Published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Salt Lake City, Utah
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A Study Guide and a Teacher's Manual
Gospel Principles was written both as a personal study guide and as a teacher's manual. As you study it, seeking the Spirit of the Lord, you can grow in your understanding and testimony of God the Father, Jesus Christ and His Atonement, and the Restoration of the gospel. You can find answers to life's questions, gain an assurance of your purpose and self-worth, and face personal and family challenges with faith.
Instructions for Teaching at Church and at Home
Being a teacher is a great responsibility that includes many opportunities to strengthen others and see that they are "nourished by the good word of God" (Moroni 6:4). You will teach effectively as you follow these principles:
When you show love for those you teach, they become more receptive to the Spirit of the Lord. They become more enthusiastic about learning and more open to you and to others. Strive to become acquainted with those you teach, and let them know that you genuinely care about them. Be sensitive to the challenges of those with special needs. Create a comfortable environment in your class so that participants feel free to call upon you for help with any questions they have about the principles of the gospel and how to apply them.
2The Lord's Spirit will be present when love and unity exist. The Lord said, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another" (John 13:34).
For more on this subject, see Teaching, No Greater Call, pages 31–39.
The most important things you will ever teach are the doctrines of Christ as revealed through the scriptures and modern prophets and as confirmed by the Holy Ghost. To do this effectively, you must obtain the Spirit of the Lord. "The Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith," said the Lord, "and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach" (D&C 42:14; see also D&C 50:13–22). The Holy Ghost is the real teacher, so it is important to create an environment in which the Lord's Spirit can be present.
For more on this subject, see Teaching, No Greater Call, pages 41–48.
Before you teach from a chapter, study it thoroughly to be sure you understand the doctrine. Also study the additional scriptures listed at the end of the chapter. You will teach with greater sincerity and power when the teachings in the chapter have influenced you personally.
Never speculate about Church doctrine. Teach only what is supported by the scriptures, the words of latter-day prophets and apostles, and the Holy Spirit (see D&C 42:12–14; 52:9).
If you have been called to teach a quorum or class using this book, do not substitute outside materials, however interesting they may be. Stay true to the scriptures and the words in the book. As appropriate, use personal experiences and articles from Church magazines to supplement the lessons.
For more on this subject, see Teaching, No Greater Call, pages 50–59.
As you teach, help others see how gospel principles apply to daily living. Encourage discussions on how these principles can affect our feelings about God, ourselves, our families, and our neighbors.
Encourage participants to live according to the principles.
3Try to involve as many people as possible in the lessons. You can do this by inviting them to read aloud, answer questions, or share experiences, but do so only when you are sure it will not embarrass them. You may want to make special assignments to participants while preparing the lessons. Be sensitive to the needs and feelings of others. You may need to talk privately with individuals before a lesson and ask how they feel about participating.
For more on this subject, see Teaching, No Greater Call, pages 61–74.
Each chapter in this book contains one or two notes for teachers.
4What are some things that testify to you that there is a God?
30:44). We can look up at the sky at night and have an idea of what
Alma meant. There are millions of stars and planets, all in perfect order. They did not get there by chance. We can see the work of God in the heavens and on the earth. The many beautiful plants, the many kinds of animals, the mountains, the rivers, the clouds that bring us rain and snow—all these testify to us that there is a God.
The prophets have taught us that God is the Almighty Ruler of the universe. God dwells in heaven (see D&C 20:17). Through His Son,
Jesus Christ, He created the heavens and the earth and all things that are in them (see 3 Nephi 9:15; Moses 2:1). He made the moon, the stars, and the sun. He organized this world and gave it form, motion, and life. He filled the air and the water with living things.
He covered the hills and plains with all kinds of animal life. He gave us day and night, summer and winter, seedtime and harvest.
He made man in His own image to be a ruler over His other creations (see Genesis 1:26–27).
God is the Supreme and Absolute Being in whom we believe and whom we worship. He is "the Great Parent of the universe," and
6What are some of God's attributes?
Because we are made in His image (see Moses 2:26; 6:9), we know that our bodies are like His body. His eternal spirit is housed in a tangible body of flesh and bones (see D&C 130:22). God's body, however, is perfected and glorified, with a glory beyond all description.
God is perfect. He is a God of righteousness, with attributes such as love, mercy, charity, truth, power, faith, knowledge, and judgment.
He has all power. He knows all things. He is full of goodness.
All good things come from God. Everything that He does is to help
His children become like Him. He has said, "Behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses 1:39).
Why is it important for us to understand the nature of God?
The more we know God, the more we love Him and keep His commandments (see 1 John 2:3–5). By keeping His commandments we can become like Him.
1. Believe that He exists and that He loves us (see Mosiah 4:9).
2. Study the scriptures (see 2 Timothy 3:14–17).
73. Pray to Him (see James 1:5).
4. Obey all His commandments as best we can (see John 14:21–23).
As we do these things, we will come to know God and eventually have eternal life.
Ponder what you can do to draw nearer to God.
Acts 7:55–56 (Son at the right hand of the Father)
D&C 88:41–44 (attributes of God)
Psalm 24:1 (the earth is the Lord's)
Alma 7:20 (God cannot do wrong)
Joseph Smith—History 1:17 (Father and Son are separate beings)
Alma 5:40 (good comes from God)
John 14:6–9 (Son and Father are alike)
Mormon 9:15–20 (God of miracles)
For teachers: Use questions at the beginning of a section to start a discussion and send class members or family members to the text to find more information. Use questions at the end of a section to help class members or family members ponder and discuss the meaning of what they have read and apply it in their lives.
8We Are Children of Our Heavenly Father
What do scriptures and latter-day prophets teach us about our relationship to God?
God is not only our Ruler and Creator; He is also our Heavenly Father. All men and women are literally the sons and daughters of God. "Man, as a spirit, was begotten and born of heavenly parents, and reared to maturity in the eternal mansions of the Father, prior to coming upon the earth in a temporal [physical] body" (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith [1998], 335).
Every person who was ever born on earth is our spirit brother or sister. Because we are the spirit children of God, we have inherited the potential to develop His divine qualities. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can become like our Heavenly Father and receive a fulness of joy.
How does your knowledge that you are a child of God influence your thoughts, words, and actions?
We Developed Personalities and Talents While We Lived in
Think about talents and gifts you have been blessed with.
The scriptures teach us that the prophets prepared themselves to become leaders on earth while they were still spirits in heaven (see Alma 13:1–3). Before they were born into mortal bodies, God foreordained (chose) them to be leaders on earth. Jesus, Adam, and Abraham were some of these leaders. (See Abraham 3:22–23.)
10(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007],
511). However, everyone on earth is free to accept or reject any opportunity to serve.
We were not all alike in heaven. We know, for example, that we were sons and daughters of heavenly parents—males and females (see "The Family: A Proclamation to the World," Ensign,
102). We possessed different talents and abilities, and we were called to do different things on earth. We can learn more about our "eternal possibilities" when we receive our patriarchal blessings (see Thomas S. Monson, in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, 82; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, 66).
A veil covers our memories of our premortal life, but our Father in
Heaven knows who we are and what we did before we came here.
How have other people's talents blessed you? How can your talents and gifts bless others?
Our Heavenly Father Presented a Plan for Us to Become
How does earth life help prepare us to become like our Heavenly Father?
Our Heavenly Father knew we could not progress beyond a certain point unless we left Him for a time. He wanted us to develop the godlike qualities that He has. To do this, we needed to leave our premortal home to be tested and to gain experience. Our spirits needed to be clothed with physical bodies. We would need to leave our physical bodies at death and reunite with them in the Resurrection.
Then we would receive immortal bodies like that of our Heavenly Father.
11If we passed our tests, we would receive the fulness of joy that our Heavenly Father has received. (See D&C
Our Heavenly Father called a Grand Council to present His plan for our progression (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, 209, 511). We learned that if we followed His plan, we would become like Him. We would be resurrected; we would have all power in heaven and on earth; we would become heavenly parents and have spirit children just as He does (see D&C 132:19–20).
We learned that He would provide an earth for us where we would prove ourselves (see Abraham 3:24–26). A veil would cover our memories, and we would forget our heavenly home. This would be necessary so we could exercise our agency to choose good or evil without being influenced by the memory of living with our Heavenly Father. Thus we could obey Him because of our faith in Him, not because of our knowledge or memory of Him. He would help us recognize the truth when we heard it again on earth (see John 18:37).
At the Grand Council we also learned the purpose for our progression: to have a fulness of joy. However, we also learned that some would be deceived, choose other paths, and lose their way. We learned that all of us would have trials in our lives: sickness, disappointment, pain, sorrow, and death. But we understood that these would be given to us for our experience and our good (see D&C
122:7). If we allowed them to, these trials would purify us rather than defeat us. They would teach us to have endurance, patience, and charity (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W.
At this council we also learned that because of our weakness, all of us except little children would sin (see D&C 29:46–47). We learned that a Savior would be provided for us so we could overcome our sins and overcome death with resurrection. We learned that if we placed our faith in Him, obeying His word and following His example, we would be exalted and become like our Heavenly Father. We would receive a fulness of joy.
12List some of Heavenly Father's attributes. How does the plan of salvation help us develop these attributes?
Hebrews 12:9 (God is the Father of our spirits)
Job 38:4–7 (premortal life implied)
Abraham 3:22–28 (vision of premortal life)
Jeremiah 1:5 (vision of premortal life)
D&C 29:31–38 (vision of premortal life)
Moses 3:4–7 (spiritual and temporal creations)
1 Corinthians 15:44 (spiritual and temporal creations)
D&C 76:23–24 (begotten sons and daughters)
D&C 132:11–26 (plan for progression)
For teachers: You do not need to teach everything in each chapter. As you prayerfully prepare
For teachers: Class members or family members are more likely to give a thoughtful answer to a question if they are given time to ponder their response. For example, after asking a question, you could say, "Please take a minute to think about your response, and then I'll ask for answers." Then give them time to ponder.
A Savior and Leader Was Needed.
Why did we need to leave Heavenly Father's presence? Why do we need a Savior?
We understood that we would have to leave our heavenly home for a time. We would not live in the presence of our Heavenly Father.
While we were away from Him, all of us would sin and some of us would lose our way. Our Heavenly Father knew and loved each one of us. He knew we would need help, so He planned a way to help us.
We needed a Savior to pay for our sins and teach us how to return to our Heavenly Father. Our Father said, "Whom shall I send?"
(Abraham 3:27). Jesus Christ, who was called Jehovah, said, "Here am I, send me" (Abraham 3:27; see also Moses 4:1–4).
Jesus was willing to come to the earth, give His life for us, and take upon Himself our sins. He, like our Heavenly Father, wanted us to choose whether we would obey Heavenly Father's commandments.
He knew we must be free to choose in order to prove ourselves worthy of exaltation. Jesus said, "Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever" (Moses 4:2).
Satan, who was called Lucifer, also came, saying, "Behold, here am
I, send me, I will be thy son, and I will redeem all mankind, that one soul shall not be lost, and surely I will do it; wherefore give me thine honor" (Moses 4:1). Satan wanted to force us all to do his will.
14 15Under his plan, we would not be allowed to choose. He would take away the freedom of choice that our Father had given us. Satan wanted to have all the honor for our salvation. Under his proposal, our purpose in coming to earth would have been frustrated (see
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay [2003], 207).
Jesus Christ Became Our Chosen Leader and Savior
As you read this section, think about the feelings you have for the Savior.
After hearing both sons speak, Heavenly Father said, "I will send the first" (Abraham 3:27).
Jesus Christ was chosen and foreordained to be our Savior. Many scriptures tell about this (see, for example, 1 Peter 1:19–20; Moses
4:1–2). One scripture tells us that long before Jesus was born, He appeared to a Book of Mormon prophet known as the brother of Jared and said: "Behold, I am he who was prepared from the foundation of the world to redeem my people. Behold, I am Jesus
Christ. . . In me shall all mankind have life, and that eternally, even they who shall believe on my name" (Ether 3:14).
When Jesus lived on earth, He taught: "I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. . . And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day" (John 6:38, 40).
Because our Heavenly Father chose Jesus Christ to be our Savior,
Satan became angry and rebelled. There was war in heaven. Satan and his followers fought against Jesus Christ and His followers. The
In this great rebellion, Satan and all the spirits who followed him were sent away from the presence of God and cast down from heaven. A third part of the hosts of heaven were punished for following Satan (see D&C 29:36).
16They were denied the right to receive mortal bodies.
Because we are here on earth and have mortal bodies, we know that we chose to follow Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. Satan and his followers are also on the earth, but as spirits. They have not forgotten who we are, and they are around us daily, tempting us and enticing us to do things that are not pleasing to our Heavenly Father. In our premortal life, we chose to follow Jesus Christ and accept God's plan. We must continue to follow Jesus Christ here on earth. Only by following Him can we return to our heavenly home.
In what ways does the War in Heaven continue today?
We Have the Savior's Teachings to Follow
Think about how the Savior's teachings have influenced you.
From the beginning, Jesus Christ has revealed the gospel, which tells us what we must do to return to our Heavenly Father. At the appointed time He came to earth Himself. He taught the plan of salvation and exaltation by His word and by the way He lived. He established His Church and His priesthood on the earth. He took our sins upon Himself.
By following His teachings, we can inherit a place in the celestial kingdom. He did His part to help us return to our heavenly home.
It is now up to each of us to do our part and become worthy of exaltation.
Moses 4:1–4; Abraham 3:22–28 (Savior chosen in premortality)
Isaiah 14:12–15 (why Lucifer was cast out)
For teachers: You could have class members or family members study the "Additional
Scriptures" as individuals, in pairs, or as an entire group.
Agency Is an Eternal Principle.
If someone asked you why it is important to have agency, what would you say?
"Thou mayest choose for thyself, for it is given unto thee" (Moses 3:17).
God has told us through His prophets that we are free to choose
between good and evil. We may choose liberty and eternal life by
following Jesus Christ. We are also free to choose captivity and
death by following Satan. (See 2 Nephi 2:27.) The right to choose
between good and evil and to act for ourselves is called agency.
In our premortal life we had moral agency. One purpose of earth
life is to show what choices we will make (see 2 Nephi 2:15–16). If
we were forced to choose the right, we would not be able to show
what we would choose for ourselves. Also, we are happier doing
things when we have made our own choices.
Agency was one of the principal issues to arise in the premortal
Council in Heaven. It was one of the main causes of the conflict
between the followers of Christ and the followers of Satan. Satan
said, "Behold, here am I, send me, I will be thy son, and I will
redeem all mankind, that one soul shall not be lost, and surely I will
do it; wherefore give me thine honor" (Moses 4:1). In saying this, he
"rebelled against [God] and sought to destroy the agency of man"
(Moses 4:3). His offer was rejected, and he was cast out of heaven
with his followers (see D&C 29:36–37).
Agency Is a Necessary Part of the Plan of Salvation
Agency makes our life on earth a period of testing. When planning
the mortal creation of His children, God said, "We will prove
[test] them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the
Lord their God shall command them" (Abraham 3:25).
18 19gift of agency, we would have been unable to show our Heavenly
Father whether we would do all that He commanded us. Because
we are able to choose, we are responsible for our actions (see
When we choose to live according to God's plan for us, our agency
is strengthened. Right choices increase our power to make more
As we obey each of our Father's commandments, we grow in wisdom
and strength of character. Our faith increases. We find it easier
We began to make choices as spirit children in our Heavenly
Father's presence. Our choices there made us worthy to come
to earth. Our Heavenly Father wants us to grow in faith, power,
knowledge, wisdom, and all other good things. If we keep His commandments
and make right choices, we will learn and understand.
We will become like Him. (See D&C 93:28.)
How does making right choices help us make more right choices?
Agency Requires That There Be a Choice
We cannot choose righteousness unless the opposites of good and
evil are placed before us. Lehi, a great Book of Mormon prophet,
told his son Jacob that in order to bring about the eternal purposes
of God, there must be "an opposition in all things. If not so, . .
righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness,
neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad" (2 Nephi 2:11).
God allows Satan to oppose the good. God said of Satan:
"I caused that he should be cast down;
"And he became Satan, yea, even the devil, the father of all lies, to
deceive and to blind men, and to lead them captive at his will, even
as many as would not hearken unto my voice" (Moses 4:3–4).
20Satan does all he can to destroy God's work. He seeks "the misery
of all mankind. . . He seeketh that all men might be miserable like
unto himself" (2 Nephi 2:18, 27). He does not love us. He does not
want any good thing for us (see Moroni 7:17). He does not want us
to be happy. He wants to make us his slaves. He uses many disguises
When we follow the temptations of Satan, we limit our choices.
The following example suggests how this works. Imagine seeing
a sign on the seashore that reads: "Danger—whirlpool. No swimming
allowed here." We might think that is a restriction. But is it?
We still have many choices. We are free to swim somewhere else.
We are free to walk along the beach and pick up seashells. We are
free to watch the sunset. We are free to go home. We are also free
to ignore the sign and swim in the dangerous place. But once the
whirlpool has us in its grasp and we are pulled under, we have very
few choices. We can try to escape, or we can call for help, but we
Even though we are free to choose our course of action, we are not
free to choose the consequences of our actions. The consequences,
whether good or bad, follow as a natural result of any choice we
make (see Galatians 6:7; Revelation 22:12).
Heavenly Father has told us how to escape the captivity of Satan.
We must watch and pray always, asking God to help us withstand
the temptations of Satan (see 3 Nephi 18:15). Our Heavenly Father
will not allow us to be tempted beyond our power to resist (see
1 Corinthians 10:13; Alma 13:28).
God's commandments direct us away from danger and toward
eternal life. By choosing wisely, we will gain exaltation, progress
eternally, and enjoy perfect happiness (see 2 Nephi 2:27–28).
What are some examples of actions that limit our choices? What
are some examples of actions that give us more freedom?
21Moses 7:32 (freedom of choice)
Abraham 3:24–25 (earth life a test)
Alma 41:3; Moroni 7:5–6 (works judged)
2 Nephi 2:11–16 (opposition is necessary)
Moroni 7:12–17 (choosing good and evil)
2 Peter 2:19; John 8:34 (sin is bondage)
2 Nephi 2:28–29; Alma 40:12–13 (reward according to works)
For teachers: A simple picture can help learners focus their attention. If you discuss the
analogy of a warning sign as it is presented in this chapter, you may want to draw a picture
of such a sign on the board or on a large piece of paper.
22Why did we need to come to the earth?
When we lived as spirit children with our heavenly parents, our
Heavenly Father told us about His plan for us to become more like
Him. We shouted for joy when we heard His plan (see Job 38:7).
We were eager for new experiences. In order for these things to
happen, we needed to leave our Father's presence and receive
mortal bodies. We needed another place to live where we could
prepare to become like Him. Our new home was called earth.
Why do you think we shouted for joy when we learned of the
Jesus Christ created this world and everything in it. He also created
many other worlds. He did so through the power of the priesthood,
under the direction of our Heavenly Father. God the Father said,
"Worlds without number have I created; . . and by the Son I created
them, which is mine Only Begotten" (Moses 1:33). We have other
testimonies of this truth. Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon saw Jesus
Christ in a vision. They testified "that by him, and through him, and
of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof
are begotten sons and daughters unto God" (D&C 76:24).
What are the purposes of the Creation?
24The earth and everything on it were created spiritually before they
were created physically (see Moses 3:5). In planning to create the
physical earth, Christ said to those who were with Him, "We will
go down, for there is space there, . . and we will make an earth
whereon these [the spirit children of our Father in Heaven] may
Under the direction of the Father, Christ formed and organized the
earth. He divided light from darkness to make day and night. He
formed the sun, moon, and stars. He divided the waters from the
dry land to make seas, rivers, and lakes. He made the earth beautiful
and productive. He made grass, trees, flowers, and other plants of all
kinds. These plants contained seeds from which new plants could
grow. Then He created the animals—fish, cattle, insects, and birds of
all kinds. These animals had the ability to reproduce their own kind.
Now the earth was ready for the greatest creation of all—mankind.
Our spirits would be given bodies of flesh and blood so they could
live on earth. "And I, God, said unto mine Only Begotten, which
was with me from the beginning: Let us make man in our image,
after our likeness; and it was so" (Moses 2:26). And so the first man,
Adam, and the first woman, Eve, were formed and given bodies
that resembled those of our heavenly parents. "In the image of God
created he him; male and female created he them" (Genesis 1:27).
When the Lord finished His creations, He was pleased and knew
that His work was good, and He rested for a time.
How do God's creations show that He loves us?
We are now living in this beautiful world. Think of the sun,
which gives us warmth and light. Think of the rain, which makes
plants grow and makes the world feel clean and fresh. Think of
how good it is to hear a bird singing or a friend laughing. Think
of how wonderful our bodies are—how we can work and play
and rest. When we consider all of these creations, we begin to
understand what wise, powerful, and loving beings Jesus Christ
25They have shown great love for us
by providing for all of our needs.
Plant life and animal life were also made to give us joy. The
Lord said, "Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the season
thereof, are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to
please the eye and to gladden the heart; yea, for food and for raiment,
for taste and for smell, to strengthen the body and to enliven
the soul" (D&C 59:18–19). Even though God's creations are many,
He knows and loves them all. He said, "All things are numbered
unto me, for they are mine and I know them" (Moses 1:35).
What are some things you appreciate about God's creations?
Genesis 1; 2:1–7; Abraham 3:22–23; 4–5; Moses 1:27–42; 2–3
Hebrews 1:1–3; Colossians 1:12–17; D&C 38:1–3 (Jesus the Creator)
D&C 59:18–20; Moses 2:26–31; D&C 104:13–17; Matthew 6:25–26
For teachers: Some class members or family members may not feel comfortable reading
aloud. Before asking them to read aloud, you may want to ask, "Who would like to read?"
Then call on individuals who have volunteered.
26Adam and Eve Were the First to Come to Earth.
What evidence helps us know that Adam and Eve were valiant spirits?
God prepared this earth as a home for His children. Adam and Eve
were chosen to be the first people to live on the earth (see Moses
1:34; 4:26). Their part in our Father's plan was to bring mortality into
the world. They were to be the first parents. (See D&C 107:54–56.)
Adam and Eve were among our Father's noblest children. In the
spirit world Adam was called Michael the archangel (see D&C
27:11; Jude 1:9). He was chosen by our Heavenly Father to lead the
righteous in the battle against Satan (see Revelation 12:7–9). Adam
and Eve were foreordained to become our first parents. The Lord
promised Adam great blessings: "I have set thee to be at the head; a
multitude of nations shall come of thee, and thou art a prince over
Eve was "the mother of all living" (Moses 4:26). God brought Adam
and Eve together in marriage because "it was not good that the man
should be alone" (Moses 3:18; see also 1 Corinthians 11:11). She
shared Adam's responsibility and will also share his eternal blessings.
What can we learn from the examples of Adam and Eve?
28Under what conditions did Adam and Eve live in the Garden of Eden?
When Adam and Eve were placed in the Garden of Eden, they were
not yet mortal. In this state, "they would have had no children"
(2 Nephi 2:23). There was no death. They had physical life because
their spirits were housed in physical bodies made from the dust
of the earth (see Moses 6:59; Abraham 5:7). They had spiritual life
because they were in the presence of God. They had not yet made
a choice between good and evil.
God commanded them to have children. He said, "Be fruitful, and
multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it, and have dominion
over . . every living thing that moveth upon the earth" (Moses
2:28). God told them they could freely eat of every tree in the
garden except one, the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Of that
tree God said, "In the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die"
Satan, not knowing the mind of God but seeking to destroy God's
plan, came to Eve in the Garden of Eden. He tempted her to eat of
the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. He assured her
that she and Adam would not die, but that they would "be as gods,
knowing good and evil" (Moses 4:11). Eve yielded to the temptation
and ate the fruit. When Adam learned what had happened, he
chose to partake also. The changes that came upon Adam and Eve
because they ate the fruit are called the Fall.
Adam and Eve's Separation from God
What physical and spiritual changes occurred in Adam and Eve as
a result of their transgression?
Because Adam and Eve had eaten the fruit of the tree of knowledge
of good and evil, the Lord sent them out of the Garden of Eden into
the world. Their physical condition changed as a result of their eating
the forbidden fruit. As God had promised, they became mortal.
They and their children would experience sickness, pain, and
29Because of their transgression, Adam and Eve also suffered spiritual
death. This meant they and their children could not walk and talk
face to face with God. Adam and Eve and their children were separated
from God both physically and spiritually.
Great Blessings Resulted from the Transgression
How does the Fall provide opportunities for us to become like
Some people believe Adam and Eve committed a serious sin when
they ate of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. However, latterday
scriptures help us understand that their Fall was a necessary
step in the plan of life and a great blessing to all of us. Because of
the Fall, we are blessed with physical bodies, the right to choose
between good and evil, and the opportunity to gain eternal life.
None of these privileges would have been ours had Adam and Eve
After the Fall, Eve said, "Were it not for our transgression we never
should have had seed [children], and never should have known
good and evil, and the joy of our redemption, and the eternal life
which God giveth unto all the obedient" (Moses 5:11).
"And now, behold, if Adam had not transgressed he would not have
fallen [been cut off from the presence of God], but he would have
remained in the Garden of Eden. And all things which were created
must have remained in the same state in which they were after they
"And they would have had no children; wherefore they would have
remained in a state of innocence, having no joy, for they knew no
misery; doing no good, for they knew no sin.
"But behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him who
"Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have
30Why do you think it is important to know about the Fall and how it influences us?
1 Nephi 5:11; 2 Nephi 2:20 (Adam and Eve first parents, family)
2 Nephi 2:14–21 (opposition and the Fall; life a probation)
2 Nephi 2:22–26 (Fall part of the plan of salvation)
For teachers: Use questions at the beginning of a section to start a discussion and send
class members or family members to the text to find more information. Use questions at
the end of a section to help class members or family members ponder and discuss the
The Holy Ghost Came to Adam and Eve
Why did Adam and Eve need the guidance of the Holy Ghost?
After Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden, they began to till
the earth and work at other tasks for their living. They had many
children, and their sons and daughters also married and had children
(see Moses 5:1–3). Thus, spirit children of our Heavenly Father
began leaving His presence to come to the earth as they had been
promised (see Abraham 3:24–25). As they came to earth, the memory
of their heavenly home was taken from them. But our Father
did not shut them away from His influence. He sent the Holy Ghost
to comfort and help and guide all of His spirit children.
Adam and Eve called upon Heavenly Father in prayer. He spoke to
them and gave them commandments, which they obeyed. An angel
of the Lord came and taught Adam and Eve the plan of salvation.
The Lord sent the Holy Ghost to testify of the Father and of the Son
and to teach Adam and Eve the gospel. (See Moses 5:4–9.)
Through the power of the Holy Ghost, Adam "began to prophesy
concerning all the families of the earth, saying: Blessed be the name
of God, for because of my transgression my eyes are opened, and
in this life I shall have joy, and again in the flesh I shall see God"
(Moses 5:10). Because of the witness of the Holy Ghost to Eve, she
said, "Were it not for our transgression we never should have had
seed, and never should have known good and evil, and the joy of
our redemption, and the eternal life which God giveth unto all the
32How is our need for guidance from the Holy Ghost similar to that of Adam and Eve?
How does the Holy Ghost differ from the Father and the Son?
Why is that difference important to us?
The Holy Ghost is a member of the Godhead (see 1 John 5:7; D&C
20:28). He is a "personage of Spirit" (D&C 130:22). He can be in
only one place at a time, but His influence can be everywhere at
Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are called the
Godhead. They are unified in purpose. Each has an important
assignment in the plan of salvation. Our Heavenly Father is our
Father and ruler. Jesus Christ is our Savior. The Holy Ghost is the
revealer and testifier of all truth.
The Holy Ghost is our Heavenly Father's messenger and is a special
gift to us (see chapter 21 in this book).
What are some of the truths that the Holy Ghost reveals to us?
The mission of the Holy Ghost is to bear witness of the Father and
the Son and of the truth of all things.
The Holy Ghost will witness to us that Jesus is our Savior and
Redeemer (see 3 Nephi 28:11; D&C 20:27). He will reveal to us that
our Heavenly Father is the Father of our spirits. He will help us
understand that we can become exalted like our Heavenly Father.
(See Romans 8:16–17.) The prophets of the Lord have promised,
"By the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all
Without the Holy Ghost, we could not know that Jesus is the Christ.
The Apostle Paul wrote, "No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but
by the Holy Ghost" (1 Corinthians 12:3). The Savior Himself said,
"And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true
God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent" (John 17:3). It is by
the power of the Holy Ghost that we are led to understand and live
33The convincing power of the Holy Ghost is so great that there can
be no doubt that what He reveals to us is true. President Joseph
"When a man has the manifestation from the Holy Ghost, it leaves
an indelible impression on his soul, one that is not easily erased.
It is Spirit speaking to spirit, and it comes with convincing force. A
manifestation of an angel, or even of the Son of God himself, would
impress the eye and mind, and eventually become dimmed, but the
impressions of the Holy Ghost sink deeper into the soul and are
more difficult to erase" (Answers to Gospel Questions, comp. Joseph
Fielding Smith Jr., 5 vols. [1957–66], 2:151).
President Smith also said, "Through the Holy Ghost the truth is
woven into the very fibre and sinews of the body so that it cannot
be forgotten" (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we
should make ourselves worthy to receive this special messenger
and witness of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Think about times when the Holy Ghost has helped you grow in
your testimony. As appropriate, share some of these experiences
with class members or family members.
Moses 5 (story of Adam's family)
D&C 130:22 (Holy Ghost identified)
John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13; Luke 12:12; 2 Nephi 31:18; 32:5, 8; 33:1;
Alma 14:11; 3 Nephi 27:20; 4 Nephi 1:48; Moroni 10:6–7; D&C
8:2–3; 11:12–13; 20:26 (roles of the Holy Ghost)
For teachers: When you call class members by their names, they know they are important
to you and that you care about them. Learn their names, and call them by name during
each lesson. Help them learn each other's names.
34Jesus taught, "Ye must always pray unto the Father in my name"
Prayer is one of the greatest blessings we have while we are here
on earth. Through prayer we can communicate with our Heavenly
Father and seek His guidance daily.
Prayer is a sincere, heartfelt talk with our Heavenly Father. We
should pray to God and to no one else. We do not pray to any other
being or to anything made by man or God (see Exodus 20:3–5).
Prayer has been an important part of the gospel from the beginning
of the world. An angel of the Lord commanded Adam and Eve to
repent and call upon God in the name of the Son (see Moses 5:8).
This commandment has never been taken away. Prayer will help us
draw closer to God. All of our thoughts, our words, and our actions
are influenced by our prayers.
We should pray for strength to resist the temptations of Satan and
his followers (see 3 Nephi 18:15; D&C 10:5). We should pray to
confess our sins to God and ask Him to forgive us (see Alma 38:14).
36We should pray for the Lord's guidance and help in our daily lives.
We need to pray for our families and friends, our neighbors, our
crops and our animals, our daily work, and our other activities. We
should pray for protection from our enemies. (See Alma 34:17–27.)
We should pray to express love to our Heavenly Father and to feel
closer to Him. We should pray to our Father to thank Him for our
welfare and comfort and for all things He gives us each day (see
1 Thessalonians 5:18). We need to pray to ask our Heavenly Father
for strength to live the gospel.
We should pray so we can keep on the strait and narrow path that
leads to eternal life. We must pray to God, the author of all righteousness,
so we may be righteous in our thoughts, words, and actions.
How has prayer helped you draw nearer to Heavenly Father?
We can pray whenever we feel the need to communicate with our
Heavenly Father, whether silently or vocally. Sometimes we need
to be alone where we can pour out our souls to Him (see Matthew
6:6). In addition, we can pray during our daily activities. We can pray
while we are in a Church meeting, at home, walking down a path or
street, working, preparing a meal, or wherever we may be and whatever
we may be doing. We can pray any time of the day or night. We
can pray when we are alone or when we are with other people. We
can keep our Heavenly Father in our thoughts at all times (see Alma
34:27). We can "pray always" (D&C 10:5).
At times we may not feel like praying. We may be angry or discouraged
or upset. At these times we should make a special effort to
We should each pray privately at least every night and every morning.
The scriptures speak of praying morning, midday, and evening
We are commanded to have family prayers so that our families may
be blessed (see 3 Nephi 18:21). Our Church leaders have counseled
us to pray as families each morning and night.
37We also have the privilege of praying to give thanks and ask a
blessing on the food before each meal.
We open and close all of our Church meetings with prayer. We
thank the Lord for His blessings and ask for His help so we may
worship in a manner that pleases Him.
No matter where we are, whether we stand or kneel, whether we
pray vocally or silently, whether we pray privately or in behalf of a
group, we should always pray in faith, "with a sincere heart, with
As we pray to our Heavenly Father, we should tell Him what we
really feel in our hearts, confide in Him, ask Him for forgiveness,
plead with Him, thank Him, express our love for Him. We should
not repeat meaningless words and phrases (see Matthew 6:7–8). We
should always ask that His will be done, remembering that what we
desire may not be best for us (see 3 Nephi 18:20). At the end of our
prayer, we close in the name of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 18:19).
Why do you think answers to prayers are not always readily
apparent? Why do you think answers to prayers do not always
come when we want or in the way we want?
Our sincere prayers are always answered. Sometimes the answer
may be no, because what we have asked for would not be best for
us. Sometimes the answer is yes, and we have a warm, comfortable
feeling about what we should do (see D&C 9:8–9). Sometimes the
answer is "wait a while." Our prayers are always answered at a time
and in a way that the Lord knows will help us the most.
Sometimes the Lord answers our prayers through other people. A
good friend, a husband or wife, a parent or other family member,
a Church leader, a missionary—any of these individuals may be
inspired to perform acts that will answer our prayers. An example
of this is the experience of a young mother whose baby was injured
in an accident at home. She had no way to get the baby to a doctor.
38She was new in the neighborhood and did not know her neighbors.
The young mother prayed for help. In a few minutes, a neighbor
came to the door, saying, "I had a feeling I should come and see if
you needed any help." The neighbor helped the young mother get
Often God gives us the power to help answer our own prayers.
As we pray for help, we should do all we can to bring about the
As we live the gospel of Jesus Christ and pray always, we will have
joy and happiness. "Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead
thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers" (D&C 112:10).
In what ways has Heavenly Father answered your prayers?
Additional Scriptures and Other Sources
1 Thessalonians 5:17; Psalm 55:17; 2 Nephi 32:9 (when to pray)
3 Nephi 19:6, 24 (how to pray)
D&C 88:63–65 (how prayers are answered)
Moroni 10:3–5; Alma 37:37 (promises for prayer)
James 5:16 (the power of a prayer from a righteous person)
Bible Dictionary, "Prayer," 753
For teachers: This chapter is organized under five section headings. Each heading is a
question about prayer. You could use these questions as a guide for your lesson. If the
classroom setting allows for small group discussion, consider dividing class members
into groups of two to four. Assign each group one of the sections in the chapter. Have each
group read and discuss their assigned section and share personal experiences that relate
to it. Then discuss the five sections as a class, focusing on the questions that are of most
Prophets Are God's Representatives on the Earth.
What powers and gifts does a prophet have?
"Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret
unto his servants the prophets" (Amos 3:7).
Many people live in darkness, unsure of God's will. They believe
that the heavens are closed and that people must face the world's
perils alone. How fortunate are the Latter-day Saints! We know that
God communicates to the Church through His prophet. With grateful
hearts, Saints the world over sing the hymn, "We thank thee, O
God, for a prophet to guide us in these latter days" (Hymns, no. 19).
A prophet is a man called by God to be His representative on earth.
When a prophet speaks for God, it is as if God were speaking (see
D&C 1:38). A prophet is also a special witness for Christ, testifying
of His divinity and teaching His gospel. A prophet teaches truth and
interprets the word of God. He calls the unrighteous to repentance.
He receives revelations and directions from the Lord for our benefit.
He may see into the future and foretell coming events so that the
A prophet may come from various stations in life. He may be young
or old, highly educated or unschooled. He may be a farmer, a lawyer,
or a teacher. Ancient prophets wore tunics and carried staffs.
Modern prophets wear suits and carry briefcases. What, then, identifies
a true prophet? A true prophet is always chosen by God and
called through proper priesthood authority (see Articles of Faith 1:5).
Latter-day Saints sustain the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles
as prophets. However, when we speak of "the prophet of the
Church," we mean the President of the Church, who is President of
40This Page contains a picture of past and present Presidents of the Church.
Joseph Smith Brigham Young John Taylor Wilford Woodruff
Lorenzo Snow Joseph F. Smith Heber J. Grant George Albert Smith
David O. McKay Joseph Fielding Smith Harold B. Lee Spencer W. Kimball
Ezra Taft Benson Howard W. Hunter Gordon B. Hinckley Thomas S. Monson
Through the Ages God Has Called Prophets to Lead Mankind
In what ways have prophets guided God's children in the past?
There have been prophets on the earth since the days of Adam.
Experiences of these great men excite and inspire us. Moses, an
Old Testament prophet, led thousands of his people out of Egypt
and slavery to the promised land. He wrote the first five books of
the Old Testament and recorded the Ten Commandments. Nephi,
a Book of Mormon prophet, journeyed from Jerusalem to the
Americas 600 years before the birth of Christ. This great leader and
colonizer gave us many important writings in the Book of Mormon.
