hand and revolver in another since their lives were in peril. In the eye of persecution they stayed true to their principles and completed their tasks.
It could also be that it took time for Brigham to consolidate power and discredit Emma Smith before finding new territory to settle.
0
Thank you Elder Holland!
I appreciate people like Elder Holland who dare to focus on the importance of building and maintaining the guard rails of the path. There will always be critics who are quick to take offense-instead substituting views that disproportionately focus exclusively on the spiritual trauma care for those who get mangled by the fall from the Gospel path.
As a trauma surgeon, I am especially grateful for those that prioritize and teach principles of wisdom that keep people safe. Only distantly secondary in comparison should be my role in treating injuries that too often result from actions that disregard that protective wisdom. But love be to all, regardless of choice or circumstance.
They needed this. My daughter was in a class where the professor advocated abortion. My daughter was so shocked and angry. It's time to clean out the mess.
Yep, it is honestly crazy how it has gotten. It’s the church’s school, so it’s time for the university to align itself more closely to it
@@James-rf8ee Not intellectually challenged by killing their faith, at a school paid for by the faithful donations of tithing funds of the Church. Seriously. And a spot at BYU is SO rare these days. It is SO hard to get in, the competition is so fierce. You need near a 3.8 GPA and around a 27 on the ACT to be considered. BYU should NOT be a place where ANY testimonies go to die. BYU should be where we can safely send our children to LEARN WISDOM, OUT OF THE BEST BOOKS. Not to learn any form of Marxism, out of the mouths of liars. That is what my daughter experienced and had to fight last term. There is SO MUCH that can be taught, so many different opinions, so many wonderful things to learn, that do not contradict the Prophets. Those dingbats in the faculty who feel it necessary to teach from the great and spacious building need to be kicked out of BYU NOW.
@@James-rf8ee no one said not to have a different opinion. But BYU is the university the Lord wanted, for a particular reason. Abortion is a whole different subject
Did the professor advocate for abortion, or did the professor advocate for a woman's right to choose what happens to her body?
Pro-Choice does not mean Pro-Abortion.
Pro-Choice means that no matter what your personal feelings or beliefs about abortion are, you understand it is not your place to make a decision for another woman about what she can and can't do with her body.
Religion should be kept out of politics. If you don't want an abortion, don't get one. Freedom of religion is "hey that's against my religion so I can't do that." NOT, "hey that's against my religion so YOU can't do that."
@@James-rf8ee And I am sick of persons thinking they have to right to force their religion and beliefs onto others.
Religion should be kept out of politics. If you don't want an abortion, don't get one. Freedom of religion is "hey that's against my religion so I can't do that." NOT, "hey that's against my religion so YOU can't do that."
Thank you, President Holland for this well needed heart felt message. I too loved BYU it has made an eternal impression up on me.
Wonderful and Powerful speech from Elder Holland, as usual!
Thanks for listening!
Love you Elder Holland!!!! No matter what people say, I personally know you care so much about everyone no matter what they choose in life! I trust you & the Lord! I know we are in the mists of a great divide that even happening within members of this church! I know this has been prophesied to happen in the final days before Christ returns! I pray for your safety and health and your heart!
I'm proud of your great faith, Stephanie. 🤗
Amen!!!!!
Stephanie salzar the church the one you belong to has been divided since its very early days of conception if you learn of its history and stop seeing it through Rose tinted glasses.
Even Joseph Smith stopped looking through his urim and thumin glasses preferring his familar (seer)stone.
@Macbook Lifestyle have you really dived headlong into the church history.?? Or are you just saying this to gain some credibility.
Have you sought the real truth of matters before recent times of the many youtube sites , many which are constructive but some i agree are just hype.
Actually i had my opinions and suspicions a long time before the likes of the CS letters.
Much of my source reference came from the book ,discourse of Brigham Young, miracle of forgiveness, marvellous work and wonder. Also various priesthood manuals. Church handbooks for bishops.
Boyd k packer himself!
Spencer w kimballs wife and her quotes!
These sources inthe main but also some passages of the book of mormon!
As to a moral framework which i work to is my own view of what i think is acceptable, what i think is possible, what i think is a lie or just a perception?
If you still have a faith in Christ thats a good thing.
If you got it through you studying and praying about a book describing events of history great. Many do also from books of the bible.
Some even have a great faith in Christ from the early words of Mohammed.
Its not the source that is so important but the figure and communative powers of Jesus himself thats whats important.
Did he rise again
Do you know him
Does he know you!
Ps what subject of the lds church makes u feel persomally " let down" remember when something feels like a let down there is always a positive experience to gain out of it!
@@Cyrusmagi Like that other man, I also enjoy learning about the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I refuse to accept the bad information and the faulty conclusions of people who try to subvert the Church of Jesus Christ. The "CES Letter" isn't helpful. It is crucial that we receive truth from God, which is what the Book of Mormon and living prophets encourage us to do. If you expect perfection from prophets, you're bound to be disappointed, but the true, restored Church of Jesus Christ does carry on God's work in our time and it blesses the lives of millions of people. Some of its members rely on faith as God desires and don't have the ability to do much Church history research. Some of us can research more, but we find that historic detail are not vital, whereas our faith in Jesus Christ and the revelation we receive from God is vital.
I love him and support him as I do all our living apostles!!!
Elder Holland’s words offend Satan.
Indeed, as well as everyone who lists to obey him; liberals/progressives/leftists/LBGT/Gay/etc..
Love you Elder Holland! This talk was amazing, filled with love for the whole human race. Now I know what the pure love of Jesus Christ is like. Thank you so much!
Jeffrey R. Holland may become president of the church one day.
I love you, Elder Holland! Your talks have been ones to lift me up for years. Thank you!
