We do not, by any
means, condemn the learning and wisdom of men; for these are good, in their
place; and, if properly used, will render a servant of God still more efficient
in doing good. It is not learning which we condemn, but it is the pride and the
self-sufficiency to which most of the learned yield. They trust to their
learning, instead of the inspiration of the Holy Ghost; they teach human
precepts, instead of the counsels of heaven; they seek unto the poor, weak,
puny judgment of man, instead of inquiring of God; hence, their wisdom is
foolishness, and of no account towards building up the kingdom of God. But if
they would combine their learning with the inspiration of the Spirit, and
receive the word of the Lord, as holy men did in times of old, then their
learning might be of great benefit to their fellow men. They would be able, through
a good understanding of their mother tongue, to convey the truth more simply,
more eloquently, more fully, more impressively to their hearers. A man of God
might have the heavens opened to him, and might gaze upon the glories of the
celestial worlds, and might understand things great and marvelous, and yet, through
the imperfections of his language, be feebly qualified to impart this great
information intelligible to others; whereas, if he had instructed himself in
the use of language; it would prove a powerful medium of communication, to
those whose minds are lighted up by the Spirit of Truth. (Orson Pratt, “A
Qualified Ministry,” The Latter-day Saint’s Millennial Star 28, no.
33 [August 18, 1866]: 252)
