The idea that we need “Opposition In All Things” is canonized in the most correct book on earth, The Book of Mormon (2 Nephi 2:11). Church leaders over the years have talked about the need for this opposition, even if it involves challenging some of our truth claims. Probably one of the most famous is from J. Reuben Clark

If we have truth, [it] cannot be harmed by investigation. If we have not truth, it ought to be harmed.

J. Reuben Clark, as recorded by D. Michael Quinn, J. Reuben Clark: The Church Years. Provo, Utah: Brigham Young University Press, 1983, p. 24

Another quote that has worked its way into LDS thought is by the late biblical scholar and theologian Austin Farrer.

It is commonly said that if rational argument is so seldom the cause of conviction, philosophical apologists must largely be wasting their shot. The premise is true, but the conclusion does not follow. For though argument does not create conviction, the lack of it destroys belief. What seems to be proved may not be embraced; but what no one shows the ability to defend is quickly abandoned. Rational argument does not create belief, but it maintains a climate in which belief may flourish.

Austin Farrer

In plain Bishop Bill English (minus the misspellings), he is saying that without push back to ideas, belief in those ideas cannot grow, and in fact will be destroyed

While that does not sound very Mormon in todays Church, it was in fact accepted by some of our leaders. Marion D. Hanks quoted the above in his book “A More Excellent Way” in 1966, and used it in a talk to the Church Education System. The big surprise is that Dallin Oaks quoted it at a dinner to (wait for it….) Church Apologist in 2002! In effect he was saying that we need to have the argument with Church critics, because it will build up belief.

Contrast that to what now President Oaks said at a BYU devotional earler this year:

An abundance of speculation and false information in podcasts and on social media surrounds us. Some may protest or question the truth of Church doctrine without knowing or even understanding the fulness of that doctrine.

Don’t be persuaded by false or inaccurate information. Discuss your concerns with faithful, well-informed friends and always take those concerns to the Lord.

Dallin H Oaks, BYU Devotional, Feb 10, 2026

If the members only listen to “faithful, well-informed friends”, then they will never hear the opposition, they will never have the argument that will build up belief (which he himself quoted 25 years ago).

What do you think of the Austin Farrer quote? What do you think of Oak’s reversal on this? Does he want apologists to engage the critics of the Church, but then wants the average member to stay as far away from these critics as possible?