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"Hear now my reasoning, and hearken to the pleadings of my lips". Job 13:3.

"Should he reason with unprofitable talk? Or with speeches wherewith he can do no good"? Job 15:3

"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord; though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land; But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. Isa 1:18-20.

"Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons…" Isa 41:21.

"Hearken, O ye people of my church, and ye elders, listen together, and hear my voice, while it is called today, and harden not your hearts; for verily I say unto you that I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the light and the life of the world; a light that shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not. I came unto my own, and my own received me not; but unto as many as received me gave I power to do many miracles and to become the sons of God, and even unto them that believed on my name gave I power to obtain eternal life. And even so I have sent mine everlasting covenant into the world, to be a light to the world, and to be a standard for my people and for the Gentiles to seek to it, and to be a messenger before my face to prepare the way before me. Wherefore come ye unto it; and with him that cometh I will reason as with men in days of old, and I will show unto you my strong reasoning; wherefore hearken ye together, and let me show it unto you, even my wisdom, the wisdom of him who ye say is the God of Enoch and his brethren, who were separated from the earth, and were received unto myself; a city reserved until a day of righteousness shall come: a day which was sought for by all holy men, and they found it not, because of wickedness and abominations, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth, but obtained a promise that they should find it, and see it in their flesh. Wherefore hearken, and I will reason with you, and I will speak unto you and prophesy, as unto men in days of old; and I will show it plainly, as I showed it unto my disciples, as I stood before them in the flesh…" D&C 45:2a-j.

There are many indicators within the scripture that give us insight as to what God is looking for as pertaining to the characteristics and qualities of those who are truly the children of God.

Jesus prayed (God's desire) that we would become one even as he and the Father were one (John 17) and the witness of that oneness would be a testimony unto the world.

Likewise there are many overlapping scriptures that can help us to understand the mind of God and then utilize them, if you will, to gauge our own spiritual growth. It might be said that, our state of spiritual growth is revealed by our ability, or lack thereof, to reason together.

The Apostle Paul, at one point told the Corinthian people that he could not teach the meatier principles unto them because of their lack of growth in the basic principles of gospel living, due to envying, strife, and divisions.

It was requisite for these people, like us, to learn how to get along with one another, work together, interact, and ultimately build Zion together. It is human nature that differences will exist between us. Differences in how we are raised will effect how we perceive things. Cultural differences will affect our perceptions. Educational and economic conditions play a part as well. The myriad of differences between the sex's effects how one views and responds to a given situation. There are differences of spiritual understanding and growth, as well there should be, and to be expected. The Doctrine and Covenants identifies these differences as "barriers and hindrances" (D&C 138).

These barriers and hindrances while they remain impersonal generally create little or no conflict at least on the surface. Once they become personal conflict is inevitable. In the church we have had the tendency to either "shelve" the differences or "agreed to disagree". Both positions are untenable in the Kingdom of God. Shelving or avoidance is one of the tactics of the adversary. It is used to preclude communicating especially in areas of disagreement. Typically we have reached a position where we "agree to disagree" and we leave it at that. This is a dangerous position should not to be continued! The solution… reason together. Likewise the scriptures call us to be of one heart and mind, "And the Lord called his people, Zion, because they were of one heart and of one mind, and dwelt in righteousness…" Gen 7:23. To be otherwise minded one might be tempted to say that, "we are at war one with another" and ultimately with God.

The Book of Mormon reinforces this concept and adds some additional insight, "Arise from the dust, my sons, and be men, and be determined in one mind, and in one heart united in all things, that ye may not come down into captivity; that ye may not be cursed with a sore cursing And also, that ye may not incur the displeasure of a just God upon you, unto the destruction, yea, the eternal destruction of both soul and body. Awake, my sons: put on the armor of righteousness. Shake off the chains with which ye are bound, and come forth out of obscurity, and arise from the dust. Rebel no more against your brother…" 2 Nephi 1:36-40.

Among other things the BOM teaches us to be determined to be of one heart and mind. Webster defines determined as "having one's mind made up; decided; resolved, resolute; unwavering".

Secondly, I believe that the BOM indicates to us that the inability to come to a condition of oneness is a form of captivity or bondage and ultimately rebellion.

