"What should be the source for teaching the great plan of the Eternal God? The scriptures, of course - particularly the Book of Mormon. This should also include the other modern-day revelations. These should be coupled with the words of the Apostles and prophets and the promptings of the Spirit."
That was part of the counsel given by President Ezra Taft Benson at the April 1987 general conference. President Benson further said:"Alma commanded them that they should teach nothing save it were the things which he had taught, and which had been spoken by the mouth of the holy prophets.' (Mosiah 18:19.) The Doctrine and Covenants states:Let them journey from thence preaching the word by the way, saying none other things than that which the prophets and apostles have written, and that which is taught them by the Comforter through the prayer of faith.' (D&C 52:9.)
"Now, after we teach the great plan of the Eternal God, we must personally bear our testimonies of its truthfulness. Alma, after giving a great message to the Saints about being born again and the need for them to experience a `mighty change' in their hearts, sealed his teachings with his testimony in these words:
" `And this is not all. Do ye not suppose that I know of these things myself? Behold, I testify unto you that I do know that these things whereof I have spoken are true. And how do ye suppose that I know of their surety?
" `Behold, I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold, I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me.' (Alma 5:45-46.)"
