Our Families Can Be Together Eternally

In life, everyone will experience loss. Depending on your circumstances you may experience losing your parents, children, significant other, or others close to you. But even though dying is a part of life that we all will experience, death is not the end. One day, we will be able to see, touch, talk with, and enjoy the presence of every person we’ve lost.

Pre-Mortal Existence

Before the earth was created our spirits existed in heaven, and we lived in heaven with our Heavenly Father. However, given the spirit state we were in, we could not live up to our eternal potential and be like our Father in heaven. And so God created a plan called the Plan of Salvation. This plan detailed how we could become like God, and receive all the blessings that He has.

However, God knew that earth life would be hard. He knew we would need help. But more importantly, He wanted us to experience the joy of having a family, having an eternal marriage, and having our own children. So he created families.

How Are Eternal Families Possible?

There are three things that needed to occur for families to be forever. These events are the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement.  In addition, eternal families must be created through the correct ordinances and covenants.

The Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement

Adam and Eve, by Jay Bryant Ward Via lds.org © intellectual reserve

The Creation is a term referring to the idea that God created all things. He created the earth, and he created man. Through the Creation, marriage was also introduced. Adam and Eve were the first people to be married.

Mark A. Mathews writes in his article from the Ensign, “From the beginning, marriage between a man and a woman was ordained of God and established as the ultimate purpose of our creation.”

Nonetheless, the Garden of Eden was unique in that Adam and Eve could not change, or grow. The state that Adam and Eve existed in did not allow for them to have children. And so all mankind needed the Fall. The Fall refers to Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit, which they had been commanded not to eat. There were two consequences that befell Adam and Eve from the Fall: they were cast out of the Garden of Eden, and they entered into a mortal state. This was a good thing though because this new state would allow for children to be born.

The Creation and the Fall created a way for families to come into this world, but without the Atonement, families could not be eternal. Because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can overcome spiritual and physical death, and be with our families forever. This is a central doctrine of Mormonism. The family is sacred to us.

Sacred Ordinances And Covenants

Now that eternal families are possible, we still have to do our part. Not all families are sealed for eternity. You may be familiar with the phrase, “till death do us part.” Marriages that are performed without the necessary sealing power become void in death. Fortunately, mankind has been given the ability to form eternal marriages. An eternal marriage must be:

• Between two worthy individuals
• Take place in dedicated temples
• Be consecrated by someone blessed with the right to perform eternal marriages

Even if all these things are in place, however, the promised blessings of an eternal marriage are still predicated upon each spouse’s faithfulness to the promises they made to each other and to God. Robert D. Hales has taught:

An eternal bond doesn’t just happen as a result of sealing covenants we make in the temple. How we conduct ourselves in this life will determine what we will be in all the eternities to come. To receive the blessings of the sealing that our Heavenly Father has given to us, we have to keep the commandments and conduct ourselves in such a way that our families will want to live with us in the eternities.

Children born to parents who have been joined eternally are born in the covenant. This means that they will automatically be included in the eternal sealing their parents created, and therefore, they will be sealed, or connected, to their parents forever.

What If I Don’t Want To Be With My Family Forever?

Unfortunately, not all families have positive dynamics. Divorce, estrangement, and even abuse occur in families in today’s world. In these situations, it’s very natural to feel upset and distressed over the prospect of being stuck with a dysfunctional family forever. Sadly, there hasn’t been much information related to this particular topic. However, we do know that in heaven there will be no pain. Heaven will be a place infused with joy and love. We also know that God will be fair and just. He would not allow anyone to be tormented by another once they have reached their eternal paradise.

Photo by Takmeomeo on pixabay

Joseph F. Smith has taught:

If a man and woman should be joined together who are incompatible to each other it would be a mercy to them to be separated that they might have a chance to find other spirits that will be congenial to them.

I feel that this would apply to any relationship within a family. If a parent abused their child, I don’t believe that God would force the child against their will to endure eternity with their abuser.

In these situations, it’s important to remember that we have been given the gift of agency. We will have the freedom to choose in heaven, and we will not be encumbered by pain and fear.

It’s also important to remember that we don’t have a full knowledge and understanding of the nature of heaven, nor of what our own heavenly disposition and capabilities will be. I imagine that we were probably very close with our family members in heaven before we came to earth. A life-long abusive relationship on earth may seem more like a small, intense fight between friends from an eternal perspective. Again, remember that we will not be in pain in heaven. All wrongs will be made right. Maybe, after justice and mercy have been applied, those who have been gravely mistreated will feel differently. Perhaps they will desire to embrace their eternal friends with forgiveness and love. But I do not believe that anyone will be forced to.

Create A Loving Family

Your family can be the best part of your life. Your family can trump your job, your friends, your favorite sports team, or any other passions you have.  We don’t have a choice in who are parents and siblings are, but we will choose whom to marry.  We will choose how to raise our children.  These are choices we should not take lightly.

Because of the importance of the family to the eternal plan of happiness, Satan makes a major effort to destroy the sanctity of the family, demean the importance of the role of men and women, encourage moral uncleanliness and violations of the sacred law of chastity, and to discourage parents from placing the bearing and rearing of children as one of their highest priorities.

-Robert D. Hales

The Family: A Proclamation to the World is a statement from the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles of the Church.  In this statement, it says:

We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.

Love your family.  Make every effort possible to get along with your family. Be willing to forgive, and let go of things family members have done to hurt you, and have an open mind towards family members that have different opinions and beliefs. Definitely, don’t marry someone you can’t imagine spending the rest of your life with. You have the power to create a loving family.

One of the more straightforward ways to characterize what a spiritual gift is has been defined by Lane Johnson in the article, How To Receive Spiritual Gifts. Johnson says, “Any increase in light that an individual experiences may be regarded as a spiritual gift–or a gift or free offering of the Spirit.”

The scriptures specifically list several different spiritual gifts:

• Faith (Moroni 10:11, 1 Corinthians 12:9)
• Personal Revelation (Matthew 7:7)
• Testimony (Knowledge) of Jesus Christ (Doctrine and Covenants 46:13)
• Believing on the Words of Others (Doctrine and Covenants 46:14)
• Teaching by the Spirit (Moroni 10:10)
• Judgment (Wise Application of Knowledge, or Word of Wisdom) (Doctrine and Covenants 47:17, Doctrine and Covenants 6:7, Moroni 10:9, 1 Corinthians 12:8, James 1:5-7)
• Speaking in many Languages (Doctrine and Covenants 46:24, Moroni 10:15, 1 Corinthians 12:10)
• Interpretation of many Languages (Doctrine and Covenants 46:25, Moroni 10:16, 1 Corinthians 12:10)
• Translation (Doctrine and Covenants 5:4)
• Faith to Heal (Doctrine and Covenants 46:20, Moroni 10:11, 1 Corinthians 12:9)
• Faith to be Healed (Doctrine and Covenants 46:19)
• Working of Miracles (Doctrine and Covenants 46:21, Moroni 10:12, 1 Corinthians 12:10)
• Beholding of Angels and Ministering Spirits (Moroni 10:14)
• Prophecy (Doctrine and Covenants 46:22, Moroni 10:13)
  • The gift of prophecy can be given to all so that they can receive guidance for themselves, as well as come to understand the Lord and his purposes. However, don’t confuse this gift with a prophetic office. There is a difference between a prophet unto themselves, born through the gift of prophecy, and the prophet.
• Power of Discernment (Doctrine and Covenants 46:23)
• Knowledge (Doctrine and Covenants 46:18, Doctrine and Covenants 121:26)

What Is The Purpose Of Our Spiritual Gifts?

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

The purpose of spiritual gifts can be compared to a tree.  The underlying purpose of all spiritual gifts, or the tree trunk, is to strengthen us each spiritually and to help us serve, and bless the lives of those around us.  Spiritual gifts are for everyone’s benefit.

