During COVID-19, many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints were shocked to have their church leaders encouraging them to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Some questioned the faith of those who would not take the vaccine; others accused any who spoke against the vaccine of promoting apostasy.
Some questioned their own faith when confronted with their prophet promoting what they saw as a lie. Still, others took the vaccine even against their better judgment, believing God would not hold them responsible for the damage it caused if they followed the prophet’s counsel. Avoiding the vaccine was not only the right and privilege of every member, but standing for truth is precisely what the Lord has called those loyal to him to do, both in and outside the Church.
The Book of Mormon records that more part of the righteous was seduced to believe in the works of the Gadianton Robbers and thus partook in their spoils. This book documents how that same process occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also witnesses that none need question their faith in God, the Book of Mormon, the restoration of the Church, or their own membership, but rather invigorates all to remain faithful to the purposes of the Lord and stand for truth at all times and all places.
