Mormon Apostleship.
In Christian theology and ecclesiology, the apostles, particularly the Twelve Apostles (also known as the Twelve Disciples or simply the Twelve), were the primary disciples of Jesus according to the New Testament. During the life and ministry of Jesus in the 1st century AD, the apostles were his closest followers and became the primary teachers of the gospel message of Jesus.
In the New Testament, it is recorded that Jesus gave the Apostles the power to work miracles for the confirmation of their doctrine as they went throughout the land in Matthew 10:8: “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils:” In doing these things, Jesus’ apostles were to demonstrate to all who witness them that they represent Him since He did these things first. Scripture even records that they did have power over the dead in Acts 9, the raising of Tabitha, and of Eutychus in Acts 20.
In the Latter Day Saint movement, an apostle is a “special witness of the name of Jesus Christ who is sent to teach the principles of salvation to others.” Official LDS Church statement: “Apostle was the title Jesus gave to the Twelve whom He chose and ordained to be His closest followers and supporters. Apostles are chosen to be special witnesses of Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus Christ called and sent His Apostles forth to represent Him, today’s Apostles are given the role to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world.”
In the Latter Day Saint tradition, apostles and prophets are believed to be the foundation of the church, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone. The “Articles of Faith”, written by Joseph Smith, mentions apostles: “We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.”
LDS: Apostle
“An ‘apostle’ is an ordained leader in the Melchizedek Priesthood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Apostles are chosen through inspiration by the President of the Church, sustained by the general membership of the Church, and ordained by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles by the laying on of hands. … In addition to serving as witnesses of Jesus Christ to all the world (Doctrine and Covenants 107:23), as Jesus’ apostles did, members of the current Quorum of the Twelve Apostles hold the keys of the priesthood—that is, the rights of presidency (Doctrine and Covenants 107:35; cf. 124:128)” (Encyclopedia of Mormonism [1992], 1:59–60).
LDS: The Source of Priesthood Authority
The priesthood is the power and authority of God, which He gives to us to help carry out His work of salvation (see Handbook 2: Administering the Church [2010], page 8). The Lord has given His priesthood to chosen servants since the days of Adam.
Because the priesthood is given to worthy men by the laying on of hands and a record is kept of those ordinations, priesthood holders today can trace their line of authority back to Joseph Smith, who received the Melchizedek Priesthood from Apostles of Jesus Christ.During His mortal ministry, Jesus Christ gave His priesthood authority to His Apostles, including Peter, James, and John (see Matthew 10).On May 15, 1829, John the Baptist appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to give them the Aaronic Priesthood. A few weeks later, the ancient Apostles Peter, James, and John gave Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery the Melchizedek Priesthood (see Doctrine and Covenants 27:12; 128:20; Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 81, 101).
The Prophet Joseph Smith gave the priesthood to other worthy men, who, under the Prophet’s direction, gave it to other worthy men, and so on, up to the modern day.
LDS: Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
Apostle was the title Jesus gave to the Twelve whom He chose and ordained to be His closest followers and supporters. Apostles are chosen to be special witnesses of Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus Christ called and sent His Apostles forth to represent Him, today’s Apostles are given the role to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is the second-highest leadership body of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the First Presidency being the highest).
Jesus Christ calls Apostles to represent Him in our day just as He did in the Bible.
Back to the question presented in our title…
Why Don’t LDS Apostles Raise the Dead
or Heal the Sick These Days?
The New Testament paints a vivid picture of the apostles, the closest followers of Jesus, endowed with miraculous powers to heal the sick, cast out demons, and even raise the dead. These acts weren’t mere parlor tricks; they were divine confirmations of their authority and the truth of their message.
Within the Latter Day Saint (LDS) movement, apostles hold a similarly revered position. Importantly, they are considered to have the same status and authority as the apostles of the Bible.
This leads to an intriguing question, particularly for those within the LDS tradition: If modern-day apostles possess the same authority as their biblical counterparts, and if raising the dead and healing the sick was a testament to that authority, why don’t we see LDS apostles performing such miracles today?
The scriptures are clear on the power bestowed upon the apostles. Matthew 10:8 records Jesus instructing them to “heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils.” Acts recounts instances where they indeed exercised this power, raising Tabitha and Eutychus from the dead.
Within the LDS context, the “Articles of Faith,” penned by Joseph Smith, underscore the belief in the same organization as the early Church, including apostles and prophets. This reinforces the idea of a continuous line of authority and power.