The more specific purposes, or the branches of our spiritual gift tree, can be things like:

• Teaching the gospel more effectively
• Feeling comfort in times of trials
• Amplifying our talents and abilities to help others
• Helping us to connect spiritually, socially, and emotionally to others
• Helping us to understand complex situations
• Coming closer to God

Robert D. Hales has taught us in this regard, “God has given us the gifts of the Spirit to allow us to be drawn more closely into His circle of love … As we do, our faith in Him will increase, and our true destiny will be fulfilled, ultimately to return to His presence.”

Who Can Receive Spiritual Gifts?

Preparatory Spiritual Gifts

To be gifted with a spiritual gift, you must follow God’s commandments, and live your life in line with the teachings of the gospel. Through the Holy Ghost, everyone can endeavor to develop a spiritual gift (Moroni 10:17). For example, the spiritual gift of having faith is a gift that can be given to anyone when they develop and nourish a desire to believe in spiritual truths (Alma 32:26-43).

When the time is right, and the individual is ready, they will feel the Spirit, which will testify to them of the truth of the gospel. Spiritual gifts of this nature, as in gifts that can be used by everyone, are better defined as preparatory gifts.

Complex Spiritual Gifts

Members of the Church who have received (and are worthy of) their gift of the Holy Ghost can be given more complex spiritual gifts. Having the gift of the Holy Ghost is different from experiencing a manifestation of the Holy Ghost.

Having the gift of the Holy Ghost means being able to always have the companionship of the Holy Ghost with you. You can think of it like always having a little shoulder angel to help you, lift you up, and encourage you.

A manifestation of the Holy Ghost is a temporary enlightenment. This would be more like having a really great school teacher who makes you want to be better, but when you’re away from them, you may either forget or push aside their positive influence.

All spiritual gifts, whether preparatory or otherwise, are obtained through the Holy Ghost. And all spiritual gifts are given only to those who are faithful to Jesus Christ (Doctrine and Covenants 46:9).

How Do We Get Spiritual Gifts?

As I mentioned above, all spiritual gifts come through the Holy Ghost. However, this does not mean that you will automatically, by default, have a spiritual gift when you have the gift of the Holy Ghost. Joesph Smith clarified this by teaching that these gifts are “not visible to the natural vision, or understanding of man … [and it] require[s] time and circumstances to call these gifts into operation.” For example, developing the gift of tongues, or learning languages, requires intense study and hard work. But once you’ve done what you can, a spiritual gift can amplify your abilities to meet a need.

After showing faithfulness and obedience to God, there is a process in which spiritual gifts come to us.

First, we need to determine a need that can be helped with a spiritual gift.  After finding something that needs to be fixed, or someone that needs to be helped, or some other situation, we must do all that we can to assist in fulfilling the need.  When we are doing all that we can, it would then be appropriate to ask God for help.

George Q. Cannon taught:

If any of us are imperfect, it is our duty to pray for the gift that will make us perfect … No man out to say, ‘Oh, I cannot help this; it is my nature.’ He is not justified in it, for the reason that God has promised to give strength to correct these things, and to give gifts that will eradicate them. If a man lacks wisdom, it is his duty to ask God for wisdom. The same with everything else … [God] gives these gifts, and bestows them upon those who seek after them, in order that they may be a perfect people upon the face of the earth.

With the exception of preparatory gifts, spiritual gifts are not to be used as a way of convincing someone who doesn’t have faith in spiritual truths. These gifts are sacred. It would not be appropriate to flaunt them or perform impossible feats just to impress someone. Attempting to use a spiritual gift in this way would send the Holy Ghost away, and since spiritual gifts operate through the Holy Ghost, the gift would be removed.

Fake Spiritual Gifts

Photo by David Clode on Unsplash

It can happen that Satan will try to deceive people through the use of pseudo-spiritual gifts and miracles. In fact, the scriptures warn us about this. In Matthew 24:24, it states, “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” Satan can give an ordinary person extraordinary abilities; however, he does this only to so that “all men might be miserable like unto himself” (2 Nephi 2:27). Satan would love nothing more than if he could lead someone astray under the guise of Christ.

There is hope though! The spiritual gift of discernment can help one to know when they are really seeing the work of God. However, like all gifts, this gift must be deserved. Those who are genuinely seeking the truth, and studying and pondering the gospel of Jesus Christ will be given the right to spiritual truths. Just like someone will need to put in thousands of hours to develop skills that allow them to be given the gift of tongues, one must also put in their fair share of work to have the gift of discernment.

Faith

As I’ve already mentioned, spiritual gifts are given to those who have faith. In the Church’s Gospel Principles handbook, it teaches that spiritual gifts “are not given to satisfy our curiosity or to prove anything to us because we lack faith.”

Moroni has addressed those who deny the existence of spiritual gifts (Mormon 9:7-8,20-21):

7 And again I speak unto you who deny the revelations of God, and say that they are done away, that there are no revelations, nor prophecies, nor gifts, nor healing, nor speaking with tongues, and the interpretation of tongues;

8 Behold I say unto you, he that denieth these things knoweth not the gospel of Christ; yea, he has not read the scriptures; if so, he does not understand them.

20 And the reason why he [God] ceaseth to do miracles among the children of men is because that they dwindle in unbelief, and depart from the right way, and know not the God in whom they should trust.

21 Behold, I say unto you that whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing, whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be granted him; and this promise is unto all, even unto the ends of the earth.

Learn More:

3 Nephi 29:6-7 (For those who deny the gifts)

1 Corinthians 12 (Spiritual Gifts in the ancient Church of Jesus Christ)

Doctrine and Covenants 46:9-26 (Spiritual Gifts in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)

How to Receive Spiritual Gifts by Lane Johnson

Recognize and Develop Your Spiritual Gifts, Elder Hales Counsels

Spiritual Gifts by Dallin H. Oaks

The Gifts of the Spirit: Chapter 22 of the Gospel Principles handbook

Who Can Receive A Patriarchal Blessing

Anyone who is a member of the Church can get a patriarchal blessing as long as they are baptized, and worthy. To be worthy, a member will need to be following the commandments, and also continue to keep their baptismal covenants.

Members generally wait until they are either teenagers or adults to request to receive their patriarchal blessing. However, as long as the member in question has a recommend from their bishop (which is required for all members, regardless of age or status), they may receive their patriarchal blessing.

To get a patriarchal blessing, a member of the Church will put in a request with either their bishop or branch president. After being interviewed and found ready and worthy, their bishop or branch president will give the member a recommendation. Then the member can schedule a meeting with the patriarch.

Who Can Give A Patriarchal Blessing

Patriarchal blessings have to be performed by a very specific person: a patriarch.  However, in the scriptures, there are three different types of patriarchs mentioned. The three types are fathers of families, ancient prophets, and stake patriarchs. Only stake patriarchs bestow patriarchal blessings. A stake is an organized group of congregations, like a diocese in Catholicism.

Stake patriarchs are members of the Church, who are very spiritual, knowledgeable servants of God. The office of patriarch is very special in that patriarchs are ordained, not set apart.  This means that patriarchs are patriarchs for life.  This office is a permanent calling (unless the patriarch behaves in a way that would make them unworthy).

What Do Patriarchal Blessings Talk About

Lineage

One of the most important parts of every patriarchal blessing is a declaration of lineage. There are 12 tribes of Israel, and a person will learn which tribe they belong to through their blessing. Depending on which tribe you are declaired to be descended from (either literally, or adopted in), you will have special tasks and responsibilities.

Being adopted into a tribe does not exactly involve an adoption process like when someone adopts a child. Joseph Fielding Smith said the following about this matter in his book, Doctrines of Salvation:

Every person who embraces the gospel becomes of the house of Israel. In other words, they become members of the chosen lineage … The great majority of those who become members of the Church are literal descendants of Abraham … Those who are not literal descendants of Abraham and Israel must become such, and when they are baptized and confirmed they are grafted into the tree and are entitled to all the rights and privileges as heirs.

