The Talking Saints: A Duty and a Defense

We’ve all been there. A news headline sparks a discussion, a classroom lesson leaves a child perplexed, or a social media post twists scripture into something unrecognizable. The natural inclination is often to retreat, to hold our testimony close, to avoid confrontation. But what if that silence itself is a form of apostasy?

Ken Ham’s recent podcast, “Let God’s Word Be on Your Lips,” cuts through the modern tendency towards quiet faith. He isn’t advocating for aggressive debate or argumentative zeal, but a steady, persistent application of scriptural truth in everyday discourse. It’s a call to be a talking saint – not just a studying one.

Think of the Nephites, steadfast in their testimony despite relentless opposition. Did they cower in the face of persecution? Did they avoid speaking of Christ? Consider the warnings given to the children of Israel: “And it came to pass that they did cry unto the Lord, that he would deliver them; and the Lord did hear their cries, and he did grant unto them a respite; and they did not cry unto the Lord again, save it were when they were afflicted, because of their wickedness” (Mosiah 27:17). It wasn't enough to *cry* to the Lord; it was the living of the word, the speaking of the word, that sustained them.

The iron rod, as we know, isn’t merely a physical object; it’s the word of God, “the strength of the mountains, that shall not be moved” (1 Nephi 15:25). But an iron rod lying dormant in a vault serves no purpose. It must be grasped, held firmly, and directed towards the tree of life. Our testimonies, our scriptural knowledge, are like that iron rod. They are powerful, but they require us to actively wield them, to speak them, to defend them.

Consider the charge given to the elders in Doctrine and Covenants 68:4: “And that you have the confidence of an elder, and that your voice is mighty on the earth.” Confidence isn’t born from mere knowledge; it’s forged in the crucible of sharing that knowledge, of facing questions and objections, of defending truth with humility and power.

This isn’t simply a familial responsibility, though it certainly begins there. It extends to our interactions with neighbors, colleagues, and even strangers. How often do we see an opportunity to offer a scriptural perspective and let it pass, fearing judgment or ridicule? The Savior himself faced such opposition, yet he consistently spoke truth, even when it was unpopular (John 15:18-25).

The Brethren have repeatedly emphasized the importance of defending the gospel. President Russell M. Nelson has challenged us to become “disciples of Christ” – a title demanding more than passive belief. It requires active participation, courageous witness, and a willingness to stand for truth, regardless of the cost.

Let us reflect on our own habits. Do we routinely share what we’re learning in our scripture study? Do we thoughtfully apply gospel principles to the challenges we face? Are we prepared to articulate our beliefs with clarity and conviction?

The Spirit is a powerful ally in this endeavor, but it will not speak for us. It will guide our words, strengthen our voices, and illuminate the truth, but it requires us to open our mouths and speak. Let us embrace this duty, this defense, and become the talking saints the Lord expects us to be.

Consider how you might more actively share your testimony in a conversation this week. What scripture or principle could you apply to a current event or challenge?