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. ((TPJS, 149-151.))
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. ((ibid., 299.))
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).” ((McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, 683.)) 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)” ((ibid.)) ((Skinner, Temple Worship, 2007, 74; emphasis added.))
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.” ((Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 2:46.)) In fact, exaltation comes as a result of proven loyalty to the Lord and his kingdom “at all hazards.” ((Smith, TPJS, 150.)) 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. ((ibid., 149-51.)) 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). ((Skinner, Temple Worship, 2007, 74-75; emphasis added.))
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. ((Skinner, Temple Worship, 2007, 75; emphasis added.))
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. ((TPJS, 348.))
More can be learned about this most solemn and sacred ordinance and it’s associated principles at the following links:
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?
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?
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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?
[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…?
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 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.
Hi Bryce – Perhaps this seal has its counterfeits, see Karl Marx and Phrenology.
Have you ever considered the possibility that having your calling and election made sure and obtaining this sealing are two separate events. Many people in the church had their calling and election long before the ordinances of the fulness of the gospel were completely restored to the church, many before the endowment was completely restored. Incidentally, McConkie stated Jan. 1, 1973, at a BYU devotional that “many” in the church today have had their calling and election made sure.
Receiving this ordinance is, in essence, having God bear his testimony of you. If you keep that in mind while reading the scriptures, you’ll find many instances where prophets and apostles have had this ordinance come to fruition in their lives. See, for example, Hel. 10:4-7.
Hi Bryce,
I commend your efforts here; very good information. Thank you for your work. I most appreciate the verifiable references, as that follows the pattern of delivered truth (preparation (Spirit), revelation (Authority), validation (Type/Pattern of Ordinance), and confirmation. (Spirit).
I share my thoughts here with good intnent and in all sincerity.
SC Nielsen’s comment (though I can appreciate his/her sincerity), is typical of how second-hand falsehoods begin within the Church. We, as members of the Church, must be cautious of sensational stories and especially of second-hand knowledge. I find that we enjoy greater liberality on the internet as members of the LDS Church, with respect to social interaction, and that especially within our community than @ the pulpit. And rightly so! Irrespective of the neighbors’ experience, one must exercise caution in sharing information that could potentially mislead eager hearts and minds. What is the purpose of sharing an experience and how was that information received? (I’ll refrain from interjecting scriptural references here.)
I’d like to see more members of the Church sharing their personal experiences under the appropriate circumstances and in the appropriate settings. SC Nielsen’s neighbors’ experience fits the pattern of urban legends.
During my service as a missionary in the Ogden, Utah Mission from 1998-2000, I came across sources of information that are largely unique to Utah, namely literature written by members of the Church, both past and current writings. I was also privy to sacred experiences shared firsthand with me by the individuals that lived the experience. Many members shared experiences that they “heard from a friend” or “a friend of a friend”, with all the reputability of the friend’s qualifications (i.e. bishop, stake president, temple service worker, etc.)
With the powerful reach of the internet, think about how many people will have access to information for free. Information is available without qualification of the audience potentially receiving it! Now, think of the members of the Church seeking greater Light and Truth. To the undiscerning, your experience can mislead. It is similar to reports that I learned of during and after my mission service. It is the responsibility of members of the Church to correct each other and to help each other focus on the truths of the Gospel, truths that are Christ’s. Whether or not He administers those ordinances himself is not the principle to be discussed. The principle is that a pattern has been given, whereby, man can act in concert with the Heavens and administer saving ordinances. I pray that you limit the sharing of that experience. You were not there to verify what your neighbor claims. You did not experience it yourself. And, the fact that your neighbor did share such a personal experience with you almost demands that you would not share it on such an open forum such as this.
If He does administer how can we verify that? If He does not, how can we validate that? Let us not treat his Presence so lightly. Let us not “miss the mark” or look past it. Truths are revealed according to patterns. Focus on the fact that sacred ordinances are a blessing, and what can be learned from the ordinance. Does it matter if a Sealer performs those ordinances or if He does? Regardless, an individual would be blessed just to be given such an experience.
Yours in pursuit of greater Light,
Dave
Dave,
Agreed. I am also one (much older than you) that has no tolerance for “urban legends”. If I had it to do over, I wouldn’t have subitted that post… I have known the man for 20+ years and I stand by what he told me, though I too take info “from neighbors” very lightly. Elder McConkie has spoken much about this subject, The Second Comforter, as being Christ Himself. His writings are available to all.