So those who are not literal descendants are automatically adopted in when they are baptized and confirmed a member of the Church.

There are 12 tribes of Israel. As I said above, when you receive your patriarchal blessing, you will learn which tribe you belong to. Many people today belong to the tribe of Ephraim, and they have a responsibility to spread the gospel and to be leaders and teachers in the Church. It has been suggested that because of the nature of Ephraim’s task, it makes sense for members of his tribe to be made known first in these latter days of the earth.

As for the other 11 tribes, there isn’t as much knowledge about their specific responsibilities. We can make some guesses based on the scriptures, especially from the blessings Jacob gave to his sons, but fewer members of those tribes have been recognized in these modern times than of the tribe of Ephraim, and secondly, Manasseh.

Personal Counsel and Warnings

Your patriarchal blessing can be thought of as scripture specifically for you. In other words, your blessing has counsel and warnings from God that is just for you. Every blessing is different. Some blessings may go into great detail, while others have hardly any mention of personal counsel. Many blessings may address, to some extent, your education, profession, spouse, children, and/or other future blessings (or current blessings depending on when you receive your blessing). Depending on how detailed your blessing is, you may be able to get a pretty good idea of what your life can be like if you are righteous and align your will with God’s will.

Another part of this council can be personal warnings. These warnings may be about future trials. The warnings may be about current trials. Your warning counsel can be blunt, or vague.

Gifts and Talents

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir

A patriarchal blessing may address spiritual gifts and talents you possess, or ones you will be given opportunities in the future to possess. Spiritual gifts include traits like being receptive to truth, being able to teach with the spirit, or having the gift of tongues. In contrast, an example of spiritual talent is the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, who have all been blessed with beautiful voices that they use to spread the gospel all over the world.

Your patriarchal blessing may describe ways in which you can use these gifts and talents to build up the kingdom of God. Just like with personal counsel found in your blessing, spiritual gifts and talents can be stated directly, or elusively.

Promises and Blessings

Patriarchal blessings may address blessings and promises you have been given by God. This part of a patriarchal blessing can be confusing because these blessings and promises are predicated on our faithfulness. If we don’t uphold our own promises, our Heavenly Father is no longer bound to hold up His.

Many blessings that are mentioned may only be able to come through our faithfulness. For example, by following the word of wisdom, we will be blessed with good health and good judgment. This example is pretty straightforward, but not all blessings and promises are.

As I mentioned, this can be a confusing area for members because they are told about blessings and promises in their blessing, yet they don’t see them clearly in their life. However, it’s important to remember that patriarchal blessings are linked to an eternal timeline, not an earthly one. Here’s an example I’ve made up to show this idea: Someone is promised in their blessing that all their family members will accept the gospel. However, they are very confused when a particular family member dies without accepting. But our blessings and promises extend to the next life, and they can be fulfilled in the next life.

Things Not Mentioned

Our Patriarchal blessings can be likened to a roadmap. But just like actual road maps, they won’t tell you when you’re going to run out of gas, or when a rock will fly up and crack the windshield. Your patriarchal blessing will not give you a play-by-play transcript of your life. Your patriarchal blessing will not tell you every blessing, promise, talent, or word of advice that you’ll need or come by in your life. Many people may be confused or even afraid if their patriarchal blessing doesn’t mention something in particular, like say marriage. But patriarchal blessings are not all-inclusive, nor are they meant to be.

Sharing Your Patriarchal Blessing

Patriarchal blessings are extremely personal in nature, as well as being tremendously spiritual. So attempting to gain personal revelation from another person’s blessing is nonsensical. There can be times, however, when a person may feel prompted by the spirit to share a very, very small part of their blessing with others. But even in these circumstances, most people still tend to be quite vague.

Generally, though, patriarchal blessings are things kept close to our chest, so to speak. It would not be wise for people to compare and contrast their blessing with another’s blessing. The spiritual nature of the blessing deems it not appropriate to share one’s blessing with others. I’d like to note, however, that members have been told that it can be appropriate to allow immediate family members and your spouse to read your blessing if you so desire. 

The takeaway from this section is that your blessing will contain personal revelation to you from God. I imagine it may be quite offensive to our Heavenly Father when people overshare without feeling a spiritual prompting to do so.

In conclusion, Thomas S. Monson made this statement about patriarchal blessings in a session of the October 1986 General Conference:

Your patriarchal blessing is yours and yours alone. It may be brief or lengthy, simple or profound…Your blessing is not to be folded neatly and tucked away. It is not to be framed or published. Rather it is to be read. It is to be loved. It is to be followed. Your patriarchal blessing will see you through the darkest night. It will guide you through life’s dangers.

Learn More:

Of the House of Israel by Daniel H Ludlow

The Stake Patriarch by Boyd K. Packer

The Lord Blesses His Children through Patriarchal Blessings by Richard D. Allred

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, also known as MoTab, is a world-famous, critically acclaimed choir composed of 360 members.  Every person in the choir and orchestra is a volunteer, and a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The choir has performed all over the world, including the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and Asia. The choir has performed at World’s Fairs, the Olympics, and even the inaugurations of almost a dozen U.S. presidents.

The choir has also performed with several celebrities, including Angela Lansbury, Alfie Boe, David Archuleta, Lindsey Stirling, Natalie Cole, Angela Brower, Laura Osnes, and many others!

Where Is The Mormon Tabernacle Choir From

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir originates from Salt Lake City, Utah. Their ‘home base’ so to speak, is the Tabernacle building in Salt Lake. You can listen to performances year round by the choir, and even many rehearsals are open to the public, and free to attend.

What is the Purpose of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

On the choir’s website, they have stated their mission and purpose:

As an ambassador for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this unique musical organization transcends cultural and generational boundaries, uniting people worldwide through music.

In addition to this noble purpose, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir performs during the Church’s bi-annual general conference sessions every year.  These performances are very moving and spiritual.

The choir also has a weekly live broadcast called Music and the Spoken Word, and yearly Christmas concerts with celebrity guests.

Who Can Join The Mormon Tabernacle Choir

In an effort to maintain the high-quality sound produced by the choir, there are very strict requirements in regards to who can audition. The following requirements are quoted from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s website:

Candidates must satisfactorily meet the following requirements:

1. Is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in good standing and able to qualify for a temple recommend.
2. Is between 25 and 55 years of age on or before [the specific date] when [their] Choir service would begin.
3. Is currently residing within 100 miles of Temple Square.
4. Is able to commit to maintaining the required levels of attendance.
5. Is in good health to permit consistent participation in long rehearsals, demanding travel, and other performance-related requirements.
6. Has auditioned not more than two times in the past. Applicants will now be limited to a total of three applications over their years of age eligibility.

Besides these requirements, applicants must pass three phases in the audition process.

The first part consists of an unaccompanied recording sung by the applicant. The music director chooses the song, not the applicant.

The second part involves a musical assessment and skills test. This test measures the applicant’s musical ability and aptitude (including knowledge of music theory).

The applicants that advance to the third part will have their final test in person with the music director. They must perform a hymn, sight-read some music, and then they will be tested on their vocal range.

If an applicant passes all parts of this audition process, they are then required to attend a four-month-long musical training program. If and when they finish their training, they will officially be members of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Listen to some of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s most popular songs…

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir on Youtube

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s Website

The Bible and the Book of Mormon Testify of Christ (The Bible and Book of Mormon: Two Witnesses) by Greg K. Olsen via lds.org © intellectual reserve

What Is The Book Of Mormon?

The Book of Mormon is a religious book studied by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members of the Church believe that the Book of Mormon is quite literally “another testament of Jesus Christ” (in addition to the Bible).