John the Baptist was chosen to prepare the world for the coming of
the Lord Jesus Christ. Through Joseph Smith, a latter-day prophet,
the Lord restored the Church. Joseph Smith also translated the Book
What have you learned from the lives and teachings of prophets?
We Have a Living Prophet on the Earth Today
Why do we need a living prophet today?
We have a prophet living on the earth today. This prophet is the
President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He has
the right to revelation for the entire Church. He holds "the keys of
the kingdom," meaning that he has the authority to direct the entire
Church and kingdom of God on earth, including the administration
of priesthood ordinances (see Matthew 16:19). No person except
the chosen prophet and President can receive God's will for the
entire membership of the Church. The Lord said, "There is never
but one on the earth at a time on whom this power and the keys
of this priesthood are conferred" (D&C 132:7). The President of the
Church is assisted by his counselors in the First Presidency and the
members of the Quorum of the Twelve, who are also prophets,
We should do those things the prophets tell us to do. President
Wilford Woodruff said that a prophet will never be allowed to lead
42"The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as
President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme.
It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the
Lord would remove me out of my place" (Teachings of Presidents of
the Church: Wilford Woodruff [2004], 199).
In what ways has the living prophet influenced the Church?
We Should Sustain the Lord's Prophet
What can we do to follow and sustain the prophet?
Many people find it easy to believe in the prophets of the past. But
it is much greater to believe in and follow the living prophet. We
raise our hands to sustain the President of the Church as prophet,
How can we sustain the prophet? We should pray for him. His
burdens are heavy, and he needs to be strengthened by the prayers
We should study his words. We can listen to his conference
addresses. We can also subscribe to the Ensign
or Liahona so we can read his conference addresses and other messages he gives.
We should follow his inspired teachings completely. We should not
choose to follow part of his inspired counsel and discard that which
is unpleasant or difficult. The Lord commanded us to follow the
inspired teachings of His prophet:
"Thou shalt give heed unto all his [the prophet's] words and commandments
which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them,
walking in all holiness before me;
"For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all
patience and faith" (D&C 21:4–5).
The Lord will never allow the President of the Church to lead us
What has the President of the Church taught or emphasized
43Great Blessings Follow Obedience to the Prophet
If we obey, the Lord promises, "The gates of hell shall not prevail
against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers
of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for
your good, and his name's glory" (D&C 21:6). When we do as our
prophet directs, blessings pour down from heaven.
In order to stand, the true Church must be "built upon the foundation
of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the
chief corner stone" (Ephesians 2:20). We are blessed in this insecure
world to have a prophet through whom the Lord reveals His will.
What experiences have you had when you have obeyed the counsel
Numbers 12:6 (God speaks through prophets)
1 Samuel 9:9 (prophet called a seer)
Amos 3:7 (God reveals His secrets to the prophets)
Mosiah 8:16–18 (a seer can know of things past and things to
Luke 1:70 (God speaks through prophets)
D&C 45:10, 15 (God speaks today as in days of old)
1 Nephi 22:2 (by the Spirit things are made known to prophets)
D&C 107:65–67, 91–92 (duties of the President of the Church)
D&C 43:1–7 (only the prophet is authorized to receive revelations for the Church)
For teachers: Sharing experiences and bearing testimony invite the Spirit. As you conclude
this lesson, consider sharing an experience you have had when you have followed the
counsel of the President of the Church. Share your testimony of the living prophet.
44The Scriptures Are Available to Us Today.
What are some of the blessings that we enjoy today because the
When the Lord's servants speak or write under the influence of the
Holy Ghost, their words become scripture (see D&C 68:4). From
the beginning, the Lord has commanded His prophets to keep a
record of His revelations and His dealings with His children. He
said: "I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in
the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they
shall write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the books
which shall be written I will judge the world, every man according
to their works, according to that which is written" (2 Nephi 29:11).
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints accepts four books
as scripture: the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and
Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. These books are called
the standard works of the Church. The inspired words of our living
prophets are also accepted as scripture.
The Bible is a collection of sacred writings containing God's revelations
to man. These writings cover many centuries, from the time
of Adam through the time when the Apostles of Jesus Christ lived.
They were written by many prophets who lived at various times in
46The Bible is divided into two sections: the Old Testament and the
New Testament. Many prophecies in the Old Testament foretell the
coming of a Savior and Redeemer. The New Testament tells of the life
of that Savior and Redeemer, who is Jesus Christ. It also tells of the
establishing of His Church in that day. "We believe the Bible to be the
word of God as far as it is translated correctly" (Articles of Faith 1:8).
Through the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Lord has expanded our
understanding of some passages in the Bible. The Lord inspired the
Prophet Joseph to restore truths to the Bible text that had been lost
or changed since the original words were written. These inspired
corrections are called the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible. In
the Latter-day Saint edition of the King James Version of the Bible,
selected passages from the Joseph Smith Translation are found on
pages 797–813 and in many footnotes.
The Book of Mormon is a sacred record of some of the people who
lived on the American continents between about 2000 b.c. and a.d.
400. It contains the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ (see D&C
20:9; 42:12; 135:3). The Book of Mormon tells of the visit Jesus Christ
made to the people in the Americas soon after His Resurrection.
Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon into English through
the gift and power of God. He said that it is "the most correct of any
book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would
get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other
book" (introduction to the Book of Mormon).
President Ezra Taft Benson helped us understand how the Book of
Mormon is the keystone of our religion. He said:
"There are three ways in which the Book of Mormon is the keystone
of our religion. It is the keystone in our witness of Christ. It is
the keystone of our doctrine. It is the keystone of testimony.
"The Book of Mormon is the keystone in our witness of Jesus
Christ, who is Himself the cornerstone of everything we do. It bears
witness of His reality with power and clarity. .
47"[It] broadens our understandings of the doctrines of salvation. .
The Book of Mormon . . was written for our day. . In [it] we find
a pattern for preparing for the Second Coming. .
". . The Book of Mormon teaches us truth [and] bears testimony
of Christ. . . But there is something more. There is a power in the
book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin
a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist
temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will
find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path. The scriptures
are called 'the words of life,' and nowhere is that more true than it is
of the Book of Mormon. . . 'Every Latter-day Saint should make the
study of this book a lifetime pursuit' " (in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, 4–7; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, 5–7; quoting Marion G. Romney, in Conference Report, Apr. 1980, 90; or Ensign, May 1980, 67).
The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of modern revelations.
In section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord reveals that the
book is published to the inhabitants of the earth to prepare them
"Wherefore the voice of the Lord is unto the ends of the earth, that
"Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is
This book contains the revelations regarding the Church of Jesus
Christ as it has been restored in these last days. Several sections
of the book explain the organization of the Church and define the
offices of the priesthood and their functions. Other sections, such
as sections 76 and 88, contain glorious truths that were lost to the
world for hundreds of years. Still others, such as sections 29 and
93, shed light on teachings in the Bible. In addition, some sections,
such as section 133, contain prophecies of events to come. God has
commanded us to study His revelations in this book: "Search these
commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies
and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled" (D&C 1:37).
48The Pearl of Great Price contains the book of Moses, the book of
Abraham, and some inspired writings of Joseph Smith. The book
of Moses contains an account of some of the visions and writings of
Moses, revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith. It clarifies doctrines
and teachings that were lost from the Bible and gives added information
concerning the Creation of the earth.
The book of Abraham was translated by the Prophet Joseph Smith
from a papyrus scroll taken from the Egyptian catacombs. This
book contains valuable information about the Creation, the gospel,
the nature of God, and the priesthood.
The writings of Joseph Smith include part of Joseph Smith's inspired
translation of the Bible, selections from his History of the Church,
What are some stories from the scriptures that have inspired you?
What are some teachings from these books of scripture that have
In addition to these four books of scripture, the inspired words
of our living prophets become scripture to us. Their words come
to us through conferences, the Liahona or Ensign magazine, and
instructions to local priesthood leaders. "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" (Articles of Faith 1:9).
Where can we find the words of our living prophets?
What blessings can we receive when we study the scriptures?
We should each study the scriptures every day. We should share
these truths with our children. We should read the standard works
with our children so they will learn to love them and use them for
49If we desire to avoid the evils of this world, we must feed our minds
with the truth and righteousness found in the scriptures. We will
grow closer to God and to each other as we read and ponder the
As we read, ponder, and pray about the scriptures and ask
God for understanding, the Holy Ghost will bear witness to us
of the truth of these things. We will each know for ourselves
that these things are true. We will not be deceived (see Joseph
Smith—Matthew 1:37). We can receive the same feelings Nephi
expressed when he said, "My soul delighteth in the things
of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things
which I have seen and heard" (2 Nephi 4:16).
How can we keep the commitment to study the scriptures each day? Consider planning a time and a place to study the scriptures each day.
1 Nephi 14:20–26 (prophets commanded to write)
1 Nephi 19:1–3, 6–7; Alma 37:1–8 (great worth of scriptures)
2 Nephi 33:10 (scriptures testify of Christ)
Alma 29:8 (Lord speaks to all nations through scriptures)
Alma 31:5; Helaman 3:29–30 (the word of God is powerful)
Helaman 15:7–8 (scriptures lead us to be firm and steadfast in the faith)
2 Timothy 3:16–17; 1 Nephi 19:21–24 (why and how scriptures are given)
2 Peter 1:20; Alma 13:20; D&C 10:62 (scriptures bring to light true points of doctrine)
D&C 128:18; Articles of Faith 1:9; 1 Nephi 14:25–26 (scriptures yet to come)
2 Nephi 29:3–10 (scriptures to Jews and to Gentiles)
For teachers: To encourage discussion about the four standard works, you could assign
each class member or family member a number between 1 and 4. Ask those with number
1 to read what this chapter teaches about the Bible, those with number 2 to read what this
chapter teaches about the Book of Mormon, those with number 3 to read what this chapter
teaches about the Doctrine and Covenants, and those with number 4 to read what this chapter
teaches about the Pearl of Great Price. Then ask them to share what they have learned.
50The Life of Christ Was Predicted Long before His Birth
Every person who comes to earth depends on Jesus Christ to fulfill
the promise He made in heaven to be our Savior. Without Him,
the plan of salvation would have failed. Because His mission was
necessary, all of the prophets from Adam to Christ testified that He
would come (see Acts 10:43). All of the prophets since Christ have
testified that He did come. All of us need to study the life of the
Savior and follow Him faithfully throughout our lives.
Adam learned that the Savior's name would be Jesus Christ (see
Moses 6:51–52). Enoch saw that Jesus would die upon the cross and
be resurrected (see Moses 7:55–56). Noah and Moses also testified
of Him (see Moses 1:11; 8:23–24). About 800 years before the Savior
was born on the earth, Isaiah foresaw His life. When Isaiah saw the
grief and sorrow that the Savior would suffer to pay the price for
"He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and
". . Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows. .
"He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our
"He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his
mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter" (Isaiah 53:3–5, 7).
Nephi also saw a vision of the Savior's future birth and mission. He
saw a beautiful virgin, and an angel explained, "Behold, the virgin
whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner
of the flesh" (1 Nephi 11:18).
52Then Nephi saw the virgin holding a
child in her arms. The angel declared, "Behold the Lamb of God,
yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father!" (1 Nephi 11:21).
About 124 years before Jesus was born, King Benjamin, another
Nephite prophet, also foresaw the Savior's life:
"For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with
power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from
all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the
children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go
forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the
sick, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to receive
their sight, and the deaf to hear, and curing all manner of diseases.
"And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in the
hearts of the children of men.
"And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger,
thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto
death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be
his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.
"And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of
heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and
his mother shall be called Mary" (Mosiah 3:5–8).
What are some ancient prophecies about Jesus Christ?
He Was the Only Begotten of the Father
What did Jesus Christ inherit from His Father? What did He inherit
The story of the birth and life of the Savior is found in the New Testament
in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. From their
accounts we learn that Jesus was born of a virgin named Mary. She
was engaged to marry Joseph when an angel of the Lord appeared
to her. The angel told her that she was to be the mother of the Son
of God. She asked him how this was possible (see Luke 1:34). He
told her, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of
the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing
which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" (Luke
53Thus, God the Father became the literal Father of Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the only person on earth to be born of a mortal mother and
an immortal Father. That is why He is called the Only Begotten Son.
He inherited divine powers from His Father. From His mother He
inherited mortality and was subject to hunger, thirst, fatigue, pain,
and death. No one could take the Savior's life from Him unless He
willed it. He had power to lay it down and power to take up His
body again after dying. (See John 10:17–18.)
What does the Savior's life mean for us?
From His youth, Jesus obeyed all that was required of Him by our
Heavenly Father. Under the guidance of Mary and Joseph, Jesus
grew much as other children grow. He loved and obeyed the truth.
Luke tells us, "And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled
with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him" (Luke 2:40; see
By the time He was 12 years old, Jesus had grown in His understanding
that He had been sent to do the will of His Father. He
went with His parents to Jerusalem. When His parents were returning
home, they discovered that He was not with their group. They
went back to Jerusalem to look for Him. "After three days they
found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, and
they were hearing him, and asking him questions" (Joseph Smith
Translation, Luke 2:46). "And all that heard him were astonished at
his understanding and answers" (Luke 2:47).
Joseph and Mary were relieved to find Him, but "they were amazed:
and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with
us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing." Jesus
answered her, saying, "Wist ye not that I must be about my [Heavenly]
Father's business?" (Luke 2:48–49).
In order to fulfill His mission, Jesus was to do the will of His Father
in Heaven. "I do nothing of myself," He declared, "but as my Father
hath taught me, I speak these things. . . I do always those things
that please him" (John 8:28–29).
54When Jesus was 30 years old, He came to John the Baptist to be
baptized in the Jordan River. John was reluctant to baptize Jesus
because he knew that Jesus was greater than he. Jesus asked John
to baptize Him in order "to fulfil all righteousness." John did baptize
the Savior, immersing Him completely in the water. When Jesus was
baptized, His Father spoke from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved
Son, in whom I am well pleased." The Holy Ghost descended, as
shown by the sign of the dove. (See Matthew 3:13–17.)
Soon after Jesus was baptized, He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights
to be with God. After that, Satan came to tempt Him. Jesus firmly
resisted all of Satan's temptations and then commanded Satan to leave.
(See Matthew 4:1–11; see also Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 4:1,
5–6, 8–9, 11.) Jesus Christ remained sinless, the one perfect being to
ever walk the earth (see Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:21–22).
Which accounts from the Savior's life are especially meaningful to you?
He Taught Us How to Love and Serve One Another
How did the Savior teach us how to love and serve one another?
After His fast and His encounter with Satan, Jesus began His public
ministry. He came to earth not only to die for us but also to teach
us how to live. He taught that there are two great commandments:
first, to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength; and second,
to love others as we love ourselves (see Matthew 22:36–39). His life
is an example of how we should obey these two commandments.
If we love God, we will trust and obey Him, as Jesus did. If we love
others, we will help them meet their physical and spiritual needs.
Jesus spent His life serving others. He cured them of diseases. He
made the blind see, the deaf hear, and the lame walk. Once when
He was healing the sick, it became late and the people were hungry.
Instead of sending them away, He blessed five loaves of bread
and two fishes and miraculously was able to feed a multitude of
5,000 people. (See Matthew 14:14–21.) He taught that whenever
we find people hungry, cold, naked, or lonely, we should help
them all we can. When we help others, we are serving the Lord.
55Jesus loved others with all His heart. Often His heart was so full of
compassion that He wept. He loved little children, the elderly, and
the humble, simple people who had faith in Him. He loved those
who had sinned, and with great compassion He taught them to
repent and be baptized. He taught, "I am the way, the truth, and
Jesus even loved those who sinned against him and were unrepentant.
At the end of His life, as He hung on the cross, He prayed to
the Father for the soldiers who had crucified Him, pleading, "Father,
forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). He
taught, "This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I
In what ways can we show the Lord that we love Him?
He Organized the Only True Church
Why did the Savior organize His Church and ordain Apostles?
Jesus wanted His gospel taught to people all over the earth, so He
chose twelve Apostles to testify of Him. They were the original leaders
of His Church. They received the authority to act in His name and
do the works they had seen Him do. Those who received authority
from them were also able to teach, baptize, and perform other ordinances
in His name. After His death, they continued to do His work
until the people became so wicked that they killed the Apostles.
He Redeemed Us from Our Sins and Saved Us from Death
As you study this section, take time to ponder the events of the
Near the end of His mortal ministry, Jesus prepared to make
the ultimate sacrifice for all the sins of mankind. He had been
condemned to die because He had testified to the people that He
56The night before His Crucifixion, Jesus went to a garden called
Gethsemane. Soon He was weighed down by deep sorrow and
wept as He prayed. Latter-day Apostle Orson F. Whitney was permitted
to see the Savior's suffering in a vision. Seeing the Savior
weep, he said: "I was so moved at the sight that I also wept, out of
pure sympathy. My whole heart went out to Him; I loved Him with
all my soul, and longed to be with Him as I longed for nothing else"
("The Divinity of Jesus Christ," Improvement Era, Jan. 1926, 224–25;
Dec. 2003, 10). Jesus "went a little further, and fell
on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let
this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt"
In a modern revelation the Savior described how great His suffering
was, saying it caused Him "to tremble because of pain, and to bleed
at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit" (D&C 19:18). He
suffered "according to the flesh," taking upon himself our pains,
sicknesses, infirmities, and sins (see Alma 7:10–13). No mortal
person can comprehend just how great this burden was. No other
person could have endured such agony of body and spirit. "He
descended below all things . . that he might be in all and through
all things, the light of truth" (D&C 88:6).
But His suffering was not yet complete. The following day, Jesus
was beaten, humiliated, and spit upon. He was required to carry His
own cross; then He was lifted up and nailed to it. He was tortured
in one of the cruelest ways men have ever devised. After suffering
on the cross, He cried out in agony, "My God, my God, why hast
thou forsaken me?" (Mark 15:34). In Jesus's bitterest hour, the Father
had withdrawn from Him so Jesus could finish suffering the penalty
for the sins of all mankind that Jesus might have complete victory
over the forces of sin and death (see James E. Talmage, Jesus the
Christ, 3 rd ed. [1916], 660–61).
When the Savior knew that His sacrifice had been accepted by the
Father, He exclaimed in a loud voice, "It is finished" (John 19:30).
57"Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit" (Luke 23:46). He
bowed His head and voluntarily gave up His spirit. The Savior was
dead. A violent earthquake shook the earth.
Some friends took the Savior's body to a tomb, where it lay until the
third day. During this time His spirit went and organized the missionary
work to other spirits who needed to receive His gospel (see
1 Peter 3:18–20; D&C 138). On the third day, a Sunday, He returned
to His body and took it up again. He was the first to overcome
death. The prophecy had been fulfilled "that he must rise again
Shortly after His Resurrection, the Savior appeared to the Nephites
and established His Church in the Americas. He taught the people
and blessed them. This moving account is found in 3 Nephi 11
His Sacrifice Showed His Love for His Father and for Us
Jesus taught: "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay
down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever
I command you" (John 15:13–14). He willingly and humbly went
through the sorrow in Gethsemane and the suffering on the cross
so we could receive all the blessings of the plan of salvation. To
receive these blessings, we must come unto Him, repent of our sins,
and love Him with all our hearts. He said:
"And this is the gospel which I have given unto you—that I came into
the world to do the will of my Father, because my Father sent me.
"And my Father sent me that I might be lifted up upon the cross;
and after that I had been lifted up upon the cross, that I might draw
all men unto me . . that they may be judged according to their
"For the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do. .
"Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto
you, even as I am" (3 Nephi 27:13–15, 21, 27; italics added).
What are your feelings as you ponder the Savior's sacrifice for you?
58Additional Scriptures and Other Sources
2 Nephi 25:12 (the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh)
Moses 6:57 (Jesus Christ named as the Only Begotten)
Matthew, Mark, Luke, John (life and teachings of Jesus Christ)
Matthew 10:1–8; Luke 9:1–2 (Apostles ordained with power and authority)
"The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles," Ensign, Apr. 2000, 2–3
For teachers: This chapter probably has more material than you will be able to cover in
class. As you study it in preparation to teach, seek the Spirit's guidance in determining
which portions will be most helpful for those you teach.
For teachers: Pondering invites the Spirit. Consider asking class members or family members
to quietly read the final two sections of the chapter, thinking about their feelings for the Savior.
Then invite those who feel comfortable doing so to share their thoughts with the class.
The Atonement Is Necessary for Our Salvation.
Why is the Atonement necessary for our salvation?
Jesus Christ "came into the world . . to be crucified for the world,
and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to
cleanse it from all unrighteousness; that through him all might be
saved" (D&C 76:41–42). The great sacrifice He made to pay for our
sins and overcome death is called the Atonement. It is the most
important event that has ever occurred in the history of mankind:
"For it is expedient that an atonement should be made; for according
to the great plan of the Eternal God there must be an atonement
made, or else all mankind must unavoidably perish; . . yea, all are
fallen and are lost, and must perish except it be through the atonement"
The Fall of Adam brought two kinds of death into the world: physical
death and spiritual death. Physical death is separation of the
body and spirit. Spiritual death is separation from God. If these two
kinds of death had not been overcome by Jesus Christ's Atonement,
two consequences would have resulted: our bodies and our spirits
would have been separated forever, and we could not have lived
again with our Heavenly Father (see 2 Nephi 9:7–9).
But our wise Heavenly Father prepared a wonderful, merciful plan to
save us from physical and spiritual death. He planned for a Savior to
come to earth to ransom (redeem) us from our sins and from death.
Because of our sins and the weakness of our mortal bodies, we could
not ransom ourselves (see Alma 34:10–12). The one who would be
our Savior would need to be sinless and to have power over death.
60 61Jesus Christ Was the Only One Who Could Atone for Our Sins
Why was Jesus Christ the only one who could atone for our sins?
There are several reasons why Jesus Christ was the only person
who could be our Savior. One reason is that Heavenly Father chose
Him to be the Savior. He was the Only Begotten Son of God and
thus had power over death. Jesus explained: "I lay down my life,
that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it
down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to
take it again" (John 10:17–18).
Jesus also qualified to be our Savior because He is the only person
who has ever lived on the earth who did not sin. This made Him a
worthy sacrifice to pay for the sins of others.
Christ Suffered and Died to Atone for Our Sins
As you read this section, imagine yourself in the Garden of Gethsemane
or at the cross as a witness of the suffering of Jesus Christ.
The Savior atoned for our sins by suffering in Gethsemane and by
giving His life on the cross. It is impossible for us to fully understand
how He suffered for all of our sins. In the Garden of Gethsemane,
the weight of our sins caused Him to feel such agony that He
bled from every pore (see D&C 19:18–19). Later, as He hung upon
the cross, Jesus suffered painful death by one of the most cruel
How Jesus loves us, to suffer such spiritual and physical agony for
our sake! How great the love of Heavenly Father that He would
send His Only Begotten Son to suffer and die for the rest of His
children. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten
Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but
have everlasting life" (John 3:16).
The Atonement and Resurrection Bring Resurrection to All
On the third day after His Crucifixion, Christ took up His body
again and became the first person to be resurrected. When His
friends went to seek Him, the angels who guarded His tomb told
them, "He is not here: for he is risen, as he said" (Matthew 28:6).
62His spirit had reentered His body, never to be separated again.
Christ thus overcame physical death. Because of His Atonement,
everyone born on this earth will be resurrected (see 1 Corinthians
15:21–22). Just as Jesus was resurrected, our spirits will be
reunited with our bodies, "that they can die no more . , never
to be divided" (Alma 11:45). This condition is called immortality.
All people who have ever lived will be resurrected, "both old and
young, both bond and free, both male and female, both the wicked
and the righteous" (Alma 11:44).
How has your knowledge of the Resurrection helped you?
The Atonement Makes It Possible for Those Who Have Faith
in Christ to Be Saved from Their Sins
Think about how the parable in this section helps us understand
the Atonement. Whom do the people in the parable represent in
The Savior's Atonement makes it possible for us to overcome
spiritual death. Although all people will be resurrected, only those
who accept the Atonement will be saved from spiritual death (see
We accept Christ's Atonement by placing our faith in Him. Through
this faith, we repent of our sins, are baptized, receive the Holy
Ghost, and obey His commandments. We become faithful disciples
of Jesus Christ. We are forgiven and cleansed from sin and prepared
to return and live forever with our Heavenly Father.
The Savior tells us, "For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for
all, that they might not suffer . . even as I" (D&C 19:16–17). Christ
did His part to atone for our sins. To make His Atonement fully effective
in our lives, we must strive to obey Him and repent of our sins.
63President Boyd K. Packer of the Council of the Twelve gave the
following illustration to show how Christ's Atonement makes it possible
to be saved from sin if we do our part.
"Let me tell you a story—a parable.
"There once was a man who wanted something very much. It
seemed more important than anything else in his life. In order for
him to have his desire, he incurred a great debt.
"He had been warned about going into that much debt, and particularly
about his creditor. But it seemed so important for him to do
what he wanted to do and to have what he wanted right now. He
was sure he could pay for it later.
"So he signed a contract. He would pay it off some time along the
way. He didn't worry too much about it, for the due date seemed
such a long time away. He had what he wanted now, and that was
"The creditor was always somewhere in the back of his mind, and
he made token payments now and again, thinking somehow that
the day of reckoning really would never come.
"But as it always does, the day came, and the contract fell due. The
debt had not been fully paid. His creditor appeared and demanded
"Only then did he realize that his creditor not only had the power
to repossess all that he owned, but the power to cast him into
"'I cannot pay you, for I have not the power to do so,' he confessed.
"'Then,' said the creditor, 'we will exercise the contract, take your
possessions, and you shall go to prison. You agreed to that. It was
your choice. You signed the contract, and now it must be enforced.'
"'Can you not extend the time or forgive the debt?' the debtor
begged. 'Arrange some way for me to keep what I have and not go
to prison. Surely you believe in mercy? Will you not show mercy?'
64"The creditor replied, 'Mercy is always so one-sided. It would serve
only you. If I show mercy to you, it will leave me unpaid. It is justice
I demand. Do you believe in justice?'
"'I believed in justice when I signed the contract,' the debtor said.
'It was on my side then, for I thought it would protect me. I did not
need mercy then, nor think I should need it ever. Justice, I thought,
would serve both of us equally as well.'
"'It is justice that demands that you pay the contract or suffer the
penalty,' the creditor replied. 'That is the law. You have agreed to it
and that is the way it must be. Mercy cannot rob justice.'
"There they were: One meting out justice, the other pleading for
mercy. Neither could prevail except at the expense of the other.
"'If you do not forgive the debt there will be no mercy,' the debtor
"'If I do, there will be no justice,' was the reply.
"Both laws, it seemed, could not be served. They are two eternal
ideals that appear to contradict one another. Is there no way for
justice to be fully served, and mercy also?
"There is a way! The law of justice can be fully satisfied and mercy
can be fully extended—but it takes someone else. And so it happened
"The debtor had a friend. He came to help. He knew the debtor
well. He knew him to be shortsighted. He thought him foolish
to have gotten himself into such a predicament. Nevertheless, he
wanted to help because he loved him. He stepped between them,
faced the creditor, and made this offer.
"'I will pay the debt if you will free the debtor from his contract so
that he may keep his possessions and not go to prison.'
"As the creditor was pondering the offer, the mediator added, 'You
demanded justice. Though he cannot pay you, I will do so. You
will have been justly dealt with and can ask no more. It would not
65"The mediator turned then to the debtor. 'If I pay your debt, will
you accept me as your creditor?'
"'Oh yes, yes,' cried the debtor. 'You save me from prison and show
"'Then,' said the benefactor, 'you will pay the debt to me and I will
set the terms. It will not be easy, but it will be possible. I will provide
a way. You need not go to prison.'
"And so it was that the creditor was paid in full. He had been justly
dealt with. No contract had been broken.
"The debtor, in turn, had been extended mercy. Both laws stood
fulfilled. Because there was a mediator, justice had claimed its full
share, and mercy was fully satisfied" (in Conference Report, Apr.
Our sins are our spiritual debts. Without Jesus Christ, who is our
Savior and Mediator, we would all pay for our sins by suffering
spiritual death. But because of Him, if we will keep His terms,
which are to repent and keep His commandments, we may return
to live with our Heavenly Father.
It is wonderful that Christ has provided us a way to be healed from
"Behold, I have come unto the world . . to save the world from sin.
"Therefore, whoso repenteth and cometh unto me as a little child,
him will I receive, for of such is the kingdom of God. Behold, for
such I have laid down my life, and have taken it up again; therefore
repent, and come unto me ye ends of the earth, and be saved"
Ponder how you can show gratitude for the gift of the Atonement.
Alma 34:9–16 (Atonement necessary; sacrifice of God)
2 Nephi 9:7–12 (the Atonement saves us from physical and spiritual death)
Romans 5:12–17 (by one came death, by one came life)
66Helaman 14:15–18 (purpose of Jesus's death)
Articles of Faith 1:3 (all may be saved)
1 Peter 1:18–20 (Jesus was foreordained)
Matthew 16:21 (Jesus's sacrifice was necessary)
Luke 22:39–46 (Jesus's suffering in the garden)
1 John 1:7 (Jesus cleanses from sin)
2 Nephi 9:21–22 (the Savior suffered for all people)
Mosiah 16:6–8 (resurrection possible only through Jesus)
Alma 11:40–45; Mormon 9:12–14 (all to be resurrected)
Isaiah 1:18 (sins shall be made white)
1 Corinthians 15:40–44; Alma 40:23 (description of the Resurrection)
For teachers: Simple charts and pictures can help class members or family members
understand principles and doctrines. Consider making a chart with two columns, one
labeled Results of the Fall and the other labeled Blessings of the Atonement. Use information
from this chapter to fill in the chart.
For teachers: Object lessons can help class members and family members understand
principles and doctrines. To explain death and resurrection, consider this object lesson:
Put your hand in a glove. Explain that a hand in a glove can be compared to a person's
spirit in his or her body. Take off the glove. Explain that this is like physical death—the
spirit (the hand) and the body (the glove) are separated. Then put the glove back on your
hand. Explain that this is like resurrection—the spirit and body are reunited.
The priesthood is the eternal power and authority of God. Through
the priesthood He created and governs the heavens and the earth.
By this power the universe is kept in perfect order. Through this
power He accomplishes His work and glory, which is "to bring to
pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses 1:39).
Our Heavenly Father delegates His priesthood power to worthy
male members of the Church. The priesthood enables them to act
in God's name for the salvation of the human family. Through it
they can be authorized to preach the gospel, administer the ordinances
of salvation, and govern God's kingdom on earth.
Think about the significance of God allowing worthy men and
Why Do We Need the Priesthood on the Earth?
We must have priesthood authority to act in the name of God when
performing the sacred ordinances of the gospel, such as baptism,
confirmation, administration of the sacrament, and temple marriage.
If a man does not have the priesthood, even though he may
be sincere, the Lord will not recognize ordinances he performs (see
Matthew 7:21–23; Articles of Faith 1:5). These important ordinances
must be performed on the earth by men holding the priesthood.
68 69Men need the priesthood to preside in The Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints and to direct the work of the Church in all parts
of the world. When Christ lived on the earth, He chose His Apostles
and ordained them so that they could lead His Church. He gave
them the power and authority of the priesthood to act in His name.
(See Mark 3:13–15; John 15:16.)
Another reason the priesthood is needed on the earth is so we can
understand the will of the Lord and carry out His purposes. God
reveals His will to His authorized priesthood representative on the
earth, the prophet. The prophet, who is President of the Church,
serves as the spokesman for God to all members of the Church and
Why is it essential for a man to have proper authority when he performs an ordinance?
How Do Men Receive the Priesthood?
The Lord has prepared an orderly way for His priesthood to be
given to His sons on the earth. A worthy male member of the
Church receives the priesthood "by the laying on of hands by those
who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the
ordinances thereof" (Articles of Faith 1:5).
This is the same way men received the priesthood long ago, even
in the days of Moses: "And no man taketh this honour unto himself,
but he that is called of God, as was Aaron" (Hebrews 5:4). Aaron
received the priesthood from Moses, his priesthood leader (see
Exodus 28:1). Only those who hold the priesthood can ordain others,
and they can do so only when authorized by those who hold
the keys for that ordination (see chapter 14 in this book).
Men cannot buy and sell the power and authority of the priesthood.
Nor can they take this authority upon themselves. In the New
Testament we read of a man named Simon who lived when Christ's
Apostles presided over the Church. Simon became converted and
was baptized into the Church. Because he was a skillful magician,
the people believed he had the power of God. But Simon did not
have the priesthood, and he knew it.
70Simon knew that the Apostles and the other priesthood leaders
of the Church had the true power of God. He saw them use their
priesthood to do the Lord's work, and he wanted this power for
himself. He offered to buy the priesthood. (See Acts 8:9–19.) But
Peter, the chief Apostle, said, "Thy money perish with thee, because
thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with
Why is it significant that "no man taketh this honour [of the priesthood] unto himself"?
How Do Men Properly Use the Priesthood?
The priesthood should be used to bless the lives of our Heavenly
Father's children here on earth. Priesthood holders should preside in
love and kindness. They should not force their families and others
to obey them. The Lord has told us that the power of the priesthood
cannot be controlled except in righteousness (see D&C 121:36).
When we try to use the priesthood to gain wealth or fame or for any
other selfish purpose, "behold, the heavens withdraw themselves;
the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to
the priesthood or the authority of that man" (D&C 121:37).
When a man uses the priesthood "by persuasion, by long-suffering,
by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned" (D&C 121:41),
he can do many wonderful things for his family and others. He can
baptize, confirm, and administer the sacrament when authorized
by those who hold the keys for those ordinances. He can bless the
sick. He can give priesthood blessings to his family members to
encourage and protect them when they have special needs. He can
also help other families with these ordinances and blessings when
Men use priesthood authority to preside in the Church in such callings
as branch president, bishop, quorum president, stake president,
and mission president. Men and women who hold positions
in the Church as officers and teachers work under the direction of
priesthood leaders and under the guidance of the Holy Ghost.
71What Blessings Come When We Use the Priesthood Properly?
The Lord has promised great blessings to righteous priesthood
holders who use the priesthood to bless others:
"Then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and
the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews
"The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy scepter
an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and thy dominion
shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory
means it shall flow unto thee forever and ever" (D&C 121:45–46).
President David O. McKay promised every man who uses the
priesthood in righteousness that he "will find his life sweetened, his
discernment sharpened to decide quickly between right and wrong,
his feelings tender and compassionate, yet his spirit strong and
valiant in defense of right; he will find the priesthood a never failing
source of happiness—a well of living water springing up unto
eternal life" (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay
What are some of the blessings you have received through the priesthood?
D&C 20:38–67 (duties of the priesthood explained)
For teachers: This chapter is organized under five headings. Each heading is a question
about the priesthood. You could use these questions as a guide for your lesson. If the
classroom setup allows for small group discussion, consider dividing class members
into groups of two to four. Assign each group one of the sections of the chapter (in large
classes, some sections may be assigned to more than one group). Have each group do the
following: (1) Read and discuss their assigned section. (2) Find scriptures that help answer
the question in the section heading. (3) Share personal experiences that relate to the section.
Then ask class members to share some of these experiences with the entire class.
72The Priesthood Is on the Earth Today.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is governed by the
priesthood. The priesthood, which is always associated with God's
work, "continueth in the church of God in all generations, and is
without beginning of days or end of years" (D&C 84:17). It is upon
the earth today. Men young and old are baptized into the Church,
and when they are judged worthy they are ordained to the priesthood.
They are given the authority to act for the Lord and do His
How did the Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods get their names?
The priesthood is divided into two parts: the Melchizedek Priesthood
and the Aaronic Priesthood (see D&C 107:1). "The first is
called the Melchizedek Priesthood . . because Melchizedek was
"Before his day it was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of
"But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being,
to avoid the too frequent repetition of his name, they, the church,
in ancient days, called that priesthood after Melchizedek, or the
Melchizedek Priesthood" (D&C 107:2–4; italics in original).
The lesser priesthood is an appendage to the Melchizedek Priesthood.
It is called the Aaronic Priesthood because it was conferred
on Aaron and his sons throughout all their generations. Those who
hold the Aaronic Priesthood have authority to administer the outward
ordinances of the sacrament and baptism. (See D&C 20:46;
74Those holding the Melchizedek Priesthood have the power and
authority to lead the Church and direct the preaching of the gospel
in all parts of the world. They administer all the spiritual work of
the Church (see D&C 84:19–22; 107:8). They direct the work done
in the temples; they preside over wards, branches, stakes, and
missions. The Lord's chosen prophet, the President of the Church,
is the presiding high priest over the Melchizedek Priesthood (see
What is the difference between the priesthood and the keys of the
priesthood? Which priesthood leaders receive keys?
There is a difference between being ordained to an office in the
priesthood and receiving keys of the priesthood. President Joseph F.
"The Priesthood in general is the authority given to man to act for
God. Every man ordained to any degree of the Priesthood has this
"But it is necessary that every act performed under this authority
shall be done at the proper time and place, in the proper way, and
after the proper order. The power of directing these labors constitutes
the keys of the Priesthood. In their fulness, the keys are held by
only one person at a time, the prophet and president of the Church.
He may delegate any portion of this power to another, in which
case that person holds the keys of that particular labor. Thus, the
president of a temple, the president of a stake, the bishop of a ward,
the president of a mission, the president of a quorum, each holds
the keys of the labors performed in that particular body or locality.
