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No, it isn’t being sealed to your spouse on wedding day, although that is a prerequisite (preparatory and required) to receive this highest and most sacred sealing ordinance. The priesthood sealing powers of Elijah, as restored in this last dispensation (D&C 110:13-16) and vested in the presiding high priest of the Church (D&C 132:7), are truly infinite in their application, being enabled to promise eternal life and exaltation to the faithful saints while yet in this life, as Peter explained to the ancient saints (2 Pet. 1; Eph. 1:13-14). Those saints who so receive are they who are of the church of the Firstborn (D&C 76:54, 94), and who may then receive the Second Comforter (D&C 88:3-5).
The Prophet Joseph Smith declared:
After a person has faith in Christ, repents of his sins, and is baptized for the remission of his sins and receives the Holy Ghost, (by the laying on of hands), which is the first Comforter, then let him continue to humble himself before God, hungering and thirsting after righteousness, and living by every word of God, and the Lord will soon say unto him, Son, thou shalt be exalted.
When the Lord has thoroughly proved him, and finds that the man is determined to serve Him at all hazards, then the man will find his calling and his election made sure, then it will be his privilege to receive the other Comforter, which the Lord hath promised the Saints, as is recorded in the testimony of St. John, in the 14th chapter, from the 12th to the 27th verses.1
I would exhort you to go on and continue to call upon God until you make your calling and election sure for yourselves, by obtaining this more sure word of prophecy, and wait patiently for the promise until you obtain it.2
Dr. Andrew C. Skinner, currently Executive Director of The Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship at BYU, provides more insight into these sacred principles in his recently published book, Temple Worship:
Another aspect of the sealing power of the priesthood is the ability of the Lord’s authorized servant to seal men and women unto eternal life, to perform an ordinance granting them eternal life once they pass beyond mortality, “to place a seal on them so that no matter what happens in the world, no matter what desolation sweeps the earth, yet they shall be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (D&C 88:84-85; D&C 109:38, 46; D&C 124:124; D&C 131:5; D&C 132:19, 46, 49).”3 Elder Bruce R. McConkie added this significant insight: “Since these sealing blessings are conferred by the laying on of hands of those who hold the keys of this power, it follows that John’s description of placing a seal in the forehead is not just apocalyptic imagery but a literal description of what takes place. As with other sacred things, however, the devil has a substitute seal to place; he puts a mark in the ‘foreheads’ of his followers also. (Rev. 13:16-18)”4 5
As Elder McConkie noted, this sealing is “conferred by the laying on of hands” and therefore is a different sealing than when one is first married and sealed in the temple. Being sealed to your spouse initially at the altar and its associated promised blessings (including those mentioned in D&C 132) are contingent upon enduring faithfulness and righteousness throughout one’s lifetime, whereupon one may then receive this final sealing and ordinance:
The sealing of men and women (couples) to eternal life is predicated upon continued faithfulness in mortality over time, after their temple marriage, and is not automatic or inherent in the marriage ceremony when a couple is first married in the temple, as temple instruction makes clear. Said President Joseph Fielding Smith, “Blessings pronounced upon couples in connection with celestial marriage are conditioned upon the subsequent faithfulness of the participating parties.”6 In fact, exaltation comes as a result of proven loyalty to the Lord and his kingdom “at all hazards.”7 The Prophet Joseph Smith not only described the kind of complete devotion to righteousness that is required to receive this ultimate blessing but showed us the way.8 In 1843, after years of serving the Lord at all hazards, Joseph heard the Lord say: “For I am the Lord thy God, and will be with thee even unto the end of the world, and through all eternity; for verily I seal upon you your exaltation, and prepare a throne for you in the kingdom of my Father, with Abraham your father” (D&C 132:49).9
We might ask, “Must we receive this ordinance in mortality, or can it be administered vicariously after we have passed on?” Dr. Skinner helps us in understanding:
Regarding the rest of us, the Lord indicates in D&C 50:5 that whether such a guarantee comes before death or after mortality has concluded, it makes no difference. The result is the same—exaltation. That is why it is so important for all of us to endure faithfully, patiently, and cheerfully to the end of our mortal lives.