The Book of Mormon acts as a companion book to the Bible, and it supports the doctrines, and testimony of Christ found in the Bible.

Who Is The Book Of Mormon About?

The Book of Mormon is unique from the Bible because through the Book of Mormon, we learn about the ancient people and ancient prophets from the Americas. You may recall that the Bible detailed the history of the people from the ancient eastern hemisphere.

Who Is Mormon?

Mormon was a Nephite prophet and military general who lived about A.D. 311-385. Mormon was the person who was tasked with compiling, keeping, and abridging the words of the ancient prophets of the Americas.

Moroni Hides the Plates in the Hill Cumorah by Tom Lovell via lds.org © intellectual reserve

How Did We Get The Book Of Mormon?

Ancient Prophets chose, through the Spirit, what they wanted to document. They wrote about the history of their people, and the miraculous, spiritual experiences they had. Mormon abridged these records.

After Mormon passed away, his son, Moroni, also abridged some of these records and then sealed them. Through the Lord’s instruction, Moroni hid the records.

In the year A.D. 1823, Moroni visited Joseph Smith as a resurrected being. Moroni gave Joesph Smith instructions on how to find the records.

Joesph Smith translated the records, through the power of God, from a modified, reformed Egyptian, into English.

Why You Should Read The Book Of Mormon

Guide For Life

First and foremost, the Book of Mormon is a flawless guide for us. It is the perfect teacher for how to navigate our way through this life. The stories may be about people from a time so long ago, that their world seems more alien than not; however, the gospel principles and doctrine are the same that will lead us to salvation today.

In the first section of the Book of Mormon, called 1 Nephi, there are a few chapters spent describing a vision that Lehi, and later Nephi, had. This vision (of the Tree of Life) is very symbolic and is about the gospel of Jesus Christ and the wickedness of the world. In my own personal study of these chapters I learned several things I can apply to my own life, during these modern times:

• Even the most righteous of people need someone to be a good example (1 Nephi 8:14-16).
• There are people who truly desire to be righteous and follow God, but are drawn away and distracted by the wickedness of the world (1 Nephi 8:21-23)
• People who are in the great and spacious building (which is symbolic of the pride of the world) did not have a laid out path there. They had to meticulously seek the great and spacious building out. They had to turn their back on Jesus Christ feel their way there in the dark (1 Nephi 8:31).

Jesus the Christ by Del Parson via lds.org © intellectual reserve

Another Witness Of Jesus Christ

The Book of Mormon is another witness to us of Jesus Christ. On the Church’s website, we are taught, “the scriptures show us a pattern of using multiple witnesses to establish truth in Christ’s Church. The Book of Mormon adds a second witness to the Bible as a testimony of Christ.”

The Book of Mormon also clarifies on doctrines that were not addressed fully (or at all) in the Bible.

Come Closer To God

There is a very popular quote from Joseph Smith about the Book of Mormon, which states, “a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, then by any other book.”

If we want to communicate with God, we pray to him. If we want God to communicate with us, we read the scriptures. When we read the scriptures, the Holy Spirit sends impressions to us. By reading the scriptures, we can be changed for the better, and reach our eternal potential.

Invitation To Learn The Truth

Before Moroni sealed up the plates and hid them, he added a few more chapters. The Book of Moroni is only about 13 pages long and talks about several things including details about the administering of the sacrament, and some last words from Mormon.

One chapter in particular, however, includes instruction on how to know for yourself the truth of the Book of Mormon.

The Book of Moroni, chapter 10, verses 3-5:

Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts. And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.

Learn More:

A Brief Explanation of the Book of Mormon

Details of How the Book of Mormon was Translated

Moroni’s Promise by Elder Gene R. Cook (Ensign April 1994)

The Godhead

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Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that there are three beings that make up the Godhead in heaven. These beings are God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. These three members of the Godhead are united perfectly together in bringing about the Plan of Salvation.

God, who is also referred to as ‘Heavenly Father,’ is the Creator of the Plan of Salvation. God is also the focus of worship for members of the Church.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior and Redeemer for all of God’s creations. All living creatures that have ever lived, or ever will live upon the earth are God’s creations. All things were created through Christ at the command of Heavenly Father.

The last member of the Godhead is the Holy Ghost, and He acts as a messenger. The Holy Ghost is different from our Heavenly Father, and Jesus Christ, as the Holy Spirit does not yet have a body of flesh and blood. However, this spiritual state is necessary, as the Holy Spirit would not be able to perform all his sacred duties with a physical body (Doctrine and Covenants 130: 22).

Each member of the Godhead is their own entity in and unto Himself. They are separate beings. However, they are united as one in their overall purpose and objective. This belief tends to cause some confusion, because the Godhead is often seen as one substance, or essence, by many other Christian religions.

Responsibilities Of The Holy Ghost

Messenger

The Spirit can give us many different types of messages. In times of temptation, He will warn us of the dangers of sin. When we are devastated by the loss of a loved one, the Holy Ghost will comfort us and remind us that we will see them again. There may be times that someone near us needs help, and the Spirit can guide us to him or her. There is really an infinite number of ways that the Spirit can act as a messenger for us.

One of the very important messages that the Spirit carries is a confirmation of gospel truths (Moroni 10:4-5). This is why so many members of the Church can tell you that they know the Church is true, even though they don’t have clear scientific data.

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Protector

In addition to being a messenger, the Holy Ghost is a protector. Whether we are guided away from danger, or given help to overcome it, the Spirit will, essentially, have our backs. Many members of the Church have stories about a time they were prompted to do something, or not do something. Then they later realized that by following the prompting, they avoided very serious danger–even life-threatening danger. You yourself may even have a story like that.

Sanctifier

The Holy Ghost is also a sanctifier. It is through the power of the Spirit that we can receive heavenly blessings. The Spirit can prompt us to do righteous things that will enlighten us. Through sanctification, we can become free from temptations and addictions. Orson Pratt taught, “Without the aid of the Holy Ghost, a person … would have but very little power to change his mind.” To return back to our Father in heaven, we needed the atonement to pay the price for our sins. But we also needed the Spirit, who can help us learn from our mistakes (Mosiah 5:2).

You may have heard the term the “light of Christ” before. But be careful not to confuse the light of Christ with the Holy Ghost. The light of Christ is given to everyone, and it encompasses our ability to know right from wrong. That knowledge is the light of Christ. The desire to choose the right, and the ability to change, comes from the Holy Ghost.

Teacher

The Holy Spirit can be our teacher (John 14:26).  Through Him, we can learn how to do what our Heavenly Father desires for us (2 Nephi 32:5).  If we listen to Him, He can teach us how to make better choices, and live up to our eternal potential.

The Holy Ghost can also help us to understand difficult concepts (1 Corinthians 2: 9-12).  I personally had an experience with this.  There was a particular doctrine of the Church that I really struggled with: understanding why a certain behavior was wrong.  It was especially difficult to understand because I didn’t struggle with this specific behavior personally.  It didn’t seem wrong to me. So I couldn’t use my confusion as a rationalization for my behavior.

I understood the reasoning logically, but emotionally, it didn’t make sense.  So I studied this topic.  I read what the leaders of the Church had to say about it.  I asked for understanding, and I received an answer.  It wasn’t an answer that would satisfy many people—probably even most people.  But it was exactly what I needed to hear to understand.  Something confusing that had the power to turn me away from the gospel became a subject that now brings me peace.

The Holy Ghost vs. The Gift Of The Holy Ghost

The Holy Ghost can speak to all people. You don’t need to be a certain age, race, or gender to feel the Spirit. You don’t have to have a particular religious or political affiliation to feel the Spirit. There would be no way for the Holy Ghost to confirm the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ if He could not communicate with the vast majority of the people on earth.

