The doctrine of the priesthood is the key to working effectively in the Church.

What is the doctrine of the priesthood?  Let’s look at D&C 121:45.

This section of the Doctrine and Covenants was received by the Prophet Joseph Smith near the end of a four-month stay in the horrible Liberty Jail. He was told in earlier verses what that doctrine of the priesthood is. Starting with verse 34 and going to verse 45 is the definition.

To paraphrase the doctrine of the priesthood is the proper way the priesthood should be exercised. The Lord stated that many are called but few are chosen, and why are they not chosen?  Because their hearts are set on the things of the world and that they don’t learn this one lesson:

36 “That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.

37 That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man.”

The remaining verses in this section go on to tell us how to properly exercise the priesthood using persuasion, long-suffering, gentleness, meekness, etc.  Only reproving or correcting when moved upon by the Holy Ghost.  In all cases, we need to strive to patiently, and kindly, work with one another. This goes for both men and women.

This is also the pattern and formula on how the priesthood should work with the Relief Society, as well as how the Relief Society should work with the priesthood. In fact, this is the pattern on how all priesthood and auxiliaries in the church should work with each other. But as stated, it is the disposition of most of us to do the opposite.

Elder Ballard has stated in his book on “Counseling With Our Councils”, that a good leader will take their ego, check it in, and not let it get in the way.

He also stated in a recent training session that a member of the Twelve was assigned to write the first draft of the “Proclamation to the World on the Family”, but no credit was given. The First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles don’t care about getting credit only on doing what is right and what the Lord’s will is. This is a perfect example on the doctrine of the priesthood, and how all quorums and auxiliaries in the Church should govern.

While serving as Bishop there was a major disagreement between the Young Women’s President and the Camp Director on what should be done for Girl’s Camp.  I brought them both into the Bishop’s office and instead of starting out by hearing both sides, I had us all kneel in prayer.  I offered the prayer, and in the prayer I asked that the Lord bless us with His Spirit, and that we would know His will on what would be the best thing to help the Young Women in our ward.

After the prayer, the countenance of both sisters was completely different.  I asked them what their position was now, and they both said it didn’t matter; they both wanted what was best for the Young Women.  We collectively mapped out the theme and the goals for Girl’s Camp, and after the meeting, we all left with the Spirit of love, kindness, and goodness.