I love Elder Holland. He is a absolute rock!! Nothing wavering. I understood his talk, I heard it through my heart and the spirit. He spoke the truth as Jesus would if he was standing right there. I sustain him and applaud him for his honesty and his love for everyone. God bless you Elder Holland. God bless BYU and all serving there 🙏♥️🙏 Amen.
Elder Holland never disappoints! He is a true prophet. willing to defend the faith, whether popular or not.
Absolutely!
LGBTQ+ kids and adults are killing themselves every month here in Utah. Is this popular? Wake up.
Thank you Elder Holland for your Heartfelt Testimony of the Sacredness of Brigham Young University. I’m proud to be an Graduate , at age 49, of this great University.
Thank you Elder Holland. I have had so many concerns. My son graduated from BYU a few years ago and he had many experience - specifically a rather hard one in a sociology class - that were really frustrating. He kept repeating to me over the many years he was there that BYU was getting messed up in stuff he was thought he wouldn't have to deal with while there. He actually has told his younger sister to NOT go to BYU - don't waste her time. It's been hard to learn of all the things going on that are not in line with the gospel. Thank you for addressing the deviation so many academic minds at BYU have made. Thank you for reminding us all the mission of BYU is to be unique in the way we stay true to gospel teachings - no matter what the world preaches. Thank you for bravely addressing how BYU has fallen into some of the philosophies of the world and urging all to re align teaching back to the gospel basics - not the ideologies of the world. I expect there will be those that try to throw you under the bus for speaking the truth - those that take the truth to be hard. Remember there are so many more that are grateful for your words of encouragement that not only does leadership understand there are issues that need addressing, but that we can continue to have faith that BYU can still be a place of spiritual as well as academic learning without worldly views being forced upon our children. As a BYU graduate myself - I thank you for looking out for my Alma Mater. I hope it's not to late to root out the philosophies of man being taught to young minds.
I agree with you wholeheartedly. As alumni I’ve been shocked by the direction BYU has gone.
@@markpatterson4881 I have, too. I graduated 6 years ago and it's quite different even now. I sometimes feel so ashamed that I would like to remove my name completely from the alumni lists.
@@James-rf8ee R U Serious?!? When?? How was this legal?!
@@Naturefan354 James doesn’t respond. He just copy pastes the same paragraph on every and any feed that he can. He lies by omitting other details about what is ultimately electro shock therapy that was very popular in the era he refers to. Many colleges and other psychological entities used electro shock therapy to try and change certain behaviors. One of those behaviors that a faculty member along with a student at BYU tested was trying to shock gayness out of gays by attaching electrodes to gay man balls and shocking them if they became aroused by gay porn or the like. It was not unique to BYU as James implies, and that’s why he is a liar.
Sounds like he has a persecution complex.
I love that he acknowledges that he will be attacked for speaking so boldly, and then continues to speak truth. What an example! Thank you Elder Holland!
Amen
Renegade Mormon here...this is why I joined the church in 1994 “against" my wife's wishes...I was admonished for intending to get close with Christ through the good LDS members whose hearts I still love greatly. We are one in the fellowship of the spirit, no matter how detached from the body that I have become.
thank you.
I’m still staying attached to the body and I love your comments, my brother. Best wishes to you and your family.
Thank you for this message brother
Elder Holland, I love you and I am so grateful for you and your testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ. You are truly an example of love for everyone and one to be followed. Thank you for all you do and stand for.
People that are upset at this sermon literally don’t believe in the scriptures. It’s that simple
Why did Elder Holland slander the gay valedictorian at BYU?
The young man got his speech pre approved. And the message was very faith promoting and briefly touched on his sexuality saying "at BYU I learned to love myself as a gay child of God."
That was it, but Elder Holland decided to slander him and attack that speech that brought so many faithful LGBT people at BYU comfort.
There is no justification for Holland's slander.
@Jeffrey, it is interesting you claim *other* people don't believe in scriptures. Do you?
What is God's definition of marriage? Is it one man + one woman or something else?
Genesis 2:24 KJV
24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
We love you and stand by you, Elder Holland!
There was nothing controversial about what he said. Too bad those who got offended are blinded by pride. Elder Holland is a great man and my favorite apostle. May the Lord continue to protect him.
How do you know they’re blinded by pride? How do you know their pain isn’t real?
@@kyliesmith729 I do know first hand of the burden that is carried by someone who is gay. My son who was 18 he had a long struggle with that. He is now gone, he committed suicide in 2018. I could have been angry with my Bishop and his counselors who only worked on lip service. Two months before my son Elijah passed away, the Bishop ran down to meet with my husband and I, just so happen we had no Stake assignments. We met with the Bishop, and he came asked us, “How can we help Elijah?” I had so many angry and negative thoughts going through my head. Fortunately I have such a great husband, and he had said to our naive young Bishop, “How about you and your counselors come together and pray on how you all can be inspired to help Elijah.” It was sad that many of our youth in our ward fell away during that Bishop’s tenure. Anyway, prior to Elijah’s passing, I really did not truly understand the Gift of the Atonement. We go through church hearing about the atonement, we hear in prayers that people are thankful for the atonement, but do they really understand it. One thing I was glad to say was that Elijah always stood up for the Church in its doctrines and principles that were taught, he always knew that to be true.