I also concur that sensationalism, especially with regards to this sacred subject, is not good…
I like what Elder Packer said about sacred “interviews”. “We do not talk of those sacred interviews that qualify the servants of the Lord to bear a special witness of Him, for we have been commanded not to do so”… I guess we could all take some counsel in this regard, as with sacred things.
Scott,
Thanks for your response. I speak with great respect to you, especially because of the brotherhood that binds us together in our Master. Just to be clear, I in no way question your integrity nor that of your neighbor. I completely understand. I have learned this lesson from personal experience and only hope to strengthen my ties with my brethren wherever they might be throughout the earth. I seek mutual fortification from you and others who desire to do His work as I do. I became familiar with Elder McConkie’s writings on the matter of the SC prior to serving in Utah. When we have the chance, I’d like to get your email so we can communicate as well and share thoughts on Gospel Topics and material. I look forward to learning more from you as I have a sense of the wisdom you have to share. I have the utmost respect for your words and shared comments.
It’s interesting, Clarkston was within our mission boundaries and was an area that I covered during part of my mission service. I was fortunate enough to visit the grave and feel the Spirit there. I have to say that I miss Utah and the special areas such as MH’s grave, Elder M. Cowley’s home up in Idaho, President Benson’s gravesite, and tons of other special sites I came across on the mission.
I look forward to our harmonious endeavors (& Happy 2009 all!),
Dave
Dave,
Thanks for the response.
My email is: scottcnielsen@yahoo.com
I just read with some interest the posts to this thread since the beginning of the year. Certainly, the Internet and the web do provide for greater interaction among a wide spectrum of people and beliefs. As I read through the recent comments I wonder if President Packer’s teachings may serve as a reference in discussing sacred things – see for example, The Gift of Spiritual Experiences. Also, I wonder if these comments underscore the predicament that is described at the end of an article by M. Catherine Thomas called Hebrews – To Ascend the Holy Mount.
Isn’t one of the prerequisites for this blessing a passing of at least one Abrahamic test? (D&C 101:1-5) It seems to me that the Prophet Joseph would administer such tests. I don’t recall the specifics, but I remember being informed of an account of the Prophet asking a faithful man for their wife’s hand in marriage. After much painful and heart rending deliberation, the man consented. The Prophet’s response was, “You passed the test.” Is this a true story and do you have the full account?
Excellent reference Bryce.
Abraham was a type. Adam’s sacrifice was a type. Further light comes when we are found in the light. The Savior’s sacrifice is the center of all renewal. It is the true pattern of creation. It is the Glorious Manifestation of His Love. Our Father knows each of us, and to find congregation with the Firstborn, we must manifest to him our heart and lay it upon the altar of sacrifice. Only then, when our heart is given back to him-fully-can be become His; because He is become Ours. Walking back into his presence is different than being caused to stand before Him. We can put nothing more upon the altar than our hearts, for that is truly the only gift which is ours to give.
Perhaps, it is notable to then realize, “Where is my heart?”
Peace ya’ll,
Dave
Bryce,
Thank you for your research. I believe that sometimes, unlike Abraham, the knife isn’t stayed.
Me too.
The test is in the paradox. (D&C 132:36) It may be resolved through an eternal perspective and greater faith in Heavenly Father. (Hebrews 11:17-19)
Since Heavenly Father knows all things from the beginning (D&C 130:6-8,) He knows that we pass such tests – Why, then, are they administered?
Hi Bruce – I think that one of the great resources on this topic is the Prophet Joseph Smith’s discourse on Hebrews 7 (see Three Orders of Priesthood). Although the site mentioned provides the various accounts of the Prophet’s discourse, the footnotes to this discourse in The Words of Joseph Smith are an invaluable source of information.
Although this book is available (see Believe All Things Store), it is priced at around $116 for a used copy of the first or second printing. However, Andrew Ehat recently mentioned that a new edition will be available sometime this year and will include previously unavailable discourses and information.