His Priesthood is not increased by this special appointment; . . the
president of an elders' quorum, for example, has no more Priesthood
than any member of that quorum. But he holds the power of
directing the official labors performed in the . . quorum, or in other
words, the keys of that division of that work" (Teachings of Presidents
of the Church: Joseph F. Smith [1998], 141; italics in original).
75How do priesthood keys safeguard the Church?
The Offices and Duties of the Aaronic Priesthood
In what ways do Aaronic Priesthood holders serve?
When the Aaronic Priesthood is conferred on a man or boy, he is
ordained to an office in that priesthood. The offices in the Aaronic
Priesthood are deacon, teacher, priest, and bishop. Each office carries
duties and responsibilities. Each quorum is presided over by a
quorum president, who teaches the members their duties and asks
Some men join the Church or become active after they have passed
the usual age to receive the offices of this priesthood. They are usually
ordained to an office in the Aaronic Priesthood and can soon
be ordained to other offices as they remain worthy.
A young man who has been baptized and confirmed a member of
the Church and is worthy may be ordained to the office of deacon
when he is 12 years old. The deacons are usually assigned to pass
the sacrament to members of the Church, keep Church buildings
and grounds in good order, act as messengers for priesthood leaders,
and fulfill special assignments such as collecting fast offerings.
A worthy young man may be ordained a teacher when he is 14
years old or older. Teachers have all the duties, rights, and powers
of the office of deacon plus additional ones. Teachers in the Aaronic
Priesthood are to help Church members live the commandments
(see D&C 20:53–59). To help fulfill this responsibility, they are usually
assigned to serve as home teachers. They visit the homes of
Church members and encourage them to live the principles of the
gospel. They have been commanded to teach the truths of the gospel
from the scriptures (see D&C 42:12). Teachers also prepare the
bread and water for the sacrament service.
76A worthy young man may be ordained a priest when he is 16
years old or older. Priests have all the duties, rights, and powers
of the offices of deacon and teacher plus some additional ones
(see D&C 20:46–51). A priest may baptize. He may also administer
the sacrament. He may ordain other priests, teachers, and
deacons. A priest may take charge of meetings when there is no
Melchizedek Priesthood holder present. He is to preach the gospel
A bishop is ordained and set apart to preside over the Aaronic
Priesthood in a ward. He is the president of the priests quorum
(see D&C 107:87–88). When he is acting in his Aaronic Priesthood
office, a bishop deals primarily with temporal matters, such as
administering finances and records and directing care for the poor
A bishop is also ordained a high priest so he can preside over all
members in the ward (see D&C 107:71–73; 68:15). A bishop is
a judge in Israel (see D&C 107:74) and interviews members for
temple recommends, priesthood ordinations, and other needs. It is
his right to have the gift of discernment.
How have you been blessed through the service of Aaronic Priesthood holders?
The Offices and Duties of the Melchizedek Priesthood
In what ways do Melchizedek Priesthood holders serve?
The offices of the Melchizedek Priesthood are elder, high priest,
patriarch, Seventy, and Apostle.
Elders are called to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over
the Church (see D&C 20:42). All Melchizedek Priesthood holders are
elders. They have the authority to bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost
by the laying on of hands (see D&C 20:43). Elders should conduct
meetings of the Church as they are led by the Holy Ghost (see D&C
77Elders may administer to the sick (see D&C 42:44) and
bless little children (see D&C 20:70). Elders may preside over Church
meetings when there is no high priest present (D&C 107:11).
A high priest is given the authority to officiate in the Church and
administer spiritual things (see D&C 107:10, 12). He may also
officiate in all lesser offices (see D&C 68:19). Stake presidents, mission
presidents, high councilors, bishops, and other leaders of the
Church are ordained high priests.
Patriarchs are ordained by General Authorities, or by stake presidents
when they are authorized by the Council of the Twelve, to
give patriarchal blessings to members of the Church. These blessings
give us some understanding of our callings on earth. They are
the word of the Lord personally to us. Patriarchs are also ordained
high priests. (See D&C 107:39–56.)
Seventies are special witnesses of Jesus Christ to the world and
assist in building up and regulating the Church under the direction
of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (see
An Apostle is a special witness of the name of Jesus Christ in all the
world (see D&C 107:23). The Apostles administer the affairs of the
Church throughout the world. Those who are ordained to the office
of Apostle in the Melchizedek Priesthood are usually set apart as
members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Each one is given
all the keys of the kingdom of God on earth, but only the senior
Apostle, who is President of the Church, actively exercises all of the
keys. The others act under his direction.
How have you been blessed through the service of Melchizedek Priesthood holders?
78The Quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood
The Lord has instructed that the holders of the priesthood be organized
into quorums. A quorum is a body of brethren holding the
There are three quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood:
1. The deacons quorum, which consists of up to 12 deacons (see
D&C 107:85). The presidency of the deacons quorum is called
by the bishop from among the quorum members.
2. The teachers quorum, which consists of up to 24 teachers (see
D&C 107:86). The presidency of the teachers quorum is called
by the bishop from among the quorum members.
3. The priests quorum, which consists of up to 48 priests (see D&C
107:87–88). It is presided over by the bishop of the ward to
which the quorum belongs. The bishop is a high priest and thus
also belongs to the high priests quorum.
Whenever the number specified for a quorum is exceeded, the quorum
The Quorums of the Melchizedek Priesthood
At the general Church level, the members of the First Presidency
form a quorum, as do the Twelve Apostles. The Seventies are also
At the local Church level—in wards and branches and stakes and
districts—Melchizedek Priesthood bearers are organized into the
Each elders quorum "is instituted for standing ministers; nevertheless
they may travel, yet they are ordained to be standing ministers"
(D&C 124:137). They do most of their work near their homes. The
quorum is to consist of up to 96 elders, presided over by a quorum
presidency. When this number is exceeded, the quorum may be
79Each quorum includes all high priests residing within the boundaries
of a stake, including patriarchs and bishops. The stake president
and his counselors are the presidency of this quorum. The high
priests in each ward are organized into a group with a group leader.
Importance of Priesthood Quorums
How can priesthood quorums help strengthen individuals and families?
When ordained to the priesthood, a man or boy automatically
becomes a member of a priesthood quorum. From then on through
life, it is expected that he will hold membership in a quorum of the
priesthood according to his office (see Boyd K. Packer, "What Every
Elder Should Know—and Every Sister as Well: A Primer on Principles
of Priesthood Government," Ensign,
If a priesthood quorum functions properly, the members of the
quorum are encouraged, blessed, fellowshipped, and taught the
gospel by their leaders. Even though a man may be released from
Church callings, such as teacher, quorum president, bishop, high
councilor, or stake president, his membership in his quorum does
not change. Membership in a quorum of the priesthood should be
regarded as a sacred privilege.
How can auxiliaries to the priesthood help strengthen individuals and families?
All organizations in the Church work under the direction of priesthood
leaders and help them carry out the work of the Lord. For
example, the presidencies in a ward's Relief Society, Young Women,
Young Men, Primary, and Sunday School organizations serve under
the direction of the bishopric. These organizations are called auxiliaries
What role do you have as an individual in helping priesthood quorums and auxiliaries be successful?
80Alma 13:1–19 (manner in which men were ordained to the priesthood)
D&C 20:38–67 (duties of elders, priests, teachers, deacons)
D&C 84; 107 (revelations on the priesthood)
1 Corinthians 12:14–31 (all offices of the priesthood are important)
For teachers: Use questions at the beginning of a section to start a discussion and send
class members or family members to the text to find more information. Use questions at
the end of a section to help class members or family members ponder and discuss the
What is a covenant? Why are Latter-day Saints called a covenant people?
From the beginning, the Lord has made covenants with His children
on earth. When His people make covenants (or promises) with
Him, they know what He expects of them and what blessings they
may expect from Him. They can better carry out His work on earth.
The people who covenant with the Lord and with whom the Lord
makes covenants are known as the Lord's covenant people. Members
of the Church are part of the Lord's covenant people.
Within the gospel, a covenant means a sacred agreement or mutual
promise between God and a person or a group of people. In making
a covenant, God promises a blessing for obedience to particular
commandments. He sets the terms of His covenants, and He
reveals these terms to His prophets. If we choose to obey the terms
of the covenant, we receive promised blessings. If we choose not
to obey, He withholds the blessings, and in some instances a penalty
For example, when we join the Church we make several covenants
with God (see chapter 20 in this book). We covenant with the Savior
at baptism to take upon ourselves His name. He promises that "as
many as repent and are baptized in my name, which is Jesus Christ,
and endure to the end, the same shall be saved" (D&C 18:22). We
covenant with the Lord as we partake of the sacrament (see chapter
23 in this book). We promise to take His name upon ourselves, to
remember Him, and to obey His commandments. We are promised
that the Holy Spirit will be with us. (See D&C 20:77–79.)
82 83receive temple ordinances, we make other sacred covenants and are
promised exaltation for faithful obedience (see D&C 132; see also
God has also made special covenants with particular persons or
groups. He made special covenants with Adam, Enoch, Noah, the
children of Israel, and Lehi (see Moses 6:31–36, 52; Genesis 9:9–17;
Exodus 19:5–6; 2 Nephi 1). He made a special covenant with Abraham
and his descendants that blesses members of the Church and
all nations of the earth today.
Think about the covenants you have made with God and the
blessings He has promised you for keeping these covenants.
God's Covenant with Abraham and His Descendants
What is the Abrahamic covenant?
Abraham, an Old Testament prophet, was a very righteous man (see
the picture in this chapter). He refused to worship his father's idols.
He kept all of the Lord's commandments. Because of Abraham's righteousness,
the Lord made a covenant with him and his descendants.
The Lord promised Abraham that he would have numberless
descendants. He promised that all of them would be entitled to
receive the gospel, the blessings of the priesthood, and all of the
ordinances of exaltation. These descendants, through the power
of the priesthood, would carry the gospel to all nations. Through
them, all the families of the earth would be blessed (see Abraham
2:11). God further promised that if they were righteous He would
establish His covenant with all generations of Abraham's children
How do the commandments and promises in the Abrahamic covenant
apply to us? (Consider how this question applies in different
settings, such as at home, in the workplace, in the community, or
84Members of the Church Are a Covenant People
What blessings and responsibilities come to God's covenant
The blood descendants of Abraham are not the only people whom
God calls His covenant people. In speaking to Abraham, God said,
"As many as receive this Gospel shall be called after thy name, and
shall be accounted thy seed [lineage], and shall rise up and bless
thee, as their father" (Abraham 2:10). Thus, two groups of people are
included in the covenant made with Abraham: (1) Abraham's
righteous blood descendants and (2) those adopted into his lineage
by accepting and living the gospel of Jesus Christ (see 2 Nephi 30:2).
When we are baptized into the Church, we enter into the covenant
the Lord made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (see Galatians
3:26–29). If we are obedient, we inherit the blessings of that covenant.
We have the right to receive help and guidance from the Holy
Ghost. Worthy males have the right to hold the priesthood. Families
can receive the blessings of the priesthood. We can gain eternal life
in the celestial kingdom. There are no greater blessings than these.
Along with the blessings we receive as the Lord's covenant people,
we have great responsibilities. The Lord promised Abraham that
through his descendants the gospel would be taken to all the earth.
We are fulfilling this responsibility through the full-time missionary
program of the Church and the missionary work done by the members.
This opportunity to preach the gospel to all the world belongs
only to the Lord's Church and His covenant people.
As the Lord's covenant people, we should keep His commandments.
The Lord said, "I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I
say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise" (D&C
82:10). If we reject our covenant after accepting the gospel, the
covenant becomes void and we will stand condemned before God
(see D&C 132:4). He has said: "Refrain from sin, lest sore judgments
fall upon your heads. For of him unto whom much is given much is
required; and he who sins against the greater light shall receive the
greater condemnation" (D&C 82:2–3).
85The New and Everlasting Covenant
What do we promise to do when we accept the gospel? What blessings
does Heavenly Father give us as we keep these promises?
The fulness of the gospel is called the new and everlasting covenant.
It includes the covenants made at baptism, during the sacrament,
in the temple, and at any other time. The Lord calls it everlasting
because it is ordained by an everlasting God and because
the covenant will never be changed. He gave this same covenant to
Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and other prophets. In this sense it
is not new. But the Lord calls it new because each time the gospel
is restored after being taken from the earth, it is new to the people
who receive it (see Jeremiah 31:31–34; Ezekiel 37:26).
When we accept the new and everlasting covenant, we agree to
repent, be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost, receive our endowments,
receive the covenant of marriage in the temple, and follow
and obey Christ to the end of our lives. As we keep our covenants,
our Heavenly Father promises us that we will receive exaltation in
the celestial kingdom (see D&C 132:20–24; see also chapter 47 in
The greatness of that promise is hard for mortals to understand. The
commandments He gives are for our benefit, and as we are faithful
we may forever share the blessings and beauties of heaven and
earth. We may live in His presence and partake of His love, compassion,
power, greatness, knowledge, wisdom, glory, and dominions.
Additional Scriptures and Other Sources
1 Peter 2:9–10 (peculiar people)
D&C 54:4–6 (effects of covenants kept and broken)
D&C 132:7 (covenants made by proper authority)
86D&C 133:57–60 (purpose of covenants)
D&C 35:24 (promises for obedience to covenants)
Hebrews 8:6 (Jesus Christ is the mediator of a better covenant)
Bible Dictionary, "Covenant," 651
For teachers: You can help class members or family members think more deeply about
a question by giving them time to ponder. After they have had enough time, ask for their
Some Features That Identify the Church of Jesus Christ.
"We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive
Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists,
and so forth" (Articles of Faith 1:6).
Jesus established His Church when He was on the earth. It was
called the Church of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 27:8), and the members
were called Saints (see Ephesians 2:19–20).
When Jesus established His Church, He personally instructed and
directed its leaders. He, in turn, received His instructions from His
Father in Heaven. (See Hebrews 1:1–2.) Thus the Church of Jesus
Christ was directed by God and not by men. Jesus taught His followers
that revelation was the "rock" upon which He would build
His Church (see Matthew 16:16–18).
Before Jesus ascended into heaven after His Resurrection, He
told His Apostles, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the
world" (Matthew 28:20). True to His word, He continued to guide
them from heaven. He sent the Holy Ghost to be a comforter and
a revelator to them (see Luke 12:12; John 14:26). He spoke to Saul
in a vision (see Acts 9:3–6). He revealed to Peter that the gospel
should be taught not only to the Jews but to the whole world
(see Acts 10). He revealed many glorious truths to John, which
are written in the book of Revelation.
88 89many other ways in which Jesus revealed His will to guide His
Church and enlighten His disciples.
The ordinances and principles of the gospel cannot be administered
and taught without the priesthood. The Father gave this authority to
Jesus Christ (see Hebrews 5:4–6), who in turn ordained His Apostles
and gave them the power and authority of the priesthood (see Luke
9:1–2; Mark 3:14). He reminded them, "Ye have not chosen me, but I
have chosen you, and ordained you" (John 15:16).
That there might be order in His Church, Jesus gave the greatest
responsibility and authority to the Twelve Apostles. He appointed
Peter chief Apostle and gave him the keys to seal blessings both
on earth and in heaven (see Matthew 16:19). Jesus also ordained
other officers with specific duties to perform. After He ascended
into heaven, the pattern of appointment and ordination was continued.
Others were ordained to the priesthood by those who had
already received that authority. Jesus made it known through the
Holy Ghost that He approved of those ordinations (see Acts 1:24).
The Church of Jesus Christ was a carefully organized unit. It was
compared to a building that was "built upon the foundation of the
apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner
Jesus appointed other priesthood leaders to assist the Apostles in
the work of the ministry. He sent officers called Seventies in pairs
to preach the gospel (see Luke 10:1). Other officers in the Church
were evangelists (patriarchs), pastors (presiding leaders), high
priests, elders, bishops, priests, teachers, and deacons (see chapter
14 in this book). These officers were all necessary to do missionary
work, perform ordinances, and instruct and inspire Church members.
These officers helped the members come to a "unity of the
faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God" (Ephesians 4:13).
90The Bible does not tell us everything about the priesthood or the
organization and government of the Church. However, enough of
the Bible has been preserved to show the beauty and perfection
of the Church organization. The Apostles were commanded to go
into all the world and preach (see Matthew 28:19–20). They could
not stay in any one city to supervise new converts. Therefore, local
priesthood leaders were called and ordained, and the Apostles
presided over them. The Apostles and other Church leaders visited
and wrote letters to the various branches. Thus, our New Testament
contains letters written by Paul, Peter, James, John, and Jude, giving
counsel and instruction to the local priesthood leaders.
The New Testament shows that this Church organization was
intended to continue. For example, the death of Judas left only
eleven Apostles. Soon after Jesus had ascended into heaven, the
eleven Apostles met together to choose someone to take the
place of Judas. Through revelation from the Holy Ghost, they
chose Matthias. (See Acts 1:23–26.) Jesus had set a pattern for
twelve Apostles to govern the Church. It seemed clear that the
organization was to continue as He had established it.
First Principles and Ordinances
The Apostles taught two basic principles: faith in the Lord Jesus
Christ and repentance. After new converts had faith in Jesus Christ
as the Son of God and their Redeemer and had repented of their
sins, they received two ordinances: baptism by immersion and the
laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost (see Acts 19:1–6).
These were the first principles and ordinances of the gospel. Jesus
had taught, "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he
cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5).
Ordinances Performed for the Dead
Jesus has provided for everyone to hear the gospel, whether on
earth or after death. Between His death and Resurrection, Jesus
went among the spirits of those who had died. He organized missionary
work among those who were dead. He appointed righteous
messengers and gave them power to teach the gospel to all
the spirits of people who had died.
91to accept the gospel. (See 1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6; D&C 138.) Living
members of His Church then performed ordinances in behalf of the
dead (see 1 Corinthians 15:29). Ordinances such as baptism and
confirmation must be done on earth.
All faithful members of the Church were entitled to receive gifts of
the Spirit. These were given to them according to their individual
needs, capacities, and assignments. Some of these gifts were faith,
including the power to heal and to be healed; prophecy; and
visions. (The gifts of the Spirit are discussed in more detail in chapter
22.) Spiritual gifts always exist in the true Church of Jesus Christ
(see 1 Corinthians 12:4–11; Moroni 10:8–18; D&C 46:8–29). Jesus
told His disciples that these signs or spiritual gifts always follow
them that believe (see Mark 16:17–18). Many of His disciples performed
miracles, prophesied, or beheld visions through the power
Why does the Church of Jesus Christ need these six features?
The Church of Jesus Christ in the Americas
After Jesus was resurrected, He visited the people in the Americas
and organized His Church among them, teaching the people for
three days and then returning often for some time thereafter (see
3 Nephi 11–28). Then He left them and ascended into heaven. For
over 200 years they lived righteously and were among the happiest
people whom God had created (see 4 Nephi 1:16).
What does the term apostasy mean?
Throughout history, evil people have tried to destroy the work of
God. This happened while the Apostles were still alive and supervising
the young, growing Church. Some members taught ideas
from their old pagan or Jewish beliefs instead of the simple truths
taught by Jesus. Some rebelled openly. In addition, there was persecution
from outside the Church. Church members were tortured
92One by one, the Apostles were killed or
otherwise taken from the earth. Because of wickedness and apostasy,
the apostolic authority and priesthood keys were also taken
from the earth. The organization that Jesus Christ had established
no longer existed, and confusion resulted. More and more error
crept into Church doctrine, and soon the dissolution of the Church
was complete. The period of time when the true Church no longer
existed on earth is called the Great Apostasy.
Soon pagan beliefs dominated the thinking of those called Christians.
The Roman emperor adopted this false Christianity as the state
religion. This church was very different from the church Jesus organized.
It taught that God was a being without form or substance.
These people lost the understanding of God's love for us. They did
not know that we are His children. They did not understand the
purpose of life. Many of the ordinances were changed because the
priesthood and revelation were no longer on the earth.
The emperor chose his own leaders and sometimes called them
by the same titles used by priesthood leaders in the true Church
of Christ. There were no Apostles or other priesthood leaders with
power from God, and there were no spiritual gifts. The prophet
Isaiah had foreseen this condition, prophesying, "The earth also
is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed
the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting
covenant" (Isaiah 24:5). It was the Church of Jesus Christ no longer;
it was a church of men. Even the name had been changed. In the
Americas, apostasy also occurred (see 4 Nephi).
What prophecies in the Old and New Testaments foretold the Restoration?
God had foreseen the Apostasy and prepared for the gospel to
be restored. The Apostle Peter spoke of this to the Jews: "He shall
send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom
the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things,
which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since
the world began" (Acts 3:20–21).
93John the Revelator had also foreseen the time when the gospel would
be restored. He said, "I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven,
having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the
earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people"
Why was the Restoration necessary?
Ephesians 2:19 (members called Saints)
1 Corinthians 12:12–31 (Church likened to a body)
Luke 10:1; Acts 14:23; Titus 1:7; 1 Timothy 2:7 (officers of the Church identified)
John 8:26–29 (the Father directs Jesus)
Luke 9:1; James 1:17; 5:14–15 (spiritual gifts)
Mosiah 27:13 (apostasy comes as a result of transgression)
2 Peter 2:1; Matthew 24:9–12; John 16:1–3; Amos 8:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4 (Apostasy predicted)
Daniel 2:44–45; Matthew 24:14; Acts 3:19–21; Micah 4:1; Isaiah 2:2–4 (Restoration predicted)
For teachers: Consider inviting each member of your family or class to study one of the six
features that identify the Church—the italicized headings such as Revelation and Authority
from God. (In large classes, some members will be assigned the same feature. In families
and small classes, some members may be assigned more than one feature.) When they
have had time to study, invite them to discuss what they have learned.
94The Church of Jesus Christ Was Taken from the Earth.
When Jesus lived on the earth, He established His Church, the only
true Church. He organized His Church so the truths of the gospel
could be taught to all people and the ordinances of the gospel could
be administered correctly with authority. Through this organization,
Christ could bring the blessings of salvation to mankind.
After the Savior ascended into heaven, men changed the ordinances
and doctrines that He and His Apostles had established. Because of
apostasy, there was no direct revelation from God. The true Church
was no longer on the earth. Men organized different churches that
claimed to be true but taught conflicting doctrines. There was much
confusion and contention over religion. The Lord had foreseen
these conditions of apostasy, saying there would be "a famine in the
land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the
words of the Lord. . . They shall . . seek the word of the Lord, and
shall not find it" (Amos 8:11–12).
How does the famine spoken of in Amos 8:11–12 affect people?
The Lord Promised to Restore His True Church
What were some of the conditions in the world that prepared the
way for the Restoration of the gospel?
96The Savior promised to restore His Church in the latter days. He
said, "I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people,
even a marvellous work and a wonder" (Isaiah 29:14).
For many years people lived in spiritual darkness. About 1,700 years
after Christ, people were becoming more and more interested in
knowing the truth about God and religion. Some of them could see
that the gospel Jesus taught was no longer on the earth. Some recognized
that there was no revelation and no true authority and that the
Church that Christ organized did not exist on the earth. The time had
arrived for the Church of Jesus Christ to be restored to the earth.
In what ways is the Restoration of the fulness of the gospel a "marvellous work"?
When Joseph Smith received his First Vision, what did he learn about God?
In the spring of 1820, one of the most important events in the history
of the world occurred. The time had come for the marvelous
work and wonder of which the Lord had spoken. As a young boy,
Joseph Smith wanted to know which of all the churches was the
true Church of Jesus Christ. He went into the woods near his home
and prayed humbly and intently to his Heavenly Father, asking
which church he should join. On that morning a miraculous thing
happened. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph
Smith. The Savior told him not to join any church because the true
Church was not on the earth. He also said that the creeds of present
churches were "an abomination in his sight" (Joseph Smith—
History 1:19; see also verses 7–18, 20). Beginning with this event,
there was again direct revelation from the heavens. The Lord had
chosen a new prophet. Since that time the heavens have not been
closed. Revelation continues to this day through each of His chosen
prophets. Joseph was to be the one to help restore the true gospel
Why was the First Vision one of the most important events in the history of the world?
97Authority from God Was Restored
Why was the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods necessary?
In restoring the gospel, God again gave the priesthood to men.
John the Baptist came in 1829 to confer the Aaronic Priesthood on
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery (see D&C 13; 27:8). Then Peter,
James, and John, the presidency of the Church in ancient times,
came and gave Joseph and Oliver the Melchizedek Priesthood and
the keys of the kingdom of God (see D&C 27:12–13). Later, additional
keys of the priesthood were restored by heavenly messengers
such as Moses, Elias, and Elijah (see D&C 110:11–16). Through the
Restoration, the priesthood was returned to the earth. Those who
hold this priesthood today have the authority to perform ordinances
such as baptism. They also have the authority to direct the Lord's
Christ's Church Was Organized Again
What events led to the organization of the Church on the earth again?
On April 6, 1830, the Savior again directed the organizing of
His Church on the earth (see D&C 20:1). His Church is called
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (see D&C 115:4).
Christ is the head of His Church today, just as He was in ancient
times. The Lord has said that it is "the only true and living church
upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well
Joseph Smith was sustained as prophet and "first elder" of the
Church (see D&C 20:2–4). Later the First Presidency was organized,
and he was sustained as President. When the Church was first
organized, only the framework was set up. The organization would
develop as the Church continued to grow.
The Church was organized with the same offices as were in the
ancient Church. That organization included apostles, prophets,
seventies, evangelists (patriarchs), pastors (presiding officers), high
priests, elders, bishops, priests, teachers, and deacons.
98offices are in His Church today (see Articles of Faith 1:6).
A prophet, acting under the direction of the Lord, leads the Church.
This prophet is also the President of the Church. He holds all the
authority necessary to direct the Lord's work on earth (see D&C
107:65, 91). Two counselors assist the President. Twelve Apostles,
who are special witnesses of the name of Jesus Christ, teach the gospel
and regulate the affairs of the Church in all parts of the world.
Other general officers of the Church with special assignments,
including the Presiding Bishopric and the Quorums of the Seventy,
serve under the direction of the First Presidency and the Twelve.
The offices of the priesthood include apostles, seventies, patriarchs,
high priests, bishops, elders, priests, teachers, and deacons. These
are the same offices that existed in the original Church.
The Church has grown much larger than it was in the days of Jesus.
As it has grown, the Lord has revealed additional units of organization
within the Church. When the Church is fully organized in
an area, it has local divisions called stakes. A stake president and
his two counselors preside over each stake. The stake has 12 high
councilors who help do the Lord's work in the stake. Melchizedek
Priesthood quorums are organized in the stake under the direction
of the stake president (see chapter 14 in this book). Each stake is
divided into smaller areas called wards. A bishop and his two counselors
In areas of the world where the Church is developing, there are
districts, which are like stakes. Districts are divided into smaller
units called branches, which are like wards.
Important Truths Were Restored
What important truths have been brought back with the Restoration of the Church?
The Church today teaches the same principles and performs the
same ordinances as were performed in the days of Jesus. The
first principles and ordinances of the gospel are faith in the Lord
Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism by immersion, and the laying on
of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost (see Articles of Faith 1:4).
99These precious truths were returned in their fulness when the
Through the gift and power of God, Joseph Smith translated the
Book of Mormon, which contains the plain and precious truths
of the gospel. Many other revelations followed and have been
recorded as scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl
of Great Price (see chapter 10 in this book).
Other important truths that the Lord restored include the following:
1. Our Heavenly Father is a real being with a tangible, perfected body of flesh and bones, and so is Jesus Christ. The Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit.
2. We existed in premortal life as spirit children of God.
3. The priesthood is necessary to administer the ordinances of the gospel.
4. We will be punished for our own sins and not for Adam's transgression.
5. Children do not need to be baptized until they are accountable (eight years old).
6. There are three kingdoms of glory in the heavens, and through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, people will be rewarded according to their actions on earth and according to the desires of their hearts.
7. Family relationships can be eternal through the sealing power of the priesthood.
8. Ordinances and covenants are required for salvation and are available for both the living and the dead.
How have these truths influenced you and others?
The Church of Jesus Christ Will Never Be Destroyed
What is the mission of the Church?
100Since its restoration in 1830, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday
Saints has grown rapidly in membership. There are members
in nearly every country in the world. The Church will continue
to grow. As Christ said, "This Gospel of the Kingdom shall be
preached in all the world, for a witness unto all nations" (Joseph
Smith—Matthew 1:31). The Church will never again be taken from
the earth. Its mission is to take the truth to every person. Thousands
of years ago, the Lord said He would "set up a kingdom, which
shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other
people, . . and it shall stand for ever" (Daniel 2:44).
How have you helped in the work of the kingdom of God? What can you do to continue this work?
Acts 3:19–21; Revelation 14:6; Daniel 2:44–45; Isaiah 2:2–4; 2 Nephi 3:6–15 (Restoration foretold)
D&C 110; 128:19–21; 133:36–39, 57–58 (Restoration of the gospel)
Ephesians 2:20 (Jesus Christ the cornerstone of the Church)
D&C 20:38–67 (duties of officers of the Church)
Matthew 24:14 (gospel to be preached to all nations)
For teachers: Bearing testimony invites the Spirit. As part of this lesson, bear your testimony
of the Restoration and give others the opportunity to do the same.
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the first principle of the gospel. It is
a spiritual gift, and it is necessary to our salvation. King Benjamin
declared, "Salvation cometh to none . . except it be through
repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ" (Mosiah 3:12).
Faith is a "hope for things which are not seen, which are true"
(Alma 32:21; see also Hebrews 11:1). Faith is a principle of action
and power that motivates our day-to-day activities.
Would we study and learn if we did not believe we could obtain
wisdom and knowledge? Would we work each day if we did not
hope that by doing so we could accomplish something? Would a
farmer plant if he did not expect to harvest? Each day we act upon
things we hope for when we cannot see the end result. This is faith.
Many scriptural stories tell how great things were accomplished
By faith Noah built an ark and saved his family from the flood
(see Hebrews 11:7). Moses parted the waters of the Red Sea (see
Hebrews 11:29). Elijah called down fire from heaven (see 1 Kings
18:17–40). Nephi called for a famine (see Helaman 11:3–5). He also
asked the Lord to end the famine (see Helaman 11:9–17). Seas have
been calmed, visions opened, and prayers answered, all through
102 103As we carefully study the scriptures, we learn that faith is a strong
belief of truth within our souls that motivates us to do good. This
causes us to ask: In whom should we have faith?
Think about your everyday activities. What are things you act upon
each day that you cannot see the end results of? How does faith
Why Should We Have Faith in Jesus Christ?
We must center our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
To have faith in Jesus Christ means to have such trust in Him that
we obey whatever He commands. As we place our faith in Jesus
Christ, becoming His obedient disciples, Heavenly Father will forgive
our sins and prepare us to return to Him.
The Apostle Peter preached that "there is none other name under
heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12;
see also Mosiah 3:17). Jacob taught that men must have "perfect
faith in the Holy One of Israel [ Jesus Christ], or they cannot be
saved in the kingdom of God" (2 Nephi 9:23). Through faith in
the Savior and through repentance, we make His Atonement fully
effective in our lives. Through faith we can also receive strength to
overcome temptations (see Alma 37:33).
We cannot have faith in Jesus Christ without also having faith in our
Heavenly Father. If we have faith in Them, we will also have faith
that the Holy Ghost, whom They send, will teach us all truth and
How can faith in Jesus Christ influence us in our Church callings?
in our family relationships? in our jobs? How does faith in Jesus
Christ influence our hope for eternal life?
How Can We Increase Our Faith in Jesus Christ?
Knowing of the many blessings that come through exercising faith
in Jesus Christ, we should seek to increase our faith in Him. The
Savior said, "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, . . nothing
shall be impossible unto you" (Matthew 17:20). A mustard seed is
very small, but it grows into a large tree.
104How can we increase our faith? The same way we increase or
develop any other skill. How do we develop skills in woodcarving,
weaving, painting, cooking, making pottery, or playing a musical
instrument? We study and practice and work at it. As we do so, we
improve. So it is with faith. If we want to increase our faith in Jesus
Christ, we must work at it. The prophet Alma compared the word of
God to a seed that must be nurtured by faith:
"But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an
experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea,
even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work
in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for
"Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give place,
that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true
seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that
ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell
within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye
will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a
good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my
soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding. .
"Now behold, would not this increase your faith?" (Alma 32:27–29).
So we can increase our faith in God by acting on our desire to have
We can also increase our faith by praying to Heavenly Father about
our hopes, desires, and needs (see Alma 34:17–26). But we must
not suppose that all we have to do is ask. We are told in the scriptures
that "faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone" (James
2:17). The following story is about a man whose faith was shown
This man wanted to study the scriptures, but he could not read.
He prayed for Heavenly Father to help him learn to read. In time
a teacher came to his village, and he asked the teacher to help him.
He learned the alphabet. He studied sounds and learned to put
the letters together to make words. Soon he was reading simple
words. The more he practiced, the more he learned. He thanked
the Lord for sending the teacher and for helping him learn to read.
105This man has increased his faith, humility, and knowledge to such
a degree that he has served as a branch president in the Church.
President Spencer W. Kimball explained, "There must be works with
faith. How foolish it would be to ask the Lord to give us knowledge,
but how wise to ask the Lord's help to acquire knowledge, to study
constructively, to think clearly, and to retain things that we have
learned" (Faith Precedes the Miracle [1972], 205; italics in original).
Faith involves doing all we can to bring about the things we hope
and pray for. President Kimball said: "In faith we plant the seed,
and soon we see the miracle of the blossoming. Men have often
misunderstood and have reversed the process." He continued by
explaining that many of us want to have health and strength without
keeping the health laws. We want to have prosperity without
paying our tithes. We want to be close to the Lord but don't want
to fast and pray. We want to have rain in due season and to have
peace in the land without observing the Sabbath as a holy day and
without keeping the other commandments of the Lord. (See Teachings
of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 142.)
An important way to increase our faith is to hear and study the
word of the Lord. We hear the word of the Lord at our Church
meetings. We can study His word in the scriptures. "And as all have
not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom;
yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek
learning, even by study and also by faith" (D&C 88:118).
What relationship do you see between our faith and our actions?
What Are Some Blessings That Follow Faith?
Through the gift of faith, miracles are wrought, angels appear, other
gifts of the Spirit are given, prayers are answered, and men become
the sons of God (see Moroni 7:25–26, 36–37).
"When faith comes it brings . . apostles, prophets, evangelists,
pastors, teachers, gifts, wisdom, knowledge, miracles, healings,
tongues, interpretation of tongues, etc. All these appear when faith
appears on the earth, and disappear when it disappears from the
earth; for these are the effects of faith. . .
106will, through it, obtain all necessary knowledge and wisdom, until
he shall know God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, whom he has sent—
whom to know is eternal life" (Lectures on Faith [1985], 83).
What are some stories from the scriptures in which people have
become stronger because they had faith in Jesus Christ? How have
you seen this happen in your own life?
Hebrews 11; Alma 32 (nature of faith explained)
Exodus 14:19–22 (parting the waters of the Red Sea)
Genesis 6–8 (Noah and the flood)
Matthew 8:5–33 (sick healed, tempest calmed, miracles of faith)
Mark 5:25–34 (healed by faith)
Romans 10:17 (faith comes by hearing the word of God)
For teachers: This chapter is organized under four section headings. Each heading is a question
about faith. You could use these questions as a guide for your lesson. If the classroom
setup allows for small group discussion, consider dividing class members into groups of four.
Ask each group to divide the sections of the chapter among themselves. Then invite each
person to do the following with his or her assigned section: (1) Read it. (2) Find scriptures
that help answer the question in the section heading. (3) Think about personal experiences
that relate to the section. (4) Share thoughts about the section with the other group members.
What is sin? What effects do our sins have on us?
Faith in Jesus Christ naturally leads to repentance. There has been
the need for repentance in the world from the time of Adam to the
present day. The Lord instructed Adam, "Wherefore teach it unto
your children, that all men, everywhere, must repent, or they can in
nowise inherit the kingdom of God, for no unclean thing can dwell
there, or dwell in his presence" (Moses 6:57).
We come to earth for the purpose of growing and progressing.
This is a lifelong process. During this time we all sin (see Romans
3:23). We all have need to repent. Sometimes we sin because of
ignorance, sometimes because of our weaknesses, and sometimes
because of willful disobedience. In the Bible we read that "there
is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not"
(Ecclesiastes 7:20) and that "if we say that we have no sin, we
deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8).
What is sin? James said, "To him that knoweth to do good, and
doeth it not, to him it is sin" (James 4:17). John described sin as
"all unrighteousness" (1 John 5:17) and "the transgression of the
That is why the Lord said, "All men, everywhere, must repent"
(Moses 6:57). Except for Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life,
everyone who has lived upon the earth has sinned. Our Heavenly
Father in His great love has provided us this opportunity to
108 109Becoming Free from Our Sins through Repentance
Repentance is the way provided for us to become free from our sins
and receive forgiveness for them. Sins slow our spiritual progression
and can even stop it. Repentance makes it possible for us to grow
and develop spiritually again.
The privilege of repenting is made possible through the Atonement
of Jesus Christ. In a way we do not fully understand, Jesus paid for
our sins. President Joseph Fielding Smith said of this:
"I have suffered pain, you have suffered pain, and sometimes it has
been quite severe; but I cannot comprehend pain . . that would
cause the blood, like sweat, to come out upon the body. It was
something terrible, something terrific. .