Sorry Kylie I pressed it to early and was not done. What I mean when it comes to pride. My husband and I alongside with our children serve wholeheartedly and with unconditional love. I would have been eaten up with pride, and that would not have been good for me and my family. What I had to do was constantly pray to ask for forgiveness because I seriously wanted to rip the Bishop another a......! That pride for me at that time was hatred, enmity toward the Lord’s servant. As I prayed every minute, because I also felt shame that maybe we were to hard as parents. We were not good parents. It was a quiet voice that told me this is not your journey, you are a part of Elijah’s journey, so his struggles are no more. I had to find solace, peace, and understanding. This is what Satan wants us to do. He wants us to pick a part Elder Holland’s words and turn it around to divide people. This is what is happening for us with the pandemic in our own ward. Creating division and hatred one towards another. I thank you for asking me my thoughts. You have a great day, May Heavenly Father continue to bless you throughout your journey. A hui hou, mahalo.
@@shawndellekamalani2960 thank you for sharing your story. My heart is with Elijah and your family. I am so sorry for his pain and for your loss. I can tell you have wrestled with this and that you have come to do what feels best for you. I do want to point out, that what was the right path for you may not be the right path for someone else. I am a gay ex-mormom and staying in would have never worked for me or brought me the kind of peace it brings you. That isn't to say that your experience is invalid, just that we are all on our own journeys. I found elder holland’s talk hurtful. I don't think that's pride. I'm not angry. I'm hurt. I don't feel seen. I don't understand how he can speak about how much he cries for the lgbtq community while not seeing that it's teachings from his own church causing the pain they are in. I agree that we need less divisiveness. I just struggle to see how the message of “lets love and support queer people.” is divisive. Isn't it more divisive to tell people not to have flags in BYU campus and not to come out? I don't think Holland is evil by any means, but I think we can acknowledge that elements of his talk were hurtful, at least to many of us.
@@kyliesmith729 Being from Hawai’i and being Hawaiian, many of our Ohana are gay and their struggles are real. My brother is gay, he is married and has a wonderful husband, who we dearly love. It is our free agency to agree and disagree with the General Authorities. As of right now I disagree with the General Authorities about being vaccinated. Why do they have to go on television to show that they took the vaccine. What I have come to know for myself is that are progression is an individual process. What I say to myself is they are still men. In the scriptures never trust in the arm of flesh. I ask you just make sure you have that personal relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Ask them to soften the hearts of the apostles and prophet. For us in Hawaii and our family members being gay we love them no matter what, we invite them to our kids baptisms, and other milestones in the church. My kids also invited them on zoom when they had to do talks. I feel I have known you for a long time. I am glad we got to connect. If ever you need an ear to listen or someone to vent to, please contact me. Aloha.
I support and sustain Elder Holland. Love this man so much! 💗
He just told the world he was a bigot! LISTEN to it again but being awake and an open mind.
@@TMorgansomeonespecial why are you so full of hatred?
@@TMorgansomeonespecial How is he a bigot?
@@TMorgansomeonespecial I don’t know how anyone could listen to this talk and come away with such a thought. I hope you can re-listen and better understand his message of love and concern for the welfare of everyone.
@@harrylongabaugh7402 So you are saying that I am full of hatred because I don't agree with Hollands comments? He and those that agree with him are the ones that need to repent. His comments were so harsh and insensitive and so unchristlike!
I have listened to this from Elder Holland a couple of times. I find his remarks full of love and based on a desire to connnect with everyone. From my understanding this has ruffled the feathers many of those he tried to connect with. Which leads me to feel that those who take offense at these remarks are baselessly choosing to do so.
2 And it came to pass that I said unto them that I knew that I had spoken hard things against the wicked, according to the truth; and the righteous have I justified, and testified that they should be lifted up at the last day; wherefore, the guilty taketh the truth to be hard, for it cutteth them to the very center. 1 Nephi 16:2
The student who was called out was in complete fidelity with the Code of Conduct and the Law of Chastity. It is not a sin to be gay, not in the Church or at BYU. The Church has called at least one gay man to be a bishop. This student's talk was in praise of BYU, a place where he could work continue the struggle to live by his faith. He did not commandeer the podium. He was speaking from it as the valedictorian for that particular graduation. What's more, he didn't go rogue. The speech he delivered was the same speech he submitted for approval. If you are condemning him, you are doing so baselessly. Get your facts straight.
Amen Rhett...simple, but well said!!!
Exactly
@@kafkaworkshere he didn't call the student out. He called the professors out for approving the talk.......listen to the talk again.
Beautiful, humble message…just as the Savior would speak to us. Thank you, Elder Holland. We love you so much!
Love this talk from Elder Holland. I admire his testimony and courage and love of all of his fellowmen in giving this talk. He had to know in advance that it would be controversially received. He shared a lot of love in this talk! I felt it!! ❤️ I am grateful for you Elder Holland for your constancy in upholding and teaching the Lord's will for us, His children. What is a truth or principle if it is not upheld? We must anchor ourselves to these principles in order to not succumb to the adversary! The challenge is bridging the gap of God's will and still being a welcome light for those who are given the challenge of same sex attraction. That challenge is bridged by love. And I hope all who feel uncertain by the Lord's message, delivered by Elder Holland this past week will approach this with the faith that they do have, and give Elder Holland, and those in the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve the benefit of the doubt. And hopefully we can all know and feel these courageous and loving leaders are doing as the Lord instructs them. They love us, and it is for our benefit they do teach us what they teach us. Obedience and love is their motivation, it seems to me. ❤️❤️❤️
Not everything leaders speak is the Lords message. When appropriate, and if the backlash is strong enough, they will be speaking as men.
What an uplifting comment! Thank you for your strength!
Hero Worship for everyone to observe... Jesus Christ
Part of the conflict I felt was a rift between other recent words given on same-sex attraction and how people are receiving what they think he said. The brethren are nothing if not consistent. So I knew he wasnt calling for violence or any ill feelings or actions against LGBTQ folks. With that knowledge I then knew I needed to read his actual words and not rely on ill placed and poorly used quotes. Having done so I have resolved my feelings and have also dispelled any confusion I may have had.
