APPROACHING A SCHOOL IN ZION

Procuring a Course at BYU on Secret Combinations

This is an abridged version of a paper that was submitted for the conference co-sponsored by BYU's Student Association and College of Education (March 16-23, 1992). The conference, entitled "Approaching a School in Zion," will focus on social and academic issues affecting BYU and the community at large.

Throughout time the human family has yearned for a Zion society. Few have realized what is actually required to bring about a genuine utopia, yet they have sought it nonetheless. Unfortunately, in seeking this glorious end without understanding the eternal principles upon which it is predicated, men have tended to promote many counterfeit and even diabolical schemes of their own. Their false ideologies are often readily accepted by the masses who are wooed by the appeal. The fathers who inherit these lies, rivet them upon the minds of their children, producing a yoke so heavy it is considered "the mainspring of all corruption." (D&C 123:7,8.)

Fortunately, God, through his Prophets and by his Spirit, has revealed to man the true means by which Zion may be established. He has also warned us of those movements and ideologies that are contrary to, and thus fight against, Zion. In becoming a school in Zion, BYU should be involved in diligently teaching these things. Currently, the curriculum at BYU addresses many aspects concerning what Zion is and how it may be obtained. Unfortunately, it neglects to adequately advise concerning some things that are among the most detrimental to the cause of Zion. Some curriculum even promote the very ideologies that are most inimical to Zion.

Both our living prophet and the Book of Mormon, which he has so vigorously promoted, testify that secret combinations are the most potent enemy to civilization, let alone to Zion. They are the tool by which Satan interjects his kingdom into society, gaining an ever increasing stronghold as society succumbs through their wickedness. President Benson never retracted the emphasis he placed on the importance of becoming informed about such things and responding in a manner consistent with scriptural principles. Quoting the verse he has cited more frequently than any other reference in the entire standard works since becoming an apostle, President Benson's last words to us included the proclamation: "I testify that...a secret combination that seeks to overthrow the freedom of all lands, nations, and countries is increasing its evil influence and control over America and the entire world. (See Ether 8:18-25.)" (Ensign, Nov. 1988, p. 87.)

What is that secret combination exactly? This is a subject of much conjecture. But the question is laid to rest when it comes to the infallible word of God. Our quest is to come to understand what truth is and align our lives with it. God is the source for understanding truth. The living prophet, scriptures, and personal revelation are our means for discovering truth. (Ibid.) BYU's ideal fits tightly into facilitating this quest. Our accountability is weighty because of the light to which we have access.

How are we doing when it comes to teaching and promoting a spiritual and scholarly understanding of secret combinations? Is BYU's current coverage of this subject adequate for the magnitude of what is at stake: the survival of the Constitutional Republic handed down to us through tremendous efforts of our forefathers? Two previous, powerful Christian civilizations were obliterated from this land because of secret combinations. (Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, Nov. 1987, p. 7.)

In considering whether the current coverage at BYU of this subject is sufficient, let us reflect briefly on its scope, using a situation that existed among the Nephites prior to Christ's appearance to them as a prophetic precedent. (Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, May 1987, p. 5.) The Gadianton robbers

"had seduced the more part of the righteous until they had come down to believe in their works and partake of their spoils, and to join with them in their secret murders and combinations. And thus they did obtain the sole management of the government.... And thus we see that they were in an awful state, and ripening for an everlasting destruction." (Hel. 6:38-40.)

This subject is so extensive that when the books written on the subject by President Benson alone are stacked one on top of the other, the stack reaches nearly a foot and a half high. Another stack even higher could be assembled of the books he has recommended for us to study, which address the genesis, growth, influence, effect, and how to overcome this modern secret combination of which the prophets speak.

If BYU were to begin addressing this subject adequately within the current courses as pertinent, and even create a class specific to the study of these things that the prophets have commanded us to awaken to, would the students and faculty be ready to shoulder the increased persecution that would come? Will they rally, united around the banner of the prophets, or will the candle of truth continue to be tucked away under a bushel of accreditation, and the repentance clause of prophecy go unused?

The prophets have spoken. How are we responding?

by Sterling D. Allan, Provo, Utah; January 17, 1992

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