Many are Called But few are Chosen

by H. Verlan Andersen

Elder H. Verlan Andersen was called as a General Authority in April of 1986. He was widely known as one of the most pro-Liberty and pro-Constitution leaders of the church along with President Ezra Taft Benson with whom he was a close friend. His 1967 book, Many Are Called But Few Are Chosen, was so sound and foundational that President Benson, at the April 1972 General Conference, recommended that the entire membership of the LDS church read it. There are many in the LDS Liberty community who credit this book with causing them to have a complete re-awakening. It’s a must read (or listen in this case), especially before voting, and gives a whole new perspective on D&C 121. Thanks to Tammy Broderick for taking the time to record this inspired book. Thanks goes out as well to Hans V. Andersen for letting LDS Liberty record this book. ( Audiobook on CD - MP3 Audio Format, 2 hrs 46 minutes )

Genres: Religion, Politics, Mormonism, Nonfiction

92 pages

First published January 1, 1967

Reviews

[Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't help but think about the awful situation that the United States is in today while reading this book. It's quite sobering to realize that many politicians in America today have become modern Gadianton Robbers, which today would be socialism and communism. The modern mass media are in it as well, because they're actively pushing this satanic doctrine on a daily basis.

The book was published decades ago, but the information in this book is still relevant for our time. We just need to "liken" it unto ourselves.

[Patrick · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is very arrogant so far. This is being bandied about Utah County along with Cleon Skousen as a correct basis for politics. The premise is some twisting of scripture equating the author's very specific view of political freedom with righteousness. It basically posits that if you don't vote conservative Republican or disagree with the author's very narrow view of acceptable government action, your priesthood will get taken away and you won't be saved. Very discouraging read so far.

This is the political/religious equivalent to infomercials for health supplements or wealth building books. We have this secret that "doctors or stock brokers don't want you to know," and you'll be healthy, wealthy, and wise if you just pay us for our secret info.

The church is not teaching you what you really need to know to be saved. You will be completely and unmercifully judged on how you vote. If you don't believe this interpretation of freedom or even know about it, that's your fault for not being diligent enough. Faith, hope, and charity are not mentioned or apparently required. Cleon Skousen is the true prophet.

I see why this causes so many problems. How can you even have a discussion about political differences when their political view is treated as doctrine to be taught to all of the lazy, apostate Mormons?

[James Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fact that this was written by a general authority lends no more credibility to it than had it been written by a child. The words and principles espoused carry the power of truth in it's simplest and purest forms. While many might see some of the messages in this book as outdated; the fact remains- truth is eternal. There is no
expiration date for truth.

Reading this has vindicated and rebuked my philosophical and theological assumptions simultaneously. Any disagreements I have had,
or still may have, with certain points in this book shrink in contrast to the overpowering logic and spiritual power connected therein. After reading this my only doubts were directed inward-
towards my own opinions. My faith has extended outward- towards the only source of truth. My understanding of truth has expanded and I am
inspired to be better because of what I read. For this I know that these collective writings were inspired of God-for anything that leadeth and pursuadeth a man to do good and believe in Christ is of God.

Please, judge for yourself.

[Kim Dennis · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't understand how this book could possibly have received such high ratings. I consider myself a basically conservative person, but I was utterly offended by this book. Andersen is about as far right-wing as you can get. He needs to study his history before he condemns the government for actions it has taken and then blames the people for what the government has done. I couldn't even get through the book. I was so frustrated that he was using scriptures that I hold sacred to justify his viewpoint. I couldn't even finish the book, and for me that is a big deal. I nearly ALWAYS finish a book I have started. In fact, I recycled the book when I reached my limit. I didn't want to give it to a used book store so someone else could read his garbage and think that it is the policy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

[Joe · Rating 5 out of 5]

[one of the five books recommended by Ezra Taft Benson in his landmark 1972 April 6 General Conference address "Civic Standards for the Faithful Saints":]

This book contains brilliant commentary about civic responsibility and how to avoid abusing one's voting power. It explains the process by which it is possible to judge righteously with regard to legislation and court rulings. No law degree is needed to correctly discern whether a law is constitutional or unconstitutional. The book is a devastating condemnation of the average American, including the average LDS member. It establishes with undeniable clarity that we have been ignorantly upholding the secret combinations mentioned in Ether 8:23-26.

[M.E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of book I think everyone should read. Or, every Latter-day Saint, anyway. Since the church doesn't take support any political party or candidate, sometimes we think that it doesn't matter what political stance we take. But God has set forth some guidelines for us to follow as we discern who we will support and what we will accept from our government. This book does a great job to point those guidelines out, and how far our government is from them. This book was written back in the sixties, and it is even more pertinent today.

[Ashleigh Son · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short, easy read, but one that I believe is necessary for every LDS person's arsenal of knowledge. Few books have pierced my heart like this one has. The main message is that the Lord's form of government is freedom, and this is contrasted with Satan's form of government: bondage. It contains a warning message about where our nation is headed if we do not heed to scriptures that are plainly spelled out for us, as well as the long-term spiritual consequences of our indifference and apathy. The truth is tangible, and the words are powerful. It was well worth my time to read this!