In a way, the temple endowment is preparation for the sealing ordinance of eternal marriage, which in turn is preparation for the promise of eternal life preparatory to the realization of exaltation.10
I would add that baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (a type of washing and anointing) are also preparation for the temple ordinances which include initiatories (washing and anointing - D&C 124:39), which are in turn preparation for these higher sealing blessings. Undoubtedly these ordinances have a relationship to the three degrees of glory found within the celestial kingdom (D&C 131:1-5).
Note that this sealing ordinance clearly does not make one like God while in this life, but is the promise, save committing the unpardonable sin (D&C 132:26-27), that one will eventually receive such an inheritance in the hereafter (Rom. 8:16-17; Gal. 4:7). Joseph Smith taught us:
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 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.11
More can be learned about this most solemn and sacred ordinance and it’s associated principles at the following links:
Notes:- TPJS, 149-151. [←]
- ibid., 299. [←]
- McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, 683. [←]
- ibid. [←]
- Skinner, Temple Worship, 2007, 74; emphasis added. [←]
- Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 2:46. [←]
- Smith, TPJS, 150. [←]
- ibid., 149-51. [←]
- Skinner, Temple Worship, 2007, 74-75; emphasis added. [←]
- Skinner, Temple Worship, 2007, 75; emphasis added. [←]
- TPJS, 348. [←]
36 Comments
Is this ordinance performed in modern LDS temples? If so, who administers and how is one selected to receive it? Is it all performed in utmost secrecy?
Martin,
Thank you for the questions. All the ordinances of exaltation are performed in temples of the Lord.
As mentioned in the post, the only individual on earth who possesses the authority of these sealing powers of the priesthood to administer them is the presiding high priest of the Church, who is the current prophet and president, or who he delegates that responsibility. In Joseph Smith’s day, Hyrum Smith was delegated that authority (D&C 124:124).
One is selected to receive this ordinance in accordance with one’s faithfulness and proved devotion to the cause of truth and righteousness throughout a lifetime of service in the Lord’s Church, as explained by the Prophet Joseph Smith.
And it is held most sacred, as are all the ordinances of the temple.
Doesn’t Joseph Smith’s statement that we should, “make your calling and election sure for yourselves,” imply that this could be done without a Temple ordinance?
Does his statement that, “the Lord will soon say unto him, Son, thou shalt be exalted.” mean the Lord will be speaking to the man via the designated Priesthood ordinance, or can it mean the Lord will say that personally to him in revelation?
My main question, I guess, is…Is there any reference that this is specifically a Temple ordinance, and not a personal revelatory experience?
Elder McConkie said that this blessing was “conferred by the laying on of hands” by the appointed authority, and therefore is not a personal revelation, but an ordinance of the temple. “We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority…” (A of F 5).
Interesting indeed.
I’ve never thought of it as being a Temple ordinance before, but Elder McConkie’s interpretation of the seal on foreheads in Revelation is pretty convincing as well.
Thanks
Also note that Br. Skinner said that the appointed authority “perform(s) an ordinance granting them eternal life once they pass beyond mortality…”
References to this as an ordinance are scattered through LDS literature like tantalizing bits of chocolate in a cookie–elusive, but unmistakeably present. I have had people refer to this openly, but I have never heard anyone give anything beyond the most vague information.
There is simply no solid information about whether or not this ordinance is currently performed within the temples today. If it is, it is done in a manner that is so highly secret that we know virtually nothing beyond what Bryce has posted here, most of which is from McConkie and Skinner.
Is there more to the temple? I rather suspect that if there is, it is something that one is only introduced to after a lifetime of diligent service, and not always in this life. What is known is this: a person must have their calling and election made sure in order to reach the highest portion of the celestial kingdom, but that may happen in the next life. Be at peace.
Thank you for your comment Benjamin. I would agree that reference to this ordinance in LDS sources is rare (it is most abundant in the scriptures, and early Church history). But I do tend to believe, however, per Dr. Skinner’s recent comments in his book, that this ordinance is currently performed within temples today. Of course, there is no way of knowing for certain to what degree.
Is this ordinance also referred to as “…”? Is the ordinance given to both the husband and wife together, at the same time?
There is a reference to the administering of this ordinance in the biography of David O. McKay titled (if my memory serves me correctly) The Rise of Modern Mormonism. The information shared in that book on this topic was interesting and enlightening.