I know that studying this discourse has helped me immeasurably in understanding Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac’s tests of faith. Also, I believe Nibley wrote about some of these individualized “tests” in the second edition of Abraham in Egypt under the chapter titles “The Sacrifice of Isaac” and “The Sacrifice of Sarah”. I don’t know that I would have viewed these tests of faith in the same way without first studying the footnotes to this discourse in Words. At least that was my experience.
Truman Madsen refers to a similar test that Joseph Smith administered to John and Leonora Taylor in his Presidents of the Church Lecture series. I know that this has recently been published in book form, but I admit that I do not have it. It was in the JT tape so I would expect Truman to have listed a source for that. Anyone who has it, I would love to see the cite.
Heavenly Father does know the end from the beginning. The test is for our benefit. (Lectures on Faith – Lecture 6: 7,8 and 12)
I wonder about the testing of Job. (Job 1:8-12) When we are tested it is the author Satan or the Lord?
P.S. Thank you, Greg and Bryce. I am learning a lot.
I would like to know if Satan or Heavenly Father authors our Abrahamic Tests?
Bryce, I concur with your answer. I don’t understand what was going on with Job and Satan, but I do know that the Godhead are the only ones that know the thoughts and intents of our hearts. Heavenly Father knows how to test our love/s.
Are only 12,000 from the tribe of Joseph going to receive the fulness of the priesthood in the latter days? (Revelations 7:2-8) Ephraim isn’t even mentioned, but Manasses is mentioned as, also, having 12,000 sealed. If Ephraim is included with Joseph, that means that only a few will have the sealing blessing. Why is Ephraim left out? The tribe of Dan isn’t even mentioned as having any sealed.
Here are my thoughts from my own experience and research… as this is a very long post, I wanted to address only those things which popped out…
– Beginning with the end, the 12,000 from each tribe or the 144,000 sealed are actually missionaries for the Church of the First Born who are teaching The Everlasting Gospel D&C 77:11. (This is compared with the current Missionary program of the LDS Church which teaches the Preparatory Gospel, Aaronic/Levitical Priesthood & Law of Moses – D&C 84:23-27) Notice that the scripture says this is taught currently because the people today have the same problems as the people under Moses who could not “behold the face of God”, (D&C 84:23-24 & D&C 22:2-3). The missionary force for the Church of the First Born will bring people to enter again the presence of God such that they will “behold his face”.
– The requirements for membership in the Church of the First Born are fulfilling the Lower Law and being sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise which is to say, receive your calling and Election made sure, D&C 76:51-54. All members of the Church of the First Born have the promise of Exaltation which is to say, “Their calling and Election is made sure”.
– C&E can be received in many ways, but they are, in the end, the same way. For example some have received it during a revelation regarding other matters without so much as hands laid on the head (D&C 124:124), Others have received it in the temples administered as an ordinance. However, most receive it in the most pure and simple way it can be received, and all must receive it this way regardless of circumstances. That way is by personal revelation. This was how Joseph Smith received it D&C 132: 48-50. It is the law by which all things are received and the principle of the Holy Spirit of Promise, D&C 76:53, 88:3, 132:7. Note that any ordinance NOT seal by this spirit is not accepted by God, no matter who does it. Also note that it is a “Spirit” and not a person which is often confusing in the D&C. The reason for this is because it must dwell in your hearts, D&C88:3. You will find multiple examples of people at the moment they received their calling and election made sure, and how they received it by reading “The light of Christ” by President M. G. Romney
– We receive our calling and election made sure when we are no longer under the influence of Satan which is known as being built “on the Rock from which we cannot fall”, D&C 10:69, 6:34, 3ne.11:39, etc… If we cannot fall, then we have finally gotten to a spiritual state in which Satan has no power over us. He is bound in our lives and we can no longer fall except by choice which is a requirement to being given the Calling and Election made sure 2Pet. 1:10. The only way to fall from that point on is by continuous choice, not trickery or temptation.
– As a side note, the missionary work for the Church of The First Born is what will bring about the millennium because Satan must be bound by the righteousness of the people which is a result of the people being built on the rock from which they cannot fall. As we get closer to the millennium, more people will receive their calling and election made sure and begin living the eternal gospel.