". . There was no man ever born into this world that could have
stood under the weight of the load that was upon the Son of God,
when he was carrying my sins and yours and making it possible
that we might escape from our sins" (Doctrines of Salvation, sel.
Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 1:130–31; italics in original).
Repentance sometimes requires great courage, much strength, many
tears, unceasing prayers, and untiring efforts to live the commandments
What are the principles of repentance?
President Spencer W. Kimball declared: "There is no royal road to
repentance, no privileged path to forgiveness. Every man must
follow the same course whether he be rich or poor, educated or
untrained, tall or short, prince or pauper, king or commoner"
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 38; italics in original).
110To repent, we must admit to ourselves that we have sinned. If we
do not admit this, we cannot repent.
Alma counseled his son Corianton, who had been unfaithful in his
missionary calling and had committed serious sins: "Let your sins
trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you down unto
repentance. . . Do not endeavor to excuse yourself in the least
point" (Alma 42:29–30). The scriptures advise us further not to justify
our sinful practices (see Luke 16:15–16).
We cannot hide any act of our lives from ourselves or from the Lord.
We Must Feel Sorrow for Our Sins
In addition to recognizing our sins, we must feel sincere sorrow for
what we have done. We must feel that our sins are terrible. We must
want to unload and abandon them. The scriptures tell us, "All those
who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized,
and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and . . have
truly repented of all their sins . . shall be received by baptism into
Study 2 Corinthians 7:9–10 and Mormon 2:10–14. In what ways do
you think "godly sorrow" is different from expressions of regret?
Our sincere sorrow should lead us to forsake (stop) our sins. If we
have stolen something, we will steal no more. If we have lied, we
will lie no more. If we have committed adultery, we will stop. The
Lord revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith, "By this ye may know
if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and
Confessing our sins is very important. The Lord has commanded
us to confess our sins. Confession relieves a heavy burden from
the sinner. The Lord has promised, "I, the Lord, forgive sins, and
am merciful unto those who confess their sins with humble hearts"
111We must confess all our sins to the Lord. In addition, we must confess
serious sins—such as adultery, fornication, homosexual relations,
spouse or child abuse, and the sale or use of illegal drugs—
which might affect our standing in the Church, to the proper
priesthood authority. If we have sinned against another person, we
should confess to the person we have injured. Some less serious
sins involve no one but ourselves and the Lord. These may be confessed
Part of repentance is to make restitution. This means that as much
as possible we must make right any wrong that we have done. For
example, a thief should give back what he has stolen. A liar should
make the truth known. A gossip who has slandered the character
of a person should work to restore the good name of the person he
has harmed. As we do these things, God will not mention our sins
to us when we are judged (see Ezekiel 33:15–16).
A vital part of repentance is to forgive those who have sinned
against us. The Lord will not forgive us unless our hearts are fully
cleansed of all hate, bitterness, and bad feelings against other
people (see 3 Nephi 13:14–15). "Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye
ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother
his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there
remaineth in him the greater sin" (D&C 64:9).
We Must Keep the Commandments of God
To make our repentance complete we must keep the commandments
of the Lord (see D&C 1:32). We are not fully repentant if we
do not pay tithes or keep the Sabbath day holy or obey the Word of
Wisdom. We are not repentant if we do not sustain the authorities
of the Church and do not love the Lord and our fellowmen. If we
do not pray and are unkind to others, we are surely not repentant.
When we repent, our life changes.
President Kimball said: "First, one repents. Having gained that
ground he then must live the commandments of the Lord to retain
his vantage point. This is necessary to secure complete forgiveness"
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball, 43).
112How do the teachings in this section differ from the false idea that
repentance is the performance of a list of simple steps or routine actions?
In what ways does repentance help us?
As we repent, the Atonement of Jesus Christ becomes fully effective
in our lives, and the Lord forgives our sins. We become free from
the bondage of our sins, and we find joy.
Alma recounted his experience of repenting from his sinful past:
"My soul was harrowed up [troubled] to the greatest degree and
"Yea, I did remember all my sins and iniquities, for which I was tormented
with the pains of hell; yea, I saw that I had rebelled against
my God, and that I had not kept his holy commandments.
". . So great had been my iniquities, that the very thought of coming
into the presence of my God did rack my soul with inexpressible
". . It came to pass that as I was . . harrowed up by the memory
of my many sins, behold, I remembered also to have heard my
father prophesy . . concerning the coming of one Jesus Christ, a
Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world.
"Now, as my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried within my
heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have mercy on me. .
"And now, behold, when I thought this, I could remember my pains
"And oh, what joy, and what marvelous light I did behold; yea, my
soul was filled with joy as exceeding as was my pain!
". . There can be nothing so exquisite and sweet as was my joy"
How did repentance and forgiveness bring Alma joy?
113The Dangers of Procrastinating Our Repentance
What are some possible consequences of procrastinating our
The prophets have declared that "this life is the time for men to
prepare to meet God" (Alma 34:32). We should repent now, every
day. When we get up in the morning, we should examine ourselves
to see whether the Spirit of God is with us. At night before we go to
sleep, we should review our acts and words of the day and ask the
Lord to help us recognize the things for which we need to repent.
By repenting every day and having the Lord forgive our sins, we
will experience the daily process of becoming perfect. As with
Alma, our happiness and joy can be sweet and exquisite.
Matthew 9:10–13; Luke 13:3; Ezekiel 18:30 (repent or perish)
Alma 7:21 (no unclean thing can dwell in God's presence)
2 Corinthians 7:9–10 (godly sorrow)
Mosiah 4:10–12 (steps to repentance)
Isaiah 1:18; Mosiah 26:28–32 (repentance brings forgiveness)
D&C 58:42 (sins remembered no more)
2 Nephi 9:23 (repentance necessary to salvation)
2 Nephi 2:21 (repent while in the flesh)
D&C 19:15–20 (the Lord has commanded us to repent so we will not have to suffer as He did)
For teachers: Writing a list can generate interest and help learners focus their attention.
As you discuss the principles of repentance with class members or family members, you
may want to ask someone to write the principles on the board or on a large piece of paper.
114The Commandment to Be Baptized.
Today, as in the days of Jesus, there are certain principles and ordinances
of the gospel that we must learn and obey. A gospel principle
is a true belief or teaching. An ordinance is a rite or a ceremony. The
first two principles of the gospel are faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and
repentance. Baptism is the first ordinance of the gospel. One of the
instructions the Lord gave His Apostles was, "Go ye therefore, and
teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things
whatsoever I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19–20).
We Must Be Baptized for the Remission of Our Sins
When we place our faith in Jesus Christ, repent, and are baptized,
our sins are forgiven through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
From the scriptures we learn that John the Baptist "did baptize in
the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission
of sins" (Mark 1:4). The Apostle Peter taught, "Repent, and be
baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission
of sins" (Acts 2:38). Following Paul's conversion, Ananias said to
him, "Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins" (Acts 22:16).
We Must Be Baptized to Become Members of the Church of Jesus Christ
"All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be
baptized . . that . . have truly repented of all their sins . . shall
be received by baptism into his church" (D&C 20:37).
116We Must Be Baptized before We Can Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost
The Lord said, "If thou wilt turn unto me, and . . repent of all thy
transgressions [sins], and be baptized, even in water, in the name
of mine Only Begotten Son, . . ye shall receive the gift of the Holy
We Must Be Baptized to Show Obedience
Jesus Christ was without sin, yet He was baptized. He said His
baptism was necessary "to fulfil all righteousness" (Matthew 3:15).
The prophet Nephi explained that the Lord told him, "Follow me,
and do the things which ye have seen me do . . with full purpose
of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but
with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father
that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism"
We Must Be Baptized to Enter the Celestial Kingdom
Jesus said, "Whoso believeth in me, and is baptized . . shall inherit
the kingdom of God. And whoso believeth not in me, and is not
baptized, shall be damned" (3 Nephi 11:33–34). Baptism is the gateway
through which we enter the path to the celestial kingdom (see
There is only one correct mode of baptism. Jesus revealed to the
Prophet Joseph Smith that a person having the proper priesthood
authority to baptize "shall go down into the water with the person
who has presented himself or herself for baptism. . . Then shall
he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of
the water" (D&C 20:73–74). Immersion is necessary. The Apostle
Paul taught that being immersed in water and coming out again is
symbolic of death, burial, and resurrection. After baptism we start a
"Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ
117"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like
as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father,
even so we also should walk in newness of life.
"For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death,
we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection" (Romans 6:3–5).
Baptism by immersion by a person having the proper authority is
the only acceptable way of being baptized.
Why is authority to perform a baptism important?
In what ways is baptism by immersion like the burial and Resurrection of the Savior?
Baptism at the Age of Accountability
Every person who has reached eight years of age and is accountable
(responsible) for his or her actions should be baptized. Some
churches teach that little children should be baptized. This is not
in keeping with the teachings of the Savior. When Jesus spoke
of little children, He said, "Of such is the kingdom of heaven"
The prophet Mormon said that it is mockery before God to baptize
little children, because they are not capable of sinning. Likewise,
baptism is not required of people who are mentally incapable of
knowing right and wrong (see Moroni 8:9–22).
All other people are to be baptized. We must receive the ordinance
of baptism and remain true to the covenants we make at that time.
What might you say to a friend who believes that infants need to be baptized?
We Make Covenants When We Are Baptized
Many scriptures teach about baptism. In one of these scriptures, the
prophet Alma taught that faith and repentance are steps that prepare
us for baptism. He taught that when we are baptized we make
a covenant with the Lord. We promise to do certain things, and God
promises to bless us in return.
118Alma explained that we must want to be called the people of God.
We must be willing to help and comfort each other. We must stand
as witnesses of God at all times and in all things and in all places.
As we do these things and are baptized, God will forgive our sins.
Alma told the people who believed his teachings about the gospel:
"Behold, here are the waters of Mormon. . . And now, as ye are
desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people,
. . what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord,
as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with
him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that
he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you?" (Mosiah
18:8, 10). The people clapped their hands for joy and said it was
their desire to be baptized. Alma baptized them in the Waters of
Alma taught that when we are baptized we make covenants with
2. Bear one another's burdens.
3. Stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all places.
4. Serve God and keep His commandments.
When we are baptized and keep the covenants of baptism, the Lord promises to:
1. Forgive our sins (see Acts 2:38; D&C 49:13).
2. Pour out His Spirit more abundantly upon us (see Mosiah 18:10).
3. Give us daily guidance and the help of the Holy Ghost (see Acts
4. Let us come forth in the First Resurrection (see Mosiah 18:9).
5. Give us eternal life (see Mosiah 18:9).
What do you think it means to bear one another's burdens? to stand as a witness of God at all times and in all places?
119Baptism Gives Us a New Beginning
With baptism we begin a new way of life. That is why we call it a
rebirth. Jesus said that unless we are born of the water and of the
Spirit, we cannot enter the kingdom of God (see John 3:3–5). This
principle was explained clearly to Adam:
"Inasmuch as ye were born into the world by water, and blood,
and the spirit, which I have made, and so became of dust a living
soul, even so ye must be born again into the kingdom of heaven, of
water, and of the Spirit, and be cleansed by blood, even the blood
of mine Only Begotten" (Moses 6:59).
The Apostle Paul said that after our baptism we should begin a
new life: "We are buried with him by baptism; . . even so we also
should walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:4). One of the great
blessings of baptism is that it provides us with a new start on our
How was your baptism a new beginning?
2 Nephi 31:4–7 (purpose and necessity of baptism)
3 Nephi 11:21–27; D&C 20:72–74 (how to perform a baptism)
Acts 2:38–39 (be baptized for the remission of sins)
Alma 7:14–16 (baptism is cleansing, entering into a covenant of eternal life)
For teachers: Use questions at the beginning of a section to start a discussion and send
class members or family members to the text to find more information. Use questions at
the end of a section to help class members or family members ponder and discuss the
meaning of what they have read and apply it in their lives.
120In chapter 7 we learned that the Holy Ghost is a member of the
Godhead. He is "a personage of Spirit" (D&C 130:22). He does not
have a body of flesh and bones. His influence can be everywhere at
once. His mission is to bear witness of the Father and the Son and
of all truth. Furthermore, the Holy Ghost purifies, or sanctifies, us to
prepare us to dwell in the presence of God. The Holy Ghost purifies
our hearts so we no longer have the desire to do evil.
There is a difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of the
Holy Ghost. In this chapter we will learn what the gift of the Holy
Ghost is and how we can receive this great gift from God.
What is the difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of the
The gift of the Holy Ghost is the privilege—given to people who
have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, been baptized, and been
confirmed as members of the Church—to receive continual guidance
and inspiration from the Holy Ghost.
Joseph Smith said we believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost being
enjoyed now as much as it was enjoyed in the days of the first
122We believe in this gift in all its fulness, power, greatness,
and glory. (See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith
A person may be temporarily guided by the Holy Ghost without
receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (see D&C 130:23). However,
this guidance will not be continuous unless the person is baptized
and receives the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
We read in Acts 10 that the Roman soldier Cornelius received
inspiration from the Holy Ghost so that he knew the gospel of Jesus
Christ was true. But Cornelius did not receive the gift of the Holy
Ghost until after he was baptized. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught
that if Cornelius had not received baptism and the gift of the Holy
Ghost, the Holy Ghost would have left him (see Teachings of Presidents
of the Church: Joseph Smith, 97).
Today people who are not members of the Church learn by the
power of the Holy Ghost that the Book of Mormon is true (see
Moroni 10:4–5). But that initial testimony leaves them if they do
not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. They do not receive the
continuing assurance that can come to those who have the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost
What must we do to receive the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost?
After people are baptized, they are confirmed members of the
Church and given the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of
hands. The Lord said, "Whoso having faith you shall confirm in my
church, by the laying on of the hands, and I will bestow the gift of
the Holy Ghost upon them" (D&C 33:15).
Every worthy elder of the Church, when authorized, may give the
gift of the Holy Ghost to another person. However, there is no guarantee
that the person will receive inspiration and guidance from the
Holy Ghost just because the elders have laid their hands on his or
her head. Each person must "receive the Holy Ghost." This means
that the Holy Ghost will come to us only when we are faithful and
desire help from this heavenly messenger.
123To be worthy to have the help of the Holy Ghost, we must seek
earnestly to obey the commandments of God. We must keep our
Recognizing the Influence of the Holy Ghost
The Holy Ghost usually communicates with us quietly. His influence
is often referred to as a "still small voice" (see 1 Kings 19:9–12;
Helaman 5:30; D&C 85:6). President Boyd K. Packer explained: "The
Holy Ghost speaks with a voice that you feel more than you hear.
. . While we speak of 'listening' to the whisperings of the Spirit,
most often one describes a spiritual prompting by saying, 'I had a
feeling . . '" He continued: "This voice of the Spirit speaks gently,
prompting you what to do or what to say, or it may caution or warn
you" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1994, 77; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, 60).
What blessings can we receive through the gift of the Holy Ghost?
The gift of the Holy Ghost is one of God's greatest gifts to us.
Through the Holy Ghost we may know that God lives, that Jesus
is the Christ, and that His Church has been restored to the earth.
We may have the promptings of the Holy Ghost to show us all the
things we should do (see 2 Nephi 32:5). The Holy Ghost sanctifies
us to prepare us for God's presence. We may enjoy the gifts of the
Spirit (see chapter 22 in this book). This great gift from our Heavenly
Father can also bring peace to our hearts and an understanding
of the things of God (see 1 Corinthians 2:9–12).
Why is the gift of the Holy Ghost one of God's greatest gifts to us?
1 Corinthians 3:16–17; D&C 130:22–23 (the Holy Ghost dwells with the faithful)
Acts 19:1–7 (gift of the Holy Ghost bestowed anciently)
124Moroni 8:25–26 (how to receive the Holy Ghost)
Moroni 10:5 (the Holy Ghost is a witness to truth)
Mosiah 5:2 (the Holy Ghost changes hearts)
Alma 5:54 (the Holy Ghost sanctifies)
For teachers: You may want to invite class members or family members to participate
in one or more of the following activities: (1) Read the additional scriptures listed at the
end of the chapter, and discuss how the Holy Ghost helps us through our mortal journey.
(2) Tell about some of the blessings that have come into their lives because they have the
gift of the Holy Ghost. (3) Discuss what parents can do to help their children understand
the gift of the Holy Ghost and how the Holy Ghost communicates with us.
What spiritual gifts does the Lord give us?
Following baptism, each of us had hands laid on our heads to
receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. If we are faithful, we can have
His influence continually with us. Through Him, each of us can be
blessed with certain spiritual powers called gifts of the Spirit. These
gifts are given to those who are faithful to Christ. "All these gifts
come from God, for the benefit of the children of God" (D&C 46:26).
They help us know and teach the truths of the gospel. They will
help us bless others. They will guide us back to our Heavenly Father.
To use our gifts wisely, we need to know what they are, how we can
develop them, and how to recognize Satan's imitations of them.
The scriptures mention many gifts of the Spirit. These gifts have
been given to members of the true Church whenever it has been
on the earth (see Mark 16:16–18). The gifts of the Spirit include the
The Gift of Tongues (D&C 46:24)
Sometimes it is necessary to communicate the gospel in a language
that is unfamiliar to us. When this happens, the Lord can bless us
with the ability to speak that language. Many missionaries have
received the gift of tongues (see the picture in this chapter). For
example, Elder Alonzo A. Hinckley was a missionary in Holland who
understood and spoke very little Dutch even though he had prayed
and studied hard. When he returned to a home he had visited before,
a lady opened the door and spoke to him very angrily in Dutch.
126 127To his amazement he could understand every word. He felt a strong
desire to bear his testimony to her in Dutch. He began to speak, and
the words came out very clearly in Dutch. But when he returned to
show his mission president that he could speak Dutch, the ability
had left him. Many faithful members have been blessed with the gift
of tongues. (See Joseph Fielding Smith, Answers to Gospel Questions,
comp. Joseph Fielding Smith Jr., 5 vols. [1957–66], 2:32–33.)
The Gift of Interpretation of Tongues (D&C 46:25)
This gift is sometimes given to us when we do not understand
a language and we need to receive an important message from
God. For example, President David O. McKay had a great desire to
speak to the Saints in New Zealand without an interpreter. He told
them that he hoped that the Lord would bless them that they could
understand him. He spoke in English. His message lasted about 40
minutes. As he spoke, he could tell by the expression on many of
their faces and the tears in their eyes that they were receiving his
message. (See Answers to Gospel Questions, 2:30–31.)
The Gift of Translation (D&C 5:4)
If we have been called by the leaders of the Church to translate
the word of the Lord, we can receive a gift to translate beyond our
natural ability. As with all gifts, we must live righteously, study hard,
and pray to receive it. When we do these things, the Lord causes us
to feel a burning inside concerning the correctness of the translation
(see D&C 9:8–9). Joseph Smith had the gift of translation when
he translated the Book of Mormon. This gift came to him only
when he was in tune with the Spirit.
The Gift of Wisdom (D&C 46:17)
Some of us have been blessed with the ability to understand
people and the principles of the gospel as they apply in our lives.
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all
men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
128"But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is
like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
"For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the
The Lord said, "Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold, the
mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you" (D&C 6:7).
The Gift of Knowledge (D&C 46:18)
Everyone who becomes like Heavenly Father eventually knows all
things. The knowledge of God and His laws is revealed by the Holy
Ghost (see D&C 121:26). We cannot be saved if we are ignorant of
The Lord revealed, "If a person gains more knowledge and intelligence
in this life through his diligence and obedience than another,
he will have so much the advantage in the world to come" (D&C
130:19). The Lord has commanded us to learn as much as we can
about His work. He wants us to learn about the heavens, the earth,
things that have happened or will happen, things at home and in
foreign lands (see D&C 88:78–79). However, there are those who try
to gain knowledge by their own study alone. They do not ask for
the help of the Holy Ghost. They are those who are always learning
but never arrive at the truth (see 2 Timothy 3:7). When we receive
knowledge by revelation from the Holy Ghost, His Spirit speaks to
our minds and our hearts (see D&C 6:15, 22–24; 8:2; 9:7–9).
The Gift of Teaching Wisdom and Knowledge (Moroni 10:9–10)
Some people are given a special ability to explain and testify of the
truths of the gospel. This gift can be used when we teach a class. It
can be used by parents to teach their children. This gift also helps
us instruct others so they can understand the gospel.
The Gift of Knowing That Jesus Christ Is the Son of God (D&C 46:13)
This has been the gift of prophets and apostles who have been
called as special witnesses of Jesus Christ. However, others are
also given this gift. Every person can have a testimony through the
whisperings of the Holy Spirit. President David O. McKay taught:
129"It is given unto some, says the Lord in the Doctrine and Covenants,
to know by the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Son of God and
that He was crucified for the sins of the world [see D&C 46:13]. It
is to these I refer who stand firm upon the rock of revelation in the
testimony that they bear to the world" (Teachings of Presidents of
the Church: David O. McKay [2003], 166).
The Gift of Believing the Testimony of Others (D&C 46:14)
By the power of the Holy Ghost we may know the truth of all
things. If we want to know whether someone else is speaking the
truth, we must ask God in faith. If the thing we are praying about is
true, the Lord will speak peace to our minds (see D&C 6:22–23). In
this way we can know when someone else, even the prophet, has
received revelation. Nephi asked the Lord to let him see, feel, and
know that his father's dream was true (see 1 Nephi 10:17–19).
The Gift of Prophecy (D&C 46:22)
Those who receive true revelations about the past, present, or
future have the gift of prophecy. Prophets have this gift, but we
too can have it to help us govern our own lives (see 1 Corinthians
14:39). We may receive revelations from God for ourselves and our
own callings, but never for the Church or its leaders. It is contrary
to the order of heaven for a person to receive revelation for someone
over whom he or she does not preside. If we truly have the gift
of prophecy, we will not receive any revelation that does not agree
with what the Lord has said in the scriptures.
The Gift of Healing (D&C 46:19–20)
Some have the faith to heal, and others have the faith to be healed.
We can all exercise the faith to be healed when we are ill (see D&C
42:48). Many who hold the priesthood have the gift of healing the
sick. Others may be given a knowledge of how to cure illness.
The Gift of Working Miracles (D&C 46:21)
The Lord has blessed His people many times in miraculous ways.
When the Utah pioneers planted their first crops, a plague of locusts
nearly destroyed them. The pioneers prayed that the Lord would
save their crops, and He sent seagulls to devour the locusts.
130When we need help and ask in faith, if it is for our good the Lord will
work miracles for us (see Matthew 17:20; D&C 24:13–14).
The Gift of Faith (Moroni 10:11)
The brother of Jared had great faith. Because of his faith, he
received other gifts. His faith was so great that the Savior appeared
to him (see Ether 3:9–15). Without faith, no other gift can be given.
Moroni promises, "Whoso believeth in Christ, doubting nothing,
whatsoever he shall ask the Father in the name of Christ it shall be
granted him" (Mormon 9:21). We should seek to increase our faith,
find out our gifts, and use them.
Some people lack faith and deny that these gifts of the Spirit actually
"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 healings, nor speaking with tongues, and
the interpretation of tongues;
"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" (Mormon 9:7–8).
Why does the Lord give us spiritual gifts?
How can we "seek . . . earnestly the best gifts"? (D&C 46:8).
The Lord has said: "For all have not every gift given unto them; for
there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit
of God. To some is given one, and to some is given another, that all
may be profited thereby" (D&C 46:11–12).
To develop our gifts, we must find out which gifts we have. We
do this by praying and fasting. We should seek after the best gifts
(see D&C 46:8). Sometimes patriarchal blessings will help us know
which gifts we have been given.
131We must be obedient and faithful to be given our gifts. We then
should use these gifts to do the work of the Lord. They are not
given to satisfy our curiosity or to prove anything to us because we
lack faith. Of spiritual gifts, the Lord said, "They are given for the
benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and
him that seeketh so to do" (D&C 46:9).
Think about some spiritual gifts that would strengthen you personally or help you serve the Lord and others. What will you do to seek these gifts?
Satan Imitates the Gifts of the Spirit
How can we discern between the true gifts of the Spirit and Satan's imitations?
Satan can imitate the gifts of tongues, prophecy, visions, healings,
and other miracles. Moses had to compete with Satan's imitations
in Pharaoh's court (see Exodus 7:8–22). Satan wants us to believe
in his false prophets, false healers, and false miracle workers. They
may appear to be so real to us that the only way to know is to ask
God for the gift of discernment. The devil himself can appear as an
angel of light (see 2 Nephi 9:9).
Satan wants to blind us to the truth and keep us from seeking the
true gifts of the Spirit. Mediums, astrologers, fortune tellers, and
sorcerers are inspired by Satan even if they claim to follow God.
Their works are abominable to the Lord (see Isaiah 47:12–14;
Deuteronomy 18:9–10). We should avoid all associations with the
We Must Be Careful with Our Gifts of the Spirit
How can we respect the sacredness of spiritual gifts?
The Lord said, "A commandment I give unto them, that they shall
not boast themselves of these things, neither speak them before the
world; for these things are given unto you for your profit and for
salvation" (D&C 84:73). We must remember that spiritual gifts are
132In return for giving us these gifts, the Lord asks that we "give thanks
unto God in the Spirit for whatsoever blessing [we] are blessed
3 Nephi 29:6–7 (fate of those who deny gifts)
Moroni 10:7–19 (gifts depend on faith)
3 Nephi 26:17; 27:20; D&C 84:64 (a gift given at baptism)
1 Corinthians 12 (gifts of the Spirit in the ancient Church of Jesus Christ)
D&C 46:9–26 (gifts of the Spirit in the Church today)
For teachers: Consider asking each class member or family member to review the list of
spiritual gifts in this chapter and choose two that they would like to learn more about.
As part of the lesson, give them time on their own to study the paragraphs and scripture
passages about the gifts they have chosen. When they have had time to study, ask them to
Christ Introduced the Sacrament.
What do the emblems of the sacrament teach about the Atonement of Jesus Christ?
Our Savior wants us to remember His great atoning sacrifice and
keep His commandments. To help us do this, He has commanded
us to meet often and partake of the sacrament.
The sacrament is a holy priesthood ordinance that helps remind
us of the Savior's Atonement. During the sacrament, we partake of
bread and water. We do this in remembrance of His flesh and His
blood, which He gave as a sacrifice for us. As we partake of the sacrament,
we renew sacred covenants with our Heavenly Father.
Shortly before His Crucifixion, Jesus Christ gathered His Apostles
around Him in an upstairs room. He knew He would soon die on
the cross. This was the last time He would meet with these beloved
men before His death. He wanted them to always remember Him
so they could be strong and faithful.
To help them remember, He introduced the sacrament. He broke
bread into pieces and blessed it. Then He said, "Take, eat; this
is in remembrance of my body which I give a ransom for you"
(Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:22). Next He took a cup of
wine, blessed it, gave it to His Apostles to drink, and said, "This is
in remembrance of my blood . , which is shed for as many as
shall believe on my name, for the remission of their sins" (Joseph
Smith Translation, Matthew 26:24; see also Matthew 26:26–28; Mark
After His Resurrection, the Savior came to the Americas and taught
the Nephites the same ordinance (see 3 Nephi 18:1–11; 20:1–9).
After the Church was restored in the latter days, Jesus once again
commanded His people to partake of the sacrament in remembrance
of Him, saying, "It is expedient that the church meet
together often to partake of bread and wine in the remembrance
of the Lord Jesus" (D&C 20:75).
134 135How the Sacrament Is Administered
The scriptures explain exactly how the sacrament is to be administered.
Members of the Church meet each Sabbath day to worship
and partake of the sacrament (see D&C 20:75). The sacrament is
administered by those who hold the necessary priesthood authority.
A priest or Melchizedek Priesthood holder breaks bread into pieces,
kneels, and blesses it (see D&C 20:76). A deacon or other priesthood
holder then passes the sacrament bread to the congregation.
Then the priest or Melchizedek Priesthood holder blesses the water,
and it too is passed to the members. Jesus gave His disciples wine
when He introduced the sacrament. However, in a latter-day revelation
He has said that it doesn't matter what we eat and drink during
the sacrament as long as we remember Him (see D&C 27:2–3).
Today, Latter-day Saints drink water instead of wine.
Jesus has revealed the exact words for both sacrament prayers. We
should listen carefully to these beautiful prayers and try to understand
what we are promising and what is being promised to us.
Here is the prayer that is offered to bless the bread:
"O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus
Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who
partake of it, that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy
Son, and witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are
willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember
him and keep his commandments which he has given them; that
they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen" (D&C 20:77).
Here is the prayer that is offered to bless the water:
"O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus
Christ, to bless and sanctify this wine [water] to the souls of all those
who drink of it, that they may do it in remembrance of the blood of
thy Son, which was shed for them; that they may witness unto thee,
O God, the Eternal Father, that they do always remember him, that
they may have his Spirit to be with them. Amen" (D&C 20:79).
136The ordinance of the sacrament is performed very simply and
Carefully review the sacrament prayers. Think about the meaning
The Covenants We Renew during the Sacrament
What covenants do we renew during the sacrament? What blessings
does the Lord promise us as we keep those covenants?
Each time we partake of the sacrament, we renew covenants with
the Lord. A covenant is a sacred promise between the Lord and His
children. The covenants we make are clearly stated in the sacramental
prayers. It is important to know what those covenants are
We covenant that we are willing to take upon ourselves the name of
Jesus Christ. By this we show we are willing to be identified with Him
and His Church. We commit to serve Him and our fellowman. We
promise that we will not bring shame or reproach upon that name.
We covenant to always remember Jesus Christ. All our thoughts,
feelings, and actions will be influenced by Him and His mission.
We promise to keep His commandments.
We take these obligations upon ourselves when we are baptized
(see D&C 20:37; Mosiah 18:6–10). Thus, when we partake of the
sacrament, we renew the covenants we made when we were baptized.
Jesus gave us the pattern for partaking of the sacrament (see
3 Nephi 18:1–12) and said that when we follow this pattern, repenting
of our sins and believing on His name, we will gain a remission
of our sins (see Joseph Smith Translation, Matthew 26:24).
The Lord promises that if we keep our covenants, we will always
have His Spirit to be with us. A person guided by the Spirit will have
the knowledge, faith, power, and righteousness to gain eternal life.
What can we do to remember these promises during the week?
137Our Attitude When Partaking of the Sacrament
How can we prepare ourselves to partake of the sacrament? What
can we think about during the sacrament to help us remember
Before partaking of the sacrament, we are to prepare ourselves
spiritually. The Lord emphasizes that no one should partake of the
sacrament unworthily. That means we must repent of our sins
before taking the sacrament. The scriptures say, "If any have trespassed,
let him not partake until he makes reconciliation" (D&C
46:4). The Lord instructed His twelve Nephite disciples, "Ye shall
not suffer any one knowingly to partake of my flesh and blood
unworthily, when ye shall minister it; for whoso eateth and drinketh
my flesh and blood unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to
During the sacrament service we should dismiss from our minds all
worldly thoughts. We should feel prayerful and reverent. We should
think of the Atonement of our Savior and be grateful for it. We
should examine our lives and look for ways to improve. We should
also renew our determination to keep the commandments.
We do not need to be perfect before partaking of the sacrament,
but we must have the spirit of repentance in our hearts. The attitude
with which we partake of the sacrament influences our experience
with it. If we partake of the sacrament with a pure heart, we receive
the promised blessings of the Lord.
Why do you think worthily partaking of the sacrament increases
1 Corinthians 11:27–29 (partake of the sacrament worthily)
John 4:5–14 (Jesus is the Living Water)
John 6:30–35 (Jesus is the Bread of Life)
For teachers: If many of those you teach are parents, you may want to ask them to share
ideas about how they can help their children prepare to partake of the sacrament reverently.
138The Meaning of the Sabbath Day.
"Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy" (Exodus 20:8; see also D&C 68:29).
The word Sabbath comes from a Hebrew word meaning rest.
Before the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Sabbath day commemorated
God's day of rest after He finished the Creation. It was a sign
of the covenant between God and His people. We read in the book
of Genesis that God created the heavens and the earth in six periods
of time, which He called days: "And on the seventh day God
ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh
day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the
seventh day, and sanctified it" (Genesis 2:2–3). Now the Sabbath
also commemorates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Sabbath day is every seventh day. It is a holy day ordained by
God for us to rest from our daily labors and worship Him.
The Purpose of the Sabbath Day
How would you explain the purpose of the Sabbath day to someone
who does not know about the Sabbath?
Jesus taught that the Sabbath day was made for our benefit (see
Mark 2:27). The purpose of the Sabbath is to give us a certain day
of the week on which to direct our thoughts and actions toward
God. It is not a day merely to rest from work. It is a sacred day to
be spent in worship and reverence. As we rest from our usual daily
activities, our minds are freed to ponder spiritual matters. On this
day we should renew our covenants with the Lord and feed our
souls on the things of the Spirit.
140The seventh day was consecrated by God as a Sabbath in the
beginning of the earth (see Genesis 2:2–3). Since earliest times, the
tradition of a sacred seventh day has been preserved among various
peoples of the earth. God renewed a commandment concerning
this day to the Israelites, saying, "Remember the sabbath day,
to keep it holy" (Exodus 20:8). Keeping the Sabbath day was also
a sign that the Israelites were His covenant people (see Exodus
31:12–13, 16; Isaiah 56:1–8; Jeremiah 17:19–27).
However, some Jewish leaders made many unnecessary rules about
the Sabbath. They decided how far people could walk, what kind
of knots they could tie, and so forth. When certain Jewish leaders
criticized Jesus Christ for healing sick people on the Sabbath, Jesus
reminded them that the Sabbath was made for the benefit of man.
The Nephites also observed the Sabbath day according to the commandments
In modern times the Lord has repeated His commandment that we
should remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy (see D&C 68:29).
Why was the Sabbath changed from the seventh day to the first day?
Until His Resurrection, Jesus Christ and His disciples honored the
seventh day as the Sabbath. After His Resurrection, Sunday was held
sacred as the Lord's day in remembrance of His Resurrection on that
day (see Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2). From that time on, His followers
observed the first day of the week as their Sabbath. In both
cases there were six days of labor and one for rest and devotion.
The Lord has given us a direct commandment in these days that
we too should honor Sunday, the Lord's day, as our Sabbath (see
141How can the remembrance of the Resurrection influence our worship
What does it mean to keep the Sabbath day holy?
The Lord asks us, first, to sanctify the Sabbath day. In a revelation
given to Joseph Smith in 1831, the Lord commanded the Saints to go
to the house of prayer and offer up their sacraments, rest from their
labors, and pay their devotions to the Most High (see D&C 59:9–12).
Second, He asks us to rest from daily work. This means we should
perform no labor that would keep us from giving our full attention
to spiritual matters. The Lord told the Israelites, "Thou shalt not do
any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor
thy maidservant, nor thy cattle" (Exodus 20:10). Our prophets have
told us that we should not shop, hunt, fish, attend sports events, or
participate in similar activities on that day.
President Spencer W. Kimball cautioned, however, that if we
merely lounge about doing nothing on the Sabbath, we are not
keeping the day holy. The Sabbath calls for constructive thoughts
and acts. (See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W.
What kinds of things may we do on the Sabbath? The prophet Isaiah
suggested that we should turn away from doing our own pleasure
and should "call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord,
We should consider righteous things we can do on the Sabbath. For
example, we can keep the Sabbath day holy by attending Church
meetings; reading the scriptures and the words of our Church
leaders; visiting the sick, the aged, and our loved ones; listening to
uplifting music and singing hymns; praying to our Heavenly Father
with praise and thanksgiving; performing Church service; preparing
family history records and personal histories; telling faith-promoting
stories and bearing our testimony to family members and sharing
spiritual experiences with them; writing letters to missionaries and
loved ones; fasting with a purpose; and sharing time with children
142In deciding what other activities we could properly engage in on the
Sabbath, we could ask ourselves: Will it uplift and inspire me? Does
it show respect for the Lord? Does it direct my thoughts to Him?
There may be times when we are required to work on the Sabbath.
We should avoid this whenever possible, but when it is absolutely
necessary, we should still maintain the spirit of Sabbath worship in
our hearts as much as possible.
Think about something you can do to improve in your efforts to
keep the Sabbath day holy. If you are a parent or grandparent,
think about something you can do to help your children or grandchildren
understand the meaning of the Sabbath.
Blessings for Observing the Sabbath
What are some blessings we receive when we keep the Sabbath
If we honor the Sabbath day, we may receive great spiritual and
temporal blessings. The Lord has said that if we keep the Sabbath
day with thanksgiving and cheerful hearts, we will be full of joy. He
"The fulness of the earth is yours, . . whether for food or for raiment,
or for houses, or for barns, or for orchards, or for gardens, or
"Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the season thereof, are
made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the eye and
"Yea, for food and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to strengthen
the body and to enliven the soul" (D&C 59:16–19).
143Exodus 31:16–17 (the Sabbath is a perpetual covenant between the Lord and His people)
Mosiah 13:16–19; 18:23; Exodus 35:1–3; Leviticus 26:2–4, 6, 12 (observe the Sabbath as a holy day)
Luke 6:1–11 (lawful to do good on the Sabbath)
Luke 13:11–17; John 5:1–18 (Jesus's example of doing good on the Sabbath)
For teachers: You can help class members or family members think more deeply about
a question by giving them time to ponder. After they have had enough time, ask for their
144What can we do to make fasting a joyful experience?