Jones,
Since there is no recent precedence among any authorities to give the ordinance a name, I will not venture there. I would call it the highest sealing ordinance, for now. As with the initial sealing at the altar of husband and wife together, this last and final sealing is also only administered to couples. Note Dr. Skinner’s remark, “The sealing of men and women (couples) to eternal life…”
It would be interesting to pick up Pres. McKay’s biography and see what it says.
I’ve read references of what I believe is this ordinance in journals of early church members. It was not uncommon to read about a couple receiving it. This may or may not be the same ordinance, but if it is then the couple would receive the ordinance in the temple.
Isn’t this the …? From what I understand they were performed quiet frequently in the early days of the Church. I’ve heard that they’re doing it more often now.
Sorry Brett. I’m not comfortable posting the early name of this ordinance until there is recent precedence from an authority in the Church. Dr. Skinner didn’t feel free to do so, and neither do I. Dr. Skinner did say in his book that the sealing ordinances were in full operation within the Church today.
Thanks for the information Bryce. Nice website. Growing up in the Church I heard a lot about having your calling and election made sure. And sometimes the temple was connected to this idea. These days I rarely hear it discussed. But maybe I am in the wrong loop. I have a copy of Greg Prince’s biography of David O. McKay - I will take a look and see if there is anythin more that is mentioned.
You’re welcome Colin, and thanks for the compliment. I agree that having your calling and election made sure is rarely spoken of today. Maybe it should be more. Perhaps we were in a phase when the Lord could only give us the milk of this doctrine; maybe today we are more ready for the meat.
Brother Haymond,
What of Enos in the book of mormon?
Nephi’s people had built a temple.
He and his brother Jacob had seen the savior.
Yet Enos received forgiveness alone while hunting.
Later Enos testifies of the things he had both seen and heard,
implies that although only a voice is mentioned in his
forgivness experience, he also saw someone. Outside of the confines of the House of the Lord.
Good question John. I’m not sure if Enos received his final sealing while hunting in the wilderness. From what I read, he heard a voice in his mind. I don’t think even seeing the Lord is the same thing as the final sealing. Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ in the First Vision, yet it was a long time yet before Joseph received his final sealing to eternal life (D&C 132:49).
Bryce,
Upon further research one of it’s possible names maybe “…”.
Perhaps Enos’ experience was just a preparation for the Brethren Performing an Ordinance.
President Kimball once said, if we expended the same effort and time as Enos did, we would obtain the same blessings he did. Interesting in light of the fact that the word ENOS means
MAN. Maybe it is a type for all mankind. Who would not trade 24 hours for complete forgiveness and complete answers to prayers on so many levels. Interesting to think about.
Maybe we should get some alone time and go hunting.
Thanks John for your comments. As I’ve mentioned in previous comments, since there is no recent precedence for naming this ordinance from any authorities, I will refrain from posting it. But you are right in that we might want to take more time for these Enos-like experiences in our lives.
There are references to this ordinance, whatever it’s called, every now and then. But never, from what I recall, from a pulpit. I suppose it’s one of those things we can study and discuss but within certain sacred parameters.
Thanks, Bryce, for this informative post.
Actually, there have been references to this ordinance from the pulpit now and again, if one knows what to listen for. For he who has ears, let him hear, and eyes, let him see, and the mysteries of godliness will be unfolded before his view (Mosiah 2:9; D&C 136:32). Sometimes the things of God are hidden in language that only those who are in tune will be able to distinguish. This is why the Lord spoke in parables.
Good point, Bryce.
I’m reading Elder Ballard’s When Thou Art Converted, and I’m simply amazed how much he refers to the Temple without saying it. Phraseology, wording — those who know, will know. Same in conference talks and even other talks. Subtle references that would go over the heads of those who are not aware.
I try to pay extra attention when the Brethren speak. Never know when they will say something that isn’t apparent, that’s hidden.
And Hugh Nibley does the same thing.
For what it’s worth, I do believe there is a name for this ordinance that is in use today. A search for “the Fulness of the Priesthood” in Mormon Doctrine, Doctrines of Salvation, and other common resources will demonstrate this.
