“Thou Shalt” and “Thou Shalt Not” – Sunday, February 02, 1947
Often quoted, and ascribed to various sources, is this doubtful declaration: “I don’t care what you say about me so long as you mention my name.” This statement, however we may disagree with it, gives recognition to the basic fact that we are attracted to the things we know. A name heard often enough, even though unfavorably, attracts attention, whereas an unknown name may not. What we know nothing about has no part in our thinking. But if we know a little about something, we may want to know a little more, and if we know much about it, we may want to know all about it.
This is all by way of introduction to a plea for positive teachings It has long been understood that the teachings of Jesus the Christ offer a positive approach to the problems of life. But even in the Ten Commandments, which we may have come to think upon as solely a series of “thou shalt nots,” there is much that is positive. First of all there is the reminder, “I am the Lord thy God.” Also, “Six days shalt thou labour.” “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.” “Honour thy father and thy mother.” The things the Ten Commandments tell us not to do are as binding and forbidden today as they were when they were graven upon stone by the finger of God. But any man who is first mindful of the Lord God, who lives in a manner such as to bring honor to his father and mother, who is diligent in honest labor, and who keeps the Lord’s day holy, isn’t likely to need too much reminder of negative admonitions.
Overemphasis on forbidden things may tend to make them attractive. Too intent a contemplation of the terrors of hell may obscure some of the desirability of heaven. Too much dwelling upon what we shouldn’t do may retard some of the things we should do. Of course we must teach what not to do, and in unmistakable terms, but we have an obligation not only to tell our young people what not to do, but also to teach them what they should do—not only to see that they don’t do the wrong things, but also to hold constantly before them an unforgettable example of the right things.
“The Spoken Word,” heard over Radio Station K S L and the nationwide Columbia Broadcasting System, from the Tabernacle, Temple Square, Salt Lake City, Sunday, February 2, 1947. 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, EST. Copyright 1947.
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February 02, 1947
Broadcast Number 0,911