Must a prophet be a member of the Church of the Firstborn first?

Question

 

Gramps,

For a man to become the next prophet, must he hold the position of being a member of the Church of the Firstborn? I understand that the LDS Church and the Church of the Firstborn are distinct churches. Thanks for your time.
 

Jeffrey

 

 

Answer

 

Jeffrey,

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the role of a prophet is considered one of the highest callings. Prophets are seen as God’s chosen leaders who communicate divine will to His people. An intriguing question arises: must a man be a member of the Church of the Firstborn to become a prophet? This article explores the requirements for the prophetic office within the Church, focusing particularly on the significance of the Melchizedek Priesthood and its relationship to the Church of the Firstborn. By examining scriptural references and Church teachings, we aim to clarify the criteria for one to ascend to the prophetic office.

According to Latter-day Saint beliefs, the Melchizedek Priesthood is the higher order of the priesthood, which holds the authority to perform sacred ordinances and govern the Church. Doctrine and Covenants 107:1-4 outlines the nature of this priesthood, stating that it is “the authority given to man to act in the name of God” (D&C 107:1). This authority is fundamental for anyone seeking to lead the Church as a prophet.

The Melchizedek Priesthood is conferred upon worthy male members of the Church who meet specific requirements, including faithfulness, worthiness, and the laying on of hands by those in authority. Thus, the prophetic calling is closely tied to the possession of this priesthood. However, it is essential to note that one does not need to be a member of the Church of the Firstborn to hold the Melchizedek Priesthood.

The Church of the Firstborn, as described in Doctrine and Covenants 76:54-56, refers to a celestial community of believers who have received the fullness of the Father’s glory. This designation is often associated with those who have achieved a high degree of faithfulness and righteousness, culminating in exaltation in the highest degree of glory in the celestial kingdom.

While the Church of the Firstborn is a significant concept within Latter-day Saint theology, it is not a prerequisite for becoming a prophet. The scriptures mention that those who receive the testimony of Jesus and believe in His name, who are baptized and keep His commandments, become part of this sacred community. However, the role of a prophet is fundamentally linked to the authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood, rather than membership in the Church of the Firstborn.

To understand the distinction between holding the prophetic office and being a member of the Church of the Firstborn, we must examine the nature of these roles. The prophetic office is primarily concerned with spiritual leadership and communication with God. In contrast, membership in the Church of the Firstborn is associated with exaltation and receiving the fullness of God’s glory.

Doctrine and Covenants 107:22 states,

Of necessity there are these two priesthoods, the Melchizedek and the Aaronic, which are called the Holy Priesthood; and it is through these that the fullness of the gospel is given.

Therefore, while the Church of the Firstborn is a commendable status that reflects one’s righteousness and is ultimately tied to exaltation, it does not serve as a necessary condition for one to serve as a prophet within the Church.

The scriptures provide further insight into the requirements for becoming a prophet. In the Book of Mormon, we find examples of great prophets who were not explicitly mentioned as members of the Church of the Firstborn. For instance, Alma the Younger and the prophet Lehi were called to lead and guide despite not being identified as members of this exclusive community.

Moreover, Doctrine and Covenants 1:38 highlights the importance of divine calling:

What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken; and I excuse not myself; and though the heaven and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.

This verse underscores that it is God who calls individuals to the prophetic office, regardless of their association with the Church of the Firstborn.

While the Melchizedek Priesthood is essential for one to become a prophet, worthiness, and righteousness play crucial roles in this process. Doctrine and Covenants 121:34-36 states,

Many are called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen? Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of the world, and aspire to the honors of men.

This scripture illustrates that personal worthiness and the desire to serve God above all else are vital components in being selected as a prophet.

Furthermore, the process of becoming a prophet involves a deep commitment to follow God’s commandments and serve His people. Prophets are expected to be leaders in righteousness, guiding others toward spiritual growth and truth. This moral and spiritual integrity is paramount, whether or not an individual is a member of the Church of the Firstborn.

In summary, while the Church of the Firstborn represents a celestial community within Latter-day Saint theology, membership in this group is not a prerequisite for becoming a prophet. The authority to serve as a prophet is fundamentally linked to the Melchizedek Priesthood, which can be conferred upon worthy male members of the Church. The prophetic calling is a divine appointment, emphasizing worthiness, righteousness, and a commitment to serve God and His people.

As Latter-day Saints, we recognize that the calling to be a prophet is sacred and requires a deep commitment to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. By understanding the distinction between the Church of the Firstborn and the prophetic office, we can appreciate the divine nature of this calling and the importance of personal worthiness and spiritual integrity.

 

Gramps