Since the time of Adam, God's people have fasted to help them
draw near to Him and to worship Him. Jesus showed the importance
of fasting by His own example (see Luke 4:1–4). Through
latter-day revelation we learn that the Lord still expects His people
to fast and pray often (see D&C 88:76).
Fasting means to go without food and drink. Occasional fasting is
good for our bodies and helps our minds become more active.
The Savior taught us that purposeful fasting is more than just going
without food and drink. We must also concentrate on spiritual
Prayer is a necessary part of fasting. Throughout the scriptures,
prayer and fasting are mentioned together. Our fasting should be
accompanied by sincere prayer, and we should begin and end our
Fasting can have many purposes. We can overcome weaknesses or
problems by fasting and praying. Sometimes we may wish to fast
and pray for help or guidance for others, such as a family member
who is ill and needs a blessing (see Mosiah 27:22–23). Through fasting
we can come to know the truth of things just as did the prophet
Alma in the Book of Mormon. He said: "I have fasted and prayed
many days that I might know these things of myself.
146do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made
them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit" (Alma 5:46).
We can fast to help others embrace the truth. Fasting can help comfort
us in times of sorrow and mourning (see Alma 28:4–6). Fasting
can help us become humble and feel closer to our Heavenly Father
Our purpose in fasting should not be to impress others. The Lord
"Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance:
for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men
"Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
"But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
that thou appear not unto men to fast" (Matthew 6:16–18).
We should be cheerful when we fast and not advertise our fasting
How does our attitude influence our experience when we fast?
One Sunday each month Latter-day Saints observe a fast day. On
this day we neither eat nor drink for two consecutive meals. If we
were to eat our evening meal on Saturday, then we would not eat
or drink until the evening meal on Sunday.
All members who are physically able should fast. We should
encourage our children to fast after they have been baptized, but
we should never force them. The fast day is a special day for us to
humble ourselves before the Lord in fasting and prayer. It is a day
to pray for forgiveness from our sins and for the power to overcome
our faults and to forgive others.
On fast Sunday, members of the Church meet together and partake
of the sacrament. They strengthen themselves and one another by
bearing testimony in fast and testimony meeting.
147How have you benefited from sharing your testimony in fast and
testimony meeting? How have you benefited from hearing others
Why do we contribute fast offerings?
When we fast each month, the Lord asks us to help those in need.
One way we do this is by giving through the proper priesthood
authority the money we would have spent on food for the two
meals. We should give as generously as we are able. Through our
fast offerings we become partners with the Lord in administering to
the needs of our less-fortunate brothers and sisters.
What blessings can we receive when we fast properly?
Isaiah, an Old Testament prophet, wrote of the Lord's rich promises
to those who fast and help the needy. We are promised peace,
improved health, and spiritual guidance. Isaiah tells us of the blessings
that come when we fast: "Then shall thy light break forth as
the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy
righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy
reward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt
cry, and he shall say, Here I am" (Isaiah 58:8–9).
Fasting improves our lives and gives us added strength. It helps
us live other principles of the gospel because it draws us nearer to the Lord.
Fasting helps us gain strength of character. When we fast properly,
we will learn to control our appetites and passions. We are a little
stronger by having proved to ourselves that we have self-control. If
we teach our children to fast, they will develop the spiritual strength
to overcome greater temptations later in their lives.
148Fasting Gives Us Spiritual Power
When we fast wisely and prayerfully, we develop our faith. With
that faith we will have greater spiritual power. For example, Alma
(a Book of Mormon prophet) tells the story of meeting again with
the sons of Mosiah many years after their miraculous conversion.
He felt great joy when he learned that they had strengthened their
faith and had developed great spiritual power. They had gained this
power because "they had given themselves to much prayer, and
fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of
The sons of Mosiah had been preaching for 14 years to the Lamanites.
Because the sons of Mosiah had fasted and prayed, the Spirit of
the Lord increased the power of their words. This gave them great
success in their missionary work. (See Alma 17:4.)
The Savior has said to those who fast properly, "Thy Father, which
seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly" (Matthew 6:18).
How can fasting increase our spiritual power to resist temptations? to receive revelation? to do righteous acts?
Luke 2:37; Alma 45:1 (worshipping God through fasting)
Isaiah 58:3–11 (proper fasting)
Mosiah 27:19, 23 (fasting for the sick)
3 Nephi 27:1–3; Exodus 34:27–28 (fasting for revelation and testimony)
Alma 6:6; 17:9 (fasting for those who do not know God)
Acts 13:2–3 (fasting for selection of Church officers)
Mosiah 4:26 (retaining a remission of our sins as we help those in need)
For teachers: You may want to divide class members or family members into groups of
two to four people and give each group an opportunity to discuss ways to make fasting a
joyful experience. Then work together to make a list of everyone's ideas—perhaps on the
Sacrifice means giving to the Lord whatever He requires of our
time, our earthly possessions, and our energies to further His work.
The Lord commanded, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his
righteousness" (Matthew 6:33). Our willingness to sacrifice is an
indication of our devotion to God. People have always been tried
and tested to see if they will put the things of God first in their lives.
Why is it important to sacrifice as the Lord asks without expecting anything in return?
The Law of Sacrifice Was Practiced Anciently
What was the significance of the sacrifices performed by the Lord's covenant people anciently?
From the time of Adam and Eve to the time of Jesus Christ, the
Lord's people practiced the law of sacrifice. They were commanded
to offer as sacrifices the firstlings of their flocks. These animals had
to be perfect, without blemish. The ordinance was given to remind
the people that Jesus Christ, the Firstborn of the Father, would
come into the world. He would be perfect in every way, and He
would offer Himself as a sacrifice for our sins. (See Moses 5:5–8.)
Jesus did come and offer Himself as a sacrifice, just as the people
had been taught He would. Because of His sacrifice, everyone will
be saved from physical death by the Resurrection and all can be
saved from their sins through faith in Jesus Christ (see chapter 12 in
150 151Christ's atoning sacrifice marked the end of sacrifices by the shedding
of blood. Such outward sacrifice was replaced by the ordinance
of the sacrament. The ordinance of the sacrament was given
to remind us of the Savior's great sacrifice. We should partake of the
sacrament often. The emblems of bread and water remind us of the
Savior's body and of His blood, which He shed for us (see chapter
Why is the Atonement considered the great and last sacrifice?
How do we observe the law of sacrifice today?
Even though sacrifice by the shedding of blood was ended, the
Lord still asks us to sacrifice. But now He requires a different kind
of offering. He said: "Ye shall offer up unto me no more the shedding
of blood, . . and your burnt offerings shall be done away.
. . And ye shall offer for a sacrifice unto me a broken heart and a
contrite spirit" (3 Nephi 9:19–20). A "broken heart and a contrite
spirit" means that we offer deep sorrow for our sins as we humble
We Must Be Willing to Sacrifice Everything We Have to the Lord
Why are people willing to make sacrifices?
The Apostle Paul wrote that we should become living sacrifices,
holy and acceptable unto God (see Romans 12:1).
If we are to be a living sacrifice, we must be willing to give everything
we have for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—
to build the kingdom of God on the earth and labor to bring forth
A rich young ruler asked the Savior, "What shall I do to inherit eternal
life?" Jesus answered, "Thou knowest the commandments, Do not
commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness,
Honour thy father and thy mother." And the rich man said, "All these
have I kept from my youth." When Jesus heard this, He said, "Yet
lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the
poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me."
152When the young man heard this, he was sorrowful. He was very rich
and had his heart set on his riches. (See Luke 18:18–23; see also the
The young ruler was a good man. But when he was put to the test,
he was not willing to sacrifice his worldly possessions. On the other
hand, the Lord's disciples Peter and Andrew were willing to sacrifice
everything for the sake of the kingdom of God. When Jesus
said unto them, "Follow me, . . they straightway left their nets, and
followed him" (Matthew 4:19–20).
Like the disciples, we can offer our daily activities as a sacrifice to
the Lord. We can say, "Thy will be done." Abraham did this. He
lived on the earth before Christ, in the days when sacrifices and
burnt offerings were required. As a test of Abraham's faith, the Lord
commanded him to offer up his son Isaac as a sacrifice. Isaac was
the only son of Abraham and Sarah. The command to offer him as a
sacrifice was extremely painful for Abraham.
Nevertheless, he and Isaac made the long journey to Mount Moriah,
where the sacrifice was to be made. They traveled for three days.
Imagine Abraham's thoughts and his heartache. His son was to
be sacrificed to the Lord. When they reached Mount Moriah, Isaac
carried the wood and Abraham carried the fire and the knife to the
place where they were to build the altar. Isaac said, "My father . .
behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt
offering?" Abraham answered, "My son, God will provide himself
a lamb." Then Abraham built an altar and arranged the wood on
it. He bound Isaac and laid him upon the wood. He then took the
knife to kill Isaac. At that moment an angel of the Lord stopped
him, saying, "Abraham . . lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither
do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God,
seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me."
Abraham must have been overcome with joy when he was no longer
required to sacrifice his son. But he loved the Lord so much that
he was willing to do anything the Lord asked.
153What examples of sacrifice have you observed in the lives of
people you know? What examples of sacrifice have you seen in
the lives of your ancestors? in the lives of early members of the
Church? in the lives of people in the scriptures? What have you
Sacrifice Helps Us Prepare to Live in the Presence of God
Only through sacrifice can we become worthy to live in the presence
of God. Only through sacrifice can we enjoy eternal life. Many
who have lived before us have sacrificed all they had. We must be
willing to do the same if we would earn the rich reward they enjoy.
We may not be asked to sacrifice all things. But like Abraham, we
should be willing to sacrifice everything to become worthy to live
The Lord's people have always sacrificed greatly and in many
different ways. Some have suffered hardship and ridicule for the
gospel. Some new converts to the Church have been cut off from
their families. Lifetime friends have turned away. Some members
have lost their jobs; some have lost their lives. But the Lord notices
our sacrifices; He promises, "Every one that hath forsaken houses,
or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or
lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall
inherit everlasting life" (Matthew 19:29).
As our testimonies of the gospel grow, we become able to make
greater sacrifices to the Lord. Note the sacrifices made in these true
A member of the Church in Germany saved his tithing for years
until someone with priesthood authority could come and accept it.
A Relief Society visiting teacher served for 30 years without missing
A group of Saints in South Africa rode for three days, standing up,
to be able to hear and see the prophet of the Lord.
At an area conference in Mexico, members of the Church slept on
the ground and fasted during the days of the conference. They had
used all their money just to get to the conference and had nothing
154One family sold their car to get the money they wanted to contribute
Another family sold their home to get money to go to the temple.
Many faithful Latter-day Saints have very little to live on, yet they
pay their tithes and offerings.
One brother sacrificed his job because he refused to work on Sunday.
In one branch, the youth gave freely and willingly of their time to
care for the young children while their parents helped build the
Young men and women give up or postpone good job opportunities,
education, or sports to serve as missionaries.
Many more examples could be given of those who sacrifice for the
Lord. Yet a place in our Heavenly Father's kingdom is worth any
sacrifice we have to make of our time, talents, energy, money, and
lives. Through sacrifice we can obtain a knowledge from the Lord
that we are acceptable to Him (see D&C 97:8).
Why do you think our willingness to sacrifice is related to our
readiness to live in the presence of God?
Luke 12:16–34 (where the treasure is, there is the heart)
Luke 9:57–62 (sacrifice to be fit for the kingdom)
D&C 64:23; 97:12 (today is a day of sacrifice)
D&C 98:13–15 (those who lose life for the Lord will find it)
Alma 24 (the people of Ammon sacrifice their lives rather than break their oath to the Lord)
For teachers: You do not need to teach everything in each chapter. As you prayerfully prepare
to teach, seek the Spirit's guidance to know which portions of the chapter you should
What experiences have you had that have shown you the importance of work?
Our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have shown us by Their examples
and teachings that work is important in heaven and on earth.
God worked to create the heavens and the earth. He caused the seas
to gather in one place and the dry land to appear. He caused grass,
herbs, and trees to grow on the land. He created the sun, the moon,
and the stars. He created every living thing in the sea or on the land.
Then He placed Adam and Eve on the earth to take care of it and to
have dominion over all living things. (See Genesis 1:1–28.)
Jesus said, "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work" (John 5:17). He
also said, "I must work the works of him that sent me" (John 9:4).
Work has been the way of life on earth since Adam and Eve left the
Garden of Eden. The Lord said to Adam, "In the sweat of thy face
shalt thou eat bread" (Genesis 3:19). Adam and Eve worked in the
fields so they could provide for their own needs and the needs of
their children (see Moses 5:1).
The Lord said to the people of Israel, "Six days shalt thou labour"
156 157In the early days of the restored Church, the Lord told the Latter-day
Saints, "Now, I, the Lord, am not well pleased with the inhabitants
of Zion, for there are idlers among them" (D&C 68:31).
A prophet of God has said, "Work is to be reenthroned as the ruling
principle of the lives of our Church membership" (Heber J. Grant,
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Heber J. Grant [2002], 115).
What are some responsibilities that fathers, mothers, and children
have to maintain a home? What can family members do to share
Parents work together to provide for the physical, spiritual, and
emotional well-being of their family. They should never expect
anyone to take care of this responsibility for them. The Apostle Paul
wrote, "If any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his
own house, he hath denied the faith" (1 Timothy 5:8).
Couples should seek inspiration from the Lord and follow the counsel
of the prophets when establishing individual responsibilities.
Creating a home where principles of the gospel are taught daily and
where love and order abound is as important as providing the basic
necessities of food and clothing.
Children should do their part in the work of the family. It is necessary
for children to have work assignments to fit their abilities. They
need to be praised for their successes. Good work attitudes, habits,
and skills are learned through successful experiences in the home.
Sometimes people encounter hardships when trying to provide for
their families. Chronic illness, the loss of a spouse, or the addition
of an elderly parent can add to the responsibilities in a home. Our
Heavenly Father remembers the families in these situations and
gives them the strength to carry out their duties. He will always
bless them if they ask Him in faith.
How does our attitude affect our work?
158To some people work is a drudgery. To others it is an exciting part of
life. One way to enjoy life's fullest benefits is to learn to love work.
Not all of us can choose the kind of work we do. Some of us labor
for long hours for the bare necessities. It is difficult to enjoy such
work. Yet the happiest people have learned to enjoy their work,
We can help one another in our work. The heaviest load becomes
lighter when someone shares it.
Our attitude toward work is very important. The following story
shows how one man saw beyond his daily labor. A traveler passed
a stone quarry and saw three men working. He asked each man
what he was doing. Each man's answer revealed a different attitude
toward the same job. "I am cutting stone," the first man answered.
The second replied, "I am earning three gold pieces per day." The
third man smiled and said, "I am helping to build a house of God."
In any honest work we can serve God. King Benjamin, a Nephite
prophet, said, "When ye are in the service of your fellow beings
ye are only in the service of your God" (Mosiah 2:17). If our work
provides only enough for necessities for ourselves or our families,
we are still helping some of God's children.
How can we improve our attitude about work?
The Lord is not pleased with those who are lazy or idle. He said,
"The idler shall not have place in the church, except he repent and
mend his ways" (D&C 75:29). He also commanded, "Thou shalt not
be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments
From the earliest days of the Church, the prophets have taught Latterday
Saints to be independent and self-sustaining and to avoid idleness.
True Latter-day Saints will not voluntarily shift from themselves
the burden of their own support. So long as they are able, they will
supply themselves and their families with the necessities of life.
159As far as they are able, all Church members should accept the
responsibility to care for their relatives who are unable to provide
How does idleness affect an individual? a family? a community?
Why is it important to keep a balance in life between work, recreation,
We should each find the proper balance between work, recreation,
and rest. There is an old saying: "Doing nothing is the hardest work
of all, because one can never stop to rest." Without work, rest and
Not only is it pleasant and necessary to rest, but we are commanded
to rest on the Sabbath day (see Exodus 20:10; D&C 59:9–12). This
day of rest after each six days of labor brings refreshment for the
days that follow. The Lord also promises the "fulness of the earth"
to those who observe the Sabbath day (see D&C 59:16–20; see also
On other days of the week, in addition to working, we may spend
time to improve our talents and enjoy our hobbies, recreation, or
other activities that will refresh us.
What can we do to keep a good balance between work, recreation,
and rest? How can parents help their children maintain this balance?
What are some blessings that come from honest work?
God revealed to Adam, "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat
bread" (Genesis 3:19). In addition to being a temporal law, this
was a law for the salvation of Adam's soul. There is no real division
between spiritual, mental, and physical work. Work is essential to
each of us for growth, character development, and many satisfactions
160President David O. McKay said, "Let us realize that the privilege to
work is a gift, that the power to work is a blessing, that the love of
work is success" (Pathways to Happiness [1957], 381).
"Men are, that they might have joy" (2 Nephi 2:25). Work is a key
to full joy in the plan of God. If we are righteous, we will return
to live with our Heavenly Father, and we will have work to do.
As we become like Him, our work will become like His work. His
work is "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man"
Moses 4:23–25 (Adam told that he would work all his life for his food)
D&C 56:16–17 (God warns the rich and poor against greed, envy, and laziness)
D&C 58:26–29 (men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause)
Matthew 25:14–30 (parable of the talents)
Ephesians 4:28 (steal no more but rather labor)
1 Thessalonians 4:11–12 (work with your own hands)
2 Nephi 5:17 (Nephi taught his people to work and be industrious)
For teachers: Try to help each class member or family member participate during the
lesson. Individuals may help by setting up chairs, offering the opening or closing prayer,
writing on the board, reading scriptures aloud, answering questions, sharing testimony, or
Think about ways people have served you and your family
Jesus said, "I am among you as he that serveth" (Luke 22:27). As true
followers of Jesus, we also must serve others.
Service is helping others who need assistance. Christlike service
grows out of genuine love for the Savior and of love and concern for
those whom He gives us opportunities and direction to help. Love is
more than a feeling; when we love others, we want to help them.
All of us must be willing to serve, no matter what our income, age,
or social position. Some people believe that only the poor and
lowly should serve. Other people think service should be given
only by the rich. But Jesus taught otherwise. When the mother of
two of His disciples asked Him to honor her sons in His kingdom,
Jesus replied, "Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your
minister; and whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your
There are many ways to serve. We can help others economically,
socially, physically, and spiritually. For example, we can share food
or other articles with those who need them. We can help those in
need by giving a generous fast offering. We can be a friend to a
newcomer. We can plant a garden for an elderly person or care for
someone who is sick. We can teach the gospel to someone who
needs the truth or comfort someone who grieves.
We can do small and large acts of service. We should never fail to
help someone because we are unable to do great things. A widow
told of two children who came to her door shortly after she had
moved to a new town. The children brought her a lunch basket and
a note that read, "If you want anyone to do errands, call us."
162 163The widow was gladdened by the small kindness and never forgot it.
Sometimes, however, we must sacrifice greatly to serve someone.
The Savior gave up His life in serving us.
Think about people in your family or community who are in need
economically, socially, physically, or spiritually. Ponder things you
Why the Savior Wants Us to Serve Others
Why does the Lord want us to serve others?
Through the service of men and women and boys and girls, God's
work is done. President Spencer W. Kimball explained: "God does
notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another
person that he meets our needs" (Teachings of Presidents of the
Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 82).
Throughout our lives all of us depend on others for help. When we
were infants, our parents fed, clothed, and cared for us. Without this
care we would have died. When we grew up, other people taught
us skills and attitudes. Many of us have needed nursing care during
illness or money in a financial crisis. Some of us ask God to bless
suffering people and then do nothing for them. We must remember
When we help one another, we serve God. King Benjamin, a great
king in Book of Mormon times, taught his people this principle by
the way he lived. He served them all his life, earning his own living
instead of being supported by the people. In an inspired sermon he
explained why he loved service, saying:
"When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the
"And if I, whom ye call your king, do labor to serve you, then ought
not ye to labor to serve one another?" (Mosiah 2:17–18).
What can we do to be ready to meet the needs of others?
164We Receive Blessings through Service
What blessings do we receive through service to others?
When we serve others we gain important blessings. Through
service we increase our ability to love. We become less selfish. As
we think of the problems of others, our own problems seem less
serious. We must serve others to gain eternal life. God has said
that those who live with Him must love and serve His children
When we consider the lives of people who serve unselfishly, we
can see that they gain more than they give. One such person was
a Latter-day Saint named Paul who lost the use of both legs in an
accident. Some men might have become bitter and useless, but Paul
chose to think of others instead. He learned a trade and earned
enough money to buy a house. There he and his wife made room
for many homeless, unwanted children. Some were badly handicapped.
Until his death 20 years later, he served these children
and others. In return he was greatly loved, and his thoughts turned
away from his crippled legs. He grew close to the Lord.
President Spencer W. Kimball said, "We become more substantive
as we serve others—indeed, it is easier to 'find' ourselves because
there is so much more of us to find!" (Teachings of Presidents of the
Church: Spencer W. Kimball, 85–86).
Some of us serve only those we enjoy being around and avoid all
others. However, Jesus commanded us to love and serve everyone.
There are many opportunities to serve (see Mosiah 4:15–19).
We can serve members of our families. Husbands and wives should
be aware of each other's needs. Parents should serve their children
not only by feeding and clothing them but also by teaching and by
playing and working with them. Children can serve by helping with
household chores and by helping brothers and sisters.
Husbands and wives serve and help each other. They can help each
other take care of the children, and they can support one another
in their individual interests and pursuits. A mother and father may
sacrifice to send a child on a mission.
165little sister who is afraid of the dark or help her learn to read. Our
prophets have told us that a family is the most important unit in
society. We must serve our families well (see Mosiah 4:14–15).
We have many opportunities to serve our neighbors, our friends,
and even strangers. If a neighbor is having difficulty harvesting
crops before a storm, we can help. If a mother is ill, we can watch
her children or help with the housework. If a young man is falling
away from the Church, we can lead him back. If a child is ridiculed,
we can befriend him and persuade others to be kind. We do not
need to know the people we serve. We should look for ways to
serve as many of our Heavenly Father's children as we can.
If we have special talents, we should use them to serve others.
God blesses us with talents and abilities to help improve the lives
We have opportunities to serve in the Church. One purpose of the
Church organization is to give us opportunities to help each other.
Members of the Church serve by doing missionary work, accepting
leadership assignments, visiting other Church members, teaching
classes, and doing other Church work. In The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints there is no professional clergy, so the lay
members must carry on all of the activities of the Church.
How can we give enough time to our family, even with our many
opportunities to give service in the Church and community?
Jesus Christ Is the Perfect Example of Service
What are some of your favorite scripture stories in which the
Savior sets an example of service?
The Savior provided the perfect example of service. He explained
that He didn't come to earth to be served but to serve and to give
His life for us (see Matthew 20:28).
166Jesus Christ loves all of us more than we can understand. When
He was on earth He served the poor, the ignorant, the sinner, the
despised. He taught the gospel to all who would listen, fed crowds
of hungry people who came to hear Him, healed the sick, and
He is the Creator of the earth and our Savior, yet He did many
humble acts of service. Just before His Crucifixion He met with His
disciples. After teaching them, He took a basin of water and a towel
and washed their feet (see John 13:4–10; see also the picture in this
chapter). In those days washing a visitor's feet was a sign of honor
and was usually done by a servant. Jesus did it as an example of
love and service. When we willingly serve others in the spirit of
love, we become more like Christ.
What can we learn from the Savior's example of service?
Mosiah 2 (King Benjamin's discourse on service)
D&C 81:5 (succor, lift, strengthen)
Colossians 3:23–24 (serve others as you would serve the Lord)
Alma 17–18 (Ammon served the king)
Galatians 5:13 (serve one another by love)
For teachers: When we share our testimonies of Jesus Christ, we invite the influence of
the Holy Ghost. As you prepare and teach, frequently look for ways to testify of the Savior
Our Bodies Are Temples of God.
One of the great blessings we received when we came to earth
was a physical body. We need a physical body to become like our
Heavenly Father. Our bodies are so important that the Lord calls
them temples of God (see 1 Corinthians 3:16–17; 6:19–20). Our
Because our bodies are important, our Father in Heaven wants us
to take good care of them. He knows that we can be happier, better
people if we are healthy. The Holy Ghost can be with us if our bodies
and minds are clean. Our Father knows that we face temptations
to treat our bodies unwisely or to take harmful things into them.
For this reason He has told us which things are good for our health
and which things are bad. Much of the information God has given
us concerning good health is found in Doctrine and Covenants 89.
This revelation is called the Word of Wisdom.
We must obey the Word of Wisdom to be worthy to enter the
temple. If we do not obey the Word of Wisdom, the Lord's Spirit
withdraws from us. If we defile the "temple of God," which is our
body, we hurt ourselves physically and spiritually.
We Are Commanded Not to Take Certain Things into Our
What has the Lord commanded us not to take into our bodies?
The Lord commands us not to use wine and strong drinks, meaning
drinks containing alcohol. The First Presidency has taught that
strong drink often brings cruelty, poverty, disease, and plague into
168 169It often is a cause of dishonesty, loss of chastity, and loss
of good judgment. It is a curse to all who drink it. (See "Message
of the First Presidency," Improvement Era, Nov. 1942, 686.) Expectant
mothers who drink can cause physical and mental damage to
their children. Many automobile accidents are caused each year by
The Lord has also told us that "tobacco is not for the body" (D&C
89:8). It is harmful to our bodies and our spirits. We should not
smoke cigarettes or cigars or use chewing tobacco. Scientists have
shown that tobacco causes many diseases and can harm unborn
The Lord also counsels us against the use of "hot drinks" (D&C
89:9). Church leaders have said that this means coffee and tea,
which contain harmful substances. We should avoid all drinks that
We should not use drugs except when they are necessary as medicine.
Some drugs are even more harmful than alcohol and tobacco
(which are also drugs). Those who misuse drugs need to seek help,
pray for strength, and counsel with their bishop so they can fully
We should avoid anything that we know is harmful to our bodies.
We should not use any substance that is habit forming. We should
also avoid overeating. The Word of Wisdom does not tell us everything
to avoid or consume, but it does give us guidelines. It is a
valuable temporal law. It is also a great spiritual law. By living the
Word of Wisdom, we become stronger spiritually. We purify our
bodies so the Spirit of the Lord can dwell with us.
What are some things that are not specifically mentioned in the
Word of Wisdom that we should avoid?
170We Are Taught That Certain Things Are Good for Our Bodies
According to the Word of Wisdom, what are some things the Lord
Fruits, vegetables, and wholesome herbs are good for us. We
should use them with wisdom and thanksgiving.
The flesh of birds and animals is also provided for our food. However,
we should eat meat sparingly (see D&C 49:18; 89:12). Fish is
Grains are good for us. Wheat is especially good for us.
How has the use of these things blessed you?
Work, Rest, and Exercise Are Important
What do work, rest, and exercise have to do with the Lord's law
In addition to Doctrine and Covenants 89, other scriptures tell us
how to be healthy. They tell us that we should "cease to be idle;
cease to be unclean; . . cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire
to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies
and your minds may be invigorated" (D&C 88:124). We are also
told, "Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work" (Exodus 20:9).
The Lord counsels us not to labor more than we have strength for
A latter-day prophet has told us that we should keep our bodies
healthy. He counseled, "Nutritious meals, regular exercise, and
appropriate sleep are necessary for a strong body, just as consistent
scripture study and prayer strengthen the mind and spirit"
(Thomas S. Monson, in Conference Report, Oct. 1990, 60; or
Promised Blessings for Living the Lord's Law of Health
What blessings come to us as we obey the Word of Wisdom?
Our Heavenly Father has given us health laws to teach us how
to care for our bodies. The scriptures tell us about God's laws:
171"No temporal commandment gave I . , for my commandments
are spiritual" (D&C 29:35). This means that His commandments
concerning our physical state are for our spiritual good.
When we keep the Lord's law of health and obey His other commandments,
the Lord promises to bless us physically and spiritually.
Physically we have been promised good health. As a result of this
good health we "shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not
faint" (D&C 89:20). This is a great blessing, but the spiritual blessings
He has promised us are even greater than the physical ones.
The Lord promises us that we "shall find wisdom and great treasures
of knowledge, even hidden treasures" (D&C 89:19). We will be taught
important truths by the Holy Ghost through revelation. President
Boyd K. Packer taught: "Our physical body is the instrument of our
spirit. In that marvelous revelation the Word of Wisdom, we are told
how to keep our bodies free from impurities which might dull, even
destroy, those delicate physical senses which have to do with spiritual
communication. The Word of Wisdom is a key to individual revelation"
(in Conference Report, Oct. 1989, 16; or Ensign,
The Lord also promises that the destroying angel shall pass us by.
President Heber J. Grant said, "If you and I desire the blessings of
life, of health, of vigor of body and mind; if we desire the destroying
angel to pass us by, as he did in the days of the children of
Israel, we must obey the Word of Wisdom; then God is bound,
and the blessing shall come to us" (Teachings of Presidents of the
Church: Heber J. Grant [2002], 192).
How can we help children and youth understand the eternal
significance of the Word of Wisdom?
What can we do to help family members or friends who have
difficulty obeying the Word of Wisdom?
Judges 13:13–14; Proverbs 20:1; Isaiah 5:11–12; Daniel 1 (avoid strong drink)
D&C 59:16–20 (things of the earth for the benefit of man)
172Proverbs 23:20–21 (warning against drunkenness, gluttony, laziness)
D&C 136:24 (cease drunkenness)
For teachers: Writing lists can generate interest and help learners focus their attention.
As class members or family members discuss substances that the Lord has commanded
us not to take into our bodies, you may want to ask someone to write their answers on the
board or on a large piece of paper. You could do the same when they discuss things that
The life of the Savior reflects His pure love for all people. He even
gave His life for us. Charity is that pure love which our Savior Jesus
Christ has. He has commanded us to love one another as He loves
us. The scriptures tell us that charity comes from a pure heart (see
1 Timothy 1:5). We have pure love when, from the heart, we show
genuine concern and compassion for all our brothers and sisters.
Charity Is the Greatest of All Virtues
The prophet Mormon tells us, "Wherefore, cleave unto charity,
which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail—but charity is the
pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever" (Moroni 7:46–47; see
also 1 Corinthians 13; 2 Nephi 26:30; Moroni 7:44–45, 48).
The Savior gave us the example of His life to follow. He was the
Son of God. He had perfect love, and He showed us how to love.
By His example, He showed us that the spiritual and physical needs
of our fellowmen are as important as our own. Before He gave His
"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for
Speaking to the Lord, Moroni said:
"I remember that thou hast said that thou hast loved the world,
even unto the laying down of thy life for the world. .
174 175"And now I know that this love which thou hast had for the children
of men is charity; wherefore, except men shall have charity
they cannot inherit that place which thou hast prepared in the mansions
of thy Father" (Ether 12:33–34).
It may not be necessary for us to give our lives as the Savior did.
But we can have charity if we make Him the center of our lives and
follow His example and teachings. Like the Savior, we too can bless
the lives of our brothers and sisters here on earth.
Why is charity the greatest of all virtues?
Charity Includes Giving to the Sick, Afflicted, and Poor
The Savior gave us many teachings in the form of stories or parables.
The parable of the good Samaritan teaches us that we should
give to those in need, regardless of whether they are our friends
or not (see Luke 10:30–37; see also James E. Talmage, Jesus the
Christ, 3 rd ed. [1916], 430–32). In the parable, the Savior said that
a man was traveling to another city. On the road he was attacked
by bandits. They stole his clothes and money and beat him, leaving
him half dead. A priest came along, saw him, and passed him by.
Then a temple attendant walked over, looked at him, and went on.
However, a Samaritan, who was despised by the Jews, came along,
and when he saw the man he felt compassion (see the picture in
this chapter). Kneeling beside him, the good Samaritan bandaged
his wounds and took him on a donkey to an inn. He paid the innkeeper
to take care of the man until he recovered.
Jesus taught that we should give food to the hungry, shelter to those
who have none, and clothes to the poor. When we visit the sick and
those who are in prison, it is as if we were doing these things for
Him instead. He promises that as we do these things, we will inherit
His kingdom. (See Matthew 25:34–46.)
We should not try to decide whether someone really deserves our
help or not (see Mosiah 4:16–24). If we have taken care of our own
family's needs first, then we should help all who need help. In this
way we will be like our Father in Heaven, who causes rain to fall
on the just and on the unjust alike (see Matthew 5:44–45).
176President Thomas S. Monson reminded us that there are those who
need more than material goods:
"Let us ask ourselves the questions: 'Have I done any good in the
world today? Have I helped anyone in need?' [Hymns, no. 223]. What
a formula for happiness! What a prescription for contentment, for
inner peace—to have inspired gratitude in another human being.
"Our opportunities to give of ourselves are indeed limitless, but
they are also perishable. There are hearts to gladden. There are
kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be
done. There are souls to be saved" (in Conference Report, Oct. 2001,
In the parable of the good Samaritan, how would you describe
those who passed the injured man? How would you describe the
Samaritan? In what ways can we apply the message of this parable
How can we love people in spite of their sins and faults?
Even when we give to those in need, unless we feel compassion
for them we do not have charity (see 1 John 3:16–17). The Apostle
Paul taught that when we have charity we are filled with good feelings
for all people. We are patient and kind. We are not boastful or
proud, selfish or rude. When we have charity we do not remember
or rejoice in the evil others have done. Neither do we do good
things just because it is to our advantage. Instead, we share the joy
of those who live by truth. When we have charity we are loyal, we
believe the best of others, and we are kind to them. The scriptures
teach that "charity never faileth." (See 1 Corinthians 13:4–8.)
The Savior was our example of how to feel toward and treat others.
He despised wickedness, but He loved sinners in spite of their
sins. He had compassion for children, the elderly, the poor, and
the needy. He had such great love that He could beg our Heavenly
Father to forgive the soldiers who drove the nails into His hands and
feet (see Luke 23:34). He taught us that if we do not forgive others,
our Father in Heaven will not forgive us (see Matthew 18:33–35).
177He said: "I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse
you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which
despitefully use you, and persecute you. . . For if ye love them
which love you, what reward have ye?" (Matthew 5:44, 46). We must
learn to feel toward others as Jesus did.
Developing the Virtue of Charity
How can we become more charitable?
One way we can become charitable is by studying the life of Jesus
Christ and keeping His commandments. We can study what He did
in certain situations and do the same things when we are in the
Second, when we have uncharitable feelings, we can pray to have
greater charity. Mormon urges us, "Pray unto the Father with all the
energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love [charity], which
he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus
Third, we can learn to love ourselves, which means that we understand
our true worth as children of our Heavenly Father. The Savior
taught that we must love others as we love ourselves (see Matthew
22:39). To love ourselves, we must respect and trust ourselves. This
means that we must be obedient to the principles of the gospel. We
must repent of any wrongdoings. We must forgive ourselves when
we have repented. We will come to love ourselves better when we
can feel the deep, comforting assurance that the Savior truly loves us.
Fourth, we can avoid thinking we are better than other people. We
can have patience with their faults. Joseph Smith said, "The nearer
we get to our heavenly Father, the more we are disposed to look
with compassion on perishing souls; we feel that we want to take
them upon our shoulders, and cast their sins behind our backs"
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 428–29).
178In the Book of Mormon we read of Enos, a young man who wanted
to know that his sins had been forgiven. He tells us:
"My soul hungered; and I kneeled down before my Maker, and I
cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for mine own soul;
and all the day long did I cry unto him; yea, and when the night
came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens.
"And there came a voice unto me, saying: Enos, thy sins are forgiven
thee, and thou shalt be blessed" (Enos 1:4–5).
The Lord explained to Enos that because of his faith in Christ his
sins had been forgiven. When Enos heard these words he no longer
was concerned about himself. He knew the Lord loved him and
would bless him. He began instead to feel concern for the welfare
of his friends and relatives, the Nephites. He poured out his whole
soul unto God for them. The Lord answered and said they would
be blessed according to their faithfulness in keeping the commandments
they had already been given. Enos's love increased even
further after these words, and he prayed with many long strugglings
for the Lamanites, who were the enemies of the Nephites. The Lord
granted his desires, and he spent the rest of his life trying to save
the souls of the Nephites and the Lamanites. (See Enos 1:6–26.)
Enos was so grateful for the Lord's love and forgiveness that he willingly
spent the rest of his life helping others receive this same gift.
Enos had become truly charitable. We too can do so. In fact, we
must do so to inherit the place that has been prepared for us in our
Colossians 3:12–14 (charity is the bond of perfectness)
Alma 34:28–29 (our prayers are vain if we do not act charitably)
1 Corinthians 12:29–13:3 (definition of charity)
D&C 121:45–46 (let us be full of charity toward all people)
For teachers: Under the heading "Developing the Virtue of Charity," each of the first four
paragraphs teaches one way we can become more charitable. If the setting allows for
small group discussion, consider dividing class members or family members into groups
of four. Assign one of the four paragraphs to each member of each group. Invite participants
to study their assigned paragraphs individually. Ask them to think of examples, from
the lives of people they know or people in the scriptures, that represent this way of becoming
charitable. Then ask them to share their examples with each other in their groups.
Honesty Is a Principle of Salvation.
What would society be like if everyone were perfectly honest?
The 13th article of faith says, "We believe in being honest." The
Book of Mormon tells us about a group of people who were "distinguished
for their zeal towards God, and also towards men; for they
were perfectly honest and upright in all things; and they were firm
in the faith of Christ, even unto the end" (Alma 27:27). Because of
their honesty, these people were noted by their fellowmen and by
God. It is important to learn what honesty is, how we are tempted
to be dishonest, and how we can overcome this temptation.