[Brandon · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book presents some interesting insights into government, particularly as it pertains to the principles gained from the Book of Mormon and modern-day revelation. However, it was clearly written for a world actively engaged in the foreground battle of democracy and communism. While the principles of communism are certainly present today, the battle lines are far more obscured. This book gives some help at identifying those lines, but would be benefited by an update for the 21st century. Or, I suppose the author's point is that we should turn to the scriptures to find our own answers about how to deal with modern political challenges.

[Amanda Rasmussen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Similar to his other book “The Great and Abominable Church of the Devil”, which I may have liked a little more just because of the way it is organized. Nevertheless this is a great book that demonstrates the many words of ancient and modern day prophets on the role of government. Includes many great reminders of why government issues are so prevalent in the Book of Mormon and how they should guide us in our views politically now.

[Chad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent coverage of early LDS prophets teachings on communism. This book relies heavily on men who Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints believe to be prophets as well as LDS scripture, The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants.

The book does a very good job of showing how far we have strayed from the foundational principles and concepts contained in the US Constitution.

[patrickawesome · Rating 5 out of 5]

well thought out

A great mix of Lds doctrine and liberty! Points of proper priesthood authority is connected by upholding liberty and denouncing communism rang true to my heart , a good read for those that love our nation and believe it was inspired by God to be founded by our forefathers, though it could use a bit more communism hate

[Ken · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an incredible book. I cannot convey the great feelings I garnered from reading it. It isn't huge, only 82 pages, and I read it in one evening. I thought Verlan Andersen did an incredible job of compactly stating many of the ideas and feelings I have had in a very powerful and compelling way. I especially enjoyed the theme that as citizens of the U.S., we have a spiritual as well as civic duty to be actively engaged in supporting the Constitution and battling the encroachment upon our liberties and free agency. Previous to reading this, I was disappointed by LDS members around me who feel there is no need to bother as we know how it is all going to end. However, this book specifically states, with reference to Captain Moroni's call for action and support, that we are ultimately responsible for how we act under circumstances of our government, either we support or we do not support any government action, whether righteous or evil. If we are active, to the full ability which we have to influence, in opposition to government actions that detract from freedom, we are not held accountable. Complacency and non-action are forms of support for evil performed by government. It was a great boost to my moral, this book being lent to me by a friend at the right time, obviously inspired.

[T.K. · Rating 1 out of 5]

Mr. Andersen was a BYU professor of law and accounting when he published this in 1967, and even had an LL.M. degree from Harvard Law School. Despite his education, he makes unsubstantiated assertions in this odd book that champions freedom seemingly at the expense of everything else. The quotes, however, from scripture and prophets are great, but they're unsuccessfully used to bolster his unique views. He did become a general authority of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 19 years after publishing this, but it should not be considered the doctrine of the church.

[Debi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to share with you, that while I was reading this book I had the feeling that the information was familiar - like I had read it or heard it before. I am still not sure if I have indeed read this book at another time, or if it was a feeling that was testifying to me that what I was reading is true.

This book has helped me to understand how my decisions will have a far greater impact on my spiritual growth and development than I could have imagined.

[Jenny Sass · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute must read for members of the LDS Church. This quick read explains how the Book of Mormon is a type and shadow of our day and our sacred duty to uphold the inspired U.S. Constitution in an effort to preserve our freedoms lest we meet the same demise as the Jaredite and Nephite nations. We will be held accountable for our efforts to protect and defend our freedoms/agency. On a side note, this book was written by Jenet Jacob's maternal grandfather.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing explanation of the freedom/bondage dichotomy in regards to politics and spirituality. The absolute inseparability of politics, law, morality and accountability both on a collective and individual level. Causes behind the rise and fall of nations, etc. This book is a big time eye opener! Brief, clear, and extremely well written. Only 85 pages.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a MUST READ. We as americans are very apathetic towards our duties in government. We need to educate ourselves and those around us. This book is a good place to start - along with "None Dare Call It Conspiracy" by Gary Allen. A study of government and the Constitution will open your eyes to a whole new world. I love it!

[Elaine Curry · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book a couple of years ago and I'm rereading it. It's got some interesting ideas about law and government, and since I'm politically retarded, well, I wanted to read it again to see if I could take anything new from it. It's a short book, and those are the best kind for me right now. Small doses, for now!

[Trina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Written for the LDS people - our call to wake up and realize OUR duties to uphold the constitution. Karl Marx's Communist Manifesto is being steadily put into place here in the U.S. and we are all ASLEEP!

[Mike Emett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though written for members of the LDS Church and written during the 60's, the principles for this book are for all and for our day. We can see the warnings in this book are still needed for today. A MUST READ!

[Troy Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute necessity for every individual and family to read. This gives a basic understanding of civics and your responsibilities. If you only read one book in your life after the scriptures, this should be it!

[Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read if you want to know what laws should be and who to support in government. I first read this book while I was in college and taking classes from the author. Found it even more applicable to our current circumstances today.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really got me thinking. I started reading it with some friends in my ward who are into TJED. I loved it. I want to read the rest of his books.

[Cari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting!

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have a sacred responsibility to be active in the political process to do much good.

[Autumn Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Changed my life--started me on the road to learning about freedom and politics.