However, not everyone has the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost (Doctrine and Covenants 130:23). Those who have the gift of the Holy Ghost are blessed to always have his spirit to be with them. By having the gift of the Holy Ghost, we can constantly be spiritually improved. A person may hear the gospel and have the Spirit confirm the truth of it; but without the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, they will, unfortunately, inevitably lose that testimony.

Receiving The Gift Of The Holy Ghost

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The Gift of the Holy Ghost is a privilege that is only allowed under certain conditions. After someone has been baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they will be given a blessing. Members of the Church who have the Melchizedek Priesthood perform this blessing by placing their hands upon the head of the person being blessed. This action is referred to as the laying on of hands (Doctrine and Covenants 33:15). Then, through the Spirit, the priesthood members will bestow a blessing that will gift the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost to the person being blessed (Acts 2:38).

There is a catch though. Like I mentioned earlier, the gift of the Holy Ghost is a privilege. You have to be worthy to have the Holy Ghost to be with you. There are locations and environments where it is difficult to feel the Spirit. One should strive to avoid those places.

In addition to physically being in a place where the Holy Spirit can dwell, members of the Church must also remember Jesus Christ always, genuinely repent of our sins, and partake of the Sacrament worthily. If a person who has the Gift of the Holy Ghost defiles his or her body through serious sin, the Holy Ghost may depart.

How Does The Presence Of The Holy Ghost Feel

There are about as many ways to feel the Spirit as there are people. Sometimes the Spirit can be felt very strongly. In these moments, people can be overcome with joy and even start crying in happiness.

Usually, though, the Holy Ghost is a very subtle companion (Helaman 5:30). There are many times in my own life where I’ll look back on an experience and realize I had been prompted to do something, however in the moment, I didn’t recognize the prompting as a message from the Holy Spirit.

Learning to recognize the influence of the Holy Ghost in your life is a skill that will need to be acquired through practice. It will take time to understand how the Spirit communicates with you specifically. Many members of the Church pray for guidance to learn His unique way of talking to them. Even though I grew up in the Church, I was in college when I really understood how the Holy Ghost communicates with me personally.

The Spirit doesn’t always feel positive. The guilt we feel when we do something wrong comes from the Spirit. That is his way of trying to teach us to make righteous decisions. Even though feeling guilty sucks, we should be glad to feel it. We are on very spiritually dangerous ground when we no longer feel guilty for making unrighteous choices.

At the end of the day, gaining a belief in, and love of the Holy Ghost is up to you. He’s there. He wants to help you, and He can. But the Holy Ghost is like the sun, and you can stand in the light, or you can stand in the shadows.

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The Plan of Salvation starts during the time before the earth was created.  This time is generally called our pre-earth life, or pre-mortal life.  During this time, we lived in heaven with God.  The Church of Jesus Christ teaches that we are God’s children.  As His children, God wanted us to be like Him.  In our pre-earth life, we didn’t have bodies. One of the Church’s handbooks, Preach My Gospel, explains:

We lived as spirit children of our Father in Heaven before we were born on this earth. We were not, however, like our Heavenly Father, nor could we ever become like Him and enjoy all the blessings that He enjoys without the experience of living in mortality with a physical body.

Because of His desire for us to be like Him, God created a plan: The Plan of Salvation. God created this plan because He wants us to have eternal life with Him.

What is the Plan of Salvation?

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The Pre-mortal Existence

Before coming to live on earth, we were with God, in our pre-mortal existence. It was during this time that the Plan of Salvation was created, and presented to us. The goal from the beginning was to progress to be like Our Father, who is a glorified, perfect, resurrected man of flesh and bone. God knew we wouldn’t be able to become like Him without His help. His plan included a Savior to meet the demands of justice when we fail, and enable mercy to make just people perfect. Most of God’s children loved the plan, and the idea to come to earth to gain knowledge, form relationships, and develop faith.

However, Satan, or Lucifer, did not agree with God’s plan.  He presented his own plan in which he promised to save every soul through the destruction of man’s agency.  Not only would Lucifer have not been able to achieve this boastful claim, but this plan would defeat the purpose of coming to earth to learn and gain experience.

God chose Jesus Christ to be the Savior and Redeemer of His plan.  It was always meant to be that way, as Jesus was the chosen Savior from the start.  As you can probably imagine though, Lucifer was pretty upset.  Lucifer rebelled against God, and 1/3 of the souls in heaven chose to follow him in his rebellion (Doctrine and Covenants 29:36).  We know, just by the fact that we are here on earth, that we chose to follow God’s plan, because those souls who followed Lucifer will never come to earth and receive a body.

The Veil of Forgetfulness, and Birth

Jesus Christ comforting a man.

When it is our individual time to come to earth, we are born. At some point between our pre-mortal existence and the beginning of our earthly life, we went through the Veil of Forgetfulness. For the Plan of Salvation to be effective, we cannot remember our lives before earth. Bruce C. Hafen has an article titled, The Value of the Veil, in the Ensign (an LDS Church magazine) from June 1977. In this article, he states, “Not only does the veil keep us from remembering our past … but also it keeps us from seeing many things that are going on at the present – for God, his angels, and their activities are hidden from our sight.”

The veil assists us in forgetting our time before earth and prevents us from witnessing miraculous things here on earth. This is actually for our benefit, as backward as that may sound. What would be the point in coming to earth, and having faith in God, if we knew for a surety that God was real? How could we truly be tested on our ability to love God, and follow his commandments if we could look outside our window and see literal angels doing God’s work? There would be no challenge. We wouldn’t learn or grow.

Hafen continues later on in his address:

Salvation is a process, as well as a goal. Salvation involves growth, development, and change. That process implies that in mortality we must learn capacities and skills, not merely pick up information. There is something about forcing people to be righteous that interferes with, even prohibits, the process that righteousness in a free environment is designed to enable. Righteous living causes something to happen to people.

We needed to acquire skills, and have experiences that we could only obtain through living on earth, without the sure knowledge of God.

Earth Life

The next part of the Plan of Salvation is for us to come to earth, gain a body, and live our lives in a righteous manner.

Everyone is unique. Everyone is in a different place on the path to righteousness. If we were all the same, we would all live the same number of years, days, hours, and minutes. We would all experience the same things. However, life isn’t like that. Some people live to be over a hundred years old, while others die mere seconds after being born. In regards to this, President Joseph Fielding Smith has taught:

The Lord will grant unto these children [who pass away before the age of accountability] the privilege of all the sealing blessings which pertain to the exaltation. We were all mature spirits before we were born, and the bodies of little children will grow after the resurrection to the full stature of the spirit, and all the blessings will be theirs through their obedience, the same as if they had lived to maturity and received them on the earth.

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As for those who do live long enough to experience life, some seem to experience a life full of devastation, yet others seem to breeze through without breaking a sweat. However, we know from the scriptures that we will never be expected to bear any trial that is too much for us to endure if we call upon God for help (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Another of the Church’s magazines, the New Era, teaches us:

We can be sure that even when life is not an equal test, it is still a fair test, if only because the one who grades the test is absolutely fair. Our Heavenly Father knows both us and our trials perfectly. He will weigh all this and judge us righteously.

Our time on earth is not meant to be easy.  This is our time to learn difficult lessons and experience things we wouldn’t have been able to in the pre-mortal life.  But as long as we do all we can to follow God’s commandments, and repent as necessary, we can be assured we will attain glory in our post-earth life.

Death, and the Spirit World

There is a saying my brother once told me, “The only thing we have to do in life is die.” As morbid as that sounds, there is some truth to it. Death is a part of life that we will all eventually experience.

When we die, our body and spirit are separated. Our body stays on earth, while our spirit continues on to the spirit world. Depending on the choices we make on earth, the spirit world will be either a spirit paradise or a spirit prison to us. The Church’s website clarifies what spirit paradise will be like, and who can go there:

Paradise is that part of the spirit world in which the righteous spirits who have departed from this life await the resurrection of the body. It is a condition of happiness and peace… [Spirit paradise is] reserved for those who have been baptized and who have remained faithful.