Complete honesty is necessary for our salvation. President Brigham
Young said, "If we accept salvation on the terms it is offered to us,
we have got to be honest in every thought, in our reflections, in our
meditations, in our private circles, in our deals, in our declarations,
and in every act of our lives" (Teachings of Presidents of the Church:
God is honest and just in all things (see Alma 7:20). We too must be
honest in all things to become like Him. The brother of Jared testified,
"Yea, Lord, I know that thou . . art a God of truth, and canst
not lie" (Ether 3:12). In contrast, the devil is a liar. In fact, he is the
father of lies (see 2 Nephi 9:9). "Those who choose to cheat and lie
and deceive and misrepresent become his slaves" (Mark E. Petersen,
in Conference Report, Oct. 1971, 65; or Ensign,
Honest people love truth and justice. They are honest in their words
and actions. They do not lie, steal, or cheat.
180 181Lying is intentionally deceiving others. Bearing false witness is one
form of lying. The Lord gave this commandment to the children of
Israel: "Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour"
(Exodus 20:16). Jesus also taught this when He was on earth (see
Matthew 19:18). There are many other forms of lying. When we
speak untruths, we are guilty of lying. We can also intentionally
deceive others by a gesture or a look, by silence, or by telling only
part of the truth. Whenever we lead people in any way to believe
something that is not true, we are not being honest.
The Lord is not pleased with such dishonesty, and we will have to
account for our lies. Satan would have us believe it is all right to lie.
He says, "Yea, lie a little; . . there is no harm in this" (2 Nephi 28:8).
Satan encourages us to justify our lies to ourselves. Honest people
will recognize Satan's temptations and will speak the whole truth,
even if it seems to be to their disadvantage.
Jesus taught, "Thou shalt not steal" (Matthew 19:18). Stealing is
taking something that does not belong to us. When we take what
belongs to someone else or to a store or to the community without
permission, we are stealing. Taking merchandise or supplies from an
employer is stealing. Copying music, movies, pictures, or written text
without the permission of the copyright owners is dishonest and is
a form of theft. Accepting more change or goods than one should is
dishonest. Taking more than our share of anything is stealing.
We cheat when we give less than we owe, or when we get something
we do not deserve. Some employees cheat their employers by
not working their full time; yet they accept full pay. Some employers
are not fair to their employees; they pay them less than they should.
182Satan says, "Take the advantage of one because of his words, dig a pit
for thy neighbor" (2 Nephi 28:8). Taking unfair advantage is a form of
dishonesty. Providing inferior service or merchandise is cheating.
We Must Not Excuse Our Dishonesty
What happens to us spiritually when we excuse our dishonesty?
People use many excuses for being dishonest. People lie to protect
themselves and to have others think well of them. Some excuse
themselves for stealing, thinking they deserve what they took, intend
to return it, or need it more than the owner. Some cheat to get better
grades in school or because "everyone else does it" or to get even.
These excuses and many more are given as reasons for dishonesty.
To the Lord, there are no acceptable reasons. When we excuse ourselves,
we cheat ourselves and the Spirit of God ceases to be with
us. We become more and more unrighteous.
What does it mean to be completely honest?
To become completely honest, we must look carefully at our lives.
If there are ways in which we are being even the least bit dishonest,
we should repent of them immediately.
When we are completely honest, we cannot be corrupted. We are
true to every trust, duty, agreement, or covenant, even if it costs us
money, friends, or our lives. Then we can face the Lord, ourselves,
and others without shame. President Joseph F. Smith counseled, "Let
every man's life be so that his character will bear the closest inspection,
and that it may be seen as an open book, so that he will have
nothing to shrink from or be ashamed of" (Gospel Doctrine, 5 th ed.
In what ways does our honesty or dishonesty affect how we feel
183D&C 50:17 (speak only by the spirit of truth)
D&C 76:103–6 (destination of liars)
D&C 42:27 (commandment not to speak evil of neighbors)
Exodus 20:15–16 (commandments not to steal and not to bear false witness)
D&C 42:20, 84–85; 59:6 (forbidden to steal)
For teachers: This chapter contains three sections that describe forms of dishonesty:
lying, stealing, and cheating. You might consider dividing class members or family members
into three groups. Assign each group one of these three sections. Ask the individuals
in each group to silently read their assigned section and consider the forms of dishonesty
described in that section. Then discuss the sections as a class or as a family. Ask how we
can be honest in each of the situations described.
184How does our willingness to pay tithes and offerings show gratitude
to our Heavenly Father for all His blessings to us?
We have been given commandments to help us prepare in every
way to live in the presence of our Heavenly Father. He has given us
a way to thank Him for our blessings. Willingly paying tithes and
offerings is one way we thank Him. As we pay these offerings, we
show that we love Him and will obey His counsel.
In what ways does the payment of tithes and offerings help us
Anciently, Abraham and Jacob obeyed the commandment to pay a
tithe of one-tenth of their increase (see Hebrews 7:1–10; Genesis
In modern times the Prophet Joseph Smith prayed, "O Lord, show
unto thy servants how much thou requirest of the properties of
thy people for a tithing" (D&C 119, section introduction). The Lord
answered: "This shall be the beginning of the tithing of my people.
And after that, those who have thus been tithed shall pay one-tenth
of all their interest annually; and this shall be a standing law unto
them forever" (D&C 119:3–4). The First Presidency has explained
that "one-tenth of all their interest annually" refers to our income
(see First Presidency letter, Mar. 19, 1970).
186When we pay tithing we show our faithfulness to the Lord. We also
teach our children the value of this law. They will want to follow
our example and pay tithing on any money they receive.
In what ways is tithing a principle of faith more than a principle
What can parents do to teach their children to pay tithing and
Why is our attitude important as we pay tithing?
It is important to give willingly. "When one pays his tithing without
enjoyment he is robbed of a part of the blessing. He must learn to
give cheerfully, willingly and joyfully, and his gift will be blessed"
(Stephen L Richards, The Law of Tithing [pamphlet, 1983], 8).
The Apostle Paul taught that how we give is as important as what
we give. He said, "Let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for
God loveth a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7).
What does it mean to you to be a "cheerful giver"?
In what ways does the Church use tithing funds and other offerings?
As members of the Church, we give tithing and other offerings to
Tithing is used by the Church for many purposes. Some of these are to:
1. Build, maintain, and operate temples, meetinghouses, and other buildings.
2. Provide operating funds for stakes, wards, and other units of the Church. (These units use the funds to carry out the ecclesiastical programs of the Church, which include teaching the gospel and conducting social activities.)
1873. Help the missionary program.
4. Educate young people in Church schools, seminaries, and institutes.
5. Print and distribute lesson materials.
6. Help in family history and temple work.
Fast Offerings. Church members fast each month by going without
food and drink for two consecutive meals. They contribute at least
the amount of money they would have spent for the meals. They
may give as generously as they are able. This offering is called
the fast offering. Bishops use these fast offerings to provide food,
shelter, clothing, and medical care for the needy. (See chapter 25 in
As part of the fast day, members attend a meeting called the fast
and testimony meeting, where they share with each other their testimonies
Other Donations. Church members may donate to other efforts
of the Church, such as missionary work, the Perpetual Education
Fund, temple construction, and humanitarian aid.
Service. Members also offer their time, skills, and goods to help
others. This service allows the Church to help needy members and
nonmembers around the world at community, national, and international
levels, especially when disasters occur.
We Are Blessed When We Give Tithes and Offerings
The Lord promises to bless us as we faithfully pay our tithes and
offerings. He said, "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that
there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith
. . if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you
out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it"
188Latter-day revelation tells of another blessing for those who tithe:
"Verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of my people;
for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming" (D&C 64:23).
The blessings we have been promised are both material and spiritual.
If we give willingly, Heavenly Father will help us provide for
our daily needs of food, clothes, and shelter. Speaking to Latterday
Saints in the Philippines, President Gordon B. Hinckley said
that if people "will accept the gospel and live it, pay their tithes
and offerings, even though those be meager, the Lord will keep
His ancient promise in their behalf, and they will have rice in their
bowls and clothing on their backs and shelter over their heads. I
do not see any other solution. They need a power greater than any
earthly power to lift them and help them" ("Inspirational Thoughts,"
Aug. 1997, 7). The Lord will also help us grow "in a knowledge
of God, and in a testimony, and in the power to live the
gospel and to inspire our families to do the same" (Teachings of
Presidents of the Church: Heber J. Grant [2002], 124).
Those who pay their tithes and offerings are greatly blessed. They
have a good feeling that they are helping to build the kingdom of
D&C 119:1–4 (the law of tithing)
Genesis 14:18–20; Alma 13:13–16 (Abraham paid tithes)
For teachers: Use questions at the beginning of a section to start a discussion and send
class members or family members to the text to find more information. Use questions at
the end of a section to help class members or family members ponder and discuss the
The Lord's Church Is a Missionary Church.
In what ways is missionary work part of God's plan for His children?
The Lord revealed the gospel plan to Adam: "And thus the Gospel
began to be preached, from the beginning" (Moses 5:58). Later,
Adam's righteous descendants were sent to preach the gospel:
"They . . called upon all men, everywhere, to repent; and faith was
taught unto the children of men" (Moses 6:23).
All the prophets have been missionaries. Each in his day was
commanded to preach the gospel message. Whenever the priesthood
has been on the earth, the Lord has needed missionaries to
preach the eternal principles of the gospel to His children.
The Lord's Church has always been a missionary church. When the
Savior lived on the earth, He ordained Apostles and Seventies and
gave them the authority and responsibility to preach the gospel.
Most of their preaching was to their own people, the Jews (see
Matthew 10:5–6). After Jesus was resurrected, He sent Apostles to
preach the gospel to the Gentiles. He commanded the Apostles,
"Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature"
The Apostle Paul was a great missionary sent to the Gentiles. After
he was converted to the Church, he spent the remainder of his life
preaching the gospel to them. At different times during his mission
he was whipped, stoned, and imprisoned. Yet he continued to
preach the gospel (see Acts 23:10–12; 26).
Missionary work began again when the Lord's Church was
restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Today the Apostles
and Seventies have been given the chief responsibility for preaching
the gospel and seeing that it is preached in all the world.
190 191The Lord told Joseph Smith: "Proclaim my gospel from land to
land, and from city to city. . . Bear testimony in every place,
unto every people" (D&C 66:5, 7). In June 1830, Samuel Harrison
Smith, the Prophet's brother, began the first missionary journey
Since that time, over one million missionaries have been called and
sent forth to preach the gospel. The message they take to the world
is that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and our Savior. They testify
that the gospel has been restored to the earth through a prophet
of God. The missionaries are given the responsibility to preach
the gospel to all people, to baptize them, and to teach them to do
all things that the Lord has commanded (see Matthew 28:19–20).
Latter-day Saint missionaries go at their own expense to all parts of
the world to preach the gospel message.
The Gospel Will Be Preached to All the World
What are some different ways the Lord has prepared for us to
We have been told in latter-day revelation that we must take the
restored gospel to every nation and people (see D&C 133:37). The
Lord never gives us a commandment without preparing a way for
us to accomplish it (see 1 Nephi 3:7). The Lord has prepared ways
for us to teach the gospel in nations that were once closed to us.
As we continue to pray and exercise faith, the Lord will open other
The Lord is also "inspiring the minds of great people to create inventions
that further the work of the Lord in ways this world has never
known" (Russell M. Nelson, in "Computerized Scriptures Now Available,"
Ensign, Apr. 1988, 73). Newspapers, magazines, television,
radio, satellites, computers, the Internet, and related technology help
give the gospel message to millions of people. We who have the
fulness of the gospel need to use these inventions to fulfill the Lord's
commandment: "For, verily, the sound must go forth from this place
into all the world, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth—the
gospel must be preached unto every [person]" (D&C 58:64).
192In what ways have you seen technology used effectively to share
Why is it important for each person to hear and understand the
"This is our first interest as a Church—to save and exalt the souls of
the children of men" (Ezra Taft Benson, in Conference Report, Apr.
May 1974, 104). Missionary work is necessary
in order to give the people of the world an opportunity to hear and
accept the gospel. They need to learn the truth, turn to God, and
receive forgiveness from their sins.
Many of our brothers and sisters on earth are blinded by false
teachings and "are only kept from the truth because they know not
where to find it" (D&C 123:12). Through missionary work we can
The Lord has commanded, "Labor ye in my vineyard for the last
time—for the last time call upon the inhabitants of the earth" (D&C
43:28). As we teach the gospel to our brothers and sisters, we are preparing
the way for the Second Coming of the Savior (see D&C 34:6).
In what ways can we actively seek opportunities to share the gospel
with others? In what ways can we prepare ourselves for such
Every member of the Church is a missionary. We should be missionaries
even if we are not formally called and set apart. We are
responsible to teach the gospel by word and deed to all of our
Heavenly Father's children. The Lord has told us, "It becometh
every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor" (D&C
88:81). We have been told by a prophet that we should show our
neighbors that we love them before we warn them (see Teachings
of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 262).
193They need to experience our friendship and fellowship.
The sons of Mosiah willingly accepted their responsibility to teach
the gospel. When they were converted to the Church, their hearts
were filled with compassion for others. They wanted to preach the
gospel to their enemies the Lamanites, "for they could not bear that
any human soul should perish; yea, even the very thoughts that any
soul should endure endless torment did cause them to quake and
tremble" (Mosiah 28:3). As the gospel fills our lives with joy, we will
feel this kind of love and compassion for our brothers and sisters.
We will want to share the message of the gospel with everyone
There are many ways we can share the gospel. Following are some
1. We can show friends and others the joy we experience from living
the truths of the gospel. In this way we will be a light to the
2. We can overcome our natural shyness by being friendly to others
and doing kind things for them. We can help them see that we are
sincerely interested in them and are not seeking personal gain.
3. We can explain the gospel to nonmember friends and others.
4. We can invite friends who are interested in learning more about
the gospel into our homes to be taught by the missionaries. If
our nonmember friends live too far away, we can request that
missionaries in their areas visit them.
5. We can teach our children the importance of sharing the gospel,
and we can prepare them spiritually and financially to go on
missions. We can also prepare ourselves to serve full-time missions
6. We can pay our tithing and contribute to the missionary fund.
These donations are used for furthering missionary work.
7. We can contribute to the ward, branch, or general missionary
fund to give financial support to missionaries whose families are
1948. We can do family history research and temple work to help our
ancestors receive the full blessings of the gospel.
9. We can invite nonmembers to activities such as family home
evenings and Church socials, conferences, and meetings.
10. We can give copies of Church magazines. We can also share
gospel messages by using features available on the Church's
official Internet sites, LDS.org and Mormon.org.
Our Heavenly Father will help us be effective missionaries when we
have the desire to share the gospel and pray for guidance. He will
help us find ways to share the gospel with those around us.
Think about people you can share the gospel with. Decide how
you will do so. Consider setting a goal to share the gospel with
these people by a certain date.
The Lord Promises Us Blessings for Doing Missionary Work
The Lord told the Prophet Joseph Smith that missionaries would
receive great blessings. Speaking to elders who were returning from
their missions, the Lord said, "Ye are blessed, for the testimony which
ye have borne is recorded in heaven for the angels to look upon; and
they rejoice over you" (D&C 62:3). He has also said that those who
work for the salvation of others will have their sins forgiven and will
bring salvation to their own souls (see D&C 4:4; 31:5; 84:61).
"If it so be that you should labor all your days in crying repentance
unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great
shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father!
"And now, if your joy will be great with one soul that you have
brought unto me into the kingdom of my Father, how great will be
your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!" (D&C 18:15–16).
When have you experienced the joy of missionary work?
195D&C 1:17–23 (Joseph Smith commanded to preach)
D&C 24:12 (Lord strengthens those who always seek to declare His gospel)
D&C 38:41 (share the gospel in mildness and meekness)
D&C 34:4–6; Acts 5:42 (gospel to be preached)
D&C 60:1–2 (Lord warns those who are afraid to preach the gospel)
D&C 75:2–5 (those who declare the gospel and are faithful will be blessed with eternal life)
D&C 88:81–82 (all those who have been warned should warn their neighbors)
Matthew 24:14 (gospel to be preached before the end shall come)
Abraham 2:9–11 (gospel and priesthood to be given to all nations)
For teachers: Sharing experiences with gospel principles can invite the Spirit. You may
want to contact a few class members or family members in advance, asking them to prepare
to share experiences that are meaningful to them and that may help others.
196We All Have Different Talents and Abilities.
We all have special gifts, talents, and abilities given to us by our
Heavenly Father. When we were born, we brought these gifts, talents,
and abilities with us (see chapter 2 in this book).
The prophet Moses was a great leader, but he needed Aaron, his
brother, to help as a spokesman (see Exodus 4:14–16). Some of
us are leaders like Moses or good speakers like Aaron. Some of us
can sing well or play an instrument. Others of us may be good in
sports or able to work well with our hands. Other talents we might
have are understanding others, patience, cheerfulness, or the ability
How have you benefited from the talents of others?
We Should Use and Improve Our Talents
How can we develop our talents?
We have a responsibility to develop the talents we have been given.
Sometimes we think we do not have many talents or that other
people have been blessed with more abilities than we possess.
Sometimes we do not use our talents because we are afraid that we
might fail or be criticized by others. We should not hide our talents.
We should use them. Then others can see our good works and glorify
our Heavenly Father (see Matthew 5:16).
There are certain things we must do to develop our talents. First, we
must discover our talents. We should evaluate ourselves to find our
strengths and abilities. Our family and friends can help us do this.
198We should also ask our Heavenly Father to help us learn about our
Second, we must be willing to spend the time and effort to develop
Third, we must have faith that our Heavenly Father will help us, and
we must have faith in ourselves.
Fourth, we must learn the skills necessary for us to develop our
talents. We might do this by taking a class, asking a friend to teach
Fifth, we must practice using our talent. Every talent takes effort and
work to develop. The mastery of a talent must be earned.
Sixth, we must share our talent with others. It is by our using our
talents that they grow (see Matthew 25:29).
All of these steps are easier if we pray and seek the Lord's help. He
wants us to develop our talents, and He will help us.
We Can Develop Our Talents in Spite of Our Weaknesses
How can we develop our talents in spite of our weaknesses?
Because we are mortal and fallen, we have weaknesses. With the
Lord's help, our weakness and fallen nature can be overcome (see
Ether 12:27, 37). Beethoven composed his greatest music after he
was deaf. Enoch overcame his slowness of speech to become a
powerful teacher (see Moses 6:26–47).
Some great athletes have had to overcome handicaps before they have
succeeded in developing their talents. Shelly Mann was such an example.
"At the age of five she had polio. . . Her parents took her daily
to a swimming pool where they hoped the water would help hold
her arms up as she tried to use them again. When she could lift her
arm out of the water with her own power, she cried for joy. Then her
goal was to swim the width of the pool, then the length, then several
lengths. She kept on trying, swimming, enduring, day after day after
day, until she won the [Olympic] gold medal for the butterfly stroke—
one of the most difficult of all swimming strokes" (Marvin J. Ashton, in
Conference Report, Apr. 1975, 127; or Ensign,
199Heber J. Grant overcame many of his weaknesses and turned them
into talents. He had as a motto these words: "That which we persist
in doing becomes easier for us to do; not that the nature of the
thing is changed, but that our power to do is increased" (in Teachings
of Presidents of the Church: Heber J. Grant [2002], 35).
The Lord Will Bless Us If We Use Our Talents Wisely
President Joseph F. Smith said, "Every son and every daughter
of God has received some talent, and each will be held to strict
account for the use or misuse to which it is put" (Gospel Doctrine,
5 th ed. [1939], 370). A talent is one kind of stewardship (responsibility
in the kingdom of God). The parable of the talents tells us that
when we serve well in our stewardship, we will be given greater
responsibilities. If we do not serve well, our stewardship will eventually
be taken from us. (See Matthew 25:14–30.)
We are also told in the scriptures that we will be judged according
to our works (see Matthew 16:27). By developing and using our
talents for other people, we perform good works.
The Lord is pleased when we use our talents wisely. He will bless
us if we use our talents to benefit other people and to build up His
kingdom here on earth. Some of the blessings we gain are joy and
love from serving our brothers and sisters here on earth. We also
learn self-control. All these things are necessary if we are going to
be worthy to live with our Heavenly Father again.
What are some examples of people whose talents have been magnified because they used them wisely? (Consider people you know or people in the scriptures or Church history.)
James 1:17 (gifts come from God)
D&C 46:8–11; 1 Timothy 4:14 (seek and develop gifts)
2 Corinthians 12:9 (weak things made strong)
Revelation 20:13; 1 Nephi 15:33; D&C 19:3 (judged by our works)
Hebrews 13:21 (show good works)
For teachers: One way to show class members that you care about them individually is
to call them by name. Learn their names. When new class members attend the class,
200Picture of Adam and Eve learning about sacrifice.
201What difference does it make to obey willingly rather than unwillingly?
When Jesus was on the earth, a lawyer asked Him a question:
"Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
"Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy
heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
"This is the first and great commandment.
"And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as
"On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets"
From these scriptures we learn how important it is for us to love the
Lord and our neighbors. But how do we show our love for the Lord?
Jesus answered this question when He said, "He that hath my commandments,
and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that
loveth me shall be loved of my Father" (John 14:21).
Each of us should ask ourselves why we obey God's commandments.
Is it because we fear punishment? Is it because we desire the
rewards for living a good life? Is it because we love God and Jesus
Christ and want to serve Them?
It is better to obey the commandments because we fear punishment
than not to obey them at all. But we will be much happier if
we obey God because we love Him and want to obey Him. When
we obey Him freely, He can bless us freely.
202delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth
unto the end" (D&C 76:5). Obedience also helps us progress and
become more like our Heavenly Father. But those who do nothing
until they are commanded and then keep the commandments
unwillingly lose their reward (see D&C 58:26–29).
How can we increase our desire to obey?
We Can Obey without Understanding Why
Why do we not always need to understand the Lord's purposes in
By keeping God's commandments, we prepare for eternal life and
exaltation. Sometimes we do not know the reason for a particular
commandment. However, we show our faith and trust in God when
we obey Him without knowing why.
Adam and Eve were commanded to offer sacrifices to God. One
day an angel appeared to Adam and asked why he offered sacrifices.
Adam replied that he did not know the reason. He did it
because the Lord commanded him. (See Moses 5:5–6 and the
The angel then taught Adam the gospel and told him of the Savior
who was to come. The Holy Ghost fell upon Adam, and Adam
prophesied concerning the inhabitants of the earth down to the last
generation. (See Moses 5:7–10; D&C 107:56.) This knowledge and
great blessings came to Adam because he was obedient.
The Book of Mormon tells us that Nephi and his older brothers
received a very difficult assignment from the Lord (see 1 Nephi
3:1–6). Nephi's brothers complained, saying that the Lord
required a hard thing of them. But Nephi said, "I will go and do
the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the
Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he
shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing
which he commandeth them" (1 Nephi 3:7). When we find it
difficult to obey a commandment of the Lord, we should remember
203When has the Lord prepared a way for you to obey Him?
No Commandment Is Too Small or Too Great to Obey
Sometimes we may think a commandment is not very important. The
scriptures tell of a man named Naaman who thought that way. Naaman
had a dreadful disease and traveled from Syria to Israel to ask
the prophet Elisha to heal him. Naaman was an important man in his
own country, so he was offended when Elisha did not greet him in
person but sent his servant instead. Naaman was even more offended
when he received Elisha's message: wash seven times in the river
Jordan. "Are not [the] rivers of Damascus better than all the waters
of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean?" he demanded. He
went away in a rage. But his servants asked him: "If the prophet had
bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how
much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?" Naaman
was wise enough to understand that it was important to obey
the prophet of God, even if it seemed a small matter. So he washed
in the Jordan and was healed. (See 2 Kings 5:1–14.)
Sometimes we may think a commandment is too difficult for us to
obey. Like Nephi's brothers, we may say, "It is a hard thing God
requires of us." Yet, like Nephi, we can be sure that God will give us
no commandment unless He prepares a way for us to obey Him.
It was a "hard thing" when the Lord commanded Abraham to offer
his beloved son Isaac as a sacrifice (see Genesis 22:1–13; see also
chapter 26 in this book). Abraham had waited many years for the
birth of Isaac, the son God had promised him. How could he lose
his son in such a way? This commandment must have been exceedingly
difficult for Abraham. Yet he chose to obey God.
We too should be willing to do anything God requires. The
Prophet Joseph Smith said, "I made this my rule: When the Lord
commands, do it" (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph
Smith [2007], 160). This can be our rule also.
204When have you received blessings as a result of your obedience to commandments that seemed small?
Jesus Christ Obeyed His Father
What examples come to mind when you think of Jesus Christ obeying His Father?
Jesus Christ was the sublime example of obedience to our Heavenly
Father. He said, "I came down from heaven, not to do mine
own will, but the will of him that sent me" (John 6:38). His whole
life was devoted to obeying His Father; yet it was not always easy
for him. He was tempted in all ways as other mortals (see Hebrews
4:15). In the Garden of Gethsemane He prayed, saying, "O my
Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not
as I will, but as thou wilt" (Matthew 26:39).
Because Jesus obeyed the Father's will in all things, He made salvation
How can remembering the Savior's example help us be obedient?
Results of Obedience and Disobedience
What are the consequences of obeying or disobeying the Lord's
The kingdom of heaven is governed by law, and when we receive
any blessing, it is by obedience to the law upon which that blessing
is based (see D&C 130:20–21; 132:5). The Lord has told us that
through our obedience and diligence we may gain knowledge and
intelligence (see D&C 130:18–19). We may also grow spiritually (see
Jeremiah 7:23–24). On the other hand, disobedience brings disappointment
and results in a loss of blessings. "Who am I, saith the
Lord, that have promised and have not fulfilled? I command and
men obey not; I revoke and they receive not the blessing. Then
they say in their hearts: This is not the work of the Lord, for his
promises are not fulfilled" (D&C 58:31–33).
When we keep the commandments of God, He fulfills His promises,
as King Benjamin told his people: "He doth require that ye
should do as he hath commanded you; for which if ye do, he doth
immediately bless you" (Mosiah 2:24).
205The Obedient Gain Eternal Life
The Lord counsels us, "If you keep my commandments and endure
to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all
The Lord has described other blessings that will come to those who
obey Him in righteousness and truth until the end:
"Thus saith the Lord—I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto
those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in
righteousness and in truth unto the end.
"Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory.
"And to them will I reveal all mysteries, yea, all the hidden mysteries
of my kingdom from days of old, and for ages to come, will I
make known unto them the good pleasure of my will concerning
all things pertaining to my kingdom.
"Yea, even the wonders of eternity shall they know, and things to
come will I show them, even the things of many generations.
"And their wisdom shall be great, and their understanding reach to
"For by my Spirit will I enlighten them, and by my power will I
make known unto them the secrets of my will—yea, even those
things which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor yet entered into
the heart of man" (D&C 76:5–10).
What does the phrase "endure to the end" mean to you?
What can we do to stay true to gospel principles even when it is
unpopular to do so? How can we help children and youth stay
Abraham 3:25 (we came to earth to prove our obedience)
1 Samuel 15:22 (obedience is better than sacrifice)
2062 Nephi 31:7 (Jesus Christ was obedient)
John 8:29–32; Mosiah 2:22, 41; D&C 82:10; 1 Nephi 2:20 (blessings for obedience)
D&C 58:21–22; 98:4–6; 134:5–7 (obey the laws of the land)
Isaiah 60:12; D&C 1:14; 93:39; 132:6, 39 (consequences of disobedience)
2 Nephi 31:16; D&C 53:7; Matthew 24:13; Luke 9:62 (endure to the end)
For teachers: You can help class members or family members think more deeply about
a question by giving them time to ponder. After they have had enough time, ask for their
Why did our Heavenly Father send us to earth as members of families?
"Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. . .
The family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of
His children" ("The Family: A Proclamation to the World," Ensign,
After Heavenly Father brought Adam and Eve together in marriage,
He commanded them to have children (see Genesis 1:28).
He has revealed that one of the purposes of marriage is to provide
mortal bodies for His spirit children. Parents are partners with our
Heavenly Father. He wants each of His spirit children to receive a
physical body and to experience earth life. When a man and a
woman bring children into this world, they help our Heavenly
Every new child should be welcomed into the family with gladness.
Each is a child of God. We should take time to enjoy our children,
to play with them, and to teach them.
President David O. McKay said, "With all my heart I believe that
the best place to prepare for . . eternal life is in the home" ("Blueprint
for Family Living," Improvement Era, Apr. 1963, 252). At
home, with our families, we can learn self-control, sacrifice, loyalty,
and the value of work. We can learn to love, to share, and to serve
208Picture of a family in front of a temple
209Fathers and mothers are responsible to teach their children about
Heavenly Father. They should show by example that they love
Him because they keep His commandments. Parents should also
teach their children to pray and to obey the commandments (see
Why is the home the best place to prepare for eternal life?
How can we help the youth of the Church understand the sacredness
of the family and the marriage covenant?
Families can be together forever. To enjoy this blessing we must
be married in the temple. When people are married outside the
temple, the marriage ends when one of the partners dies. When
we are married in the temple by the authority of the Melchizedek
Priesthood, we are married for time and eternity. If we keep our
covenants with the Lord, our families will be united eternally as
husband, wife, and children. Death cannot separate us.
How can we develop greater harmony in our homes?
Husbands and wives should be thoughtful and kind to each other.
They should never do or say anything to hurt each other's feelings.
They should also try to do everything possible to make each other
As parents come to know God and strive to be like Him, they will
teach children to love one another. In the Book of Mormon, King
"Ye will not suffer your children . . [to] fight and quarrel one with
"But ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness;
ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another"
As family members we can help each other feel confident by giving
encouragement and sincere praise. Each child should feel important.
210Parents need to show they are interested in what their children do
and express love and concern for their children. Children should
likewise show their love for their parents. They should be obedient
and try to live the kind of life that will bring honor to their parents
What can parents do to encourage their sons and daughters to be
good friends with one another? What can brothers and sisters do
to nurture their friendship with one another?
What can husbands and wives do to help each other be happy?
How to Have a Successful Family
What are you doing to help strengthen your family and make it
President Harold B. Lee taught, "The most important of the Lord's
work you will ever do will be within the walls of your own homes"
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee [2000], 134).
Satan knows how important families are to our Heavenly Father's
plan. He seeks to destroy them by keeping us from drawing near
to the Lord. He will tempt us to do things that will draw our families
The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles declared,
"Successful marriages and families are established and maintained
on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love,
compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities" (Ensign,
All of us want to have happy, successful families. The following
things will help us achieve this:
1. Have family prayer every night and morning (see 3 Nephi 18:21). Pray together as husband and wife.
2. Teach children the gospel every week in family home evening.
3. Study the scriptures regularly as a family.
4. Do things together as a family, such as work projects, outings, and decision making.
2115. Learn to be kind, patient, long-suffering, and charitable (see Moroni 7:45–48).
6. Attend Church meetings regularly (see D&C 59:9–10).
7. Follow the counsel of the Lord in D&C 88:119: "Organize yourselves;
prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even
a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house
of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God."
8. Keep a family history, perform temple work together, and
receive the sealing ordinances of the temple.
The family is the most important unit in The Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints. The Church exists to help families gain eternal
blessings and exaltation. The organizations and programs within the
Church are designed to strengthen us individually and help us live
What can families do to work through difficult times?
Additional Scriptures and Other Sources
Moses 2:27–28 (man and woman created and blessed)
Genesis 2:24 (man to cleave unto his wife)
D&C 49:15–16 (God ordained marriage)
Ephesians 6:4 (train children in righteousness)
D&C 132:15–21 (eternal marriage)
D&C 88:119–26 (instructions for a successful family)
D&C 93:40–50 (the Lord commands parents to bring up their children in light and truth)
For teachers: As you teach this chapter and the next two chapters about families, be sensitive
to the feelings of those who do not have ideal situations at home.
212Responsibilities of the Parents.
What responsibilities do husbands and wives share in raising their
Each person has an important place in his or her family. Through
prophets the Lord has explained how fathers, mothers, and children
should behave and feel toward one another. As husbands, wives,
and children, we need to learn what the Lord expects us to do
to fulfill our purpose as a family. If we all do our part, we will be
In the sacred responsibilities of parenthood, "fathers and mothers
are obligated to help one another as equal partners" ("The Family:
A Proclamation to the World," Ensign,
work together to provide for the spiritual, emotional, intellectual,
and physical needs of the family.
Some responsibilities must be shared by the husband and the wife.
Parents should teach their children the gospel. The Lord warned
that if parents do not teach their children about faith, repentance,
baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, the sin will be upon the
heads of the parents. Parents should also teach their children to
pray and to obey the Lord's commandments. (See D&C 68:25, 28.)
One of the best ways parents can teach their children is by example.
Husbands and wives should show love and respect for each
other and for their children by both actions and words. It is important
to remember that each member of the family is a child of God.
Parents should treat their children with love and respect, being firm
214Parents should understand that sometimes children will make
wrong choices even after they have been taught the truth. When
this happens, parents should not give up. They should continue to
teach their children, to express love for them, to be good examples
to them, and to fast and pray for them.
The Book of Mormon tells us how the prayers of a father helped a
rebellious son return to the ways of the Lord. Alma the Younger had
fallen away from the teachings of his righteous father, Alma, and
had gone about seeking to destroy the Church. The father prayed
with faith for his son. Alma the Younger was visited by an angel
and repented of his evil way of living. He became a great leader of
the Church. (See Mosiah 27:8–32.)
Parents can provide an atmosphere of reverence and respect in
the home if they teach and guide their children with love. Parents
should also provide happy experiences for their children.
How can husbands and wives support each other in their roles?
Where can single parents turn for support?
Responsibilities of the Father
What positive examples have you seen of fathers raising their
"By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love
and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities
of life and protection for their families" (Ensign,
A worthy father who is a member of the Church has the opportunity
to hold the priesthood, making him the priesthood leader of
his family. He should guide his family with humility and kindness
rather than with force or cruelty. The scriptures teach that those
who hold the priesthood should lead others by persuasion, gentleness,
love, and kindness (see D&C 121:41–44; Ephesians 6:4).
The father shares the blessings of the priesthood with the members
of his family. When a man holds the Melchizedek Priesthood, he can
share these blessings by administering to the sick and giving special
priesthood blessings. Under the direction of a presiding priesthood
leader, he can bless babies, baptize, confirm, and perform priesthood
215He should set a good example for his family by keeping
the commandments. He should also make sure the family prays
together twice daily and holds family home evening.
The father should spend time with each child individually. He
should teach his children correct principles, talk with them about
their problems and concerns, and counsel them lovingly. Some
good examples are found in the Book of Mormon (see 2 Nephi
It is also the father's duty to provide for the physical needs of his
family, making sure they have the necessary food, housing, clothing,
and education. Even if he is unable to provide all the support himself,
he does not give up the responsibility of the care of his family.
Responsibilities of the Mother
What positive examples have you seen of mothers raising their
President David O. McKay said that motherhood is the noblest
calling (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay
[2003], 156). It is a sacred calling, a partnership with God in bringing
His spirit children into the world. Bearing children is one of
the greatest of all blessings. If there is no father in the home, the
mother presides over the family.
President Boyd K. Packer praised women who were unable to have
children of their own yet sought to care for others. He said: "When
I speak of mothers, I speak not only of those women who have
borne children, but also of those who have fostered children born
to others, and of the many women who, without children of their
own, have mothered the children of others" (Mothers [1977], 8).
Latter-day prophets have taught, "Mothers are primarily responsible
for the nurture of their children" (Ensign,
needs to spend time with her children and teach them the gospel.
She should play and work with them so they can discover the world
around them. She also needs to help her family know how to make
the home a pleasant place to be. If she is warm and loving, she
helps her children feel good about themselves.
216The Book of Mormon describes a group of 2,000 young men who
rose to greatness because of the teachings of their mothers (see
Alma 53:16–23). Led by the prophet Helaman, they went into battle
against their enemies. They had learned to be honest, brave, and
trustworthy from their mothers. Their mothers also taught them that
if they did not doubt, God would deliver them (see Alma 56:47).
They all survived the battle. They expressed faith in the teachings
of their mothers, saying, "We do not doubt our mothers knew it"
(Alma 56:48). Every mother who has a testimony can have a profound
Responsibilities of the Children
How do children help their parents build a happy home?
Children share with their parents the responsibilities of building a
happy home. They should obey the commandments and cooperate
with other family members. The Lord is not pleased when children
The Lord has commanded children to honor their parents. He said,
"Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon
the land" (Exodus 20:12). To honor parents means to love and
respect them. It also means to obey them. The scriptures tell children
to "obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right" (Ephesians 6:1).
President Spencer W. Kimball said that children should learn to work
and to share responsibilities in the home and yard. They should be
given assignments to keep the house neat and clean. (See Teachings
of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 120.)
What should children do to honor and respect their parents?
What did your parents do that led you to honor and respect them?
Accepting Responsibilities Brings Blessings
What can each member of the family do to make home a happy place?
A loving and happy family does not happen by accident. Each
person in the family must do his or her part. The Lord has given
responsibilities to both parents and children.
217that we must be thoughtful, cheerful, and considerate of others.
When we speak, pray, sing, or work together, we can enjoy the
blessings of harmony in our families. (See Colossians 3.)
What are some traditions and practices that can make home a happy place?