With respect, you and Elder Holland both referenced those who are given the “challenge” of same-sex attraction. Have you considered the fact that if the Holland and the LDS church truly treated the LGBT community with the same respect as heterosexual relationships, it would not be a “challenge”? In other words, the only reason it’s a challenge to LGBT is because the church holds this prejudice view, treating them like 2nd class citizens about something they were born with.
If you can't comply with the teachings of the Church, go teach or attend another school.
As simple as that
@Tyler G There are a multiplicity of reasons I am sure or Elder Holland would not have said that. Perhaps he felt a valedictorian’s talk was not the right situation for this information. I know of BYU parents who see BYU as becoming too much like the world. This idea is evidenced in Elder Holland’s talk.
@Tyler G These are such hard times. I love the gay individuals. I have a cherished one in my family, but I agree this was not the place for this topic. However, we all have our own opinions. I understand how you feel. I also understand how my daughter feels when she sends her daughter to BYU and is disappointed this talk was approved for a valedictorian address at BYU. President Holland’s comments make us wonder if this complete talk was preapproved. In the end, we have to pray for understanding if we feel conflicted. We don’t know all that goes on behind these statements.
@@barbaramosley9081 I love gay people and then you go on to spout bigotry. LDS is so unlike Jesus and the bible tells people not to wearing clothing out of 2 different cloths. This fake elder is doing exactly that he is no more Christian than Buddha was. If you have a daughter who is worried about consenting adults living their best lives and being happy maybe the cult is the problem not the person giving the talk. There was nothing wrong with the talk he gave, in fact it was full of church doctrine. This man is triggered because maybe he has unresolved sexual tendencies himself. I worry far more about fake elders being around children than Matt's talk.
@@neongirluk I understand your feelings. I love gay people too. I have a wonderful family member who is gay and I couldn’t love him more. I trust our Heavenly Father and his commandments though. I don’t take any offense from your heartfelt comments because I really understand how you feel. We each have to walk our own road in this life. Love going your way.
A fantastic talk and reminder of the special role BYU has in preparing youth to go forth and serve with love and faith.
I LOVE Elder Holland's sense of humor. He's so funny! :D
As a professor in the Communications Department, thank you, Elder Holland, for all that you have done for the Church, University, and the world.
You teach a useless degree.
@@LibertarianUSA1982 👈🏻 That's just like your opinion man
Thank you for speaking the truth!! It is heart breaking how one is demonized these days just for ones beliefs or opinions. No one has the courage to say what they believe anymore and stand up for their faith. I pray the leaders of the church will always have the courage to speak the truth no matter what pressure they may feel to bend to what is perceived as popular opinion.
They will. They are true followers of Christ.
"Musket fire. Yes, we will always need defenders of the faith." Holland may not mean actual physical violence against those who are LGBTQIA+ or are allies, but when he uses a firearm as a means of explaining what he means by defend...I don't know how you can see it for anything other than what it is, a call to use VIOLENCE against LGBTQIA+ to "defend the faith" if need be.
@Geminfaeri To support a man who has never preached anything but love and kindness for EVERY child of God is very easy. To malign, misrepresent and find the worst in comments made, invites a spirit of contention and negativity that I am interested in entertaining in my life. Please refrain from further spewing hate and negativity in your comments toward me.
@@Geminifaerie Have you heard of the term ‘wresting the scriptures’? If not, look up its meaning. This is what you are doing to Elder Holland’s words.
@@lizzylingual8906 This guy preached musket fire the very day that a lesbian couple was gunned down on their honeymoon in Utah. Utah has the 4th highest suicide rate among LGBT youth in the nation. My nephew was one of them. Your willful ignorance is what is helping keep the body count high. Blood is on Holland's hands and he doesn't care.
Thank you Elder Holland. We love and sustain you. Thank you for saying the unpopular thing that needs to be said and knowingly exposing yourself at the abuse of evil for the cause of Christ.
Unpopular? The majority of both the people who will hear this and the people of the world as a whole holds the same or harsher opinions of LGBTQ people as Holland and the Church of now or the past. Besides, most people who are opposed to what Holland is talking about are more hurt and afraid of what his words and the Church’s perpetuated views of the LGBTQ community might do, they are not looking to abuse someone.
@Macbook Lifestyle I guess I had two points.
He said that what Holland was saying and talking about was unpopular. Most of the people in the church and at BYU agree with him about LGBTQ people, as well as in the world. It is simply not an unpopular thing to say.
Second, he talked about how Holland was exposing himself to “the abuse of evil.” I brought up that the majority of people who would hear what he said and disagreed are not looking to attack or “abuse” anyone unjustly. Those who do disagree are hurt by what he said and are worried about what he words might do for not only LGBTQ people at BYU, but all over and around the Church.
This original comment is an example of persecution complex, which is very popular in modern Christianity and in Mormonism. It is when someone is convinced that the majority of people out there are against them and want to hurt them or their church. It comes from Christ and from apostles talking about how persecution is a sign of being righteous under God. Most people don’t know about the Church, and those who do don’t care about it much. The minority of people who care about the church don’t even persecute it that much, and those who do persecute the church often do so on justified grounds.
Does this help explain a little more?
Anyone who listens to this Great Apostle give this Great Heart Felt talk , and don’t hear an feel and see the sincerity of his truths….. the adversary has you right where he wants you.
Absolutely superb talk given by our beloved Elder Holland.
Listen with your heart not just your ears
🤔 if you don’t feel what I feel then you’re wrong? A beautiful hand reaching out to bridge the divide of believers and doubters. Thank you so much for your love and empathy
@@mikerowe3776 I don't see them saying "you're wrong", but rather giving a warning. Whether or not it's effective probably depends on individuals.