– The Abrahamic test – When considering this, do not forget that Abraham had received the Promise of exaltation or his calling and election made sure before Isaac was even born. This test had another purpose, it was not to prove Abraham worthy of receiving what he was already given. God was not going back to Abraham and testing him again after he had passed all his tests… Abraham was also beyond the power of Satan. God was trying to help Abraham progress in his relationship from Son to friend of God. (long story.)
– Jobs test – I am currently under the opinion that although Job was not subject to Satan’s influence directly, he was subject to Satan’s influence on others. This is one way that God teaches people to use the sealing power. Sink or swim method. Although Job was not going to fall himself, he had no control over the physical world around him. Thus the sealing power was given to him and he needed to learn to use it to overcome all things. This is a blessing of having your calling and election made sure, 1) Being given all things (Sealing power included) D&C 76:54-56 & 59 and 2) Learning to eventually overcome all things D&C 76:60.
– Someone said, “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. ” Not true. I have a very close friend who received his C&E and the second Comforter while serving on his mission. All the sealing stuff can be handled later as can any other ordinance needed by a person already on the path. The C&E does not mean that you have stopped progressing or that you cannot progress further in this life. Notice in D&C 76:51-53 gives the minimum requirements for this blessing. Then it goes into the blessings of the blessing. Because the “new & Everlasting” Covenant becomes “new” and “Everlasting” with each new covenant, it eventually includes the sealing or marriage to a spouse. But until that ordinance is done, marriage/sealing is not included as part of the “new and ever lasting covenant” which begins at baptism.
– Second Comforter – No it doesn’t mean just seeing Christ. It is like the first Comforter which is the Holy Ghost that can be with you always. The second comforter is the presence of Christ being with you always. I have not yet heard of that happening before someone actually meets Christ. It is what Christ prayed for when he asked that he be in us as the Father is in him. Christ the physical person cannot “be in us” just as we cannot “be in him”. But spiritually we can be and this constitutes us “being one” with Christ and God. That is the second comforter. See John 17:21-23 where Christ is praying as stated above. It is a direct and permanent connection with Christ such that you “are one with him”.
– Someone said, “Those that don’t know speak….. while those that know don’t.” Very catchy, but not true. Satan wants to prevent the millennium as long as possible because during that time he is bound by the righteousness of the people who have built on the rock or sure foundation. This doctrine does 2 things on Satan’s behalf: 1) Shuts the mouths of those who know so they don’t teach others. This is in direct contradiction to the missionary effort for the Church of the First Born and the mission of a prophet, (teach others the path they have taken). 2) For those who do open their mouths to share, this doctrine shuts the ears of those who are listening by discrediting those who have experienced and are sharing. The real way to know is by praying and asking God for personal revelation, which just happens to be the rock on which if you build you cannot fall, and the rock on which the church is built.
That’s my thoughts for now…I’m out of time, and just over half way through the blog. Very interesting, thanks for letting me post.
– “I believe that one’s calling and election must come eventually by an ordinance in the house of the Lord.” – As stated before, my missionary companion had received the blessing but had not yet received the physical ordinance which was completed later. However, at the time God gives the promise, the blessing is given and the person does not have to wait for the physical ordinance to enjoy the blessings associated with the Calling and Election. The blessings are received at the moment that God has spoken or pronounced it. In the same effect, if a man performs the ordinance and it is NOT sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise, it has no effect in this life or the next and God is not bound to honor it. This is the case for all ordinances from baptism to blessings on the sick to calling and election made sure. “All covenants, contracts, bonds, obligations, oaths, vows, performances, connections, associations, or expectations are under the same criteria.” Another thought on this is the words of President Romney in the talk “The Light of Christ”. He specifically was encouraging the membership to receive their calling and election made sure and provided many examples of people receiving it so that the members would know how to recognize it. Of those examples, NONE are in the temple by the laying on of hands. All are by personal revelation. Here is a very poignant example as quoted from that talk:
“In this dispensation many have received like assurances. In the spring of 1839, while the Prophet Joseph and his associates were languishing in Liberty Jail, Heber C. Kimball, our president’s grandfather, labored against great odds caring for the Saints and striving to free the brethren who were in jail. On the sixth of April he wrote:
“My family having been gone about two months, during which time I heard nothing from them; our brethren being in prison; death and destruction following us everywhere we went; I felt very sorrowful and lonely. The following words came to mind, and the Spirit said unto me, ‘write,’ which I did by taking a piece of paper and writing on my knee as follows: …
“Verily I say unto my servant Heber, thou art my son, in whom I am well pleased; for thou art careful to hearken to my words, and not transgress my law, nor rebel against my servant Joseph Smith, for thou hast a respect to the words of mine anointed, even from the least to the greatest of them; therefore”—listen to this—“thy name is written in heaven, no more to be blotted out for ever.” (Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. Kimball, Book craft, 1975, p. 241; italics added.)” – Marion G. Romney, “The Light of Christ,” General Conference, April 1977
The link is too long to include, but you can find it by searching in Google: “Romney the light of Christ” It will be the first link. Not one of his examples happened in the temple or by leadership, unless you count Joseph Smith giving it to himself, acting as both the giver and the receiver… (But that really was personal revelation too.)