"But if ye will turn to the Lord with full purpose of heart, and put your trust in him, and serve him with all diligence of mind; if ye do this, he will, according to his own will and pleasure, deliver you out of bondage..". Mos. 5:52.

Serving God with all diligence of mind leads his people to become of one heart and mind.

Paul said to the Corinthians, "For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it. For there must be also divisions among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you". 1 Cor. 11:18-19.

There must be divisions??? Yes, for the purpose of exercising our agency and thereby witnessing who is and who is not a child of God and at the same time providing a venue for growth.

Well, what are we to do? How are we to handle the divisions which are to inevitably arise amongst us?

"And now come, saith the Lord, by the Spirit, unto the elders (everyone) of his church, and let us reason together, that ye may understand: let us reason even as a man reasoneth one with another face to face: now when a man reasoneth, he is understood of man, because he reasoneth as a man; even so will I, the Lord, reason with you that you may understand…" D&C 50:4a-b

The Lord tells us that we are to reason together. Sounds simple enough doesn't it? Yet, the church throughout the ages has struggled with this as evidenced simply by the division that exists.

I am sure that there are several reasons for this and would just like to enumerate one, pride. Pride manifests itself in several ways in this discussion. One is fear. Fear of being wrong. Another is tradition and perhaps ones thoughts of "protecting" the gospel.

Now while I believe that it is beneficial to understand the reasons behind the division that occurs I would rather focus on the solution and encourage individuals to embrace the concepts that lead to us being of one heart and mind with a determination to make it so!

Webster defines reason like this…

Reason n 1. an explanation or justification of an act, idea, etc. 2. a cause or motive 3. the ability to think, form judgments, draw conclusions, etc. 4. sound thought or judgment; good sense 5. normal mental powers; a sound mind; sanity 6. Logic any of the premises of an argument, esp. the minor -

vi 1. to think coherently and logically; draw inferences or conclusions from facts known or assumed 2. to argue or talk in a logical way-

vt.

1. to think logically about; think out systematically; analyze 2. to argue, conclude or infer: now usually with clause introduced by that as the object 3. to support, justify, etc. with reasons 4. to persuade or bring by reasoning (into or out of)

Reason in the Greek:

Strong's number: 1260 Greek: dialogizomai Pronunciation: dee-al-og-id'-zom-ahee

from 1223 and 3049; to reckon thoroughly, i.e. (genitive case) to deliberate (by reflection or discussion): --cast in mind, consider, dispute, muse, reason, think.

"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth". 2 Tim. 2:15

As Christians, that is children of God, there are certain expectations. One of those is that we will study to expand our knowledge and understanding of God and his ways (mind). The only thing that really matters is, understanding things the way God does, or seeing it the way He sees it. This is often in conflict with our ways but let us remember…

"Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near; Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it". Isa. 55:6-11.

Remember that the intent is not that His thoughts and ways are not ours but rather that we become like Him in thought word and deed. This means seeking to understand the mind of God. Fortunately for those who have been born again, and filled with His Spirit we need not do this on our own. Two scriptures come to mind, the first from Corinthians…

"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, except he has the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ." 1 Cor. 2:9-16.

The second scripture…

"Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you." James 4:8.

Both of these scriptures will help us as we seek to know God and his mind. I believe that it is crucial that we participate in those activities that engage our minds so that our thoughts are upon Him. In that way we open the channels of communication and God can reveal himself to us.

Part of the process of reasoning together is the necessity of studying issues out but this is not the end even though as the result of our studies our understanding grows.

"Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel; for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words". Dan 10:12

"…if you ask of me you shall receive, if you will knock it shall be opened unto you. Now, as you have asked behold, I say unto you, Keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion; but seek not for riches but for wisdom; and , behold, the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you…" D&C 6:2c-3c.

And…

"Behold, you have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought, save it was to ask me; but, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right…" D&C 9:3a-c.

And…

Verily, verily I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy, and then shall ye know, or by this shall you know, all things whatsoever you desire of me, which is pertaining unto things of righteousness, in faith believing in me that you shall receive." D&C 10:7.

In all likelihood do not be surprised that the thing revealed will be contrary to our own thoughts, feelings, and desires.