Jay Britton Fisher agree that perspective is everything. Always comes down to how someone is viewing the world. For me, when someone makes a comment that suggests that if I don’t see what they see then the adversary has me…well I personally view that as not very empathetic and kind. It’s a very black and white Steve stance which I actually understand. I was there once.
So although I appreciate what you’re saying that it’s a warning nothing more, I can’t see it that way. I see someone saying that I either believe and feel the way they do or I’m wrong and in this specific case apparently in Satan’s grasp. For me that is teaching by fear and I don’t prescribe to that sort of motivation.
@@mikerowe3776 I would always want to be empathetic toward people and personally, I seek to always approach people in a way that expresses love. (I try, anyway.) But I would suggest that sometimes showing love to people means extending a warning (and neglecting to warn would be the opposite of love), and that it's hard to completely separate the ideas of fear and any sort of warning; they kind of go together necessarily in a way. I do think we should try to find a good balance, but I don't think the warning itself is poorly motivated. Those are just a few thoughts. Thanks for letting me step into the conversation for just a moment.
Jay Britton Fisher I get where you’re coming from. I don’t know if I agree on the warning stuff but I do appreciate your more empathetic and compassionate tone. It makes conversation much easier. I just feel like many times there’s a Samuel the Lamanite on the wall approach and it makes me wonder how people feel qualified to do that. Additionally I think there’s assumptions as the original poster suggest that all those that see differently are a specific category of people or they are being categorized as ones that have fallen or ones that are tainted. There is a very specific narrative that’s given about those of us that were 100% in and now not so much. I think it’s important to note that almost every person I associate with that is in a faith crisis or leaving the church wants nothing more than to believe the church is true. I’m not gonna speak for John Dehlin I don’t know him I’m talking about my specific circles. I want so badly to know the book of Mormon is true that Joseph smiths a prophet I want all of those things that I believe since I was a little kid to be true and I fight daily for that confirmation. However for me and where I’m at and what I found and what I’m receiving from God is that it’s not true. And the response I get from the faithful is that well then there’s something wrong with you you haven’t prayed enough you haven’t studied enough you haven’t fasted enough you don’t have the faith. And I’m not a lazy learner I have been fully engaged in the faith I even worked for the church and yes everybody that reads this you’re welcome for online donations I built that. I works closely with the brethren I’ve seen all of the behind the scenes stuff. I know all of the finances I know all of the process. So when people tell me I haven’t put in the effort it makes me sad that that’s all they can see me as.
I’ve given the warnings to and I felt justified as someone with the truth to do so and I have to live with that guilt. But I can promise you warning without empathy warning without the spirit conveying it to the heart of the receiver won’t do anything. And an attitude of well I’m justified to warn and if it hurts you then that’s your problem and shows your entrapment with Satan doesn’t get very far.
Again I really appreciate your words and the patience and kindness you’ve shown I hope that my words will help others see another side of how to communicate
Wow… what incredible insight and words of wisdom. I love you Elder Holland. 😊
His words were unmistakably a call to arms: Holland used the word “fire” 10 times, “musket” eight times, and made multiple references to “friendly fire,” “wounds,” and “scarring.” In particular, he called for “more musket fire” from BYU’s faculty to defend Mormonism’s official position on the inferiority and social dangers of same-sex relationships and marriages.
The perfect balance between mercy, empathy, and compassion on one hand and righteousness, justice, and truth on the other is only found in Jesus Christ. ♥️ I think Elder Holland did a beautiful job extending love to all while defending Christ's doctrine at the same time.
Remember that god loves ALL of his children. Not just straight Mormons. God wants us to love and except everyone even people with different views. You’re contradicting yourself.
@@jainahall8069 did… did you not hear his talk? No one is saying any different.
@@jainahall8069 , you have selective hearing.
@@jainahall8069 nowhere in the Bible or the Book of Mormon does it say we have to accept anyone. The only one we have to accept is Jesus Christ and the proof that we have accepted Him is that we will keep the commandments He has set forth.
The first great commandment is to Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart. The second is like unto it, to love thy neighbor as thyself.
I love myself but there are times when I make mistakes, cause hurt and pain to others or step outside the bounds God has given us. That makes me a sinner, as are all of us. That doesn't mean I accept that reality and do nothing to try and overcome those behaviors. It means I repent, try to change and continue forward. Do I hate myself, no. Do I hate my neighbor if I don't agree with their lifestyle choices, no.
Love is NOT complete and utter acceptance.
I find your comment quite interesting and tone-deaf. Would you find this comment of yours equally appropriate if the subject matter was regarding the sin of the black race represented in their skin color?
Thank you Elder Holland. I love and support you and this message 100%. ❤️❤️👏👏
I loved hearing Elder Holland's passion, honesty, and wisdom. From a branding perspective I think it is wise to urge BYU to embrace its uniqueness. Relatedly, I love having options, but it is hard to have options (freedom of choice) if everything is same. I also loved hearing his growth through the years in listening to prayers...something I know I could do better on. It is edifying to know our leaders are people just like us that are also improving as we all strive to follow the Savior! Great talk. Listen to the whole thing, don't just settle for harsh criticism after reading or listening to just a snippet.
Thank you Elder Holland! I love you ❤️
Most of my life I've felt like I've had to stand alone and I'm so grateful for your courage and example!
Cheers! It's great to have honesty from someone in 2021.
This was not easy.
He knows he will be called names, at the least.
Thank you for your courage, Elder Holland. I need your example.
He is like David going against the Philistines
You need his example to be bigoted and homophobic? last I checked, the great commandment is to love thy neighbor. Fullstop. If this talk helps you live out your prejudices towards other human beings, check your heart if this is helping you be a better person more in line with Christ.
