D&C 76:76-80
From Feast upon the Word (http://feastupontheword.org). Copyright, Feast upon the Word.
Doctrine & Covenants > Section 76
| Previous (D&C 76:71-75) | Next (D&C 76:81-85) |
Contents |
Questions
- What does it mean to be "valiant in the testimony of Jesus"?
- What is the "crown over the kingdom of our God"? What does it mean to "obtain" that crown?
Lexical notes
Valiant The English valiant is used over 20 times in the KJV Old Testament to translate the Hebrew chayil, which refers to power or might. In English, valiant is defined in Webster's 1828 dictionary as 1) strong; vigorous in body or 2) brave; courageous; intrepid in danger. The word comes to English from Latin via Old French, where it is the past participle of valēre "to be strong".
Exegesis
Verse 79
Being "valiant in the testimony of Jesus" seems to be used to distinguish between those of Celestial and Terrestrial glory. As discussed previously for D&C 76:51, the "testimony of Jesus" is referred to as the "spirit of prophecy" and seems to relate to an ability to obtain and dispense gospel truth through inspiration. To be valiant in that testimony would imply being brave, strong, and mighty in that ability. Only those who obtain the gift of the Holy Ghost and cultivate an ability to feel, recognize, and follow the Spirit are able to become strong in that ability, or "valiant in the testimony of Jesus". Without that ability to be directed and act "as one" with the Spirit, one cannot obtain a Celestial glory.
Related links
- Click the edit link above and to the right to add related links
| Previous (D&C 76:71-75) | Next (D&C 76:81-85) |
