Sermons Not Spoken

by Neal A. Maxwell

Duties and ponderings have occasionally stirred the author to prepare drafts of sermons which, for one reason or another, were not spoken; or perhaps only small portions were extracted and used. Other times, a talk has been prepared for which there was neither occasion nor audience. Whether the author simply needed the spiritual calisthenics which go with such added preparation, it now matters not. These "Sermons Not Spoken" are here printed for audiences unseen, but with no less desire that somehow, for them, they will prove helpful. As always, it should be said that this is not an official Church publication. The views expressed herein are those for which the author alone is solely responsible. Genuine appreciation is expressed to Daniel H. Ludlow and Roy W. Doxey for their review of and suggestions concerning this manuscript and to Susan Jackson for processing, so patiently, the flow of words.

Genres: Lds, Religion, Nonfiction, Church

104 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1985

About the author

Neal A. Maxwell was well known as an Apostle, author, administrator, and educator. A graduate of the University of Utah, he was the Commissioner of Education for the Church Educational System for six years. He also held a variety of administrative and teaching positions at the University of Utah, including that of executive vice-president.

In 1974 Elder Maxwell was called as an Assistant to the Council of the Twelve. From 1976 to 1981 he served as member of the Presidency of the First Quorum of the Seventy, and in 1981 was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

Elder Maxwell has written numerous books on Latter-day Saint themes, including "If Thou Endure It Well"; "Lord, Increase Our Faith"; "That Ye May Believe"; and "Not My Will, But Thine". He and his wife, Colleen Hinckley Maxwell, had four children.

Elder Maxwell died July 21, 2004.

Reviews

[Kim Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had never thought of General Authorities writing talks that they wouldn't give, so it was interesting that Elder Maxwell created a book out of them. As I read some of the "talks", it amazed, and saddened me, at how far we've gone in the wrong direction in the last 40 years. Things he talks about as being problems then are exponentially worse now. Of course this isn't a doom and gloom book. It was just interesting to me.

I do love Elder Maxwell.

[Timber · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt a little dated with mentions of worries about the Cold War, but overall I enjoyed the book.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really deep, but was really good.

[Crazy Uncle Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Neal A. Maxwell was a genius. I really enjoyed his talks and this is a great book.

[Jeannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So inspiring! I marvel at how applicable his counsel is even 20 years later. I found this very comforting in a time of sadness and trial. I love Elder Maxwell!!

[Don Gubler · Rating 3 out of 5]

A magical way with words.

[Rae · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good material and thoughtful prose, but definitely not his best work. Some sermons shouldn't be spoken -- until they are tidied up a bit.

[Cherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book with many insights one I will refer to again and again.

[David Barney · Rating 3 out of 5]

enjoyable read