Ezra Taft Benson: 'When you choose to follow Christ, you choose to be changed.'
When you choose to follow Christ, you choose to be changed.
When we delve into the profound quote by Ezra Taft Benson, "When you choose to follow Christ, you choose to be changed," we uncover the transformative power inherent in the decision to embrace the teachings and principles of Christ. At its core, this quote encapsulates the notion that making the conscious choice to follow Christ leads to a fundamental shift within ourselves. It implies that becoming a follower of Christ is not a passive action but an active commitment to personal growth and spiritual evolution.The significance of this quote lies in its recognition of the potential for transformation that lies within each individual. By choosing to follow Christ, we open ourselves up to a process of change that goes beyond surface-level alterations. It involves a deep-seated change in our core values, beliefs, and attitudes. This transformation can manifest in various aspects of our lives, including our thoughts, actions, and relationships.Now, let us introduce a philosophical concept to add intrigue to the article. Consider the philosophy of existentialism, which explores questions of individual freedom and personal responsibility. Existentialism emphasizes that human beings are not predetermined but create their essence through their choices and actions. By their very nature, these choices shape and define who we are as individuals.Drawing a parallel, we can view choosing to follow Christ as an existentialist act. In embracing Christ's teachings, one actively takes responsibility for their spiritual growth and endeavors to mold themselves into a reflection of his teachings. This act of following Christ becomes a transcendent choice that directs our path and determines the course of our personal transformation.However, when we compare existentialism and the quote by Benson, an interesting dichotomy emerges. While existentialism asserts that individuals must create their own meaning and purpose, the quote highlights the idea that true change only occurs when we surrender ourselves to a higher power. In essence, the act of following Christ involves a surrender of our own will and a submission to a greater purpose.This contrast between existentialism and the quote does not invalidate either perspective. Rather, it invites us to reflect on the complexities of personal transformation and the multiplicity of paths one can take to achieve it. The choice to follow Christ becomes a profound merging of our individual will with a divine purpose, thereby facilitating a transformation that is both self-directed and guided by something larger than ourselves.In conclusion, Ezra Taft Benson's quote, "When you choose to follow Christ, you choose to be changed," encapsulates the transformative power inherent in embracing the teachings of Christ. It encompasses an active commitment to personal growth and a deep-seated change in our core values and beliefs. Engaging with the philosophy of existentialism highlights the nature of this act as a personal and existential choice. It invites us to navigate the complexities of personal transformation, acknowledging the need for surrendering our own will to a higher power. Ultimately, the quote reminds us that by choosing to follow Christ, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and spiritual evolution.