Missionary Focus:
“The Weak Things of the World”

by Kevin D. Kaufman

Tonight Paul’s words in the first chapter of 1 Corinthians were plainly demonstrated as the gospel was shared by a young missionary who quietly, but firmly, declared the counsel of a living prophet.

Earlier today we were in the Pergamino, Argentina, library preparing for our English classes. The library administrator asked if my companion would take part in a panel discussion on abortion.

The elder accepted the challenge, and that evening he joined a panel that included several doctors and lawyers and a priest. The room was filled with young people apparently seeking guidance on the controversy. The administrator also was the moderator and introduced the panelists one by one, with a brief explanation of the subject to be discussed.

The panel discussion began as the moderator directed his first question to the priest. Defending his church’s position, the priest used his extensive vocabulary and studied eloquence to weave a complicated argument. He effectively avoided a firm position, while at the same time indicating it. It was apparent that he didn’t want to offend anyone.

Next the doctors and lawyers began explaining their positions using cold, clinical terms and reading and explaining laws. They treated symptoms and shared their eloquent words and knowledge of the world. It was apparent, however, that the audience was waiting for real answers to the problems of a sick world.

During all this time my companion sat humbly listening to the others, waiting patiently for his moment to speak. Finally the moderator turned to him and said, “We have not yet heard the Mormon church’s position presented this evening.”

An immediate silence fell over the room. Though a North American speaking in their language, he was a servant of the Lord. With that spirit he bore his testimony of a prophet of God, then read the words of this prophet, Spencer W. Kimball, concerning the Lord’s position on abortion.

My companion read every word quietly but with the power and authority of God. There was not a sound. The words of a living prophet filled the room and everyone listened. No one interrupted. When he finished, silence still reigned. Heads were bowed, others nodding in agreement. The doctors and lawyers were humbled.

“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise: and God has chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.” (1 Cor. 1:27.)

Illustrated by Paul Mann