The Spirit of Humility: Recognizing True Discernment in Times of Division

We’ve all witnessed the fracturing of the body of Christ. The echo chambers of social media amplify disagreement, fostering suspicion and a tendency to categorize those who differ from us. It’s easy to harden our hearts, to build walls, and to pronounce judgment. But what does the Lord truly desire of us? The answer, as always, resides in a posture of humility and a willingness to seek understanding.

Pastor Charles Jennings’ recent discourse on cult characteristics – a seemingly narrow topic – touches upon a profound spiritual principle: the importance of discerning the source of the spirit guiding our actions and beliefs. He rightly points out that a characteristic of a cult is a spiritual elitism, a belief that one's group holds a uniquely righteous position, separate and superior to others. How often do we see this manifested, not just in denominations, but within our own circles of fellowship?

The temptation to define ourselves by boundaries, by “us vs. them,” is powerful. It’s a subtle form of pride, a declaration that *we* possess the fullness of truth. But the Lord’s invitation is always to broader fellowship, to recognize the spark of the divine in all those who seek Him. Luke 9:54 speaks of a zealous desire to punish those who oppose Christ, yet Jesus rebukes them, reminding them that judgment belongs to the Father. “Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of,” He says—a piercing indictment of a spirit divorced from Christ’s love and compassion.

Brother Jennings’ emphasis on humility resonates deeply with the Restoration. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that we must strive to see with the eyes of the Lord, recognizing that all truth emanates from Him. To believe we possess a monopoly on divine understanding is to deny the very essence of revelation. The iron rod, as described in Alma 37, leads to the tree of life, but only those who hold fast to it with humility and a seeking heart can partake of its fruit.

Consider the words of Romans 12:3: “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” This isn’t a call to self-deprecation, but a plea for perspective. We each have a role to play in the Lord’s work, and to elevate ourselves above others is to disrupt the harmony of the body. As the scriptures teach, “every member performeth his duty.”

The teacher Brother Jennings recounts, who encouraged his students to learn from everyone, even the “bum on the street,” offers a powerful lesson. It’s a reminder that the Lord often reveals Himself through unexpected channels, and that true wisdom lies in approaching every encounter with a spirit of openness and humility.

Let us examine our own hearts, our own attitudes, and our own interactions with those who hold different perspectives. Are we striving for unity, or building walls? Are we seeking to understand, or to judge? The Lord’s call is clear: cultivate humility, seek the Spirit, and remember that we are all members of the same body, striving together towards the celestial kingdom.

May we all strive to learn from one another, recognizing that even in disagreement, there is an opportunity for growth and a deeper understanding of the Lord’s will.