At some point in time issues must be discussed amongst us. This invariably will be the point of conflict, particularly in those areas of disagreement or perhaps of interpretation. Typically we each have the tendency to "protect" our position. We must remember that we are not here to protect a position but rather seeking to do God's will.

Arguments are often disguised as discussion with neither side really listening. This is an area where we have much to learn and grow in. Do I really "hear" what others are saying? Do I understand why they are thinking the way they are? Will I have the patience to contemplate and ask questions to clarify rather than jump right in with rebuttal no matter how logical it may seem? Often there are the subtle pressures of having to resolve the issue quickly.

In the 1800's the Anabaptists, operating under the principle of common consent, took 15 years to come to agreement over the issue of slavery. Yet they did so through much prayer, discussion, and seeking the mind and will of God. It is interesting to note that some of the individuals involved were at the final point of agreement from the very beginning. This was no small issue. Potentially it was divisive, but there was a mindset involved that division was not the correct solution. There was a determination that together they would ascertain the mind and will of God. This took being patient with one another, having the utmost respect for one another based in the love of Christ.

"Behold, I waited for your words; I gave ear to your reasons, whilst ye search out what to say". Job 32:11.

There is a promise given to us in the scriptures that is really quite phenomenal and at the same time fosters upon those who have entered into a covenant relationship the expectation that they will seek to grow spiritually. The focus of their lives needs to become that of putting off the old man and becoming renewed in the spirit. To do otherwise is essentially to deny ones covenant.

"And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you, and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things. Therefore, sanctify yourselves that your minds become single to God, and the days will come that you shall see him: for he will unveil his face unto you, and it shall be in his own time, and in his own way, and according to his own will". D&C 85:18a-b.

"I applied mine heart to know, and to search, and to seek out wisdom, and the reason of things, and to know the wickedness of folly, even of foolishness and madness" Eccl 7:25.

With this understanding we have to realize that there is much work and time involved in coming to common consent. The avenue to get there is reasoning together, knowing that there are going to be differences of understanding. Until the last day is ushered in this is to be expected and anticipated. There shall always be coming into the body those of different levels of spiritual growth and understanding. This will always foster questioning; the inevitable "why?" It is not to be feared but addressed with patience. Not with a condescending attitude but with complete respect. Perhaps the timing of the question is such that challenges long held tradition or beliefs and is "God designed" to aid in the spiritual growth of the entire body.

"Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little". Isa. 28:9-10.

A good example of this is the change of understanding that Peter went through and ultimately the whole church with respect to the Gentiles and their conversion to Christ. See Acts chapters 10-12. Prior to this their understanding was that the Holy Spirit was only given to the Jews.

So now I find myself in the middle of an issue and am doing my level best to reason together. I have studied the issue out as thoroughly as possible, I have prayed about it till I am blue in the face. Some people see it the way I do and others do not. I feel like that if we do not respond the overall spiritual condition of the church will be hindered. Can "we" afford to wait 15 years? Yes! To not wait for common consent and to move forward is divisive and tends towards captivity and bondage. Remember God is in control! His timing not ours! He knows and understands all. So what am I to do? Live according to your convictions… let your light so shine before the world that they may see. Condemn not those with whom you do not see eye to eye… God is the judge. Pray… maybe it will be you who changes… remember that you can be so right but the way you handle it so wrong… Do not become so fixated upon one issue that you miss the bigger picture.

One needs to learn to differentiate between what is my mind and will and the way I think things ought to be and God's ways. This is sometimes easier said than done but can be done. Trust God, after all this is his work!

"…in everything give thanks, waiting patiently on the Lord…" D&C 95:1a.

"Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil and cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another; Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you; bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good". Rom. 12:9-21.

This scripture perhaps above all things is speaking about attitude…. The spirit behind our attitudes cannot be faked try as one might; the Spirit of discernment reveals truth.

"Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according as was Christ Jesus; That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us, to the glory of God". Rom 15:5-7.

"Now I beseech you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment". 1 Cor. 1:10.

"For we are laborers together with God; ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest; for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward". 1 Cor 3:9-14.

"If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus; Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God; But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name; That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings; That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life…" Phil. 2:1-16.