The lack of readily available answers raises further questions. Does the absence of these miracles cast doubt on the authority of modern-day apostles? Does it suggest a fundamental difference between the early Church and the LDS Church today? Or is there a more nuanced understanding of apostolic power and its manifestation in the modern world?
This is not an attack on faith, but a genuine inquiry borne out of curiosity and a desire for deeper understanding. It’s a question that deserves thoughtful consideration and open dialogue, both within and outside the LDS community.
Apostolic Miracles in Early Christianity
In early Christianity, the miracles performed by Jesus’ apostles were not mere acts of compassion but powerful demonstrations of divine authority. By raising the dead, the apostles not only affirmed their connection to Jesus but also validated the divine origin of their message. These miraculous acts played a crucial role in establishing the credibility of early Christian teachings.
Wikipedia: Apostles in the New Testament
In Christian theology and ecclesiology, the apostles, particularly the Twelve Apostles (also known as the Twelve Disciples or simply the Twelve), were the primary disciples of Jesus according to the New Testament. During the life and ministry of Jesus in the 1st century AD, the apostles were his closest followers and became the primary teachers of the gospel message of Jesus.
The Authority of Modern LDS Apostles
The LDS Church claims continuity with the primitive church, asserting that modern apostles possess the same authority as their early Christian counterparts. If this is indeed the case, why do we not witness the same kind of miraculous events, such as healing the sick, performed by current LDS apostles? This question becomes particularly pressing when considering the church’s emphasis on maintaining the same organization and spiritual gifts as the early Christian church.
One might argue that the lack of such dramatic miracles today could be attributed to changes in societal needs or divine will. However, this explanation does not fully address the underlying theological assertion that LDS apostles are direct successors to the original Twelve, with equivalent authority and spiritual gifts. If the apostles of the New Testament era could raise the dead to authenticate their divine mission, why has this practice seemingly vanished in the modern era?
The Role of Faith and Witnessing
Some might contend that the miracles of the early apostles were necessary to establish the nascent Christian faith and that today’s apostles do not need to perform such acts to sustain belief among the faithful. Yet, the question remains: Would not modern miracles serve to strengthen the faith of current believers and attract new converts in a world increasingly skeptical of religious claims?
The lack of such miracles in contemporary times challenges the assertion that LDS apostles hold the same authority and power as their New Testament predecessors. If modern apostles are truly the spiritual successors of the original Twelve, perhaps it is time to reflect on why their miraculous acts, once so vital to the spread of Christianity, have ceased to be a part of their ministry.
Wikipedia: Apostle (Latter Day Saints)
In the Latter Day Saint movement, an apostle is a “special witness of the name of Jesus Christ who is sent to teach the principles of salvation to others.” In many Latter Day Saint churches, an apostle is a priesthood office of high authority within the church hierarchy. In many churches, apostles may be members of the Quorum of the Twelve and First Presidency of the church. In most Latter Day Saint churches, modern-day apostles are considered to have the same status and authority as the Biblical apostles.
Mormon Research Ministry: Latter-day Saints—Where Did You Get Your Authority?
A point-by-point takedown of the LDS claim of Apostolic succession by Hal Hougey. Well worth the very long read.
The Jews Asked Jesus and the Apostles This Question – Matt. 21:23-27; Acts 4:7-12
1. Jesus and the Apostles did not need, nor did they produce, credentials from the priesthood to show their authority. So neither will we.
2. LDS have the same misconception that the Jews had: that authority passes from one to another through some ceremony or ordination. The very fact that the priesthood questioned their authority shows that Jesus and the Apostles completely ignored those ceremonies or ordinations. The Jews were wrong, and since the LDS believe as the Jews did, they are wrong, too.
3. When Jesus was questioned about his authority, He examined the questioners to see if they were competent judges. Therefore, we shall do the same: We ask, “The authority of Joseph Smith, whence was it? From heaven, or of men?”Was There a Total Apostasy, Making a Restoration of Authority Necessary?
LDS believe that there was a total apostasy, and therefore a complete loss of authority to baptize, etc. This, they believe, made necessary the restoration of authority (or priesthood) by a heavenly messenger to Joseph Smith. That there was a general apostasy, we agree. That it was universal, we deny.
The Mormon Priesthood Is an Assumption – Not a Restoration.
The origin story brings new questions about the priesthood
Mormon Research Ministry: Priesthood Restored or Retrofit?