The Church’s website also defines what spirit prison will be like:

Spirit prison [is] a temporary place in the postmortal world for those who died without a knowledge of the truth or those who were disobedient in mortality… Spirits will be taught the gospel and have the opportunity to repent and accept ordinances of salvation that are performed for them in temples. Those who accept the gospel may dwell in paradise until the Resurrection.

Members of the Church don’t have clear definitions of the exact nature of spirit paradise and spirit prison.  However, we have been taught that we will maintain the same opinions, mindset, and even addictions, in the spirit world that we have on earth at the time of our death.  Because of this, the spirit world can feel very punishing and prison-like to those who were not righteous on earth.  The spirit world will be a paradise or prison of our own making.

The Resurrection

To be resurrected is to have your body and spirit reunite, after death, in an immortal state. In this immortal state, your body will be perfect; it will be free from pain, disease, and death.

Resurrection does not happen for everyone at the same time. In fact, there are some people who are already resurrected. Parley P. Pratt talks about the three general resurrections in his book, Key to the Science of Theology. From Pratt, we are taught that of these three resurrections, one has already taken place.

The Second Coming by Harry Anderson

The first general resurrection included Jesus Christ, who was the first person to be resurrected. Also included in this resurrection, as taught by Pratt, were those “from Adam down to John the Baptist” who were faithful and died before Christ’s resurrection.

The second general resurrection (often referred to as the first resurrection which unfortunately can be very confusing) is currently in action, and will continue on when Jesus Christ comes to earth for the Second Coming. This is taught to us by James E. Talmage, in his book, Articles of Faith.

As for the Second Coming, we know through the scriptures that no one, save God only, knows when it will happen (Matthew 24:36, Doctrine and Covenants 49: 7).

The second general resurrection will include “all those who have received the Gospel since the former resurrection.”

Over a thousand years later, the third general resurrection will, finally, take place. Those who were not a part of the previous resurrections will be included.

The First Resurrection (The Resurrection of the Just)

So now we understand that there are three general resurrections. However, within the two resurrections that will take place in the future, there is still a specific order for those being resurrected. Bruce R. McConkie taught in his book, Mormon Doctrine, “Those being resurrected with celestial bodies, whose destiny is to inherit a celestial kingdom, will come forth in the morning of the first resurrection.”

The afternoon of the first resurrection will be for those were taught the gospel in spirit prison, and accepted it (Doctrine and Covenants 88:99). McConkie has also taught us that this part of the first resurrection will actually take place after the millennium has started.

The Millennium

After Christ’s Second Coming, the earth will enter the millennium, which will last 1,000 years. The millennium will be a time of peace, when Satan is bound (Doctrine and Covenants 45:55). During this time, members of the Church will teach the gospel, as well as do temple work. The Church’s website teaches us that members will be “guided by revelation, [and] they will prepare records of their ancestors all the way back to Adam and Eve.”

After the 1,000 years end, Satan will be unbound for a short time (Revelation 20:1-3).

The Second Resurrection (The Resurrection of the Unjust)

McConkie has taught us that the first part of this resurrection will be set aside for “the ones who have earned telestial bodies, who were wicked and carnal in mortality, and who have suffered the wrath of God in hell.”

The last part of the second resurrection is for those who were very wicked during their lifetime. The book of Alma in the Book of Mormon describes this experience (Alma 12:17-18):

Then is the time when their torments shall be as a lake of fire and brimstone, whose flame ascendeth up forever and ever; and then is the time that they shall be chained down to an everlasting destruction, according to the power and captivity of Satan… They shall be as though there had been no redemption made; for they cannot be redeemed according to God’s justice; and they cannot die, seeing there is no more corruption.

This part of the second resurrection will take place at the end of time on earth (Doctrine and Covenants 88:100-101).

Final Judgment

Eventually, the day will come when we will stand before God, through Jesus Christ, and be judged for our sins. Everything you have ever thought, said, or done will be evaluated.

Jesus taking someone’s hand.

That is, everything that you have not authentically repented for. As horrifying, embarrassing, and even dreadful as that sounds, Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught us in his address, O How Great the Plan of Our God!:

That Day of Judgment will be a day of mercy and love—a day when broken hearts are healed, when tears of grief are replaced with tears of gratitude, when all will be made right.

Depending on how we are judged, we will obtain a certain degree of glory to live in for the rest of our eternal life.

Celestial Kingdom

The celestial kingdom is reserved for the most righteous. It is often related to being as glorious as the brightness of the sun. It is here where the righteous will live eternally with God the Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ. The Church’s website teaches us that, “to inherit this gift, we must receive the ordinances of salvation, keep the commandments, and repent of our sins.”   These are the basic requirements for entering the celestial kingdom. Doctrine and Covenants 76:50-70 goes into more detail about who will be permitted into the celestial kingdom.

Some people will live life without the knowledge of the gospel. However Doctrine and Covenants 137:7-9 teaches us, “For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts.” As long as someone is of open heart and mind, and would have accepted Jesus Christ and his gospel, they will be saved.

Joseph Smith has taught us that there are three degrees of the celestial kingdom. To enter the highest degree, you must be married through the new and everlasting covenant of marriage. Everyone will have the opportunity to be married, either in this life or the next. Yes, it is true that people don’t get married in heaven, since marriage is an earthly ordinance. However, marriages will be performed by proxy in temples on the earth, so that those who are worthy of celestial glory and desire marriage can have it.

Terrestrial Kingdom

The terrestrial kingdom is the second highest degree of glory. Doctrine and Covenants chapter 76:77-78 has taught us that, “These are they who receive of the presence of the Son, but not of the fullness of the Father. Wherefore, they… differ in glory as the moon differs from the sun.”

Those who enter this kingdom will include people who were moral, and respectable in life, but were led astray. It will also include those who did not accept the gospel in this life, but did accept it in the spirit world.

Doctrine and Covenants 76:71-80 goes into more detail about who will be permitted into the terrestrial kingdom. The Terrestrial Kingdom is a kingdom of great glory.

Telestial Kingdom

The telestial kingdom is the degree of glory for those who did not accept the gospel of Jesus Christ in this world or the next. This kingdom is reserved for those who are resurrected in the last resurrection.

Doctrine and Covenants 76:81-90, 98-106, 109-112 goes into more detail about who will be accepted into the telestial kingdom. Although people who inherit this kingdom may have denied Christ on earth and in the spirit world, and have had to suffer for their owns sins temporarily, this kingdom’s glory is “beyond all description.” Thus, Mormon doctrine is the most inclusive of any existing Christian faith. Even those who reject Christ can inherit a kingdom of glory in heaven, as long as they don’t qualify for Outer Darkness, described below.

Outer Darkness

Outer Darkness, also referred to as Perdition or Hell, will be for those who commit a crime in which there is no forgiveness. Joseph Smith has taught us that this is a place for those who:

Receive the Holy Ghost, have the heavens opened unto him, and know God, and then sin against Him… He has got to say that the sun does not shine while he sees it; he has got to deny Jesus Christ when the heavens have been opened unto him, and to deny the plan of salvation with his eyes open to the truth of it.

It is written in Doctrine and Covenants 76:32 that, “it had been better for them never to have been born.”

Doctrine and Covenants 76: 30-49 goes into more detail about who will be taken down to Outer Darkness.

People who go to Outer Darkness are called Sons of Perdition. Satan and his follower from pre-mortal life will be consigned there.

Why the Plan of Salvation is Possible

Jesus Christ holding a lamb. Symbolically, Christ is the Shepherd, and we are his sheep.

The Plan of Salvation is a beautiful, glorious plan. However, none of it would be possible without our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. It is through Him, and of Him that we can be saved.

