Elder Anderson and the Iron Rod of the Vision

Elder Neil L. Andersen described the threefold meaning of the “word of God” in these terms: “The word of God contains three very strong elements that intertwine and sustain one another to form an immovable rod. These three elements include, first, the scriptures, or the words of the ancient prophets. . . . The second element of the word of God is the personal revelation and inspiration that comes to us through the Holy Ghost. . . . The third element, a critical addition intertwining with the other two, . . . represents the words of the living prophets. We must also hold fast to the word of God as delivered by the living prophets.” (“Hold Fast to the Words of the Prophets” (CES fireside, March 4, 2007), 3.)