Accumulated Testimonies

by G. (11/28/2017 06:30 am)

Mostly the General Authorities close their talks with testimony. The testimonies are never novel. But they are not rote, nor the least important part of the talks. The best message from a General Conference may simply be the accumulation of testimony.

Consider for example the Saturday afternoon session of the April 1978 General Conference, which I did not select because the testimonies stood out to me. It was merely the next conference on the schedule. Here are the testimonies from it.

Nearly thirty years ago, in response to my earnest study and fervent prayer, the Holy Spirit confirmed to me the fact that Jesus of Nazareth is the Son of God, the Savior and Redeemer of each individual soul. From that conviction, and by that same Spirit, has followed the knowledge that his gospel is eternally true, that it has been restored to the earth, that the scriptures—which I love—including the Book of Mormon, are divine records, that Joseph Smith and his successors, including Spencer W. Kimball, are prophets of God, and that our Heavenly Father loves us individually. For this knowledge I give thanks and leave you my personal witness that these things are true, in the name of our beloved Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

–Brother Poelman

I bear humble witness that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the restored kingdom of God on earth today. Its message and blessings are for all of our Father’s children. It is the truth, to which I bear grateful testimony in the sacred name of Jesus Christ

–Elder Benson

Seek the guidance of the Lord in making decisions, but use that God-given right of free agency. Then you, too, will know, as I know, that this is His church, the church of Jesus Christ, and I so testify to you in the name of Jesus Christ.

–Brother Eldred G. Smith

George P. Lee did not close with a testimony.

May I leave with you my witness, my brothers and sisters, of the truth of this great work, which I have received in this same manner, through the Holy Ghost as it has witnessed unto me.

–Brother Cullimore

Elder David B. Haight did not close with a testimony.

Elder Thomas S. Monson did not close with a testimony.

Other Posts from the Saturday afternoon session of the April 1978 General Conference