Jesus Christ lived a perfect life, atoned for our sins, and made it possible for us to return back to our Father in heaven.

Before we came to earth, we knew it was going to be hard. We understood that we would sin and that some of us would turn away from God. Yet, even with that knowledge, we accepted the plan and chose to come here. We wanted, desperately, to demonstrate our love and devotion. As Uchtdorf put it, “That is why we are here on this beautiful planet earth—because God offered us the opportunity, and we chose to accept it.”

Don’t settle for something less than your potential because it’s easier, or more exciting, or popular. Take the time to really think about what you want, and what’s at stake. I am literally talking about your eternal life here. If you don’t believe in the Plan of Salvation, study it. Ponder it with an open mind. If you’re the praying type, pray about it. If you aren’t the praying type, pray about it anyway. This plan is real. This plan is true. Jesus Christ is our Savior, and through Him, we can live with our Father in heaven again.

The First Presidency via lds.org © intellectual reserve

Who are the Apostles?

The term apostle comes from Greek, and is translated to mean, “One sent forth.” The Church uses the title ‘apostle’ to signify a person who’s chosen to be a special witness of Jesus Christ.

Scripture dictates that there are to be 15 apostles appointed within the Church (Doctrine and Covenants 107:22-24).

Three of the apostles make up the First Presidency of the Church (Doctrine and Covenants 107:22). This includes the president of the Church, who is also referred to as the prophet. The other two members of the First Presidency include the first counselor and the second counselor.

The remaining 12 apostles create the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Along with the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is tasked with representing Christ to all people, in all nations.

The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles via lds.org © intellectual reserve

Who can be a New Apostle?

To be an appointed as an apostle in The Church of Jesus Christ, you will, of course, need to be a member of the Church. Often times, the new apostle is a member of the Quorum of the Seventy when they are sustained. However, the Church has announced that any person who is part of the general membership of the Church, and who holds the priesthood, can be called to be an apostle.

How are New Apostles Chosen?

Once an apostle is called, and he accepts that call, it is understood to be a lifetime calling. Inevitably each apostle will pass away. Recently, Elder Robert D. Hales, who was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, passed away. The loss of an apostle can be very upsetting to members of the Church, as the apostles are very beloved. However, these times can also be exciting, as there will be a new apostle called.

When a new apostle is needed, the president of the Church will be inspired by God to know who the right person is. At this point, the president will meet with the chosen person to interview him. If the chosen person accepts and is willing to become a new apostle, he will need to be sustained by the members of the Church. After being sustained, the (almost) new apostle will be ordained, or appointed, by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. This is done through a priesthood blessing, where those who are performing the blessing will lay their hands upon the head of the person being blessed.

Apostles are a very important part of the Church.  They are able to receive inspiration for the members of the Church, and they travel the world in an effort to share this inspiration and spread the gospel.  Go to the Church website to read the words of all the apostles.

Articles of Faith About The GodHead and the Basic Doctrine of Christ

1. We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.

The first article of faith states a couple of things:

First, as Perry in his General Conference address from April 1998,  stated, “The first article anchors our belief in God, our Eternal Father, in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.”

The second thing the first article of faith teaches us is also clarified by Perry:

Three personages comprise this great presiding council of the universe and have revealed themselves [to Joseph Smith] as three separate beings, physically distinct from each other.

2. We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.

Leaving the Garden of Eden by Joseph Brickey via lds.org © intellectual reserve

The second article of faith is referring to the Fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Because of the Atonement, Jesus Christ has cleared the way and paid the price for this disobedience. This is why members of the Church do not baptize infants, as members believe that children are born innocent and pure.

Many members and non-members alike have incorrectly devolved the second article of faith to mean that mankind is not to be punished for the sins of others in general. But that’s not what the second article of faith is talking about. The second article of faith is talking about, and only about, the concept of original sin.

Because of this misconception, however, when the Church made changes to their handbook of Church policy in regards to the children of homosexual parents in 2015, many were upset. They mistakenly believed that the Church leaders violated the second article of faith. However, the second article of faith is strictly referring to the concept of original sin and has nothing to do with those changes to the handbook.

I don’t want to get too much into this discussion, as it’s somewhat off topic, but if you’re interested, Elder D. Todd Christofferson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, did an interview to help people understand why the changes were made.

3. We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

The third article of faith is a clear statement of our belief in the Atonement of Christ. However, to be saved and blessed with eternal life, we must be obedient and follow God’s commandments. We must accept Jesus Christ as our Savoir and Redeemer.

4. We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.

via lds.org © intellectual reserve

The fourth article of faith talks about, as stated, the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel.  Basically, some of the basic truths members of the Church believe in, and the steps members take to make one of their first promises to God, which is through baptism.

To join the Church, you will need to be baptized by immersion.  The earliest a person can be baptized is eight years old.  After being baptized, the person baptized will be given a blessing (a prayer) to always have the Holy Ghost with them.  This confirmation blessing is performed by a member of the Church who has the priesthood.  The term, the ‘Laying on of hands‘ physically refers to the priesthood member placing their hands on the head of the person receiving the blessing (as they are giving the blessing), like in the picture.

Articles of Faith About the Organization of the Church and the Priesthood

5. We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.

Local leaders of the Church will pray for guidance as they choose callings for the members they are leaders over. As leaders choose callings for members, they will pay close attention to their feelings, and listen for spiritual inspiration.

In the Church, to formally teach the gospel to others, members must be set apart with a blessing.  This includes everyone who has a teaching position within the Church, whether they’re teaching little children, adults, or being sent on missions to teach non-members.

6. We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.

The sixth article of faith is referring to Jesus Christ’s ancient Church and the organizational foundation that existed within it. Joseph Smith, under the guidance of Jesus Christ through revelation, restored that primitive church (being The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) in 1830.

Articles of Faith About Our Eternal Resources in this Mortal Journey

7. We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation,
   

   via pixabay.com

   visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.

The seventh article of faith is referring to what members of the Church call spiritual gifts. These gifts are from God and are given through the Holy Ghost. A volume of scripture that members believe in, called the Doctrine and Covenants, details these gifts in chapter 46, verses 9 through 33 (D&C 46:9-33)

8. We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ believe that the Bible and the Book of Mormon are both testaments of Christ. There is some criticism of this article of faith that is directed towards the statement about the Bible, “as far as it is translated correctly.” Some feel that this is a copout. However, in 1992, the first presidency of the Church made a statement about which edition of the Bible the Church uses and why:

The Bible, as it has been transmitted over the centuries, has suffered the loss of many plain and precious parts… Unfortunately, no original manuscripts of any portion of the Bible are available for comparison to determine the most accurate version. However, the Lord has revealed clearly the doctrines of the gospel in these latter-days. The most reliable way to measure the accuracy of any biblical passage is not by comparing different texts, but by comparison with the Book of Mormon and modern-day revelations… In doctrinal matters latter-day revelation supports the King James Version in preference to other English translations. All of the Presidents of the Church, beginning with the Prophet Joseph Smith, have supported the King James Version by encouraging its continued use in the Church.

9. We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.

The ninth article of faith states that members of the Church believe that the heavens are still open. God still sends revelation to man, and He will continue to do so.

Articles of Faith About Missionary Work

10. We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.

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Elder L. Tom Perry explains this article of faith in his General Conference address from April 1998:

[We believe] “in the literal gathering of Israel,” that Zion will be built again and Christ will return and “reign personally upon the earth.” It was in June of 1830 that Samuel Smith, the brother of the Prophet, embarked on the first missionary journey to proclaim the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. Thus began the gathering of Zion.

The gathering of Israel is done through missionary work. When people accept the gospel taught by members of the Church of Jesus Christ, they are “gathered” into the Church.

It has been revealed, in the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C 84:1-5) (D&C 57:1-3), that the New Jerusalem will be built in Missouri.

