Elder Nelson the surgeon, sustains the prophet of God

As a member of the quorum of twelve apostles, Elder Russell M. Nelson has gained his credibility and his ethos over time to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Elder Nelson recently celebrated his 90th birthday, and 30th year as an apostle in the church. As a celebration he commented on the many areas of growth in the church that he has been apart of. (Lifetime of Service) As he has been along for many changes and areas of growth, and it is no surprise that he would then give such a sustaining sermon of the men who have been along with him in this journey in his address in General Conference of October 2014 entitled "Sustaining the Prophets". Though he has had a successful time as an apostle, Elder Nelson further strengthened his ethos as he not only described his highly successful medical career, but he also described the weakness and insecurities he has faced over his career. Elder Nelson began this address by telling a story of performing surgery on President Spencer W. Kimball. He told of his uneasiness in doing so, but accompanied that with his testimony and belief of Latter-day prophets, and the Lord’s hand in guiding and protecting His church, and its leaders. It was the perfect transition into the rest of his talk—mostly on the topic of sustaining our current prophet, President Thomas S. Monson.

In another address "Decisions for Eternity" (October 2013) Elder Nelson again spoke of things pertaining to his past medical career. A good portion of this address focused on the human body—but not just on the anatomy from the medical perspective, but also with the blessings and miracles on the spiritual side as well. By using dual functioning as a doctor and as an apostle, Elder Nelson wove together a masterpiece of logical thoughts (logos) and spiritual insights (in this case pathos).

A common aspect of Elder Nelson’s talks is his use and appeal to the logically minded. He lays out the straightforward facts—facts that cannot waiver, and testifies of the correctness of these various principles. He then further sustains his words as he quotes scriptures, or modern day prophets—specifically President Monson. His form comes out loving but immovable. His words resonate souls with truth and with understanding. He does not forcefully call for a change or for immediate action, but his words elicit the heart with a willingness to do just that, so then the change seems easy.

-Lizzy S.