A prophet is a man called of God to act as His messenger and to reveal His will to mankind. A prophet is given the authority to act in God’s name which is called the priesthood. We read about prophets and their teachings in the Bible. Most people are familiar with prophets in olden times like Noah, Moses, and Isaiah. Mormons believe and revere the teachings of these prophets.
Aside from prophets mentioned in the Bible, Mormons also believe in living prophets. They guide and direct all of God’s children today just like He did in the olden times. The prophet receives revelation from God that is specific for the challenges we face in our day. Having a living prophet is a reminder that God never forgets His children. He loves us and He is mindful of our needs.
I grew up a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, so I learned and believed in living prophets since I was a little child. Even though I’ve accepted this truth all my life, I still had to gain a personal testimony that God indeed calls prophets in our time. I gained that testimony as I listened and obeyed the counsel of the prophet and by reading the scriptures. In the Doctrine and Covenants 1:38 the Lord said,
“What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.”
Isn’t it a great comfort to know that God calls prophets in our time? This means that He loves us and cares about our salvation. He has provided a way for us to receive direction from Him so that we’ll know what we need to do to gain eternal life.
The First Presidency: President Uchtdorf, President Eyring, President Monson
We have a living prophet today and his name is President Thomas S. Monson. He receives revelation and direction from God just like the prophets of old. In one of his recent talks, he counseled everyone to follow the example of the Savior and to be a light in the lives of others. To hear the prophet speak is a reminder that God has not forsaken us and that He never will.