By Lane Thuet
On May 15, 1829, Mormon history records that John the Baptist gave the Aaronic Priesthood to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Later, the apostles Peter, James and John gave them the Melchizedek priesthood. With these priesthoods restored, Smith could officiate the affairs of God’s kingdom with full authority. Mormons are taught that this authority had been lost soon after the original apostles died. During its absence, no one on earth had the proper authority to administer ordinances such as baptism, communion, or even marriage. LDS Prophet Spencer Kimball remarked, “Presumptuous and blasphemous are they who purport to baptize, bless, marry, or perform other sacraments in the name of the Lord while in fact lacking his specific authorization” (Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p.494).
Mormons today are led to believe that their church alone has this true priesthood. Kimball added that “without this priesthood power, men are lost…There is no priesthood anywhere else today than in this restored [LDS] Church.” Current President Gordon Hinckley added, “The priesthood is here. It has been conferred upon us. We act in that authority” (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley, p.473). Mormonism teaches that for churches to act without this authority is a grievous sin.
Because of its necessary authority, this priesthood had to have been restored in order to properly organize the LDS Church. That means the restoration must have happened before April 6, 1830 – the Mormon Church’s official date of organization.
Significantly, no Mormons seem to have known about the priesthood in the earliest years of the Church. It should have been one of the foremost topics of teaching. Instead, there is no mention of any priesthood found in the histories, diaries, or writings of church members until several years after it had already been established. David Whitmer, one of the witnesses to the Book of Mormon, said,
“I never heard that an Angel had ordained Joseph and Oliver to the Aaronic Priesthood until the year 1834[,] [183]5. or [183]6—in Ohio.… I do not believe that John the Baptist ever ordained Joseph and Oliver…” (Early Mormon Documents, 5:137).
Another early convert, William McLellin, stated, “I joined the church in 1831. For years I never heard of John the Baptist ordaining Joseph and Oliver. I heard not of James, Peter, and John doing so.” Some time later he repeated that “I never heard of it in the church for years…” (An Insider’s View of Mormon Origins, pp.224-25).
The evidence shows that the LDS teachings regarding a restored priesthood authority originated many years after the founding of the church, and that they were subsequently added to the early revelations and history. This is certainly a dubious foundation for such sweeping claims to be God’s infallible, and only, authority on earth.
GotQuestions.org: What is an apostle?
The word apostle means “one who is sent out.” In the New Testament, there are two primary usages of the word apostle. The first is in specifically referring to the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The second is in generically referring to other individuals who are sent out to be messengers/ambassadors of Jesus Christ.
This specific type of apostle is not present in the church today. The qualifications of this type of apostle were: (1) to have been a witness of the resurrected Christ (1 Corinthians 9:1), (2) to have been explicitly chosen by the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:15), and (3) to have the ability to perform signs and wonders (Acts 2:43; 2 Corinthians 12:12). The responsibility of the twelve apostles, laying the foundation of the church, would also argue for their uniqueness. Two thousand years later, we are not still working on the foundation.
Blue Letter Bible: ARE THERE STILL APOSTLES TODAY?
One of the major questions surrounding the gift of an apostle is its continuance. Are there still apostles functioning in the church today? Do people still hold this particular office or have this gift?
With the sacred commissioning and responsibility that came with the office of an apostle, it is hard to imagine any person today claiming such an authoritative office. Anyone who does make a claim to have this particular office should immediately be looked upon with the greatest of suspicion.
Indeed, it seems audacious, if not almost blasphemous, for someone in our present-day to claim similar authority as the apostles of Jesus Christ. They received direct revelation from God, had seen the risen Christ, were specially commissioned by Him, and were responsible for composing the New Testament. There is nobody today who should be considered as equal with them.
Trading cards are a great way for kids to connect with their LDS Apostles … never has the Priesthood Authority been so much fun. Children love to trade and collect these saint trading cards.
Does the Dunning-Kruger effect apply to religious beliefs?
The possibility of the Dunning-Kruger effect influencing members of the LDS Church leadership is a complex and sensitive topic that deserves careful consideration.
For those unfamiliar, the Dunning-Kruger effect is a cognitive bias where individuals with low ability in a particular area overestimate their competence. They lack the self-awareness to recognize their shortcomings, leading to inflated confidence and potentially flawed decision-making.
David Dunning wrote, “In many cases, incompetence does not leave people disoriented, perplexed, or cautious. Instead, the incompetent are often blessed with an inappropriate confidence, buoyed by something that feels to them like knowledge.”
This idea was eloquently captured centuries ago by Shakespeare, who wrote, “The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.” This quote encapsulates the essence of the Dunning-Kruger Effect, highlighting the irony of how true wisdom often comes with a recognition of one’s limitations.