Other examples in which ordinances are performed to bestow blessings or priesthoods without the laying on of hands are littered throughout the scriptures. Such examples include Christ healing without being present (multiple times), Nephi receiving the sealing power from the voice of God (Hel.10), Joseph Smith receiving his calling and election by personal revelation (D&C. 132), Abraham receiving it by personal revelation or directly from God even while Melchizedek was his earthly leader (Abr. 2:6-11), the Lamanites being baptized with fire and the Holy Ghost and knew it not (3Ne. 9:20), etc.. The list goes on and on…
We also are trying to follow Father Abraham of whom it is written, “Abraham received all things, whatsoever he received, by revelation and commandment, by my word, saith the Lord, and hath entered into his exaltation and sitteth upon his throne.” – D&C 132:29
The key here is that the great mystery learned by the Brother of Jared, that God cannot lie, Ether 3:12. So, when that God which cannot lie speaks by his spirit which cannot lie, (which is his voice, D&C. 88:66, 97:1, 68:4), whatsoever is spoken is so. Whether by God’s own voice to us directly as personal revelation through the spirit or the voice of the servant speaking by the Power of the Holy Ghost which carries it’s witness to our hearts, it is the same internal witness to us, 2Ne. 33:1. And because God cannot lie, it is so. If it so be that an ordinance must be done in this life or the next, it will only be a formality which will not hold back a person from receiving any blessing God has for them now.
Another thought, the Spirit is an authorized servant of the Lord and men get their authority from that Spirit. When the spirit withdraws, amen to the priesthood and authority of that man. If the Spirit is not present, then the ordinance is of no effect. The spirit may seal that ordinance later without needing to repeat the physical ordinance. The blessing can be received in many ways, but they are all the same because they all require the sealing promise of God through the Holy Spirit of Promise which cannot lie. Even if the prophet himself declared it, you would not know for certain until you received that internal witness that comes from the Spirit. And because Calling and Election means, “A man’s knowing” that he is sealed up, he must know. That knowledge cannot come from an earthly source; it must come from God through the Spirit, hence the name, “the Holy Spirit of Promise”. True knowledge can come no other way.
– “I also believe it is impossible to receive one’s calling and election unless one has been sealed to a spouse.” – It would seem so, however, there are many who had received it before being sealed including Hyrum D&C. 124:124 and Joseph D&C 132:49. They both would be sealed in the future and had wives already, but they had not yet been sealed. You may be saying that someone will not receive that blessing until they are at least married, but the principle by which this blessing is received is that of prophecy. The while giving Abraham his Promise, the lord said, “My name is Jehovah, and I know the end from the beginning; therefore my hand shall be over thee.” Abr. 2:8. In this the Lord is telling us that we have become the person we were intended to become. We have walked the path that was required. Being who we are now, we will not fall unless by choice (becoming a son of perdition having sinned against a PERFECT knowledge). So, we will be married in the right place to the right person. That is who we are. Even if we die before that point, we will accept the opportunity when it is presented.
This is the same principle by which Jesus Christ was a God before completing his progression into mortality and being married, sealed dieing and being resurrected. It is the principle by which the Holy Ghost who still has not yet received a body is a God. It is what Alma 13 talks about regarding the foreknowledge of God which is based on our, (already proven), exceeding faith and good works, Alma 13:3. It is the essence of the promise because God knows, based on experience what we will do in the future. And yes, we will get sealed. If we don’t it is because we have rebelled and become sons of perdition. But, by time God gives his promise it is a certainty.
