October, 1997 General Confernce

— LDS GENERAL CONFERENCE —

Elder M. Russell Ballard

Quorum of the Twelve


      Priesthood holders have a sacred duty to always stand for truth and right.
      The devil is the author of all sin and uses secret combinations, including gangs, to get hold upon the hearts of the children of men.
      Without proper caution, today's secret combinations can obtain power as completely as in Book of Mormon times.
      As he did then, Satan "is having far too much success today. That's why it is important for us as priesthood holders to take a firm stand for truth and right by doing what we can to help keep our communities safe."
      The gospel provides the most effective preventative and rehabilitative assistance in overcoming criminal behavior.
      "I do not believe that you can stand for truth and right while wearing anything that is unbecoming one who holds the priesthood of God. To me, it is impossible to maintain the spirit of the Lord while listening to music or watching movies or videos that celebrate evil thoughts and use vulgar language."