In the context of the LDS Church, some ex-Mormons argue that certain leaders might exhibit this effect. They point to instances where leaders seem overly confident in their knowledge or abilities, despite potential evidence to the contrary. This could manifest in various ways, such as:
Resistance to criticism or alternative viewpoints: A Dunning-Kruger-influenced leader might dismiss valid critiques or concerns, believing their own understanding to be superior.
Oversimplification of complex issues: They might offer simplistic solutions to complex problems, unaware of the nuances and intricacies involved.
Lack of self-reflection: They might not engage in critical self-assessment, hindering their ability to recognize and learn from mistakes.
It’s important to note that these are observations and interpretations from individuals outside the Church, and not all ex-Mormons share this view. Additionally, attributing the Dunning-Kruger effect to specific individuals is difficult without direct access to their thoughts and motivations.
However, the possibility warrants discussion. If the Dunning-Kruger effect were present in some leaders, it could have significant implications for the Church. It could lead to misguided policies, ineffective leadership, and a disconnect between the leadership and the members.
LDS leadership is not comprised of religious theologians or apologists.
LDS Minds: Current Apostles Previous Professions.
Before being called to their positions amongst the General Authorities, these brethren worked honorable, yet ordinary professions, and contributed greatly in the communities in which they lived. When being called to serve in the First Quorum of the Seventy and in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the brethren are asked to leave their respected positions and devote 100% of their time and effort to the Church.
- Russell M. Nelson: World Renowned Heart Surgeon
- Dallin H. Oaks: Justice of the Utah Supreme Court, President of Brigham Young University
- M. Russell Ballard: Businessman, Owner of Ballard Motor Company
- Jeffrey R. Holland: President of Brigham Young University
- Henry B. Eyring: President of Ricks College, Professor of Business
- Dieter F. Uchtdorf: Senior Vice President of Flight Operations, Fighter Pilot
- David A. Bednar: President of BYU-Idaho (formerly Ricks College)
- Quentin L. Cook: Corporate Attorney
- D. Todd Christofferson: Lawyer
- Neil L. Andersen: Business Executive
- Ronald A. Rasband: Business Executive
- Gary E. Stevenson: Business Executive
- Dale G. Renlund: Cardiologist, Professor, Medical Director
- Gerrit W. Gong: Politics, Professor
- Ulisses Soares: LDS Church Employee, Senior Auditor
It is therefore plausible that the lack of formal theological or apologetic training among LDS Church leadership could contribute to the perception that they might be susceptible to the Dunning-Kruger Effect in certain areas. Here’s how:
Limited Specialized Knowledge: While LDS leaders are well-versed in scripture and Church doctrine, they may not have the same depth of knowledge as those who have dedicated their lives to studying religious history, theology, or apologetics. This lack of specialized knowledge could lead to overconfidence in their understanding of complex theological issues.
Unfamiliarity with Critical Analysis: Formal theological training often involves rigorous critical analysis of religious texts and traditions. Without this background, leaders may be less equipped to evaluate information objectively, potentially leading to oversimplified or biased interpretations.
Insularity of Thought: The hierarchical structure of the LDS Church could foster an environment where dissenting or alternative viewpoints are less likely to be considered. This could reinforce existing biases and limit exposure to new ideas, further contributing to the Dunning-Kruger Effect.
Emphasis on Faith Over Academic Expertise: In the LDS tradition, faith, and spiritual experiences are often prioritized over academic credentials. While this can be a source of strength, it could also lead to a dismissal of expert opinions or critical analysis, contributing to overconfidence in one’s own understanding.
Perception of Divine Guidance: LDS leaders believe they receive guidance from God in their decision-making. While this is a core tenet of their faith, it could also lead to a sense of infallibility, potentially blinding them to their own limitations or errors in judgment.
It’s important to emphasize that this is not a definitive conclusion, but rather a possible explanation for why some observers perceive the Dunning-Kruger Effect in LDS leadership. It’s also crucial to acknowledge that many LDS leaders are intelligent and capable individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving their faith. However, the lack of formal theological training could be a contributing factor to potential blind spots in their knowledge and understanding.
The reader may be interested in a few headlines found at random…
One in 4 US Mormons has thought about leaving the LDS Church, study shows
Latest from Mormon Land: Church membership shrinks in 21 U.S. states.
Billionaire resigns from Mormon church, says it is “actively and currently doing harm in the world”
Survey explains reasons why Mormons leave fold.
The decline of the LDS Church in Great Britain.
The Mormon Church Is Bleeding Badly
Mormons have fallen below evangelical Christians, Muslims and atheists in the approval hierarchy.