Jerusalem, in Israel, will become a holy city, and the two Jerusalems will be centers of government during the millennium.

Jesus Christ will return to the earth to rule, and the earth will become a place of great beauty and happiness; it will be paradise.

11. We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.

The 11^th article of faith is fairly clear. It states that members claim their constitutional right to freedom of religion. They claim it for themselves, and for everyone.

This article of faith also proclaims tolerance towards other religions and beliefs, regardless of what, where, or how they worship (as long as that worship obeys the law of the land, which is addressed in the next article of faith).

12. We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.

This article of faith is also quite clear. Members will be subject to various forms of governments, and will obey, honor, and sustain the law.

Article of Faith About Aspirational Attributes

13. We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul-We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

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The 13^th article of faith teaches members how they should live their lives. Members should be “honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men.”

The next part talks about the admonition of Paul, which you can find in the Bible, in Philippians chapter 4, verse 8 (Philippians 8:4). However, I will state it here for you:

Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Members of the Church think, believe, and have hope in all things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. Members look for things (whether it’s friends, a career, entertainment, etc.) in their life that have these qualities.

What is The Word of Wisdom and Where Did it Come From

The origin of the Word of Wisdom comes from section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C:89). This doctrine is a revelation from God to Joseph Smith, and it took place on February 27, 1833. This was just a few years after The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (informally known as the Mormon Church) was organized.

This particular revelation was a response from God to inquiries from Joseph Smith about the use of tobacco.

The Rules of The Word of Wisdom

There are several rules within the Word of Wisdom.  Many of the rules teach Mormons to avoid harmful substances.  Some of the rules encourage Mormons to partake of beneficial substances.

The Word of Wisdom Forbids:

Alcoholic drinks

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In D&C 89:5-7, it teaches that strong drinks (alcoholic drinks) are not for the belly, but they are useful for washing your body. It also teaches that pure wine, of one’s own making, is acceptable for the Sacrament.

In the 1830s, society was different. Today, Mormons don’t generally use straight alcoholic beverages as body wash. We just use normal, store-bought body wash. Or, homemade stuff with oils and honey if you’re into that.

We also no longer use wine for the Sacrament. In D&C 27:2, it says, “it mattereth not what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink when ye partake of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory.” So, since water is very cheap (try paying for enough wine to give a sip to like 15 million people every Sunday) and easy to get, we use water. 

Tobacco

D&C 89:8 teaches, “tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill.”

So, no cigarettes, or cigars, for you.

Tea and Coffee

D&C 89:9, “And again, hot drinks are not for the body or belly.”

Latter-day prophets have defined that the term “hot drinks” in this particular verse means tea and coffee.

In regards to tea, Mormons specifically don’t drink teas that come from the Camellia sinensis plant. These teas specifically include green, black, and white tea (but there are others as well). Basically, we don’t drink caffeinated teas. However, many Mormons stay away from ALL teas. I was in my late teens when I first learned that there even were certain types of herbal teas that it was okay to drink without breaking the Word of Wisdom.

And coffee… Coffee tends to be a controversial topic, especially among those who used to be members but have since left the Church. However, the general consensus that I’ve heard about in regards to coffee is that Mormons don’t drink it because of the caffeine.

Any Other (Harmful) Substance Which is Abused

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This part of the Word of Wisdom includes any and all substances taken in a harmful excess in an effort to harm you, make you high, calm you down, etc. In addition, Mormons are taught to avoid all illegal recreational drugs, as well as to not abuse prescription drugs. Basically, this is the catchall category to cover things like sniffing permanent markers.

This is not to say that Mormons do not use prescription drugs.  As long as there is a need, and a legally obtained prescription (if needed), the word of wisdom does not prohibit substances used for physical, psychological, or emotional treatment.

The bottom line is that it comes down to agency.  Taking substances into your body that are addictive and will cause a dependency (like recreational drugs) is against the word of wisdom.  Abusing substances that are used for good (like prescription drugs) is also against the word of wisdom.

Grey Areas: Caffeine and Meat

Caffeine (which means all your favorite sodas, and energy drinks)

This is a pretty big questionable area for many Mormons, especially right now.  Just a few days ago, Brigham Young University changed their policy on selling caffeinated beverages on campus.  This has caused some debate among members of the Church.  Many anti-caffeine members feel that BYU leaders are giving in to peer-pressure, and are upset that the reasoning for the change is that they are trying to meet changing consumer preferences and demands.

However, the Word of Wisdom doesn’t technically mention caffeine. But many Mormons personally include it in for themselves. The main argument against caffeine is that it is addictive, and the Word of Wisdom teaches to abstain from addictive substances.

But then where does one draw the line? Because caffeine is in a lot of things, and I personally don’t want to give up chocolate anytime soon.

In the end, most Mormons decide for themselves on this matter.

Meat

In D&C 89:12-13, it states, “yea, flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless, they are to be used sparingly;

“And it is pleasing unto me [the Lord] that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine.”

This particular part of the Word of Wisdom is a grey area, and it may be because everyone has a different idea of what “sparingly” means. And then there’s that there hasn’t been as much counsel from latter-day prophets on the topic.

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However, Joseph Fielding Smith, who was the tenth president of the Church, made this statement (in his book, Doctrines of Salvation) about this doctrine:

While it is ordained that the flesh of animals is for man’s food, yet this should be used sparingly. The wording of this revelation is perfectly clear in relation to this subject, but we do not always heed it.

Personally, I agree with Joseph Fielding Smith. I feel like it’s an area that many members struggle with, or simply ignore. Another response to this doctrine was very eloquently stated on fairmormon.org:

Each member is encouraged to do better, but as in Joseph Smith’s day we ought not to attack or dictate to others. If the Lord is displeased with us individually, he can make his will known by [personal] revelation. If he is displeased with the Church as a whole, prophetic authority will give the necessary correction.

Joseph Smith also clarifies in D&C 49:21, “Wo unto the man that sheddeth blood or that wasteth flesh and hath no need.”

The Word of Wisdom encourages:

Fruits and Vegetables

D&C 89: 10-11 teaches, “All wholesome herbs God hath ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man—

“Every herb in the season thereof, and every fruit in the season thereof; all these to be used with prudence and thanksgiving.”

Grains (wheat, oats, and rice)

D&C 89:14,16 teaches us, “All grain is ordained for the use of man and of beasts, to be the staff of life… All grain is good for the food of man; as also the fruit of the vine … whether in the ground or above the ground.”

Blessing for the Obedient

If a person follows God’s commandments about the Word of Wisdom, then the Lord has promised the following blessings:

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• They “shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones;” D&C 89:18
• They “shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures;” D&C 89:19
• They “shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.” D&C 89:20
• “And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them.” D&C 89:21

Those blessings sound pretty amazing. Especially that last one. I don’t know what form(s) the destroying angel will take, but I personally would like to be passed by, and not slayed.

The counsel of latter-day prophets and leaders have taught Mormons how the Word of Wisdom should be applied to this day and age. Some adjustments were made to better fit the society we live in now (180+ years after Joseph Smith had the revelation). Some parts need no revision.

For me, I follow the Word of Wisdom first and foremost because God said so. After that, I follow it because I want to. I physically feel better when I stay away from caffeinated beverages (soda in general) and oft-consumed, meat-heavy dishes. By not drinking or using mind-altering substances, I keep my sense of mind. My body is safe from the poisons from tobacco and the horrible, life-threatening health conditions that come with it. I’m definitely not perfect, but when I follow what God teaches, things work out better for me.

Try out the “Word of Wisdom” diet plan. If not for religious purposes, do it for yourself, because you deserve to be free from addictive substances. You are worth the effort it takes to enjoy life to the fullest, and you can’t do that when you’re suffering from tobacco-induced cancer. You deserve to be healthiest, and the most able-bodied version of you.