“A related distortion is seen in the practice
of those who select a few sentences
from the teachings of a prophet and use
these to support their political agenda or
other personal purposes. In doing so, they
typically ignore the contrary implications of
other prophetic words, or even the clear
example of the prophet’s own actions. For
example, I have corresponded with several
Church members who sought to use something
President Benson is quoted as saying
as a basis for refusing to file an income-tax
return or to pay income taxes. I have tried
to persuade these persons that their interpretation
cannot be what President Benson
intended, because both he and his predecessors
in that sacred office, and all of the General Authorities, have faithfully filed
their income-tax returns and paid the taxes
required by law. The servants of God are
under the Master’s commands to follow him
and to be examples to the flock (1 Timothy
4:12; 1 Peter 5:3). We should interpret their
words in the light of their walk. To wrest
the words of a prophet to support a private
agenda, political or financial or otherwise,
is to try to manipulate the prophet, not to
follow him.” (Our Strengths Can Become Our Downfall, Elder Oaks)

First Presidency & Council of the Twelve: “Church members in any nation are obligated by the 12th article of faith to obey the tax laws of that nation. A member who refuses to file a tax return, to pay required income taxes, or to comply with a final judgment in a tax case, is in direct conflict with the law and with the teachings of the church…

If a member disapproves of tax laws, he may attempt to have them changed by legislation or constitutional amendment, or if he has a well-founded legal objection he may challenge them in the courts. (Quoted by Dallin H. Oaks in 1994 Provo Freedom Festival speech)”

If you haven’t already, go to google video, and search for “Freedom to Facism”. While a little on the heavy side, it’s an interesting take on taxes today. Also, on their web site, they are selling the DVD version for $1. THe idea is you buy many, and give them out to people before tax day this year. If no one pays their taxes, then you have a revolt…that would be interesting….