Best Wishes,
Andrew
Interesting. So are you saying that these final sealing ordinances are referred to today as “the fulness of the priesthood”? I can understand that. But that is probably not their name, per se. I have not found a recent authority that has given a name to the sealing ordinance(s), although Elder McConkie does refer to the the washing of feet as a high blessing, reserved for “those who make themselves worthy.” He also says:
Interesting quote! I don’t know that the name of the ordinance is “fulness of the priesthood” but it is commonly said that a fulness of priesthood is confered by the ordinance. See Mormon Doctrine under “Kings” and also look in Doctrines of Salvation under “Fulness of the priesthood” when you get a chance.
Those that don’t know speak….. while those that know don’t
“The more sure word of prophecy means a man’s knowing that he is sealed up unto eternal life, by revelation and the spirit of prophecy, through the power of the Holy Priesthood. ” (D&C 131:5).
Bryce–great blog!
Tommy
Doesn’t D&C 132 point out that there are two ways that one can receive their calling and election? Verse 19 “. . . and it is sealed unto them by the Holy Spirit of promise, by him who is anointed, unto whom I have appointed this power and the keys of this priesthood; . . . .” This being via the Temple ordinance by proper priesthood representation and verse 26: ” . . . and they are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, according to mine appointment, . . . .” meaning that it can occur by personal revelation/visitation.
Are those who have mental illnesses, (such as being bipolar) and have to take “mood altering” prescriptions, likely to qualify for such a great blessing?
You make an interesting observation Bruce. I think the calling and election always comes by a priesthood ordinance, which is the “appointment,” by the laying on of hands. Whether that appointed person has to be mortal or if they can be a resurrected being is probably up to God. But in either case, Andrew Skinner points out “whether such a guarantee comes before death or after mortality has concluded, it makes no difference.” Such a great blessing does not have to come during mortality.
[edit]… During a tour of the Denver Temple, prior to it’s first opening, a neighbor of mine was able to see a few rooms that the general public does not. A member of his family took him on the tour. It was explained to him that the “Second Comforter” (Christ) was literally involved in this ordinance in this special room…?
Thanks for the insight SC Nielsen. I edited the historical name for the ordinance from your comment. I’m unc0mfortable publishing it here because the brethren are also hesitant to do so. A more recent term for this ordinance that the brethren are more comfortable using is the “fullness of the priesthood.” The exact connection or relationship that this ordinance has with the Second Comforter I have yet to discover, but your insight is interesting.
Just have a quick question - when Josesph Smith saw God and the Lord in the sacred grove would that count as him receiving the Second Comforter? I know that he said that when one receives the 2nd Comforter, the Lord appears to that person and teaches him face to face, so would every appearance from the Lord be considered someone receiving the 2nd Comforter?
I don’t believe so Sam. Joseph did not receive his sealing to eternal life until well after the First Vision (cf. D&C 132:49). He had to be tried and tested in his faithfulness, just like the rest of us. You’ll notice in the early revelations that there was still a chance of his falling from his high calling (see D&C 3). Bushman notes the date when Joseph received this higher ordinance in Rough Stone Rolling. I’ll look it up when I get home.
I always thought that the First vision consisted of Joseph being transfigured. Since, it is required that you be sealed to your spouse before you can receive your calling and election, I think that the first vision was probably not Joseph having his calling and election made sure. Receiving the 2nd Comforter usually goes with receiving your call and election. Unless I misunderstand.
Below is an excerpt from Truman G. Madsen’s book The Temple: Where Heaven Meets Earth that I thought instructive. It is entitled The Temple and the Mysteries of Godliness: Receiving Christ Fully.
That is a great chapter from his new book. I especially like these quotes:
“‘It is impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance’ (D&C 131:6). This passage refers to a specific kind of ignorance. The preceding verse is talking about sealing, about coming to know by revelation through the power of the holy priesthood not only that Jesus is the Christ, but also that a relationship has been forged between you and Jesus Christ. It is a testimony that there is light at the end of the tunnel, that He is making you His. How do you come to know that? I can tell you that the promise does pertain to the temple.”
“Therein we are promised that whatever our age or the decline and disabilities that we experience here, we will one day enter in at the gate to eternal lives. On that day of renewal, we will emerge into a celestial condition, into the ‘fulness of the glory of the Father’ (D&C 93:16). There the glorious privilege of priesthood, parenthood, and godhood come together as one. There, forever, will be the reunion of the separated. As this is the crowning ordinance of the house of God, it is also the crowning truth of the gospel.”