@@emilymasterson5543 Here come the priests of Wokeness to create straw man arguments and put words in someone's mouth.
will he be called a sinner?
@@zissler1 boohoo ppl are gay you guys are such snowflakes
Love you Elder Holland. You are a true servant of God and Apostle of His church.
Jeffrey R. Holland may become president of the church one day.
I hope your love doesn't get misinterpreted as condoning or advocating his reference to deadly tools in relation to a persecuted minority. Make no mistake, Holland is on the side with the power here, financial power especially.
@@leem3299 he isn’t, the whole presidency is though and I truly hope that the church cuts all financial support to BYU soon. ;) There are better causes that promote Christ-centered service and care than the massive amounts of money being wasted at a college that used to be special but now wants to become one with the world. Let them become one with the world. Utah as a whole sound be left by the church as the “nephites” in Utah are becoming just as worldly, loathsome and evil as their “lamanite” rivals. I wish there was a “Samuel the Lamanite” sent to awaken Utah but…they’re all lamanites or desire to become them now because it easier than defending standards of truth.
@@dcarts5616 Yes, the highest church authorities are sitting on a pile of gold, big enough that they don't need to cut support for BYU to put more money toward caring for the least of these - who Jesus loves as himself. I seriously wonder if the church even spends what is contributed under "humanitarian aide" on tithing slips. They spend some of it, and I appreciate any and all good they do - but if they spend anywhere near the total contributed even under just "humanitarian aide" I'd be very surprised. The pile of gold is big enough to sustain church operations perpetually just on investment income. They actually could direct members to give tithing directly to the least of these (as Jesus himself directed) right now, and not risk the financial future of the church at all. That would make headlines. Members, and former members, and nonmembers, and questioning members, around the globe would thrill at the headlines that would be written. The pile of gold would instantly turn from a golden chain around the church's neck, into a worldwide example of brilliance. Let the church keep what it has accumulated to sustain itself perpetually - and all the members can be set free to...: "I was hungry, thirsty, sick, stranger, prison, and you came to me. As you have done to the least you have done to me." Let's follow Jesus. How would you personally feel if Pres Nielsen said: "Through the generous donations of members over so many years, the church is now financially sound enough to sustain operations perpetually. This is a great blessing. Please continue to pay tithing, but give it to the least of these as Jesus directs. The Lord is with you, and will guide you as you ponder how to bless the poor, the sick, the stranger, the captive. These are all loved by Jesus as himself - as are you." How would you feel hearing that? I'm near tears just thinking about it.
@@leem3299 yawn.
Well said. Powerfully delivered.
Wonderful prophetic counsel. Let's stay true in the Lord's higher education institutions.
What was prophetic about it?
@FD DM If you really want to know listen and pray about it. UA-cam comments with no effort will not lead you to truth.
I loved the spiritual growth and knowledge I gained at BYU. I loved the devotionals and forums. Socially I was a very small pebble and sometimes felt inadequate-but the spiritual food and progress, love from dear roommates, I gained have made all the difference.
I wish that everyone today could have that same experience that you had
Unfortunately, the enemies of the church have a great hold on the university today.
@@allmight9840 well said! Unfortunately. 😢
Love him so much and his beautiful sweet spirit and testimony 🥰. So grateful for you Elder Holland!
@Tyler G nothing, the church just cant let gay people openly say they are gay because they are so open minded.
@Tyler G The student used the opportunity to make a coming out speech.
I too had an experience much like Elder Holland as a child. I love my time at BYU and feel it led to all my successes in life.
But it’s not about you. It’s about the LGBTQ students, and how they feel excluded and penalised based on who they are.
White people loved the church back when blacks were banned from the priesthood and endowments. This is a similar issue of exclusion.
Just because you enjoyed BYU,
doesn’t mean its therefore fair for everyone. It’s actually a really negative place for some people.
Brigham Young and Jesus Christ would not be able to attend BYU as they do not follow the honor code
@@mikkifrompreston4396 Do you realize what this speech was given for? He was speaking at the foundation of a new department at BYU to help promote belonging for those who identify as being LGBTQ and others, while admonishing us to stay true to Christ and defend what he teaches us in the scriptures. That's all.
@@Operamoms I understand :)
Can you help me?
Between 2015-2019 Russel M Nelson stated he received promptings from God that the church should exclude children of LGBTQ from baptism, Holy Ghost, priesthood, and temple ordinances.
Once they turn 18 they would need first presidency approval and to disavow their parents lifestyle in order to receive these blessings.
What good was this 4 year ban?
Was this revelation from Russel M Nelson and the Authorities correct and necessary?
Was it maybe a mistake?
I loved this talk! So emotional. I heard critics tear it down. I did not hear anything but love and sincere concern for our well-being. So powerful! Especially that apostolic blessing.
"Musket fire. Yes, we will always need defenders of the faith." Holland may not mean actual physical violence against those who are LGBTQIA+ or are allies, but when he uses a firearm as a means of explaining what he means by defend...I don't know how you can see it for anything other than what it is, a call to use VIOLENCE against LGBTQIA+ to "defend the faith" if need be.
@@Geminifaerie if your take away was a “call to violence”, then that is what you had in your heart, friend. My take away was “learn war no more”. This talk was a call for unity and peace.
“But we do all look forward to the day when we can “beat our swords into plowshares, and our spears into pruning hooks,” and at least on this subject, “learn war no more.””
@@CAnthonyVidal If one's intention is not a call to violence then using a firearm as a metaphor to express how one should defend themselves, is a very poor choice in words indeed. I stand by what I said. Of all the words he could have chosen to express how one should "defend the faith", a firearm is violent.
