Testing the Word: The Noble Sentiment of Inquiry

Brothers and sisters, have you ever been in a setting—maybe a missionary discussion, or perhaps even just a casual conversation with an investigator—where you felt a little internal tug? A little hesitation? Maybe you felt a slight urge to just nod along, to agree quickly, just to keep the peace, or perhaps out of a fear of seeming difficult?

If you’ve been in that place, you know that feeling. It’s the subtle pull toward agreement rather than toward truth. We are taught to be earnest, to be willing to share the gospel with all who will hear it, but what happens when the *receiving* end isn't so easily convinced? What happens when the questions are deep, or the doctrines are complex, or perhaps the answers aren't immediately satisfying?

I was thinking the other day about the Bereans. It’s a beautiful, powerful example of discipleship in action. The Apostle Paul preached, and the people of Berea didn't just nod their heads and move on. No. They went home, they went to their scriptures, and they diligently examined everything that was taught. They were described as having "more noble sentiments" than the Thessalonians because they checked the Word daily!

It’s so easy, especially when we are seasoned returning missionaries, or when we are deep into our own study in HolyPlaces, to forget that the process of *knowing* is just as sacred as the process of *sharing*. We can get so focused on being prepared to teach the gospel that we forget to model the most essential part of discipleship: the willingness to be taught, and the courage to test what we hear against the infallible source.

The Virtue of Inquiry

Paul didn't feel threatened by their questions; he celebrated them! He understood that the Good News of Jesus Christ isn't something that can be accepted on faith alone, based only on the authority of the messenger. It must be brought to the source—the scriptures, the Spirit, and the covenants.

This is a vital lesson for every single one of us, whether we are in the MTC, serving in the field, or simply having a quiet moment of study at home. We must cultivate that noble sentiment of inquiry. Don't be afraid to ask, "Where does that come from?" or "How does that align with the Book of Mormon?"

It’s not a weakness; it’s a sign of a heart that truly desires the truth and is committed to being Christlike. It shows that we are diligent students of the gospel, not just enthusiastic speakers of it.

Making Study a Daily Habit

If this resonates with you, I want to encourage you to make this a habit. Don't wait for a formal study session. Can you commit to reading just a few verses before you start your day, or right before you settle down at night? Use the apps, use your physical scriptures—whatever helps you connect with the Word.

This isn't just for those studying for their temple recommend interviews or preparing for a mission call. This is for us, the rogue disciples, who know that every member can be an Internet missionary, every member can be a disciple anywhere, all the time. Our mission field is everywhere, and our primary tool is the Word of God.

If you are looking for a structured way to deepen this habit, I highly recommend checking out a Book Club or joining a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. It’s a wonderful way to build community around scripture study.

For those who want to dive deeper into the *how* of handling difficult questions—the kind of questions that make you pause and think—I encourage you to connect with Davee. He’s been trained in the AI Investigator role and is fantastic at walking you through those tough moments in missionary discussions.

The Word of God is alive. It has the power to change our hearts and change our lives. Let's commit today to being the kind of disciples who test everything, and in doing so, draw closer to the Savior.

If you enjoyed this encouragement, please share it with a friend who might need the reminder to dig into the scriptures this week!