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Question

 

Gramps,

What does it mean to be a servant of God?

Володимир

 

Answer

 

Володимир,

At its core, being a “Servant of God” means dedicating one’s life to fulfilling the will of God and serving others. In Christian doctrine, this encompasses a variety of roles, from prophets and apostles to ordinary believers striving to live according to Christ’s teachings. The New Testament emphasizes that true discipleship is marked by love and service, as seen in John 13:35: “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” For Latter-day Saints, this definition extends to specific actions and commitments that reflect their faith.

Teachings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

1. Service as a Central Tenet –  Service is not merely an act but a way of life for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The teachings of the Church emphasize the importance of ministering to others, echoing the words of King Benjamin in Mosiah 2:17, where he states, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.” This scripture encapsulates the essence of being a servant of God within the Church, highlighting that serving others is tantamount to serving God Himself.

2. Covenants and Commitments – In the context of the LDS Church, being a servant of God often involves making sacred covenants through ordinances such as baptism and temple rites. These covenants signify a commitment to live according to God’s commandments, as outlined in Doctrine and Covenants 84:33-34, which underscores the importance of service in fulfilling these divine promises. Members are encouraged to see their covenants as both a privilege and a responsibility to serve within their communities.

3. Priesthood Authority –  For men in the LDS Church, holding the priesthood represents a divine calling to serve. Doctrine and Covenants 107:99 teaches that those who are ordained to the priesthood are expected to act as servants of God, performing ordinances and blessings for the benefit of others. This priesthood duty enhances the understanding of service, illustrating that it involves not only personal acts of kindness but also participation in sacred responsibilities that benefit the wider community.

Examples from Scripture

The scriptures are replete with examples of individuals who exemplified what it means to be a “Servant of God.”

Moses –  As a leader of the Israelites, Moses dedicated his life to serving God and His people, advocating for their freedom and guiding them through the wilderness.

David – Known for his heart after God, David served as both king and servant, demonstrating humility and a commitment to God’s will.

Jesus Christ – The ultimate example of a servant, Jesus performed countless acts of service, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and teaching His followers to serve one another. Luke 22:27 encapsulates His mission: “I am among you as he that serveth.”

For Latter-day Saints, the figure of Joseph Smith stands as a modern example of a servant of God. As the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Smith dedicated his life to restoring the gospel and priesthood authority to the earth, embodying the principles of service and commitment to God.

Call to Action for Latter-day Saints

Being a servant of God is not a role confined to church leaders or historical figures; it extends to every member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Members are encouraged to actively engage in acts of service, whether through community outreach, ministering to those in need, or sharing the gospel. The Church’s program of ministering emphasizes the importance of loving and serving others, mirroring Christ’s example.

In doing so, Latter-day Saints fulfill their covenants and contribute to building a Christ-centered community. They are reminded of the counsel found in Matthew 25:34-40, where acts of kindness towards the least among us are equated with serving Jesus Himself.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the phrase “Servant of God” invites individuals to reflect on their lives and the impact they can have on others. Within the context of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this principle is a call to action, urging members to embody Christ-like service in their daily interactions. By understanding the teachings, examples, and commitments associated with being a servant of God, individuals can strive to fulfill their divine potential and make a meaningful difference in the world around them.

 

Gramps

 

 

 

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