Concerning sharing: (Alma 12:9)
If we follow our conscience (the Light of Christ) it will lead us to the Holy Ghost. If we follow the Holy Ghost, He will lead us to the Savior. If we follow the Savior, He will lead us to the Father and all that the Father hath.
What are the ” memorials for your sacrifices by the sons of Levi” done in the Temple as mentioned: (D&C 124:39) ?
I don’t know if my comments are particularly helpful and on-topic at this point, but Amonhi’s reference to the Brother of Jared caught my eye. M. Catherine Thomas wrote about his experience in the Brother of Jared at the Veil and may be useful for those who venture here.
Concerning Sharing: (Alma 12:9) I will add verses 9-11. And note, that something is always imparted in the hopes that it will be received. The question is how much is imparted, the lesser portion because the listener has hardened his heart or the greater portion because the listener does NOT harden his heart. Here an example in which Nephi was instructed to NOT impart more because of the hardness of the people’s hearts: 2 Ne. 32:7.
I could not have said it better regarding the progress from the Light of Christ to exaltation. I read an article that walks the baby steps from the basic principles of the Gospel to Calling and Election Made Sure and does a very good job with the how and why related questions. Link: http://www.elliaison.com/Articles/Fulness%20of%20Gospel.pdf
Memorials of the Sacrifices of the Sons of Levi – Reminders of the Sacrifices of the Sons of Levi. The distinguishing point of the Sons of Levi is that they are the only tribe that held the Levitical priesthood which we call today the Aaronic Priesthood. It was and is the lower or “Preparatory” priesthood and corresponds with the Preparatory Gospel. “Which gospel is the gospel of repentance and of baptism, and the remission of sins, and the law of carnal commandments, which the Lord in his wrath caused to continue with the house of Aaron among the children of Israel”, see D&C 84: 23-27. All the ordinances of this Preparatory Gospel deal with being Saved from Sin or Salvation. They are preparing us for the “Everlasting Gospel” which focuses on Exaltation.
Under the Preparatory Gospel the Sacrifices of the Sons of Levi were the animal Sacrifices which although not performed today are still part of this lower priesthood and symbols of the Atonement of Jesus Christ performed under the same priesthood.
We cannot fully comprehend or understand the Atonement of Christ or receive the Fulness of the Glory of God without understanding the symbols associated with the Sacrifices of the Sons of Levi. And as a major purpose of the temple is to be a refuge where the “the weary traveler may find health and safety while he shall contemplate the word of the Lord” (D&C 124:23&36). It is useful to have memorials or reminders of the Sacrifices performed by the sons of Levi. In temples today, you will find many symbols which are directly connected to the ordinances performed under the Levitical/Aaronic Priesthood. This is a continuation of the ancient ways, see Zech. 6:14, Ex. 28:12&29, Mark 14:9. If you look up the word “memorial” you will see that it is often either a physical symbol or an action performed which denotes or symbolizes something. These memorials both teach us and bring to remembrance or clarify what is being done.
For example: “And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod for stones of memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the Lord upon his two shoulders for a memorial.” – Ex. 28:12
The symbol was enhanced or understood more fully by attaching a concept to it like saying “these 2 stones on the shoulders represents the Children of Israel as if you were carrying them on your shoulders…”
Those are my 2 cents as I have never considered this concept before… I would love to hear other opinions..
Thank you, Amonhi for your observations. I appreciate that you included the whole scenario: (Alma 12: 9-11). Certainly Heb. 5: 13, also applies.
With regard to personal revelation: 2 Cor. 13: 1 and 2 Nephi 11:3 have helped me to realize that Heavenly Father sends at least two witnesses when He reveals things to us. When I read D&C 8: 2-3 I realized that the mind and the heart are distinct and separate witnesses. It helped when I could pick them out in D&C 9: 8-9 Further, I correlated this with D&C 11: 13-14
Thanks again.
Regarding some of the contents on this blog, I believe we are confusing prophetic utterances and revelations with priesthood ordinances.
For example, how many have Patriarchal blessings that “seal you to come forth on the morning of the first resurrection clothed in glory, immortality and eternal life?” This is not a guarantee that such will be the case. It is a promise based upon continued faithfulness.
