Question
Gramps,
In reading the Book of Mormon I have come across references to temples. Did the temples in those days include the temple ordinances we have today?
Peter
Answer
Dear Peter,
In 2 Nephi 5:16 it states,
16 And I, Nephi, did build a temple; and I did construct it after the manner of the temple of Solomon save it were not built of so many precious things; for they were not to be found upon the land, wherefore, it could not be built like unto Solomon’s temple. But the manner of the construction was like unto the temple of Solomon; and the workmanship thereof was exceedingly fine.
You can read about Solomons temple in 1 Kings 7:25 it describes the baptismal font on the back of 12 oxen.
Just don’t ask me what a cubit is. I’d be reminded of Bill Cosby and Noah… and they couldn’t figure it out either.
Were the ordinances the same? That we don’t know. This could be lost due to the many translations of the Bible, or part of the sealed portion of The Book of Mormon.
One thing we do know, is that ancient temples had altars for animal sacrifices in similitude of the offering of Christ for our sins. So, with that particular act of faith, that is no longer done in temples today.
Gramps
