Today’s articles address the source of authority of Church Presidents and Apostles.
“Spencer W. Kimball and the Revelation on the Priesthood,” Edward L. Kimball, BYU Studies, Vol. 47, no. 2
This article tells about the process that President Kimball went through as he sought revelation regarding changing the policy of blacks banned from priesthood and temple. Black Africans’ interest in Church membership, the Civil Rights movement, Church members’ changing perceptions, and spiritual manifestations all contributed to the landmark decision.
“Of Men and Mantles: Kierkegaard on the Difference between a Genius and an Apostle,” John S. Tanner, BYU Studies, Vol. 40, no. 2
The philosopher Soren Kierkegaard outlined the source of an apostle’s authority and compared it to a wise man, a genius. A genius is born, while an apostle is called. An apostle is not necessarily more intelligent or accomplished than others; he may be a simple man. A genius may speak words that are ahead of his time, but an apostle’s words will always stand because he speaks with authority.
“‘The Great World of the Spirits of the Dead’: Death, the Great War, and the 1918 Influenza Pandemic as Context for Doctrine and Covenants 138,” George S. Tate, BYU Studies, Vol. 46, no. 1
This article shows that the context of world events has a role in prophetic visions.