Consider that God knows the beginning from the end. He is possessor of all truth, which is a knowledge of things as they are, as they were, and as they are to come. So for God to reveal to any person, including prophets that their name has been recorded “in the Book of Life” is not a substitute for the actual priesthood ordinance(s) which make their “calling and election sure.”
God knew long before he revealed it to said person, that “their” name had been recorded in the Book of Life.” Refer to D & C 137:5-8. I saw Father Adam and Abraham; and my father and my mother; my brother Alvin, that has long since eslept;
6 And I marveled how it was that he had obtained an inheritance in that kingdom, seeing that he had departed this life before the Lord had set his hand to gather Israel the second time, and had not been baptized for the remission of sins.
7 Thus came the avoice of the Lord unto me, saying: All who have died without a knowledge of this gospel, who would have received it if they had been permitted to tarry, shall be heirs of the celestial kingdom of God;
8 Also all that shall die henceforth without a knowledge of it, who would have received it with all their hearts, shall be heirs of that kingdom;
Joseph Smith saw a prophetic vision. Alvin at the time of the vision was not in the Celestial Kingdom, but was to inherit the Celestial Kingdom, but not without receiving the necessary priesthood ordinances first, performed vicariously in the House of the Lord. Interestingly enough, at the time of this vision, vicarious ordinances for the dead and the temple for their performance were not yet established.
A revelation from God to man that he will inherit eternal life is not a substitute for the priesthood ordinance that guarantees it. The sealing by the Holy Spirit of Promise is not a priesthood ordinance, but a ratification by the Holy Ghost that the ordinance, upon conditions of continued worthiness, is binding and acceptable to God.
If for example, a couple are sealed for time and all eternity by the priesthood ordinance designated for celestial marriage, and are worthy to be in the temple, then that ordinance that very moment is sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise. But suppose the couple is not worthy to be there, the ordinance receives no such “seal.” Upon conditions of repentance that ordinance can subsequently be “sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise” but there is no necessity of repeating the ordinance.
Be assured that all ordinances essential for exaltation are performed by the “laying on of hands” by those in authority…and there is “never but one on the earth at a time on whom this power and the keys of this priesthood are conferred….” Healing the sick can be an ordinance (not essential for exaltation) performed by priesthood hands, or it can be an act of faith that is not limited by the distance between the healer and the healed.
Joseph Smith taught in HC 5:424, “If a man gets a fullness of the priesthood of God, he has to get it in the same way that Jesus Christ obtained it, and that was by keeping all the commandments and obeying (first receiving) all the ordinances of the house of the Lord.”
In D & C 76: 56, referring to heirs of the celestial kingdom and church of the Firstborn: “They are they who are priests and kings who have received of his fullness and of his glory.” These “priests and kings” are not priesthood bearers who have received the “promise” of becoming priests and kings. They have actually been ordained priests and kings, hence their presence in the celestial kingdom.
“Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” Joseph Smith taught that such rebirth, “comes by the Spirit of God through (priesthood) ordinances.” HC3:392
No promise is of any veracity unless and until a man or woman receives the corresponding priesthood ordinance. Granted, “God is a god of truth and canst not lie.” So for God to promise a man or woman “Eternal Life” is a promise that such a person will also receive the appropriate priesthood ordinance!
My point? One will never serve as a “priest or king” on a promise. Only when he has received the actual ordination.
I wonder if this ordinance will need to be vicariously performed on behalf of those who are deceased?
Thank you, Bryce – for this website and for your comments. I find this information – the opinions and the references to be very helpful.
It now makes sense to me as to why there will be 144,000 high priests that have their calling and election made sure – they may need to officiate in these vicarious temple ordinances. There could be a vast number of people needing this work done.
Motherhood is the complement to man’s priesthood. Mother’s, acting in conjunction with God, are responsible for “transfiguring,” (for lack of a better word), that which is spiritual into that which is physical by creating bodies for Heavenly Father’s spirit children. Priesthood holders, acting in conjunction with God, are responsible for “transfiguring” that which is physical into that which is spiritual by performing ordinances for Heavenly Father’s earth children.
Moroni 7: 46-48
The more sure word of prophecy is the calling and election. It is made sure by the washing, anointing and the sealing of the fulness of the priesthood. The Holy Spirit of Promise, in this instance, is the Second Comforter.