Differences between The light of Christ, manifestations of the Holy Ghost and the Gift of the aholy Ghost

Dallin H. Oaks

In highlighting the gift of the Holy Ghost as a distinguishing characteristic of our faith, we need to understand the important differences between (1) the Light of Christ, (2) a manifestation of the Holy Ghost, and (3) the gift of the Holy Ghost.

The Light of Christ, which is sometimes called the Spirit of Christ or the Spirit of God, "giveth light to every man that cometh into the world" (D&C 84:46). This is the light "which is in all things, which giveth life to all things" (D&C 88:13). The prophet Mormon taught that "the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil" (Moro. 7:16; see also Moro. 7:19; 2 Ne. 2:5; Hel. 14:31). Elder Lorenzo Snow spoke of this light when he said, "Everybody has the Spirit of God" (in Journal of Discourses, 14:304). The Light of Christ enlightens and gives understanding to all men (see D&C 88:11).

In contrast, a manifestation of the Holy Ghost is more focused. This manifestation is given to acquaint sincere seekers with the truth about the Lord and his gospel. For example, the prophet Moroni promises that when we study the Book of Mormon and seek to know whether it is true, sincerely and with real intent, God will "manifest" the truth of it unto us, "by the power of the Holy Ghost" (Moro. 10:4). Moroni also records this promise from the Risen Lord: "He that believeth these things which I have spoken, him will I visit with the manifestations of my Spirit, and he shall know and bear record. For because of my Spirit he shall know that these things are true" (Ether 4:11).

We Who Wear Wristwatches

“When we are unduly impatient with an omniscient God’s timing,

we really are suggesting that we know what is best.

Strange, isn’t it-

we who wear wristwatches seek to counsel Him

 who oversees cosmic clocks and calendars.”

E. Maxwell, E. 11/1998:63

The Trial of Faith

“Faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; 

wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, 

for ye receive no witness 

until after the trial of your faith” (Ether 12:6). 

Thus, every time you try your faith—that is, act in worthiness on an impression—you will receive the confirming evidence of the Spirit. 

As you walk to the boundary of your understanding 

into the twilight of uncertainty, 

exercising faith, 

you will be led to find solutions 

you would not obtain otherwise. 

With even your strongest faith, 

God will not always reward you immediately according to your desires. 

Rather, God will respond with what in His eternal plan is best for you, 

when it will yield the greatest advantage.

 Be thankful that sometimes God lets you struggle for a long time 

before that answer comes. 

That causes your faith to increase 

and your character to grow.

Elder Richard G. Scott

E. 11/2010

The Transforming Power of Faith and Character