Additional Scriptures and Other Sources
Proverbs 22:6 (train up a child)
Ephesians 6:1–3 (children are to obey parents)
D&C 68:25–28; Ephesians 6:4 (responsibilities of parents)
Family Guidebook (item number 31180)
For teachers: As with chapter 36, be sensitive to the feelings of those who do not have
ideal situations at home. Emphasize that with guidance from the Lord and help from family
members and the Church, single parents can successfully raise their children.
218Marriage between a man and a woman is a vital part of God's plan.
The Lord has said, "Whoso forbiddeth to marry is not ordained of
God, for marriage is ordained of God unto man" (D&C 49:15). Since
the beginning, marriage has been a law of the gospel. Marriages are
intended to last forever, not just for our mortal lives.
Adam and Eve were married by God before there was any death
in the world. They had an eternal marriage. They taught the law of
eternal marriage to their children and their children's children. As
the years passed, wickedness entered the hearts of the people and
the authority to perform this sacred ordinance was taken from the
earth. Through the Restoration of the gospel, eternal marriage has
Why is it important to know that marriage between a man and a
Eternal Marriage Is Essential for Exaltation
What is the Lord's doctrine of marriage, and how does it differ
Many people in the world consider marriage to be only a social
custom, a legal agreement between a man and a woman to live
together. But to Latter-day Saints, marriage is much more. Our exaltation
depends on marriage, along with other principles and ordinances,
such as faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of
the Holy Ghost. We believe that marriage is the most sacred relationship
that can exist between a man and a woman. This sacred
relationship affects our happiness now and in the eternities.
220Heavenly Father has given us the law of eternal marriage so we can
become like Him. The Lord has said:
"In the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees;
"And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order
of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of
"And if he does not, he cannot obtain it" (D&C 131:1–3).
Eternal Marriage Must Be Performed by Proper Authority in
Why must a marriage be performed by proper authority in the
An eternal marriage must be performed by one who holds the sealing
power. The Lord promised, "If a man marry a wife by . . the
new and everlasting covenant . . by him who is anointed, . . and
if [they] abide in [the Lord's] covenant, . . it . . shall be of full force
when they are out of the world" (D&C 132:19).
Not only must an eternal marriage be performed by the proper
priesthood authority, but it must also be done in one of the holy
temples of our Lord. The temple is the only place this holy ordinance
In the temple, Latter-day Saint couples kneel at one of the sacred
altars in the presence of their family and friends who have received
the temple endowment. They make their marriage covenants before
God. They are pronounced husband and wife for time and all
eternity. This is done by one who holds the holy priesthood of God
and has been given the authority to perform this sacred ordinance.
He acts under the direction of the Lord and promises the couple the
blessings of exaltation. He instructs them in the things they must
do to receive these blessings. He reminds them that all blessings
depend on obedience to the laws of God.
221If we are married by any authority other than by the priesthood in
a temple, the marriage is for this life only. After death, the marriage
partners have no claim on each other or on their children. An
eternal marriage gives us the opportunity to continue as families
Benefits of an Eternal Marriage
What are the blessings of an eternal marriage in this life and in
As Latter-day Saints, we are living with an eternal perspective, not
just for the moment. However, we can receive blessings in this life
as a result of being married for eternity. Some of those blessings are
1. We know that our marriage can last forever. Death can part us
from one another only temporarily. Nothing can part us forever
except our own disobedience. This knowledge helps us work
harder to have a happy, successful marriage.
2. We know that our family relationships can continue throughout
eternity. This knowledge helps us be careful in teaching
and training our children. It also helps us show them greater
patience and love. As a result, we should have a happier home.
3. Because we have been married in God's ordained way, we are
entitled to an outpouring of the Spirit on our marriage as we
Some of the blessings we can enjoy for eternity are as follows:
1. We can live in the highest degree of the celestial kingdom
2. We can be exalted as God is and receive a fulness of joy.
How can an eternal perspective influence the way we feel about
We Must Prepare for an Eternal Marriage
What can we do to help youth prepare for eternal marriage?
222President Spencer W. Kimball taught: "Marriage is perhaps the most
vital of all the decisions and has the most far-reaching effects, for it
has to do not only with immediate happiness, but also with eternal
joys. It affects not only the two people involved, but also their
families and particularly their children and their children's children
down through the many generations. In selecting a companion for
life and for eternity, certainly the most careful planning and thinking
and praying and fasting should be done to be sure that of all
the decisions, this one must not be wrong" (Teachings of Presidents
of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 193).
An eternal marriage should be the goal of every Latter-day Saint.
This is true even for those already married by civil law. To prepare
for an eternal marriage takes much thought and prayer. Only members
of the Church who live righteously are permitted to enter the
temple (see D&C 97:15–17). We do not suddenly decide one day
that we want to be married in the temple, then enter the temple that
day and get married. We must first meet certain requirements.
Before we can go to the temple, we must be active, worthy
members of the Church for at least one year. Men must hold the
Melchizedek Priesthood. We must be interviewed by the branch
president or bishop. If he finds us worthy, he will give us a temple
recommend. If we are not worthy, he will counsel with us and help
us set goals to become worthy to go to the temple.
After we receive a recommend from our bishop or branch president,
we must be interviewed by the stake president or the mission
president. We are asked questions like the following in interviews
1. Do you have faith in and a testimony of God, the Eternal Father;
His Son, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Ghost? Do you have a firm
testimony of the restored gospel?
2. Do you sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints as the prophet, seer, and revelator? Do you recognize
him as the only person on earth authorized to exercise
3. Do you live the law of chastity?
2234. Are you a full-tithe payer?
5. Do you keep the Word of Wisdom?
6. Are you honest in your dealings with others?
7. Do you strive to keep the covenants you have made, to attend
your sacrament and priesthood meetings, and to keep your life
in harmony with the laws and commandments of the gospel?
When you ask for a temple recommend, you should remember
that entering the temple is a sacred privilege. It is a serious act, not
something to be taken lightly.
We must seek earnestly to obey every covenant that we make in the
temple. The Lord has said that if we are true and faithful, we will
enter into our exaltation. We will become like our Heavenly Father.
(See D&C 132:19–20.) Temple marriage is worth any sacrifice. It is a
way of obtaining eternal blessings beyond measure.
What can we do to encourage young people to set a goal to be married in the temple? How can we help them prepare for this?
Genesis 1:26–28 (we should multiply and replenish the earth)
Genesis 2:21–24 (the first marriage was performed by God)
Matthew 19:3–8 (what God has joined)
D&C 132 (the eternal nature of the marriage law)
D&C 42:22–26 (marriage vows should be kept)
Jacob 3:5–7 (husbands and wives should be true to each other)
For teachers: All members, whether married or single, need to understand the doctrine of
eternal marriage. However, you should be sensitive to the feelings of adults who are not married.
As needed, help class members or family members know that all Heavenly Father's children
who are faithful to their covenants in this life will have the opportunity to receive all the
blessings of the gospel in the eternities, including the opportunity to have an eternal family.
224This chapter includes some parts that are beyond the maturity of
young children. It is best to wait until children are old enough to
understand sexual relations and procreation before teaching them
these parts of the chapter. Our Church leaders have told us that
parents are responsible to teach their children about procreation
(the process of conceiving and bearing children). Parents must also
teach them the law of chastity, which is explained in this chapter.
Parents can begin teaching children to have proper attitudes toward
their bodies when children are very young. Talking to children
frankly but reverently and using the correct names for the parts and
functions of their bodies will help them grow up without unnecessary
embarrassment about their bodies.
Children are naturally curious. They want to know how their bodies
work. They want to know where babies come from. If parents
answer all such questions immediately and clearly so children can
understand, children will continue to take their questions to their
parents. However, if parents answer questions so that children
feel embarrassed, rejected, or dissatisfied, they will probably go to
someone else with their questions and perhaps get incorrect ideas
It is not wise or necessary, however, to tell children everything at
once. Parents need only give them the information they have asked
for and can understand. While answering these questions, parents
can teach children the importance of respecting their bodies and
the bodies of others. Parents should teach children to dress modestly.
They should correct the false ideas and vulgar language that
226By the time children reach maturity, parents should have frankly
discussed procreation with them. Children should understand
that these powers are good and were given to us by the Lord. He
expects us to use them within the bounds He has given us.
Little children come to earth pure and innocent from Heavenly
Father. As parents pray for guidance, the Lord will inspire them to
teach children at the right time and in the right way.
Why should parents teach their children about procreation and
chastity? How can they appropriately do this?
God commanded each living thing to reproduce after its own kind
(see Genesis 1:22). Reproduction was part of His plan so that all
forms of life could continue to exist upon the earth.
Then He placed Adam and Eve on the earth. They were different
from His other creations because they were His spirit children. In
the Garden of Eden, He brought Adam and Eve together in marriage
and commanded them to multiply and replenish the earth
(see Genesis 1:28). However, their lives were to be governed by
moral laws rather than by instinct.
God wanted His spirit children to be born into families so they
could be properly cared for and taught. We, like Adam and Eve, are
to provide physical bodies for these spirit children. The First Presidency
and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles have stated, "We declare
the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed"
("The Family: A Proclamation to the World," Ensign, Nov. 1995,
102). God has commanded us that only in marriage between a man
and a woman are we to have sexual relations. This commandment
is called the law of chastity.
We are to have sexual relations only with our spouse to whom
we are legally married. No one, male or female, is to have sexual
227After marriage, sexual relations are permitted
To the Israelites the Lord said, "Thou shalt not commit adultery"
(Exodus 20:14). Those Israelites who broke this commandment
were subject to severe penalties. The Lord has repeated this commandment
in the latter days (see D&C 42:24).
We have been taught that the law of chastity encompasses more
than sexual intercourse. The First Presidency warned young people
"Before marriage, do not do anything to arouse the powerful emotions
that must be expressed only in marriage. Do not participate in
passionate kissing, lie on top of another person, or touch the private,
sacred parts of another person's body, with or without clothing.
Do not allow anyone to do that with you. Do not arouse those
emotions in your own body" (For the Strength of Youth [pamphlet,
Like other violations of the law of chastity, homosexual behavior is
a serious sin. Latter-day prophets have spoken about the dangers of
homosexual behavior and about the Church's concern for people
who may have such inclinations. President Gordon B. Hinckley said:
"In the first place, we believe that marriage between a man and a
woman is ordained of God. We believe that marriage may be eternal
through exercise of the power of the everlasting priesthood in
"People inquire about our position on those who consider themselves
so-called gays and lesbians. My response is that we love
them as sons and daughters of God. They may have certain inclinations
which are powerful and which may be difficult to control.
Most people have inclinations of one kind or another at various
times. If they do not act upon these inclinations, then they can go
forward as do all other members of the Church. If they violate the
law of chastity and the moral standards of the Church, then they are
subject to the discipline of the Church, just as others are.
228"We want to help these people, to strengthen them, to assist them
with their problems and to help them with their difficulties. But we
cannot stand idle if they indulge in immoral activity, if they try to
uphold and defend and live in a so-called same-sex marriage situation.
To permit such would be to make light of the very serious and
sacred foundation of God-sanctioned marriage and its very purpose,
the rearing of families" (in Conference Report, Oct. 1998, 91;
Satan Wants Us to Break the Law of Chastity
What are some ways Satan tempts people to break the law of
Satan's plan is to deceive as many of us as he can to prevent us
from returning to live with our Heavenly Father. One of the most
damaging things he can do is entice us to break the law of chastity.
He is cunning and powerful. He would like us to believe it is no sin
to break this law. Many people have been deceived. We must guard
ourselves against evil influences.
Satan attacks the standards of modesty. He wants us to believe that
because the human body is beautiful, it is something to flaunt and
expose. Our Heavenly Father wants us to keep our bodies covered so
that we do not encourage improper thoughts in the minds of others.
Satan not only encourages us to dress immodestly, but he also
encourages us to think immoral or improper thoughts. He does this
with pictures, movies, stories, jokes, music, and dances that suggest
immoral acts. The law of chastity requires that our thoughts as
well as our actions be pure. The prophet Alma taught that when we
are judged by God, "our thoughts will also condemn us; and in this
awful state we shall not dare to look up to our God" (Alma 12:14).
Jesus taught, "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time,
Thou shalt not commit adultery:
"But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust
after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart"
229President Gordon B. Hinckley warned: "You live in a world of terrible
temptations. Pornography, with its sleazy filth, sweeps over the earth
like a horrible, engulfing tide. It is poison. Do not watch it or read it.
It will destroy you if you do. It will take from you your self-respect.
It will rob you of a sense of the beauties of life. It will tear you down
and pull you into a slough of evil thoughts and possibly of evil
actions. Stay away from it. Shun it as you would a foul disease, for it
is just as deadly. Be virtuous in thought and in deed. God has planted
in you, for a purpose, a divine urge which may be easily subverted to
evil and destructive ends. When you are young, do not get involved
in steady dating. When you reach an age where you think of marriage,
then is the time to become so involved. But you boys who are
in high school don't need this, and neither do the girls" (in Conference
Report, Oct. 1997, 71–72; or Ensign,
Satan sometimes tempts us through our emotions. He knows when
we are lonely, confused, or depressed. He chooses this time of weakness
to tempt us to break the law of chastity. Our Heavenly Father
can give us the strength to pass through these trials unharmed.
The scriptures tell about a righteous young man named Joseph
who was greatly trusted by his master, Potiphar. Potiphar had given
Joseph command over everything he had. Potiphar's wife lusted
after Joseph and tempted him to commit adultery with her. But
Joseph resisted her and fled from her. (See Genesis 39:1–18.)
Paul taught, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is
common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be
tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also
make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians
10:13). Alma emphasized that we will "not be tempted above that
which [we] can bear" as we "humble [ourselves] before the Lord, and
call on his holy name, and watch and pray continually" (Alma 13:28).
How are modesty and chastity related? How can parents teach their children to be modest in dress, language, and behavior?
230How can we fight the spread and influence of pornography?
What promises has the Lord given us to help us overcome Satan's temptations?
Breaking the Law of Chastity Is Extremely Serious
The prophet Alma grieved because one of his sons had broken the
law of chastity. Alma said to his son Corianton, "Know ye not, my
son, that these things are an abomination in the sight of the Lord;
yea, most abominable above all sins save it be the shedding of
innocent blood or denying the Holy Ghost?" (Alma 39:5). Unchastity
is next to murder in seriousness.
If a man and a woman break the law of chastity and conceive a
child, they may be tempted to commit another abominable sin:
abortion. There is seldom any justifiable reason for abortion. Church
leaders have said that some exceptional circumstances may justify
an abortion, such as when pregnancy is the result of incest or rape,
when the life or health of the mother is judged by competent medical
authority to be in serious jeopardy, or when the fetus is known
by competent medical authority to have severe defects that will
not allow the baby to survive beyond birth. But even these circumstances
do not automatically justify an abortion. Those who face
such circumstances should consider abortion only after consulting
with their local Church leaders and receiving a confirmation through
"When a man and woman conceive a child out of wedlock, every
effort should be made to encourage them to marry. When the probability
of a successful marriage is unlikely due to age or other circumstances,
unwed parents should be counseled to place the child
for adoption through LDS Family Services to ensure that the baby
will be sealed to temple-worthy parents" (First Presidency letter,
June 26, 2002, and July 19, 2002).
It is extremely important to our Heavenly Father that His children
obey the law of chastity. Members of the Church who break this
law or influence others to do so are subject to Church discipline.
231Those Who Break the Law of Chastity Can Be Forgiven
Peace can come to those who have broken the law of chastity. The
Lord tells us, "If the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath
committed, and keep all my statutes, . . all his transgressions that
he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him" (Ezekiel
18:21–22). Peace comes only through forgiveness.
President Kimball said: "To every forgiveness there is a condition.
. . The fasting, the prayers, the humility must be equal to or greater
than the sin. There must be a broken heart and a contrite spirit. . .
There must be tears and genuine change of heart. There must be
conviction of the sin, abandonment of the evil, confession of the
error to properly constituted authorities of the Lord" (The Miracle of
For many people, confession is the most difficult part of repentance.
We must confess not only to the Lord but also to the person
we have offended, such as a husband or wife, and to the proper
priesthood authority. The priesthood leader (bishop or stake president)
will judge our standing in the Church. The Lord told Alma,
"Whosoever transgresseth against me . . if he confess his sins
before thee and me, and repenteth in the sincerity of his heart, him
shall ye forgive, and I will forgive him also" (Mosiah 26:29).
But President Kimball warned: "Even though forgiveness is so abundantly
promised there is no promise nor indication of forgiveness
to any soul who does not totally repent. . . We can hardly be too
forceful in reminding people that they cannot sin and be forgiven
and then sin again and again and expect repeated forgiveness" (The
Miracle of Forgiveness, 353, 360). Those who receive forgiveness
and then repeat the sin are held accountable for their former sins
Those Who Keep the Law of Chastity Are Greatly Blessed
What blessings do we receive as we keep the law of chastity?
When we obey the law of chastity, we can live without guilt or
shame. Our lives and our children's lives are blessed when we keep
ourselves pure and spotless before the Lord.
232our example and follow in our footsteps.
Matthew 19:5–9; Genesis 2:24 (marriage relationship is sacred)
Titus 2:4–12 (instructions for chastity)
1 Corinthians 7:2–5; Ephesians 5:28 (loyalty to spouse)
Revelation 14:4–5 (blessings for obedience to the law of chastity)
Proverbs 31:10 (virtue praised)
Alma 39:9 (do not go after the lusts of your eyes)
D&C 121:45 (let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly)
Alma 42:16 (repentance does not come without punishment)
Alma 42:30 (do not excuse yourself for sinning)
D&C 58:42–43 (the repentant confess and forsake their sins)
For teachers: All members, whether married or single, need to understand the doctrine of
eternal marriage. However, you should be sensitive to the feelings of adults who are not married.
As needed, help class members or family members know that all Heavenly Father's children
who are faithful to their covenants in this life will have the opportunity to receive all the
blessings of the gospel in the eternities, including the opportunity to have an eternal family.
For teachers: For help with questions about modesty and chastity, you may want to refer to
centers and at LDS.org and which may be available at your meetinghouse library.
Heavenly Father Wants His Children to Return to Him.
The Atonement of Jesus Christ assures each of us that we will be
resurrected and live forever. But if we are to live forever with our
families in Heavenly Father's presence, we must do all that the
Savior commands us to do. This includes being baptized and confirmed
and receiving the ordinances of the temple.
As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we
have each been baptized and confirmed by one having the proper
priesthood authority. Each of us may also go to the temple to receive
the saving priesthood ordinances performed there. But many of
God's children have not had these same opportunities. They lived at
a time or place when the gospel was not available to them.
Heavenly Father wants all of His children to return and live with
Him. For those who died without baptism or the temple ordinances,
He has provided a way for this to happen. He has asked us to perform
ordinances for our ancestors in the temples.
Why are temples important in our lives?
Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are
special buildings dedicated to the Lord. Worthy Church members
may go there to receive sacred ordinances and make covenants with
God. Like baptism, these ordinances and covenants are necessary for
our salvation. They must be performed in the temples of the Lord.
234Picture of the Salt Lake Temple
235We also go to the temple to learn more about Heavenly Father and
His Son, Jesus Christ. We gain a better understanding of our purpose
in life and our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus
Christ. We are taught about our premortal existence, the meaning of
earth life, and life after death.
Temple Ordinances Seal Families Together Forever
What does it mean to be sealed?
All temple ordinances are performed by the power of the priesthood.
Through this power, ordinances performed on earth are
sealed, or bound, in heaven. The Savior taught His Apostles,
"Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven"
(Matthew 16:19; see also D&C 132:7).
Only in the temple can we be sealed together forever as families.
Marriage in the temple joins a man and woman as husband and
wife eternally if they honor their covenants. Baptism and all other
ordinances prepare us for this sacred event.
When a man and woman are married in the temple, their children
who are born thereafter also become part of their eternal family.
Couples who have been married civilly can receive these blessings
by preparing themselves and their children to go to the temple and
be sealed to each other. Parents who adopt children legally may
have those children sealed to them.
What must a couple do to make the sealing power effective in
What responsibilities do we have toward our ancestors who have
died without receiving priesthood ordinances?
Mario Cannamela married Maria Vitta in 1882. They lived in Tripani,
Italy, where they raised a family and shared many wonderful years
together. Mario and Maria did not hear the message of the restored
gospel of Jesus Christ during their lifetimes. They were not baptized.
They did not have the opportunity to go to the temple and be sealed
together as an eternal family. At death, their marriage ended.
236Over a century later a great reunion took place. Descendants of
Mario and Maria went to the Los Angeles Temple, where a greatgrandson
and his wife knelt at an altar and served as proxies for the
sealing of Mario and Maria. Tears filled their eyes as they shared in
Many of our ancestors are among those who died without hearing
about the gospel while on the earth. They now live in the spirit world
(see chapter 41 in this book). There they are taught the gospel of
Jesus Christ. Those who have accepted the gospel are waiting for the
temple ordinances to be performed for them. As we perform these
ordinances in the temple for our ancestors, we can share their joy.
How does the doctrine of salvation for the dead show God's justice,
What experiences have you had doing temple work for your
Family History—How We Begin Helping Our Ancestors
What are the basic steps of doing family history work?
Latter-day Saints are encouraged to participate in family history
activities. Through these activities we learn about our ancestors so
that we can perform ordinances for them. Family history involves
2. Find out which ancestors need temple ordinances performed.
3. Make certain that the ordinances are performed for them.
Most wards and branches have family history consultants who can
answer questions and direct us to the resources we need. If a ward
or branch does not have a family history consultant, the bishop or
branch president can provide direction.
To perform temple ordinances for our ancestors, we need to know
their names. Many wonderful resources are available today to help
us identify our ancestors' names.
237A good way to begin gathering information about our ancestors is
to see what we have in our own homes. We may have birth, marriage,
or death certificates. We may also find family Bibles, obituaries,
family histories, or diaries and journals. In addition, we can ask
relatives for information they have. After gathering information in
our homes and from our ancestors, we can search other resources,
such as FamilySearch.org. We may also visit one of the Church's
How much we learn will depend on what information is available
to us. We may have only a little family information and may be able
to do no more than identify our parents and grandparents. If we
already have a large collection of family records, we may be able to
identify ancestors from generations further back in time.
We can keep track of the information we gather on family group
Find Out Which Ancestors Need Temple Ordinances Performed
Temple ordinances have been performed for the dead since the
early days of the Church. Consequently, some ordinances for our
ancestors may have already been done. To find out which ancestors
need temple ordinances, we can look in two places. Our own
family records might have information about what has been done.
If not, the Church has a record of all ordinances that have been performed
in the temple. Your ward or branch family history consultant
Make Certain the Ordinances Are Performed
Many of our ancestors in the spirit world may be anxious to receive
their temple ordinances. As soon as we identify these ancestors, we
should arrange for this work to be done for them.
One of the blessings of family history work comes from going to
the temple and performing ordinances in behalf of our ancestors.
We should prepare ourselves to receive a temple recommend so
that, when possible, we can do this work. If our children are 12
years old or older, they can share in these blessings by being baptized
and confirmed for their ancestors.
238If it is not possible for us to go to the temple to participate in the
ordinances, the temple will arrange to have the ordinances performed
How has the Lord helped you or members of your family find
information about your ancestors?
Additional Family History Opportunities
What are some simple ways for someone with many other
responsibilities to participate in family history work?
In addition to providing temple ordinances for the ancestors we
know about, we can help those in the spirit world in many other
ways. We should seek the guidance of the Spirit as we prayerfully
consider what we might do. Depending on our circumstances, we
1. Attend the temple as often as possible. After we have gone to
the temple for ourselves, we can perform the saving ordinances
for others waiting in the spirit world.
2. Do research to identify ancestors who are more difficult to find.
Family history consultants can guide us to helpful resources.
3. Help with the Church's indexing program. Through this program,
members prepare genealogical information for use in the
Church's family history computer programs. These programs
make it easier for us to identify our ancestors.
4. Contribute family history information to the Church's current
computer programs for family history. These programs contain
genealogies contributed by people all over the world. They allow
people to share their family information. Family history consultants
can provide more information about the Church's computer
5. Participate in family organizations. We can accomplish much
more for our ancestors as we work together with other family
Think about what you can do to increase your participation in temple and family history work.
2391 Peter 4:6 (gospel was preached to the dead)
Malachi 4:5–6; D&C 2:2; 3 Nephi 25:5–6 (mission of Elijah)
1 Corinthians 15:29; D&C 128:15–18 (work for the dead)
D&C 138 (redemption of the dead)
For teachers: Pictures can generate interest and help learners increase their understanding.
Consider asking class members or family members to ponder their feelings about
temple work as they look at the picture of a temple in this chapter.
240Picture of a mother and her three children in front of a grave
What happens to us after we die?
Heavenly Father prepared a plan for our salvation. As part of this
plan, He sent us from His presence to live on earth and receive
mortal bodies of flesh and blood. Eventually our mortal bodies will
die, and our spirits will go to the spirit world. The spirit world is a
place of waiting, working, learning, and, for the righteous, resting
from care and sorrow. Our spirits will live there until we are ready
for our resurrection. Then our mortal bodies will once more unite
with our spirits, and we will receive the degree of glory we have
prepared for (see chapter 46 in this book).
Many people have wondered what the spirit world is like. The
scriptures and latter-day prophets have given us information about
What comfort do you receive from your knowledge that there is
life after death? How can we use our understanding of the postmortal
spirit world to comfort others?
Where Is the Postmortal Spirit World?
Latter-day prophets have said that the spirits of those who have
died are not far from us. President Ezra Taft Benson said: "Sometimes
the veil between this life and the life beyond becomes very
thin. Our loved ones who have passed on are not far from us"
(in Conference Report, Apr. 1971, 18; or Ensign,
President Brigham Young taught that the postmortal spirit world is
on the earth, around us (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church:
242What Is the Nature of Our Spirits?
Spirit beings have the same bodily form as mortals except that the
spirit body is in perfect form (see Ether 3:16). Spirits carry with them
from earth their attitudes of devotion or antagonism toward things of
righteousness (see Alma 34:34). They have the same appetites and
desires that they had when they lived on earth. All spirits are in adult
form. They were adults before their mortal existence, and they are
in adult form after death, even if they die as infants or children (see
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph F. Smith [1998], 131–32).
Why is it important to know that our spirits will have the same
attitudes in the spirit world that they have now?
What Are the Conditions in the Postmortal Spirit World?
The prophet Alma in the Book of Mormon taught about two divisions
or states in the spirit world:
"The spirits of those who are righteous are received into a state of
happiness, which is called paradise, a state of rest, a state of peace,
where they shall rest from all their troubles and from all care, and
"And then shall it come to pass, that the spirits of the wicked, yea,
who are evil—for behold, they have no part nor portion of the
Spirit of the Lord; for behold, they chose evil works rather than
good; therefore the spirit of the devil did enter into them, and take
possession of their house—and these shall be cast out into outer
darkness; there shall be weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of
teeth, and this because of their own iniquity, being led captive by
"Now this is the state of the souls of the wicked, yea, in darkness, and
a state of awful, fearful looking for the fiery indignation of the wrath
of God upon them; thus they remain in this state, as well as the righteous
in paradise, until the time of their resurrection" (Alma 40:12–14).
243The spirits are classified according to the purity of their lives and
their obedience to the will of the Lord while on earth. The righteous
and the wicked are separated (see 1 Nephi 15:28–30), but
the spirits may progress as they learn gospel principles and live in
accordance with them. The spirits in paradise can teach the spirits
According to the prophet Alma, the righteous spirits rest from
earthly care and sorrow. Nevertheless, they are occupied in doing
the work of the Lord. President Joseph F. Smith saw in a vision
that immediately after Jesus Christ was crucified, He visited the
righteous in the spirit world. He appointed messengers, gave them
power and authority, and commissioned them to "carry the light of
the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of
The Church is organized in the spirit world, and priesthood holders
continue their responsibilities there (see D&C 138:30). President
Wilford Woodruff taught: "The same Priesthood exists on the other
side of the veil. . . Every Apostle, every Seventy, every Elder, etc.,
who has died in the faith as soon as he passes to the other side of
the veil, enters into the work of the ministry" (Deseret News, Jan.
Family relationships are also important. President Jedediah M.
Grant, a counselor to Brigham Young, saw the spirit world and
described to Heber C. Kimball the organization that exists there:
"He said that the people he there saw were organized in family
capacities. . . He said, 'When I looked at families, there was a deficiency
in some, . . for I saw families that would not be permitted
to come and dwell together, because they had not honored their
calling here' " (Deseret News, Dec. 10, 1856, 316–17).
244The Apostle Peter referred to the postmortal spirit world as a prison,
which it is for some (see 1 Peter 3:18–20). In the spirit prison are the
spirits of those who have not yet received the gospel of Jesus Christ.
These spirits have agency and may be enticed by both good and evil.
If they accept the gospel and the ordinances performed for them in
the temples, they may leave the spirit prison and dwell in paradise.
Also in the spirit prison are those who rejected the gospel after it
was preached to them either on earth or in the spirit prison. These
spirits suffer in a condition known as hell. They have removed
themselves from the mercy of Jesus Christ, who said, "Behold, I,
God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if
they would repent; but if they would not repent they must suffer
even as I; which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of
all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to
suffer both body and spirit" (D&C 19:16–18). After suffering for their
sins, they will be allowed, through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, to
inherit the lowest degree of glory, which is the telestial kingdom.
How are conditions in the spirit world similar to conditions in this life?
1 Peter 4:6 (gospel preached to the dead)
Moses 7:37–39 (spirit prison prepared for the wicked)
D&C 76 (revelation about the three kingdoms of glory)
Luke 16:19–31 (fate of beggar and rich man in the spirit world)
For teachers: To help class members or family members understand the differences
between paradise and spirit prison, consider drawing a vertical line in the middle of the
board or on a large piece of paper, making two columns. At the top of one column, write
State of the Righteous. At the top of the other column, write State of the Wicked. Ask
members to describe each state in the spirit world, based on their reading in this section.
The House of Israel Are God's Covenant People.
What responsibilities do God's covenant people have to the
Jacob was a great prophet who lived hundreds of years before the
time of Christ. Because Jacob was faithful, the Lord gave him the
special name of Israel, which means "one who prevails with God"
or "let God prevail" (Bible Dictionary, "Israel," 708). Jacob had
twelve sons. These sons and their families became known as the
twelve tribes of Israel, or Israelites (see Genesis 49:28).
Jacob was a grandson of Abraham. The Lord made an everlasting
covenant with Abraham that was renewed with Isaac and with
Jacob and his children (see chapter 15 in this book; see also the
visual in this chapter, depicting Jacob blessing his sons). God promised
that the Israelites would be His covenant people as long as
they would obey His commandments (see Deuteronomy 28:9–10).
They would be a blessing to all the nations of the world by taking
the gospel and the priesthood to them (see Abraham 2:9–11). Thus,
they would keep their covenant with the Lord and He would keep
The House of Israel Was Scattered
Again and again prophets of the Lord warned the house of Israel
what would happen if they were wicked. Moses prophesied, "And
the Lord shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of
the earth even unto the other" (Deuteronomy 28:64).
246Picture of Israel blessing his sons
247Despite this warning, the Israelites consistently broke the commandments
of God. They fought among themselves and split into
two kingdoms: the Northern Kingdom, called the kingdom of Israel,
and the Southern Kingdom, called the kingdom of Judah. Ten of
the twelve tribes of Israel lived in the Northern Kingdom. During a
war they were conquered by their enemies and carried away into
captivity. Some of them later escaped into the lands of the north
and became lost to the rest of the world.
About 100 years after the capture of the Northern Kingdom, the
Southern Kingdom was conquered. The capital city of Jerusalem
was destroyed in 586 b.c., and many members of the remaining
two tribes of Israel were taken captive. Later, some of the members
of these tribes returned and rebuilt Jerusalem. Just before Jerusalem
was destroyed, Lehi and his family, who were members of the
house of Israel, left the city and settled in the Americas.
After the time of Christ, Jerusalem was again destroyed, this time by
Roman soldiers. The Jews were scattered over much of the world.
Today Israelites are found in all countries of the world. Many of
these people do not know that they are descended from the ancient
What benefits have come to God's children because His covenant
people have been scattered throughout the earth?
The House of Israel Must Be Gathered
Why does the Lord want His people to be gathered?
How will the house of Israel be gathered?
The Lord promised that His covenant people would someday be
gathered: "I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all countries
whither I have driven them" (Jeremiah 23:3).
God gathers His children through missionary work. As people
come to a knowledge of Jesus Christ, receiving the ordinances of
salvation and keeping the associated covenants, they become "the
children of the covenant" (3 Nephi 20:26). He has important reasons
for gathering His children. He gathers them so they can learn the
teachings of the gospel and prepare themselves to meet the Savior
248He gathers them so they will build temples
and perform sacred ordinances for ancestors who have died without
having this opportunity. He gathers them so they can strengthen
one another and be unified in the gospel, finding protection from
unrighteous influences in the world. He also gathers them so they
can prepare themselves to share the gospel with others.
The power and authority to direct the work of gathering the house
of Israel was given to Joseph Smith by the prophet Moses, who
appeared in 1836 in the Kirtland Temple (see D&C 110:11). Since
that time, each prophet has held the keys for the gathering of the
house of Israel, and this gathering has been an important part of
the Church's work. The covenant people are now being gathered
as they accept the restored gospel and serve the God of Abraham,
Isaac, and Jacob (see Deuteronomy 30:1–5).
The Israelites are to be gathered spiritually first and then physically.
They are gathered spiritually as they join The Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints and make and keep sacred covenants. This spiritual
gathering began during the time of the Prophet Joseph Smith
and continues today all over the world. Converts to the Church are
Israelites either by blood or adoption. They belong to the family of
Abraham and Jacob (see Abraham 2:9–11; Galatians 3:26–29).
President Joseph Fielding Smith said: "There are many nations represented
in the . . Church. . . They have come because the Spirit of
the Lord rested upon them; . . receiving the spirit of gathering, they
left everything for the sake of the gospel" (Doctrines of Salvation,
comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 3:256; italics in original).
The physical gathering of Israel means that the covenant people
will be "gathered home to the lands of their inheritance, and shall
be established in all their lands of promise" (2 Nephi 9:2). The
tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh will be gathered in the Americas.
The tribe of Judah will return to the city of Jerusalem and the area
surrounding it. The ten lost tribes will receive from the tribe of
Ephraim their promised blessings (see D&C 133:26–34).
249When the Church was first established, the Saints were instructed
to gather in Ohio, then Missouri, and then the Salt Lake Valley.
Today, however, modern prophets have taught that Church members
are to build up the kingdom of God in their own lands. Elder
Russell M. Nelson said: "The choice to come unto Christ is not a
matter of physical location; it is a matter of individual commitment.
People can be 'brought to the knowledge of the Lord' [3 Nephi
20:13] without leaving their homelands. True, in the early days of
the Church, conversion often meant emigration as well. But now
the gathering takes place in each nation. . . The place of gathering
for Brazilian Saints is in Brazil; the place of gathering for Nigerian
Saints is in Nigeria; the place of gathering for Korean Saints is in
Korea; and so forth. Zion is 'the pure in heart.' [D&C 97:21.] Zion
is wherever righteous Saints are" (in Conference Report, Oct. 2006,
The physical gathering of Israel will not be complete until the Second
Coming of the Savior and on into the Millennium (see Joseph
Smith—Matthew 1:37). Then the Lord's promise will be fulfilled:
"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that it shall no more be
said, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of
"But, The Lord liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from
the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven
them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto
their fathers" (Jeremiah 16:14–15).
In what ways have you been gathered spiritually as one of the
In what ways have you participated in the gathering of others?
Genesis 17:1–8 (God's covenant with Abraham)
Romans 9:4–8; Galatians 3:29 (those who follow Jesus Christ and
His word are the children of the covenant)
2502 Kings 17 (Northern Kingdom taken captive)
2 Chronicles 36:11–20 (Southern Kingdom taken captive)
James 1:1 (twelve tribes scattered abroad)
1 Nephi 10:12–13 (Nephite migration was part of the scattering)
Jeremiah 3:14–18 (one from a city, two from a family)
Ezekiel 20:33–36 (Israel will be gathered from all countries)
3 Nephi 20:29–46 (Jews will be gathered to Jerusalem)
1 Nephi 15:13–18; 3 Nephi 21:26–29 (gathering starts with Restoration of the gospel)
D&C 38:31–33 (the Lord's covenant people will be saved)
Isaiah 11:11–13 (the Lord will recover His people)
Revelation 18:4–8 (a voice will proclaim the gathering)
D&C 133:6–15 (Gentiles to Zion, Jews to Jerusalem)
For teachers: When people share their stories of being converted to the restored gospel of
Jesus Christ, they are sharing stories about being gathered spiritually. Consider asking a
few people in advance to tell about how they were converted to the gospel.
Jesus Christ Will Return to the Earth.
What are some of the signs of the Second Coming?