Words have meaning and some words carry more weight than others. You can talk yourself into circles all you want about his intention, but you're blind if you don't see how using a firearm in his example doesn't have an underlying tone for a call of violence, with a firearm, against LGBTQIA+ folx and their allies.
No one is coming to destroy your temples. No one is coming to destroy your universities. But yeah, defend the faith with firearms (that's not violent at all, SMH).
@@Geminifaerie I’m pretty sure whatever metaphor would have been chosen would have resulted in the same backlash. It is not about the trowel or musket, it is about the messenger for critics. I believe you have the right to think what you’d like about the talk. You don’t need my permission or approval, friend. I personally like the scriptural context of this borrowed metaphor and what the people who were described with a tool in one hand and a weapon in the other were doing at the time. It is very insightful and encourages to be better. If you have a sincere desire to seek out what was meant by this talk, that would be a good place to start. If you already made up your mind and are just seeking to contend with others, well it seems like you already chose to carry a weapon in both hands.
I absolutely loved this talk. I think the conclusion of critics that Elder Holland, while speaking to a room filled with BYU staff, highly educated individuals that understand the imagery of a “builder” and “protector”, somehow was trying to encourage them to incite violence with a firearm against their students, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, friends and family, simply because they have same sex attraction, is farfetched, intellectually dishonest and extremely improbable.
I love Jeffrey r Holland, I love his spirit. I cry every time I hear him speak.
Five people were m*rdered because of this talk(not counting those who took their life because of hate). Do you cry for their lives or will you continue to support those whose fruit is hate.
You mean the Lords Spirit
I weep when he weeps. I can't help it!
@@Darronsanderson why can't she love his spirit as well? We each have one. When I hear him speak I feel the spirit of God. in order for him to convey that spirit through his words it only makes sense that he must have a lovely spirit as well. One worthy of love. Just as your spirit is worthy of love. ❤️
Thank you, Elder Holland for speaking truth! We can be kind and Christlike while still following God's commandments. 🥰 I don't understand the push back behind this talk. I didn't catch any call to violence against the LGBT community.
Because this is just one more instance of a leader giving "God's" stamp of disdain on minorities over the years.
@@alananat6628 provide links to SPECIFIC cases and not vague slader, people might actually listen to you that way.
“Because of what Jesus said, many of his disciples turned their backs on him and stopped following him.” John 6: 66
Yeah. It's a sad thing, but nothing new.
We will see the same thing happen again of people not walking with him anymore. Which is sad, because the tribulation has already begun. To whom will they go?
Jesus never taught Homophobia.
@@britty4755 But Jesus did teach that marriage is only intended to be between a man and a woman. We are to live his teachings.
@@britty4755 "Homophobia" isn't a helpful word to use. If anything, it should literally mean "fear of things that are alike", but in practice it's used to suggest that people who don't advocate for homosexual lifestyles have a mental illness, which is terribly unfair and inaccurate and will also inhibit productive discussion. It sounds like you're suggesting that something Elder Holland taught is not supported by what Jesus Christ taught. It would be helpful if you could refrain from using pejoratives and instead be clear about what your particular concern is. What did Elder Holland say here that you feel you disagree with?
The reactions to this BYU talk bring to mind Lehi’s counsel to Nephi’s rebellious brothers. (2 Nephi 1:25 and 26) These words seem to apply in practically every detail to many things said about Elder Holland this week.
25. . .ye have accused him that he sought power and authority over you; but I know that he hath not sought for power nor authority over you, but he hath sought the glory of God, and your own eternal welfare.
26 And ye have murmured because he hath been plain unto you. Ye say that he hath used sharpness; ye say that he hath been angry with you; but behold, his sharpness was the sharpness of the power of the word of God, which was in him; and that which ye call anger was the truth, according to that which is in God, which he could not restrain, manifesting boldly concerning your iniquities.
PS The TRUTH is that we ALL have sinned BUT we can repent and be forgiven because Christ atoned for those sins. When we trust in the Savior, we receive that truth with gladness, when we don't rely upon His grace, the truth can make us angry and resentful. (2 Nephi 28:28)
Thank our Heavenly Father for apostles and prophets who are fearless in defending the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
What exactly is the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Is it building malls and hording billions of dollars? No it is not! Christ taught that we are to love our neighbor as ones self. Jeff Holland does not do that with his musket rhetoric against the gay community.
@@jasonford7481 Oh, please. Get real. You're reading things into this that were never intended or implied. He was rightfully critical of the valedictorian who shanghaied the podium for his own agenda when it should have been a speech for all the graduating students. You're just upset that he didn't validate it.
@@jasonford7481 Jason needs a safe space and a cookie
@@1zcott Every one deserves a safe place and yes, cookies if that is what the person is into. :) Can't argue with my original comment. Holland is like the Pharisees and Sadducees, though he speaks of Christ, his actions and deeds are far from him and his teachings.
@@jasonford7481 and yet, there occurrences in His life where Christ rebuked the Pharisees and Saducees for their wickedness. He threw the people out that were defiling the temple. What came from that? They came together to fight against His doctrines because they had taken offense and didn't want to be told how they should be living a higher standard as Children of God. So the question is Jason, do you stand as the Pharisees and the Saducees ready to string him up or stone him, taking offense, or do you choose to follow our Savior and come to understand why He called a man like Jeffery R. Holland as one of His Apostles? You drag something into the conversation that had nothing to do with what He had discussed to try and tarnish him, but it does not matter how hard you try. Elder Holland is far more closer to loving those who struggle with these issues, and all of Heavenly Father's children, then you are right now. And he is much closer to Christ than we are as well. He understands the expectations the Lord has of those who educate at His sacred university for all His children.
