KJV:
20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2 Peter 1:20-21)
JST:
20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scriptures is given of any private will of man.
21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (JST 2 Peter 1:20-21, JST emphasized)
The KJV phrase about private interpretation makes it seem like people are not allowed to have their own ideas of what scriptures mean.
The JST, on the other hand, takes this completely out and reemphasizes that scripture comes by God’s will by the movement of the Spirit and not according to what man wants. (This gives God the freedom to give more revelation than men expect or think is needed and on topics seemingly unconnected which may address future needs unanticipated by men with their limited vision.)
With the phrase about private interpretation taken out, the Saints are given the freedom to apply the scriptures to themselves in addition to the ways that are generally accepted and taught in the church. The Saints don’t have to wait for the church to tell them what to think about a scripture; they can study things out themselves and come to their own conclusions. It essentially gives freedom of thought.
It also reemphasizes the importance of capturing all the inspiration and revelation give to us that we can and being ready to listen, even if it isn’t convenient, even if it isn’t expected, even if it is more or different than what we hoped for.
Who knows where or what the general authorities were doing as they were given inspiration about what to speak on in general conference. We get the benefit of preparing ourselves to receive their words, but other times in life, revelation comes when and where we don't expect. Who doesn't feel they could improve their spiritual listening skills? I know I could.
Continue reading at the original source →