The Savior told Joseph Smith, "I will reveal myself from heaven with
power and great glory . . and dwell in righteousness with men on
earth a thousand years, and the wicked shall not stand" (D&C 29:11;
see also chapters 44 and 45 in this book). Jesus has told us that
certain signs and events will warn us when the time of His Second
For thousands of years, followers of Jesus Christ have looked
forward to the Second Coming as a time of peace and joy. But
before the Savior comes, the people of the earth will experience
great trials and calamities. Our Heavenly Father wants us to be
prepared for these troubles. He also expects us to be spiritually
ready when the Savior comes in His glory. Therefore, He has given
us signs, which are events that will tell us when the Savior's Second
Coming is near. Throughout the ages God has revealed these signs
to His prophets. He has said that all faithful followers of Christ will
know what the signs are and will be watching for them (see D&C
45:39). If we are obedient and faithful, we will study the scriptures
Some of the signs foretelling the Second Coming of Jesus Christ
have already been or are now being fulfilled. Others will be fulfilled
252Picture of Christ descending out of the clouds
253Many of the signs are terrifying and dreadful. The prophets have
warned that the earth will experience great turmoil, wickedness,
war, and suffering. The prophet Daniel said that the time before
the Second Coming would be a time of trouble such as the earth
has never known (see Daniel 12:1). The Lord said, "The love of
men shall wax cold, and iniquity shall abound" (D&C 45:27). "And
all things shall be in commotion; and . . fear shall come upon all
people" (D&C 88:91). We can expect earthquakes, disease, famines,
great storms, lightnings, and thunder (see Matthew 24:7; D&C 88:90).
Hailstorms will destroy the crops of the earth (see D&C 29:16).
Jesus told His disciples that war would fill the earth: "Ye shall
hear of wars and rumours of wars. . . For nation shall rise against
nation, and kingdom against kingdom" (Matthew 24:6–7). The
Prophet Joseph Smith said: "Be not discouraged when we tell you
of perilous times, for they must shortly come, for the sword, famine,
and pestilence are approaching. There shall be great destructions
upon the face of this land, for ye need not suppose that one jot or
tittle of the prophecies of all the holy prophets shall fail, and there
are many that remain to be fulfilled yet" (Teachings of Presidents of
the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 252).
Many of these signs are being fulfilled. Wickedness is everywhere.
Nations are constantly at war. Earthquakes and other calamities
are occurring. Many people now suffer from devastating storms,
drought, hunger, and diseases. We can be certain that these calamities
will become more severe before the Lord comes.
However, not all the events preceding the Second Coming are
dreadful. Many of them bring joy to the world.
The Lord said, "Light shall break forth among them that sit in
darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel" (D&C 45:28).
Prophets of old foretold the Restoration of the gospel. The
Apostle John saw that the gospel would be restored by an angel
(see Revelation 14:6–7). In fulfillment of this prophecy, the angel
Moroni and other heavenly visitors brought the gospel of Jesus
254The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon
The Lord told the Nephites of another sign: the Book of Mormon
would come to their descendants (see 3 Nephi 21). In Old Testament
times the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel foresaw the coming of
the Book of Mormon (see Isaiah 29:4–18; Ezekiel 37:16–20). These
prophecies are now being fulfilled. The Book of Mormon has been
brought forth and is being taken to all the world.
The Gospel Preached to All the World
Another sign of the last days is that the "gospel of the kingdom shall
be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations" (Matthew
24:14; see also Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:31). All people will hear
the fulness of the gospel in their own language (see D&C 90:11).
Ever since the Restoration of the Church, missionaries have preached
the gospel. The missionary effort has increased until now tens of
thousands of missionaries preach in many countries of the world in
many languages. Before the Second Coming and during the Millennium,
the Lord will provide ways to bring the truth to all nations.
The prophet Malachi prophesied that before the Savior's Second
Coming, the prophet Elijah would be sent to the earth. Elijah would
restore the sealing powers so families could be sealed together.
He would also inspire people to be concerned about their ancestors
and descendants. (See Malachi 4:5–6; D&C 2.) The prophet
Elijah came to Joseph Smith in April 1836. Since that time, interest
in genealogy and family history has grown. We are also able to perform
sealing ordinances in the temples for the living and the dead.
Lehi's Descendants Will Become a Great People
The Lord said that when His coming was near, the Lamanites would
become a righteous and respected people. He said, "Before the
great day of the Lord shall come, . . the Lamanites shall blossom
255Great numbers of Lehi's descendants are
now receiving the blessings of the gospel.
Near the time of the coming of Jesus Christ, the faithful Saints will
build a righteous city, a city of God, called the New Jerusalem. Jesus
Christ Himself will rule there. (See 3 Nephi 21:23–25; Moses 7:62–64;
Articles of Faith 1:10.) The Lord said the city will be built in the state
of Missouri in the United States (see D&C 84:2–3).
These are only a few of the signs that the Lord has given us. The
scriptures describe many more.
What evidence do you see that the signs are being fulfilled?
Knowing the Signs of the Times Can Help Us
How can we remain calm and at peace even when some of the
signs are terrifying and dreadful?
Speaking of His Second Coming, the Lord said, "The hour and the
day no man knoweth, neither the angels in heaven" (D&C 49:7). He
taught this with the parable of the fig tree. He said that when we
see a fig tree putting forth leaves, we can tell that summer will soon
come. Likewise, when we see the signs described in the scriptures,
we can know that His coming is near. (See Matthew 24:32–33.)
The Lord gives these signs to help us. We can put our lives in order
and prepare ourselves and our families for those things yet to come.
We have been warned of calamities and told to prepare for them,
but we can also look forward to the coming of the Savior and be
glad. The Lord said, "Be not troubled, for, when all these things [the
signs] shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which
have been made unto you shall be fulfilled" (D&C 45:35). He said
those who are righteous when He comes will not be destroyed "but
shall abide the day. And the earth shall be given unto them for an
inheritance; . . and their children shall grow up without sin. . . For
the Lord shall be in their midst, and his glory shall be upon them,
and he will be their king and their lawgiver" (D&C 45:57–59).
2561 Corinthians 15:22–28 (the end cometh; death is done away)
Matthew 16:1–4 (discern signs of the times)
Matthew 24; D&C 29:14–23; 45:17–57; 88:87–94; Joseph Smith—Matthew 1 (signs of the Second Coming)
1 Thessalonians 5:1–6 (watch for the signs and prepare)
D&C 38:30 (prepare so we might not fear)
D&C 68:11 (we can know the signs)
For teachers: Consider assigning each class member or family member one or two of the
signs described in this chapter (in large classes, some signs may be assigned to more
than one person). As part of the lesson, give them time on their own to study the information
about those signs and think about evidence they have seen that the signs are being
fulfilled today. Then have them share their insights with each other.
Looking forward to the Savior's Second Coming.
Forty days after His Resurrection, Jesus and His Apostles were gathered
together on the Mount of Olives. The time had come for Jesus
to leave the earth. He had completed all the work that He had to do
at that time. He was to return to our Heavenly Father until the time
After He had instructed His Apostles, Jesus ascended into heaven.
While the Apostles looked up into the heavens, two angels stood
beside them and said, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing
up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into
heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go"
From that time until the present day, the followers of Jesus Christ
have looked forward to the Second Coming.
What Will Jesus Do When He Comes Again?
When Jesus Christ comes again to the earth, He will do the following
1. He will cleanse the earth. When Jesus comes again, He will
come in power and great glory. At that time the wicked will be
destroyed. All things that are corrupt will be burned, and the
earth will be cleansed by fire (see D&C 101:24–25).
258 2592. He will judge His people. When Jesus comes again, He will
judge the nations and will divide the righteous from the wicked
(see Matthew 25:31–46; see also chapter 46 in this book). John
the Revelator wrote about this judgment: "I saw thrones, and
they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and
I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of
Jesus, and for the word of God, . . and they lived and reigned
with Christ a thousand years." The wicked he saw "lived not
again until the thousand years were finished" (Revelation
20:4–5; see also D&C 88:95–98).
3. He will usher in the Millennium. The Millennium is the thousandyear
period when Jesus will reign on the earth. The righteous
will be caught up to meet Jesus at His coming (see D&C 88:96).
His coming will begin the millennial reign. (See chapter 45 in this
"In the Millennium, when the Kingdom of God is established on
the earth in power, glory and perfection, and the reign of wickedness
that has so long prevailed is subdued, the Saints of God
will have the privilege of building their temples, and of entering
into them, becoming, as it were, pillars in the temples of God
[see Revelation 3:12], and they will officiate for their dead. Then
we will see our friends come up, and perhaps some that we have
been acquainted with here. . . And we will have revelations to
know our forefathers clear back to Father Adam and Mother Eve,
and we will enter into the temples of God and officiate for them.
Then [children] will be sealed to [parents] until the chain is made
perfect back to Adam, so that there will be a perfect chain of
Priesthood from Adam to the winding-up scene" (Teachings of
Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young [1997], 333–34).
4. He will complete the First Resurrection. Those who have obtained
the privilege of coming forth in the resurrection of the just will
rise from their graves. They will be caught up to meet the Savior
as He comes down from heaven. (See D&C 88:97–98.)
260After Jesus Christ rose from the dead, other righteous people who
had died were also resurrected. They appeared in Jerusalem and
also on the American continent. (See Matthew 27:52–53; 3 Nephi
23:9–10.) This was the beginning of the First Resurrection. Some
people have been resurrected since then. Those who already
have been resurrected and those who will be resurrected at the
time of His coming will all inherit the glory of the celestial kingdom
After the resurrection of those who will inherit celestial glory,
another group will be resurrected: those who will receive a terrestrial
glory. When all these people have been resurrected, the
First Resurrection will be completed.
The wicked who are living at the time of the Second Coming
of the Lord will be destroyed in the flesh. They, along with the
wicked who are already dead, will have to wait until the last resurrection.
All of the remaining dead will rise to meet God. They
will either inherit the telestial kingdom or be cast into outer
darkness with Satan (see D&C 76:32–33, 81–112).
5. He will take His rightful place as King of heaven and earth.
When Jesus comes, He will establish His government on the
earth. The Church will become part of that kingdom. He will
rule all the people of the earth in peace for 1,000 years.
When Jesus Christ first came to the earth, He did not come in
glory. He was born in a lowly stable and laid in a manger of hay.
He did not come with great armies as the Jews had expected
of their Savior. Instead, He came saying, "Love your enemies,
. . do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which
despitefully use you" (Matthew 5:44). He was rejected and
crucified. But He will not be rejected at His Second Coming,
"for every ear shall hear it, and every knee shall bow, and every
tongue shall confess" that Jesus is the Christ (D&C 88:104). He
will be greeted as "Lord of lords, and King of kings" (Revelation
17:14). He will be called "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty
God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6).
261What are your thoughts and feelings as you contemplate the
How Will We Know When the Savior's Coming Is Near?
When Jesus Christ was born, very few people knew that the Savior of
the world had come. When He comes again, there will be no doubt
who He is. No one knows the exact time that the Savior will come
again. "Of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of
heaven, but my Father only" (Matthew 24:36; see also D&C 49:7).
The Lord used a parable to give us an idea of the time of His coming:
"Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender,
and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:
"So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass,
know that it is nigh, even at the doors" (Mark 13:28–29).
The Lord has also given us some signs to let us know when His
coming is near. After revealing the signs, He cautioned:
"Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth
". . Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of
man cometh" (Matthew 24:42, 44).
For more information about how we will know when Jesus's Second
Coming is near, see chapter 43 in this book.
How Can We Be Ready When the Savior Comes?
The best way we can prepare for the Savior's coming is to accept
the teachings of the gospel and make them part of our lives. We
should live each day the best we can, just as Jesus taught when He
was on the earth. We can look to the prophet for guidance and follow
his counsel. We can live worthy to have the Holy Ghost guide
us. Then we will look forward to the Savior's coming with happiness
and not with fear. The Lord said: "Fear not, little flock, the
kingdom is yours until I come. Behold, I come quickly. Even so.
262Why should we be concerned about our preparedness rather than the exact timing of the Second Coming?
John 14:2–3; Matthew 26:64 (Jesus to prepare a place and come again)
Malachi 3:2–3; 4:1; D&C 64:23–24 (earth to be burned)
D&C 133:41–51 (wicked to be destroyed)
Matthew 13:40–43 (the Judgment predicted)
1 Corinthians 15:40–42; D&C 76; 88:17–35 (kingdoms of glory)
D&C 43:29–30; 29:11 (the Savior's coming will usher in the Millennium)
Articles of Faith 1:10 (Jesus to reign)
Alma 11:43–44; 40:23 (the Resurrection explained)
D&C 88:96–98 (the dead to rise)
Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 11:15; 1 Nephi 22:24–26 (Jesus to reign as King)
For teachers: Consider assigning each class member or family member one of the five
numbered items in this chapter. Ask each person to work individually, studying his or her
assigned item, including the scripture passages. Then invite everyone to discuss what they
People on the Earth during the Millennium.
Who will be on the earth during the Millennium?
A thousand years of peace, love, and joy will begin on the earth at the
Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This thousand-year period is called
the Millennium. The scriptures and the prophets help us understand
what it will be like to live on the earth during the Millennium.
Because of the destruction of the wicked at the Savior's Second
Coming, only righteous people will live on the earth at the beginning
of the Millennium. They will be those who have lived virtuous
and honest lives. These people will inherit either the terrestrial or
During the Millennium, mortals will still live on earth, and they will
continue to have children as we do now (see D&C 45:58). Joseph
Smith said that immortal beings will frequently visit the earth.
These resurrected beings will help with the government and other
work. (See Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding
People will still have their agency, and for a time many will be free
to continue with their religions and ideas. Eventually everyone will
confess that Jesus Christ is the Savior.
During the Millennium, Jesus will "reign personally upon the earth"
(Articles of Faith 1:10). Joseph Smith explained that Jesus will "reign
over the Saints and come down and instruct" (Teachings of Presidents
of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 258).
264A picture of a lion and a lamb
265The Work of the Church during the Millennium
What are the two great works that will be done during the
There will be two great works for members of the Church during
the Millennium: temple work and missionary work. Temple work
involves the ordinances that are necessary for exaltation. These
include baptism, the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy
Ghost, and the temple ordinances—the endowment, temple marriage,
and the sealing together of family units.
Many people have died without receiving these ordinances. People
on the earth must perform these ordinances for them. This work
is now being done in the temples of the Lord. There is too much
work to finish before the Millennium begins, so it will be completed
during that time. Resurrected beings will help us correct the
mistakes we have made in doing research concerning our dead
ancestors. They will also help us find the information we need to
complete our records. (See Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation,
comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:167, 251–52.)
The other great work during the Millennium will be missionary
work. The gospel will be taught with great power to all people.
Eventually there will be no need to teach others the first principles
of the gospel because "they shall all know me, from the least of
them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord" (Jeremiah 31:34).
How can we prepare now for work in the Millennium?
Conditions during the Millennium
In what ways will life during the Millennium be different from life
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that during the Millennium, "the
earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory" (Articles
During the Millennium, Satan will be bound. This means he
will not have power to tempt those who are living at that time
266The "children shall grow up without sin unto
salvation" (D&C 45:58). "Because of the righteousness of [the
Lord's] people, Satan has no power; wherefore, he cannot be
loosed for the space of many years; for he hath no power over the
hearts of the people, for they dwell in righteousness, and the Holy
One of Israel reigneth" (1 Nephi 22:26).
During the Millennium, there will be no war. People will live in
peace and harmony together. Things that have been used for war
will be turned to useful purposes. "They shall beat their swords into
plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not
lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more"
(Isaiah 2:4; see also Isaiah 11:6–7; D&C 101:26).
President John Taylor taught: "The Lord will be king over all the
earth, and all mankind literally under his sovereignty, and every
nation under the heavens will have to acknowledge his authority, and
bow to his scepter. Those who serve him in righteousness will have
communications with God, and with Jesus; will have the ministering
of angels, and will know the past, the present, and the future; and
other people, who may not yield full obedience to his laws, nor be
fully instructed in his covenants, will, nevertheless, have to yield full
obedience to his government. For it will be the reign of God upon
the earth, and he will enforce his laws, and command that obedience
from the nations of the world which is legitimately his right" (Teachings
of Presidents of the Church: John Taylor [2001], 225).
During the Millennium, there will be no death as we know it. When
people have lived to an old age, they will not die and be buried.
Instead, they will be changed from their mortal condition to an immortal
condition in "the twinkling of an eye." (See D&C 63:51; 101:29–31.)
Some truths have not been revealed to us. All things will be
revealed during the Millennium. The Lord said He will "reveal all
things—things which have passed, and hidden things which no
man knew, things of the earth, by which it was made, and the
purpose and the end thereof—things most precious, things that are
above, and things that are beneath, things that are in the earth, and
upon the earth, and in heaven" (D&C 101:32–34).
267In many ways, life will be much as it is now, except that everything
will be done in righteousness. People will eat and drink and will
wear clothing. (See Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham
Young [1997], 333.) People will continue to plant and harvest crops
and build houses (see Isaiah 65:21).
What are your thoughts and feelings about the conditions that will
One Final Struggle after the Millennium
What will be the final destiny of the earth?
At the end of the 1,000 years, Satan will be set free for a short time.
Some people will turn away from Heavenly Father. Satan will gather
his armies, and Michael (Adam) will gather the hosts of heaven. In
this great struggle, Satan and his followers will be cast out forever.
The earth will be changed into a celestial kingdom. (See D&C
Zechariah 14:4–9; 1 Nephi 22:24–25 (Jesus to reign on earth)
Daniel 7:27 (Saints to be given the kingdom)
D&C 88:87–110 (conditions during the Millennium)
Revelation 20:1–3; 1 Nephi 22:26 (Satan to be bound)
D&C 101:22–31 (enmity to cease; no death; Satan to have no power to tempt)
Isaiah 11:1–9 (wolf and lamb to dwell together)
D&C 43:31; Revelation 20:7–10 (Satan loosed for a little season)
For teachers: The subject of the Millennium sometimes leads people to speculate about
ideas that are not found in the scriptures or the teachings of latter-day prophets. As you
guide this lesson, be careful to avoid such speculation.
268What are some different judgments that come before the Final
Judgment? How do all these judgments relate to one another?
We are often told in the scriptures that the day will come when we
will stand before God and be judged. We need to understand how
judgment takes place so we can be better prepared for this important
The scriptures teach that all of us will be judged according to our
works: "And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and
the books were opened: and another book was opened, which
is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things
which were written in the books, according to their works" (Revelation
20:12; see also D&C 76:111; 1 Nephi 15:32; Abraham 3:25–28).
We will also be judged "according to the desire of [our] hearts"
(D&C 137:9; see also Alma 41:3).
Here on earth we are often judged as to our worthiness to receive
opportunities within the kingdom of God. When we are baptized
we are judged worthy to receive this ordinance. When we are called
to serve in the Church or interviewed for a priesthood advancement
or a temple recommend, we are judged.
Alma taught that when we die our spirits are assigned to a state of
happiness or of misery (see Alma 40:11–15). This is a judgment.
Our Words, Works, and Thoughts Are Used to Judge Us
Imagine being judged for all your thoughts, words, and actions.
270The prophet Alma testified, "Our words will condemn us, yea, all
our works will condemn us; . . and our thoughts will also condemn
The Lord said: "Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall
give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words
thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned"
Faith in Jesus Christ helps us be prepared for the Final Judgment.
Through faithful discipleship to Him and repentance of all our
sins, we can be forgiven for our sins and become pure and holy
so that we can dwell in the presence of God. As we repent of our
sins, giving up every impure thought and act, the Holy Ghost will
change our hearts so we no longer have even the desire to sin (see
Mosiah 5:2). Then when we are judged, we will be found ready to
Think about what you can do to improve your thoughts, words,
From what records will we be judged? Who will judge us?
The Prophet Joseph Smith said that the dead will be judged out of
records kept on earth. We will also be judged out of the "book of
life," which is kept in heaven (see D&C 128:6–8).
"Every one of you . . must stand before 'the judgment-seat of the
Holy One of Israel . . and then must . . be judged according to
the holy judgment of God.' (II Nephi 9:15.) And according to the
vision of John, 'The books were opened: and another book was
opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out
of those things which were written in the books, according to their
works.' (Rev. 20:12.) The 'books' spoken of refer to the 'records [of
your works] which are kept on the earth. . . The book of life is the
record which is kept in heaven.' (Doc. and Cov. 128:7.)" (Teachings
of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee [2000], 226–27).
271There is another record that will be used to judge us. The Apostle
Paul taught that we ourselves are a record of our life (see Romans
2:15). Stored in our body and mind is a complete history of everything
we have done. President John Taylor taught this truth: "[The
individual] tells the story himself, and bears witness against himself.
. . That record that is written by the man himself in the tablets
of his own mind, that record that cannot lie will in that day be
unfolded before God and angels, and those who shall sit as judges"
(Deseret News, Mar. 8, 1865, 179).
The Apostle John taught that "the Father judgeth no man, but hath
committed all judgment unto the Son" (John 5:22). The Son, in
turn, will call upon others to assist in the Judgment. The Twelve
who were with Him in His ministry will judge the twelve tribes of
Israel (see Matthew 19:28; Luke 22:30). The twelve Nephite disciples
will judge the Nephite and Lamanite people (see 1 Nephi
Inheriting a Place in a Kingdom of Glory
How will our faithfulness during our life on earth influence our
At the Final Judgment we will inherit a place in the kingdom for
which we are prepared. The scriptures teach of three kingdoms of
glory—the celestial kingdom, the terrestrial kingdom, and the telestial
In Doctrine and Covenants 76, the Lord described the ways we can
choose to live our mortal lives. He explained that our choices will
determine which kingdom we are prepared for. We learn from this
revelation that even members of the Church will inherit different
kingdoms because they will not be equally faithful and valiant in
The following are the kinds of lives we can choose to live and the
kingdoms our choices will obtain for us.
272"They are they who received the testimony of Jesus, and believed
on his name and were baptized, . . that by keeping the commandments
they might be washed and cleansed from all their sins, and
receive the Holy Spirit." These are they who overcome the world
by their faith. They are just and true so that the Holy Ghost can seal
their blessings upon them. (See D&C 76:51–53.) Those who inherit
the highest degree of the celestial kingdom, who become gods,
must also have been married for eternity in the temple (see D&C
131:1–4). All who inherit the celestial kingdom will live with
Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ forever (see D&C 76:62).
Through the work we do in temples, all people who have lived
on the earth can have an equal opportunity to receive the fulness
of the gospel and the ordinances of salvation so they can inherit a
place in the highest degree of celestial glory.
These are they who rejected the gospel on earth but afterward
received it in the spirit world. These are the honorable people on
the earth who were blinded to the gospel of Jesus Christ by the
craftiness of men. These are also they who received the gospel and
a testimony of Jesus but then were not valiant. They will be visited
by Jesus Christ but not by our Heavenly Father. (See D&C 76:73–79.)
These people did not receive the gospel or the testimony of Jesus
either on earth or in the spirit world. They will suffer for their own
sins in hell until after the Millennium, when they will be resurrected.
"These are they who are liars, and sorcerers, and adulterers,
and whoremongers, and whosoever loves and makes a lie." These
people are as numerous as the stars in heaven and the sand on the
seashore. They will be visited by the Holy Ghost but not by the
Father or the Son. (See D&C 76:81–88, 103–6, 109.)
273These are they who had testimonies of Jesus through the Holy
Ghost and knew the power of the Lord but allowed Satan to overcome
them. They denied the truth and defied the power of the
Lord. There is no forgiveness for them, for they denied the Holy
Spirit after having received it. They will not have a kingdom of
glory. They will live in eternal darkness, torment, and misery with
Satan and his angels forever. (See D&C 76:28–35, 44–48.)
According to Doctrine and Covenants 76:50–53, 62–70, what are
the characteristics of a person who overcomes the world by faith
and is valiant in the testimony of Jesus?
We Should Prepare Now for Judgment
What must we do to be ready for the Final Judgment?
In reality, every day is a day of judgment. We speak, think, and act
according to celestial, terrestrial, or telestial law. Our faith in Jesus
Christ, as shown by our daily actions, determines which kingdom
We have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ in its fulness. The
gospel is the law of the celestial kingdom. All the priesthood ordinances
necessary for our progression have been revealed. We have
entered the waters of baptism and have made a covenant to live
Christlike lives. If we are faithful and keep the covenants we have
made, the Lord has told us what our judgment will be. He will say
unto us, "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared
for you from the foundation of the world" (Matthew 25:34).
Romans 2:6–9; Revelation 20:12–13 (the Judgment)
Alma 11:41, 45; Mormon 7:6; 9:13–14 (we are judged in a resurrected state)
2 Nephi 29:11; 3 Nephi 27:23–26 (books used in the Judgment)
274Mormon 3:22 (repent and prepare to stand before the judgment seat)
Luke 12:47–48; D&C 82:3 (of whom much is given, much is required)
D&C 88:16–33 (we each receive that for which we are worthy)
For teachers: You do not need to teach everything in each chapter. As you prayerfully
prepare to teach, seek the Spirit's guidance to know which portions of the chapter you
When we lived with our Heavenly Father, He explained a plan for
our progression. We could become like Him, an exalted being. The
plan required that we be separated from Him and come to earth.
This separation was necessary to prove whether we would obey
our Father's commandments even though we were no longer in
His presence. The plan provided that when earth life ended, we
would be judged and rewarded according to the degree of our
From the scriptures we learn that there are three kingdoms of
glory in heaven. The Apostle Paul mentioned that he knew a man
who was "caught up to the third heaven" (2 Corinthians 12:2). Paul
named two of the kingdoms in heaven: the celestial and the terrestrial
(see 1 Corinthians 15:40–42). The celestial is the highest, and
the terrestrial is second. Through latter-day revelation we learn that
the third kingdom is the telestial kingdom (see D&C 76:81). We also
learn that there are three heavens or degrees within the celestial
Exaltation is eternal life, the kind of life God lives. He lives in great
glory. He is perfect. He possesses all knowledge and all wisdom.
He is the Father of spirit children. He is a creator. We can become
like our Heavenly Father. This is exaltation.
If we prove faithful to the Lord, we will live in the highest degree
of the celestial kingdom of heaven. We will become exalted, to live
with our Heavenly Father in eternal families.
276Picture of a bright light among clouds
277gift that Heavenly Father can give His children (see D&C 14:7).
What are some blessings that will be given to those who are
Our Heavenly Father is perfect, and He glories in the fact that it is
possible for His children to become like Him. His work and glory
is "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses
Those who receive exaltation in the celestial kingdom through faith
in Jesus Christ will receive special blessings. The Lord has promised,
"All things are theirs" (D&C 76:59). These are some of the
blessings given to exalted people:
1. They will live eternally in the presence of Heavenly Father and
2. They will become gods (see D&C 132:20–23).
3. They will be united eternally with their righteous family members
and will be able to have eternal increase.
4. They will receive a fulness of joy.
5. They will have everything that our Heavenly Father and Jesus
Christ have—all power, glory, dominion, and knowledge (see
D&C 132:19–20). President Joseph Fielding Smith wrote: "The
Father has promised through the Son that all that he has shall be
given to those who are obedient to His commandments. They
shall increase in knowledge, wisdom, and power, going from
grace to grace, until the fulness of the perfect day shall burst
upon them" (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie,
3 vols. [1954–56], 2:36; italics in original).
The time to fulfill the requirements for exaltation is now (see Alma
34:32–34). President Joseph Fielding Smith said, "In order to obtain
the exaltation we must accept the gospel and all its covenants; and
take upon us the obligations which the Lord has offered; and walk
in the light and the understanding of the truth; and 'live by every
word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God' " (Doctrines of
278To be exalted, we first must place our faith in Jesus Christ and then
endure in that faith to the end of our lives. Our faith in Him must be
such that we repent of our sins and obey His commandments.
He commands us all to receive certain ordinances:
2. We must receive the laying on of hands to be confirmed a member
of the Church of Jesus Christ and to receive the gift of the
3. Brethren must receive the Melchizedek Priesthood and magnify
their callings in the priesthood.
4. We must receive the temple endowment.
5. We must be married for eternity, either in this life or in the next.
In addition to receiving the required ordinances, the Lord commands
1. Love God and our neighbors.
4. Search out our kindred dead and receive the saving ordinances
5. Attend our Church meetings as regularly as possible so we can
renew our baptismal covenants by partaking of the sacrament.
6. Love our family members and strengthen them in the ways of
7. Have family and individual prayers every day.
8. Teach the gospel to others by word and example.
10. Listen to and obey the inspired words of the prophets of the Lord.
279Finally, each of us needs to receive the Holy Ghost and learn to follow
His direction in our individual lives.
How do ordinances and covenants prepare us for exaltation?
How does faith in Jesus Christ help us obey the commandments?
Why must we learn to follow the direction of the Holy Ghost to become exalted?
After We Have Been Faithful and Endured to the End
What happens when we have endured to the end in faithful discipleship to Christ?
The Lord has said, "If you keep my commandments and endure to
the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all
the gifts of God" (D&C 14:7). President Joseph Fielding Smith said,
"If we will continue in God; that is, keep his commandments, worship
him and live his truth; then the time will come when we shall
be bathed in the fulness of truth, which shall grow brighter and
brighter until the perfect day" (Doctrines of Salvation, 2:36).
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught: "When you climb up a ladder,
you must begin at the bottom, and ascend step by step, until you
arrive at the top; and so it is with the principles of the gospel—you
must begin with the first, and go on until you learn all the principles
of exaltation. But it will be a great while after you have passed
through the veil [died] before you will have learned them. It is not
all to be comprehended in this world; it will be a great work to
learn our salvation and exaltation even beyond the grave" (Teachings
of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 268).
Joseph Smith taught: "It is the first principle of the Gospel to know
for a certainty the Character of God. . . He was once a man like us;
. . God himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as
Jesus Christ himself did" (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel.
Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 345–46).
Our Heavenly Father knows our trials, our weaknesses, and our
sins. He has compassion and mercy on us. He wants us to succeed
280Imagine what joy each of us will have when we return to our
Heavenly Father if we can say: "Father, I lived according to Thy will.
I have been faithful and have kept Thy commandments. I am happy
to be home again." Then we will hear Him say, "Well done . . ;
thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over
many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord" (Matthew 25:23).
Review Matthew 25:23. Think about how you would feel if you heard the Lord say these words to you.
D&C 132:3–4, 16–26, 37 (pertaining to exaltation)
D&C 131:1–4 (eternal marriage is key to exaltation)
D&C 76:59–70 (blessings of celestial glory explained)
D&C 84:20–21 (the power of godliness is manifest through priesthood ordinances)
For teachers: When you give class members or family members time to ponder gospel
truths, reflect on their lives, or think about their love for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ,
you give them an opportunity to be taught by the Holy Ghost.
Cover: Living Water, by Simon Dewey, Copyright Simon Dewey. Background Copyright Artbeats
Page 4: Photograph Copyright NASA and STScI
Page 8: Photograph Copyright NASA and STScI
Page 14: Detail from Christ at Emmaus, by Carl Heinrich Bloch. Used by permission of the National Historic Museum at Frederiksborg in Hillerød, Denmark
Page 18: Photograph by Dimitri Vervitsiotis/Digital Vision/Getty Images
Page 22: Photograph Copyright Corbis
Page 26: Leaving the Garden of Eden, by Joseph Brickey. Copyright 1998 Joseph Brickey
Page 40: Joseph Smith, by unknown artist, courtesy Community of Christ Archives. Brigham Young, by Danquart Anthon Weggeland, courtesy Church History Museum. John Taylor, by unknown artist, courtesy Church History Library and Archives. Wilford Woodruff, by H. E. Peterson. Lorenzo Snow, by Lewis Ramsey, courtesy Church History Museum. Joseph F. Smith, by A. Salzbrenner, Copyright IRI. Heber J. Grant, by C. J. Fox, Copyright IRI. George Albert Smith, by Lee Greene Richards, Copyright IRI. David O. McKay, by Everett Clark Thorpe, Copyright Everett Clark Thorpe. Joseph Fielding Smith, by Shauna Cook Clinger, Copyright 1983 IRI. Harold B. Lee, by Grant Romney Clawson, Copyright IRI. Photograph of Ezra Taft Benson Copyright Busath Photography. Photograph of Thomas S. Monson Copyright Busath Photography
Page 50: Christ Raising the Daughter of Jairus, by Greg K. Olsen. Copyright 1990 IRI
282Page 60: Not My Will, But Thine, Be Done, by Harry Anderson. Copyright Seventh-day Adventist Church. Do not copy Page 82: Detail from Abraham on the Plains of Mamre, by Harry Anderson. Copyright IRI
Page 88: Detail from Christ Ordaining the Twelve Apostles, by Harry Anderson. Copyright IRI
Page 94: Detail from The Desires of My Heart, by Walter Rane. Courtesy Church History Museum
Page 102: Detail from Jesus Christ, by Harry Anderson. Copyright IRI
Page 134: The Last Supper, by Simon Dewey. Copyright Simon Dewey
Page 150: Detail from Christ and the Rich Young Ruler, by Heinrich Hofmann. Courtesy C. Harrison Conroy Co., Inc.
Page 162: Detail from Jesus Washing the Feet of the Apostles, by Del Parson. Copyright 1983 IRI
Page 168: Photograph Copyright Getty Images
Page 174: Detail from The Good Samaritan, by Joseph Brickey. Copyright 2001 Joseph Brickey
Page 180: Photograph by George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images
Page 190: Detail from Go Ye Therefore, and Teach All Nations, by Harry Anderson. Copyright IRI
Page 200: Adam and Eve Offering Sacrifices, by Keith Larson. Copyright 1996 Keith Larson
Page 218: Photograph by Robert Casey. Copyright 2004 Robert Casey
Page 224: Photograph by Robert Casey. Copyright 2004 Robert Casey
Page 246: Detail from Jacob Blessing Joseph, by Harry Anderson. Copyright IRI
Page 252: The Second Coming, by Harry Anderson. Copyright IRI
Page 258: Detail from The Second Coming, by Harry Anderson. Copyright IRI
Page 264: Detail from Without Any Ire, by Nancy Glazier-Koehler. Copyright 1984 Nancy Glazier-Koehler
Page 268: Detail from The Last Judgment, by John Scott. Copyright 1974 IRI
See also Melchizedek Priesthood;
Abraham, God's covenant with, 83
commanded to have children, 28
separation of, from God, 28–29
necessary in plan of salvation, 17, 19
Apostle, office and duties of, 77, 98
Christ only one able to perform, 61
salvation from sin a result of, 62–65
statement on, by Joseph Fielding Smith, 109
story by Boyd K. Packer illustrating, 63–65
Believing testimony of others, gift
Birth, our time and place of, chosen
baptism necessary to enter, 116
statement on, by Joseph Smith, 177–78
statement on, by Thomas S. Monson, 176
Adam and Eve commanded to have, 28
become member of, by baptism, 115
restoration of, foretold, 92–93, 95–96
Commandments, keeping, part of
Confession, part of repentance, 110–11
Confirmation. See Gift of the Holy Ghost
Deacon, office and duties of, 75
Dead, ordinances for, a feature of
Elder, office and duties of, 76–77
Enduring to the end, blessings
with, by Spencer W. Kimball, 105
statement on, by Harold B. Lee, 210
World, 10, 207, 210, 211, 213, 214, 215, 217, 226
Father in Heaven. See Heavenly
Fathers, responsibilities of, 214–15
First principles and ordinances, 90
statement on, by Joseph Smith, 10
for breaking law of chastity, 231
Forgiving others, part of repentance, 111
Gift of the Holy Ghost, 121–24
one of God's greatest gifts, 123
recognizing the influence of the
288 Health, Lord's law of. See Word of
desire of, that we develop the
289our potential to become like, 9
statement on role as our Father,
High priest, office and duties of, 77
statements on, by Joseph Fielding
Interpretation of tongues, gift of, 127
scattering of house of, 245, 247
statement by Russell M. Nelson
birth and mission were foretold, 51–52
foreordained in premortality, 9
introduced sacrament, 133, 135
made blessings available to us
Savior and leader in earth life, 15
291records will be used in, 270–71
statement by Joseph F. Smith on
to rule over God's creations, 5
statement on, by John Taylor, 266
Miracles, gift of working, 129–30
statement on, by Ezra Taft Benson, 192
statement on, by Joseph Smith, 203
statement on, by Heber J. Grant, 188
Parents, responsibilities of, 157, 213–16
293Patriarch, office and duties of, 77
Patriarchal blessings, 10, 77, 130
statement on, by Thomas S. Monson, 10
Personalities, developed in premortal life, 9–10
how prayers are answered, 37–38
blessings for obedience to, 43
statement on, by Wilford Woodruff, 41–42
Priest, office and duties of, 76
blessings for using properly, 71
Progress, earth life necessary for, 10–11
God has called throughout ages, 41
Recognition of sins, part of repentance, 110
Records, we will be judged by, 270–71
Remission of sins, baptism for, 115
Christ introduced the, 133, 135
covenants renewed through, 136
bound during the Millennium, 265–66
fought against Jesus in heaven, 15
freed briefly at the end of the Millennium, 267
imitates gifts of the Spirit, 131
sought to take away freedom to choose, 13, 15
wants us to break law of chastity, 228–30
Sealing, power of, restored by
Second Coming of Jesus Christ, 257–62
Seventy, office and duties of, 77
Signs of the times. See Second
Church restored through, 96–99
Sorrow for sin, part of repentance, 110
Spirit, gifts of. See Spiritual gifts
developed in premortal life, 9–10
statement on accountability for,
Teacher, office and duties of, 75
297eternal marriage performed in, 220–21
Temptations, overcoming, statement
on, by Gordon B. Hinckley, 229
Testimony, statement on, by David O. McKay, 128–29
Thoughts, we will be judged by, 269–70
statement on, by Gordon B. Hinckley, 188
statement on, by Heber J. Grant, 188
statement on, by Stephen L Richards, 186
Trials, necessary to progression, 11