Question
Gramps,
It’s easy to understand what it means to obey commandments and statutes, as well as to keep covenants. But since an ordinance is a sacred act, how does one obey it? How can an action be kept or obeyed?
Loretta
Answer
Loretta,
In the beliefs and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, obedience to sacred ordinances is paramount. These ordinances, viewed as sacred acts, serve as essential milestones in a member’s spiritual journey. The question arises: How does one fully obey these ordinances? What does it mean to keep or obey an action that is deemed sacred?
Ordinances are defined as sacred acts that hold significant importance in the spiritual growth and progression of members within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These include baptism, confirmation, the sacrament, the priesthood, the temple endowment, and marriage sealing. Each ordinance is accompanied by specific covenants that members commit to uphold, creating a structure of accountability and responsibility in their relationship with God.
The purpose of these ordinances extends beyond mere rituals; they are essential for accessing divine power. Doctrine and Covenants 84:20-22 states, “In the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest.” This scripture emphasizes that participation in ordinances allows members to draw closer to God and access His divine attributes, aiding them on their journey toward becoming more Christlike.
Each ordinance is tied to specific covenants, which are sacred promises made to God. For instance, upon baptism, members promise to take upon themselves the name of Christ and keep His commandments. This act of making covenants is critical as it establishes a relationship of trust and accountability with the divine. The process of obedience begins with understanding the significance of these covenants and the commitment they entail.
Obedience to these covenants is viewed as a demonstration of faith. It is not merely about following rules but engaging in a transformative relationship with God that reflects a commitment to His teachings. For example, the law of tithing is often cited as a means to experience God’s blessings and develop greater confidence in His promises. By obeying God’s commandments, members strengthen their faith and receive spiritual protection, illustrating the connection between obedience and the divine blessings that follow.
Receiving the Holy Ghost is central to the ordinances of baptism and confirmation. Members are taught that maintaining obedience to God’s commandments allows them to enjoy the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. This companionship is critical for receiving spiritual guidance and strength, enabling members to navigate their daily lives with divine assistance.
The role of the Holy Ghost is not just to provide comfort; it also serves as a guide that helps members understand the importance of their covenants and the need for obedience. When members stray from their commitments, they may lose this divine guidance, which can lead to feelings of spiritual disconnection. Therefore, fostering a lifestyle of obedience is essential for maintaining this vital relationship with the Holy Ghost.
In the context of ordinances, record-keeping is an essential aspect of confirming the validity of these sacred acts in the eyes of God. This is especially emphasized regarding temple ordinances, where proper documentation ensures that these ordinances are honored in the afterlife. The Church places great importance on maintaining accurate records, as they serve as a testament to the faithfulness of the individuals involved and their commitment to the covenants made.
Proper record-keeping also reflects the seriousness with which The Church treats covenants and ordinances. Members are reminded that their actions have eternal implications, reinforcing the need for diligence in fulfilling their commitments. Disobedience to these covenants can lead to spiritual consequences, including being “cast out” from the community of believers, highlighting the gravity with which members are expected to treat their commitments.
Ultimately, the goal of obedience to ordinances within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is exaltation—the highest state of happiness and glory in the celestial realm. Members are encouraged to view their earthly actions and participation in ordinances as integral steps toward achieving this eternal goal. This perspective fosters a desire to live righteously and obey divine commandments, recognizing that their choices have eternal significance.
Obedience to sacred ordinances is more than a requirement; it is a pathway to spiritual growth and eternal happiness. Members are invited to engage fully in their covenants, understanding that through these sacred acts, they are not only following divine directives but also accessing the power of godliness, which assists them in their journey toward exaltation.
Obedience to sacred ordinances within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a profound commitment that encompasses understanding the significance of these acts, making and keeping covenants, and living a life that reflects faith in God and His commandments. As members engage with these sacred ordinances, they are not only participating in essential acts of faith but also embracing the transformative power of obedience that leads to a closer relationship with God and a brighter eternal future.
By viewing obedience through the lens of covenant relationships, the influence of the Holy Ghost, and the eternal implications of their actions, members can better appreciate the sacredness of ordinances and the vital role they play in their spiritual lives.
Gramps