Thank you Elder Holland, your loving, courageous ways reflect those of the savior who loved all, but did not condone sin. I believe the Lord himself would be condemned today for simply telling someone, 'go and sin no more'. Recognizing someone as sinful is hateful now, and somehow Christ and his Church need to surrender to our sinful ways in the name of love, instead of us surrendering to him. Our surrender, as imperfect as it may be and as revolving as it may be (for me personally), the refining fire, our trials, that's all hateful speech now. Isaiah 5:20 "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" I remember as a kid thinking that only the very evil people of the world would be able to fulfill this prophecy, but now I understand that the 'very elect' can be deceived to the point of calling evil good and good evil. My prayer is that we can all discern for ourselves what the Lord wants us to do in this troubled times but watching the lies, misrepresentations and hateful opposition to this talk, I wonder how that is even possible. The same people that not too long ago were gleefully mocking others for the Church's urgent suggestion to get the vaccine and mockingly asking,' well, are you going to follow the prophet and the apostles or not?!' are now denouncing you for what they perceive to be an attack on their beliefs. Thank you!
Speaking truth.
Why is love sinful? This speech was hateful and vindictive and that is truly a sin.
@@MrKenRury What part did you find hateful or vindictive? I'd be very glad to hear your thoughts on it. But, people seem to be misrepresenting Elder Holland's words a lot, so please refer to exact quotations.
I agree. Now, we cannot speak the truth without being called bigots, unsensitive, anti everything and anything.... Crazy times
@@00Fisher00 I decided not to respond because it only devolves into a name calling session and hatred from the tolerant side. I have said my peace and I will stand by my words, but I will not be baited into an argument that the other person would not have the courage to make in person, in front of me, but only because of the anonymity of the internet, they feel emboldened to misrepresent and out right lie about something that is so clear, only the willfully blind could not see. Only those of us that want to accept our errors can be helped, the rest, it's as useless as plowing the sea.
Thank you much Elder Holland for your love. Your message impacted my soul profoundly. Being loving and caring to those who do not accept the will of God, just like Jesus showed us, should not mean that we are condoning that which is against the will of God.
An anti-cultist idea I had to learn in therapy: you can't set a proper boundary AND protect someone else's feelings. And you shouldn't have to. Their thoughts, feelings, and choices are their business, just as your own are yours. And/but organizations have the right and the need to clearly set their values and policies. Google gets applauded when they remove employees who don't hold their ideals. We all make our choices, and they're not always correct, or not always popular. That's the natural consequence of being your own person, and, in my mind, the real meaning of diversity and tolerance. Can we handle the fact that there will always be deep disagreements on critical issues? I trust that we can learn to.
That's an argument for different faiths to have, but it is not a defense for the internal conflict in the group. It also does not address whether the principles taught are Christlike and good.
Thanks
@@zweidlen7 all of the principals that are in the Mormon theology are not good.
@@Hanleia1 Great, believing that God loves us is bad, what do you define as good in the case?
@@zweidlen7 Does it need to address anything, it's a youtube comment.
Elder Holland is a true disciple of Jesus Christ. His courage and faith is unwavering and i’m so grateful for his words and testimony. ❤️
How is this at all courageous? Of course his faith is unwavering. He's a Mormon superstar.
I’m sorry but if a “disciple” of Jesus Christ is homophobic. That’s not the kind of heaven I want to be apart of.
@@jainahall8069, don't worry you won't be.
@@EricJonesadventure because it goes against the worlds view right now. As you can see, today many are degrading him, and reinterpreting his words to feel aligned with the church and the world views.
@@jordemdris4029 He lives more in his church circle than he does in the real world. Everyone around him supports him. He feels more like a hero because he feels like the world is against him.
If he risked his calling in the church to speak in support of the people the church makes suffer, that would be courageous.
He's against gay people, so yeah, people are against his view.
Love you Elder Holland and support you and the ideals of this great institution. We are grateful for all the BYU universities and know it’s a privilege that not all are able to attend. Thank you teaching with love what the savior would here
It is very interesting to see how so many people are advising (God and Jesus Christ the creator of this world) how things should be done in the Gospel of the Lord. God is very patient with us, but everything has a limit except his love. We all struggle with sins and adversity of all kinds If people understood the atonement of Jesus Christ and His gospel, they would not be offended at Elder Holland’s message, but rather it would give them hope in Christ that no matter what they struggle with, they can find solace in the Atonement.
The problem isn't God, the problem is people claiming to speak for God and pushing things that are harmful.
It’s not a sin though and shouldn’t be felt as a struggle. People here are so weird.
@@koriel-in-real-life 💯
Grateful for Elder Holland for speaking the TRUTH and being BOLD. Thank you for your courage. I’ve already seen people on my timelines accusing him of hate and intolerance but he is doing anything but! I love the part where he says that just because we are loved by God doesn’t mean we are exempt from keeping the commandments.
So you get to sleep with who ever you please right? Having the “brethren” in our bedroom is both out of line and out of touch.
@@fullmerbrats yes, believe it or not you can sleep whoever you want with. You just won’t get that validation that you so desperately want.
@Macbook Lifestyle they are the biggest group of gaslighting power hungry old men. My membership is none of your business 😘 perhaps you need homework into the true affairs of this cult
The board of trustees of BYU subsidizes this school with sacred tithing funds of the Church. So each of us must be concerned with institutional integrity-our commitment to academic and spiritual excellence. That integrity can only be safeguarded as each teacher and each student remains individually strong. The integrity of this institution can never be stronger than that of its representatives.
BYU devotional, February 23, 1993
Integrity of HeartRussell M. Nelson
Beautiful, heartfelt talk! Thank you Elder Holland
@Tyler G Listen to the talk! He loves them! He's trying to help them!
While in a cult you cannot see yourself because they teach you what you look like and you do not question